Kopan Monastery, Kathmandu

Kopan Monastery is a significant Tibetan Buddhist center near Boudhanath, on the outskirts of Kathmandu. It's not only a spiritual place but also part of the Foundation for the Preservation of the Mahayana Tradition (FPMT), which is a global network of Gelugpa dharma centers. Kopan used to be the main center for FPMT, showing how important it is within the organization.

It was founded in 1969 by Lamas Thubten Yeshe and Thubten Zopa Rinpoche, who got the land from Nepal's royal astrologer. The name "Kopan" comes from the hill where the monastery sits, showing its connection to the local environment and culture.

Kopan Monastery is known internationally for teaching Buddhism to Western visitors. Since November and December of 1971, it has been hosting month-long meditation courses. These courses mix traditional teachings with discussions, guided meditation, and a vegetarian diet, welcoming practitioners of all levels.

Besides its religious and educational activities, Kopan Monastery is also a popular spot for locals and tourists. Especially on Saturdays, it welcomes hundreds of visitors, offering a peaceful break from daily life. However, to maintain its tranquility, the monastery only opens to the public on Saturdays, allowing for both monastic activities and visitor enjoyment.