Mani Chaitya in Patan Durbar Square: Your Guide to the Small Stupa - Nepal Purple Travel Guide

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Right behind Manga Hiti you can see a white mini stupa, a chaitya. The Mani Chaitya is a Buddhist stupa that houses four golden prayer wheels (known as mani wheels).

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Origin of the Name Mani Chaitya

The term ‘Mani’ refers to the mantra or sacred words that are inscribed on the wheels, while ‘Chaitya’ refers to a stupa, a monument containing relics of the Buddha or other sacred objects. The prayer wheels are traditionally rotated by pilgrims as part of their devotional practice, with the belief that each turn sends out positive energy and spiritual blessings.
It has to be pointed out that ‘mani’ can also mean ‘jewel’ or ‘gem’, in the case of Mani Chaitya, it specifically refers to mantras or the inscriptions of sacred syllables on prayer wheels.

History of Mani Chaitya

The Mani Chaitya in Patan Durbar Square is believed to have Licchavi origins, possibly dating back to the 6th or 7th century AD. Like many ancient monuments in the Kathmandu Valley, it was likely renovated or enhanced during the Malla period, when Patan was a thriving center of Buddhist art and architecture.

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Author: Rudy at Backpack and Snorkel

Bio: Owner of Backpack and Snorkel Travel Guides. We create in-depth guides to help you plan unforgettable vacations around the world.

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