Nepal the country of Mount Everest (tallest peak in the world) is famous for its towering Himalayas and its rich history and cultural diversity, where its architecture tells the story of artistic mastery. Among various types of architecture in Nepal, the Pagoda style has its unique place because of its rich history, culture, and artistic values.
Though the pagoda style of Nepal is not as famous as in China and Japan, it is said that the Pagoda Style was born here in Nepal’s Kathmandu Valley which left a huge impact in various East Asian Countries. Let’s go through the origin of this architectural masterpiece and how it still has a major impact on the culture of Nepal today.
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The Origin of Pagoda Style: A Nepalese Creation:
In today’s world travelers can see Pagoda-style monuments mostly in East Asia countries like Myanmar, Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, Japan, and Korea not knowing that this architectural style originated in Nepal. Nepali artists especially the Newari people of Kathmandu Valley (capital city of Nepal) are credited for developing this style. Newar are an indigenous people of Kathmandu Valley, living there for centuries. It was found that Nepal already had Pagoda-style monuments before 600 CE which was started by a small Guthi (community-led group of artisans) in Bhaktapur (a city of Kathmandu Valley). The multi-layered pagoda roofs with detailed wood cravings of gods, myths, and symbolic designs of heavens are all hallmarks of Nepali Creativity.
Araniko – Architect:
Araniko is one of the most influential figures in spreading Nepali Architecture beyond its borders. Araniko was a master of architecture and was invited to China in the 13th Century by Kublai Khan a Mongol Emperor and strong believer of Buddhism religion, who founded the Yuan Dynasty. He was particularly interested in building Buddhist monuments. Nepal King Jaya Bhimdev Malla received a request from China asking for a skilled artisan to help them build religious and architectural buildings in China, for which Nepal was very famous and Araniko being one the most talented architects and artists was chosen for the project.
Araniko led a group of Nepalese artisans to China and his contributions there left a lasting influence on China and East Asia. Some of his famous pagoda-style architecture are;
White Stupa (Miaoying Temple): Built in 1271 (Beijing), it is one of his most significant works.
Zhenjue Temple (Five Pagoda Temple): Beijing, China
Tashilhunpo Monastery: Shigatse, Tibet, China
White Stupa of Hohhot: Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, China
Chengde Mountain Resort Temples: Chengde, Hebei Province, China
What makes Nepali Pagodas different?
Pagodas of Nepal represent the journey from earth to heaven as its structure, multi-layered roofs, and each layer is smaller than the one below. Unlike pagodas in China and Japan where pagodas symbolize Buddhists only Nepali pagodas combine both Hindu and Buddhist elements making them unique, which also shows the cultural harmony between Hindus and Buddhists in the country.
Nepali pagodas are famous for their wooden craved struts that support the roof, called Tundals which show their gods, mythical creatures, symbolic motifs, and many more. If you look at these cravings then you will get the gesture of way of living of gods. As there are gods crafted in these structures they are mostly used as a place for worship. Examples of these styles are seen throughout Kathmandu Valley, where both Hindu Temples and Buddhist stupas show a great architectural legacy.
Cultural and Spiritual Significance of Pagoda Temple
Pagoda style is not only architectural excellence but also culturally significant in Nepal. It is a symbol of Nepal's cultural and religious depth. These Pagodas temples which are dedicated to both Hindu and Buddhist gods are central attractions of Nepal's cultural insight, which offers centuries-old religious traditions of the people of Nepal.
Nyatapol Temple in Bhaktapur is a great example - a five-story architectural masterpiece that has withstood three big earthquakes and also serves as a sacred site to worship. The name “Nyatapol” means five stories and each tier symbolizes different elements: earth, water, fire, air, and sky starting from the bottom. And also Swyambhunath Stupa a Buddhist site where Pagoda style can be seen.
These temples play vital roles during Nepal’s religious festivals. Temples like Pashupatinath and Swyambhunath are crowded with people in festival seasons like Teej, Indra Jatra, and Buddha Jayanti.
For tourist these places are more than architectural sites, these places provides insight into Nepali culture and Traditions. Many people who visit these places say they can feel the connection between heaven and earth. Pashupatinath Temple which is also a place for the cremation of Nepali people provides the deep experience of Life and Death to the tourist visiting there.
Exploring Pagoda Architecture in Nepal: Top Destinations:
To truly appreciate Nepali architecture, a visit to Kathmandu Valley is essential for every tourist. Kathmandu Valley is home to 7 UNESCO-listed heritage sites like Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur Durbar Square all having a pagoda-style structure and showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Nepal.
Some of the Top Destinations for experiencing Pagoda Style Architecture in Nepal are as follows;
Bhaktapur Durbar Square:
Bhaktapur Durbar Square is located in the ancient city of Bhaktapur a most well-preserved and culturally riched heritage site of Nepal. It used to be the capital city of Nepal from the 12th to 15th Century. It was once a royal palace for Malla Kings when Kathmandu Valley (Kathmandu, Patan, and Bhaktapur) was ruled by 3 different kings who were brothers. The Nyatapol temple built in 1702 is Nepal’s tallest and most impressive pagodas of Nepal is located in this place. It is a five-story structure with detailed wooden cravings that has survived three big earthquakes.
Other notable structure in this place is the 55-window Palace an ancient royal residence known for its beautifully carved windows and the Vatsala Temple built from stone.
Patan Durbar Square:
Patan is one of the most historic landmarks of Nepal located in the ancient city of Lalitpur. For first-time visitors, this place offers Nepal's rich cultural and architectural heritage. This Durbar Square is very famous for its Pagoda-style temples like Taleju Bhawani Temple, Bhimsen Temple, and Vishwanath Temple. This Durbar square is a perfect introduction to anyone visiting Nepal for the first time offering a mix of history, art, and religion through its pagoda-style architecture.
Other notable structures of this place are Krishna Mandir and Golden Temple.
Swyambhunath Stupa:
Swyambhunath Stupa also known as Monkey Temple is one of the most sacred and religious sites of Nepal. Though this stupa is much more sacred to Buddhists, it has a mix of both Hindu and Buddhist elements. The main attraction of this place is the massive white stupa in the middle, crowned with a gilded spire painted with the all-seeing eyes of the Buddha. This big white stupa in the middle is surrounded by a series of small pagoda-style shrines and temples.
In Nepal, this stupa is said to represent the whole universe - the tall spire represents the path to enlightenment.
Pashupatinath Temple:
Pashupatinath temple is one of the most sacred Hindu Temples. This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva one of the three principal deities of Hinduism and is known for its pagoda-style architecture. Pashupati is a major pilgrimage site attracting thousands of devotees from all around the world mostly from India, especially during festivals like Maha Shivaratri.
This temple is of huge importance to the people of Nepal as it includes various small shrines, ghats (ritual bathing areas), and cremation sites alongside the Bagmati River. Tourists can witness ritual ceremonies, Hindu rites, and various other things which will provide them with a deep insight into Hindu customs and beliefs.
There are also other various places and temples with pagoda-style architecture like Kathmandu Durbar Square, Bandipur, and Tansen which will provide you with a great insight into Nepali culture and history. Be prepared for small entry fees for major sites like these. Such funds help to preserve the cultural heritage of Nepal.
Tip: Add these places to your Nepal travel itinerary to upgrade your experience of culture and architecture which makes Nepal a unique destination.
Linking Architecture with Adventure: Trekking to Architectural Wonders
Nepal is a country where you could have an opportunity to combine your adventurous trekking with cultural exploration. Imagine going on a trek to Everet Base Camp, Langtang Valley, and Annapurna Circuit after completing the UNESCO heritage site tour in Kathmandu. Nepal's tightly packed geography helps tourists to experience both, its rich cultural history and its natural beauty.
We offer various trekking packages that combine with a Nepal cultural tour. Our cultural and trekking experience includes and Day Tour in Kathmandu Valley followed by a multi-day trek in Everest, Annapurna, Langtang, or Manaslu Region.
Example Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in Kathmandu
Day 2: Full-day Cultural Day Tour (Patan Durbar, Swaymbunath, Pashupatinath, Boudhanath)
Enjoy Nepal's unique architectural wonders and outdoor adventure in one single trip.
The Pagoda’s Global Influence:
Pagoda-style architecture buildings are now common in countries like China, Japan, and Vietnam but their origin is Nepal. Nepali Archetect Araniko played a crucial part in making the Pagoda Style famous all around Asia. Today Nepal's architectural influence can be seen in various countries where their structure and symbolism still go back to Nepali origin. Tibetan Monasteries and Japanese Pagodas are prime examples.
For tourists, knowing how Nepali Pagoda-style architecture influenced various neighboring countries adds more desire to visit Nepal.
Why Nepal Architectural Heritage should be in your Bucket List:
Nepal architectural sites are more than just buildings - they are the symbols of the Nepali culture that have withstood this passage of time. For tourist who wants to get the gist of Nepali culture and tradition, can just visit these Pagoda-style temples and monuments which show Nepal’s cultural diversity, beliefs, rich history, and deities. Tourists will not only experience the craftsmanship of Nepali people but also the spiritual meaning behind these architectural marvels.
Ready to explore Nepal’s architectural wonders?
Whether you are planning to trek in the Himalayas, or enjoy the ancient streets of Kathmandu, Nepal offers an unmatched mix of culture and adventure tourism. Join us for the tour and trekking that will take you to the heart of Nepal soul. Explore our guided trekking and cultural tours today to begin your journey.
