In the realm of Buddhist culture, Nepal is an important player. Seto Gumba, also known as the White Gumba or Monastery, is one of the many monasteries that can be found in this country. The natural beauty of the area is complemented by the religious significance of the location. The white monastery is surrounded by a lush green valley and colorful terrain, which makes it a joy to look at and a place you can't miss in Kathmandu.
Highlights: For heavenly pleasure and a bird's-eye view of the Kathmandu Valley, visit the White Gumba or Seto Gumba. This white Gumba is notable for many things, including the peace and quiet it shows, as well as the fact that it is one of the most famous examples in the area. There are many paintings, statues, and portraits in the monastery that can teach you a lot about Buddhism. The location is a little bit off the beaten path, but it's still relatively close to the Swoyambhunath (A monkey temple).
History of Seto Gumba (White Gumba)
White Gumba, also known as Seto Gumba, is a Buddhist monastery in Nepal founded by Lama Geshe Wangyal in the 1960s. It was established as a center for the practice and dissemination of Tibetan Buddhist teachings, and it is located on Druk Amitabh Mountain in the Nagarjun Municipality of Kathmandu District. Lama Geshe Wangyal, a Tibetan monk who had fled Tibet after the Chinese invasion, started teaching Western and Nepali students in Tibetan Buddhism after settling in Nepal. The monastery's founding was significant in the development of Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal, as it became a key center for study and practice, attracting both national and international students.
The White Gumba's history is intertwined with the influx of Tibetan refugees into Nepal, where many spiritual teachers settled and established monasteries to preserve their practices. The monastery symbolizes purity and wisdom, offering a place of refuge for those seeking spiritual growth. It's a cultural site known for its natural beauty, Tibetan architecture, and the peaceful atmosphere it offers, attracting visitors for meditation, learning about Buddhism, and enjoying the stunning views of Kathmandu Valley.
In summary, White Gumba's history involves its establishment as a center for Tibetan Buddhist practice and teaching in Nepal by Lama Geshe Wangyal, its role in preserving and spreading Tibetan Buddhist traditions, and its evolution into a popular destination for both spiritual seekers and those interested in Buddhist culture.
White Gumba Location: How can I get to White Gumba?
To get there, you must first get to Sita Paila. Sita Paila is located on the ring road. White Gumba is three kilometers away from the Swayambhunath. If you are in Thamel, the best way to reach the white Gumba is by prepaid taxi.
However, public transportation is prohibited from entering the Gumba. You may easily reach Sitapaila or Halchowk from anywhere in the valley by hopping on a public vehicle or bus or by hiring a taxi to take you around the ring road. If you question any of the locals there about the road to Gumba, they will all be able to point you in the right direction effortlessly. Whether you take a taxi, ride a motorcycle, or mountain bike, the distance between the two locations and the Gumba may be covered in approximately 20 to 30 minutes. Hikers will find it to be an exceptionally pleasant destination. Hiking there will take you one hour to complete.
Why is White Gumba closed?
The White Gumba (Seto Gumba) in Kathmandu was closed after the 2015 earthquake due to extensive damage and ongoing construction. While it was previously open for public visits on Saturdays, it has remained closed for maintenance and reconstruction work since then. While recent reports indicate ongoing construction, there's no specific date for reopening.
White Gumba ticket price:
The entrance fee to White Gumba (Seto Gumba) is NPR 40 per person. There is also a parking fee of NPR 10 if you arrive by vehicle. Additionally, organized tours to White Gumba can cost anywhere from $62.31 to $90 per adult, depending on the tour operator and group size.
In Conclusion
This blog post was written to encourage you to go on a journey to Nepal and to see firsthand the beautiful sights and sounds of this country. You will not regret it. This is a place of religious significance that is also one of the many temples in Nepal. Seto Gumba (White Gumba) is also known for its natural beauty and cool climate. It is a perfect place to spend some time in the Nepalese countryside. Our goal is to provide you with helpful information that you may need if you are going to travel.
