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Triten Norbutse Monastery

Located on a peaceful hillside near Swayambhunath, Triten Norbutse overlooks the Kathmandu Valley. It is one of the most important centers in the world for the Bon tradition, the ancient spiritual heritage of Tibet that is even older than Tibetan Buddhism.

Interesting facts of Monastery

  • Monterey belongs to the Yungdrung Bon tradition which is considered older than Tibetan Buddhism. Bon is indigenous spiritual tradition of Tibet that includes teaching similar to buddhism but has its own unique philosophy, rituals, deities and meditation systems.
  • Founded by a legendary master Yongdzin Lopön Tenzin Namdak Rinpoche in 1987, who is considered one of the most important living Bon masters. The monastery began with very limited resources and grew gradually through community support.
  • Triten Norbutse is known for serious monastic training, including:
    • Buddhist philosophy (Bon philosophy)
    • ⁠Meditation (Dzogchen practice)
    • Debate (like Tibetan monastic universities)
    • Ritual arts and chanting
    • ⁠Tibetan language and scriptures
  • The monastery hosts monks from Nepal, Tibet, India and Himalayan regions and works actively to preserve rare Bon texts and teaching. It is a destination for international students, researchers and scholars.
  • Played a significant role in maintaining the spiritual heritage of Bön communities from regions such as Dolpo and Mustang.

Best Known For

  • A quiet, respectful sanctuary away from the crowds.
  • An authentic, non-commercial space for genuine reflection.
  • Perfect for meditation seekers and history lovers.
  • Discover the deep roots of Tibetan spirituality here.