July 28, 2025

Buddha Jayanti is one of the most sacred days in the Buddhist calendar and is widely celebrated across Nepal, especially in the Kathmandu Valley. Observed on the full moon day of Baisakh (April/May), the festival marks the birth, enlightenment, and parinirvana (passing away) of Siddhartha Gautama, the historical Buddha. For many Nepalis—whether Buddhist or Hindu—it is a day of reflection, peace, and spiritual renewal.

The epicenter of Buddha Jayanti in Kathmandu is Swayambhunath and Boudhanath Stupa, where thousands of pilgrims, monks, and laypeople gather for a day filled with pujas, butter lamps, chants, and circumambulation. Monasteries across the valley organize special programs that include scripture recitations, life-size Buddha effigies, and traditional music. The stupas glow under layers of marigold and incense, while the air is filled with mantras and the rhythmic spinning of prayer wheels.

The day begins early, with devotees offering water, flowers, and butter lamps to Buddha images. At sites like Patan’s Hiranya Varna Mahavihar (Golden Temple) and Namobuddha, ceremonies take on a deeper meaning, with symbolic reenactments of the Buddha’s teachings. Many choose this day to practice generosity (dāna) by giving alms to monks or donating food to the poor.

In schools and public institutions, Dhamma talks and cultural performances are held to share the life story and teachings of the Buddha. Even for those outside the Buddhist faith, Buddha Jayanti is widely respected as a universal message of compassion, mindfulness, and non-violence—values that resonate deeply with Nepali culture.

Buddha Jayanti is not only a celebration of the past, but a reminder of present mindfulness and the ongoing relevance of the Buddha’s message. As the moon rises over the spires of the valley’s great stupas, there’s a collective sense of peace that settles over the city.

Time of Year: April or May (full moon of Baisakh)

Location: Valley-wide; especially at Boudhanath, Swayambhunath, Patan’s Golden Temple, Namobuddha

Duration: 1 day

What to Expect: Rituals, butter lamps, Buddhist chants, almsgiving, peaceful atmosphere at monasteries and stupas

Interesting Facts:

  • Marks three key events in the Buddha’s life, all said to have happened on the same lunar day
  • Both Newar Buddhists and Tibetan Buddhists celebrate with distinct traditions
  • Even many Hindus in Nepal observe the day with reverence for the Buddha as an incarnation of Vishnu