Stupas

Stupas, in Tibetan called "chorten", are "mound-like structures containing Buddhist relics, typically the remains of a Buddha, used by Buddhists as a place of worship." (paraphrased from the stupa wikipedia entry). Tibetan Buddhists make kora (a type of walking meditation) around stupas and may also prostrate towards them.

Stupa contain relics and/or the cremated remains of a lama or Rinpoche (considered to have been living Buddhas), mantras written on scrolls, "tsa tsa" and other offerings.
There are eight main types of stupas, each based on the Eight Major Events in the life of Buddha. There is also a ninth type, the Kalachakra Stupa, which are designed to protect against negative energies. Only a few of this type exist.

The Great Stupa of Boudhanath in Kathmandu, Nepal is one of the holiest pilgrimage sites in Tibetan Buddhism.

Stupa Along the Kora at HH Dalai Lama's Temple Complex in McleodGanj, Dharamsala, India.

Stupa on kor at HH Dalai Lama Temple Complex in McleodGanj, Dharamsala, India

Stupas at Dzongsar Shedrs in Bir, HP, India

Stupa at Zilnon Kagyeling Nyingma Stupa in McleodGanj, Dharamsala, India.

Stupa at Tashi Jong Monastery in Himachal Pradesh state, India. Said to have magical powers.

Grass Covered Stupa in Midst of Lalitpur, Kathmandu, Nepal


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