Kopan Monastery Meditation
Buddhist meditation courses and retreats at the famous hilltop monastery.
Kopan Monastery sits on a hilltop north of Boudhanath, overlooking the Kathmandu Valley. It offers introduction to Buddhism courses and meditation retreats in the Tibetan Gelug tradition, ranging from a single afternoon session to 10-day residential stays. The monastery is one of the most accessible places in Nepal to learn Buddhist meditation in an authentic monastic setting. The most popular option is the one-day meditation course, which runs from about 10 AM to 3 PM and includes guided sitting meditation, walking meditation, a teaching on a Buddhist concept, and a vegetarian lunch in the monastery dining hall. Multi-day retreats (3–10 days) include accommodation, meals, and a structured daily schedule of meditation, teachings, and free time. No prior meditation experience is needed for the introductory courses. The monastery is about 30 minutes from central Kathmandu by taxi. Book at least a week in advance for multi-day retreats; one-day courses can sometimes be arranged with shorter notice. Wear modest, comfortable clothing. The monastery is open to visitors of all nationalities and faiths.
