Gunla
गुँला
August 13, 2026 – September 12, 2026 · Shrawan 28 – Bhadra 27, 2083 BS
Kathmandu Valley (Newar Buddhist communities)
Plan a trip around GunlaHistory & origin
Gunla is treated as the Newar Buddhist equivalent of a Buddhist lent, tied to the traditional monsoon retreat (vassa) observed by monks across the Buddhist world, when travel was historically difficult and monastics settled into a fixed place for intensive practice.
How it’s celebrated
Devotees rise before dawn each day through the month to climb Swayambhunath hill, often on a strict single daily meal, while musical groups process through Kathmandu, Patan and Bhaktapur's old quarters playing the Gunla Bajan — devotional music unique to this month, performed on traditional drums and horns. The month closes with communal alms-giving and merit-making ceremonies.
Tips for visitors
Early mornings at Swayambhunath during Gunla are worth experiencing if you're an early riser — expect devout crowds well before sunrise and the distinctive sound of Gunla Bajan processions through the old city streets.
Related journeys — Buddhist Pilgrimage
Buddhist Kathmandu Immersion
A five-day immersion in Kathmandu Valley's living Buddhist tradition — major monasteries, guided meditation, and a journey out to Namo Buddha.
Namo Buddha & Buddhist Foothills
A three-day short pilgrimage to the hillside monastery at Namo Buddha, one of the Kathmandu Valley's key Buddhist sites, for guests with limited time.
Buddhist Kathmandu Introduction
A one-day introduction to Buddhist practice in the Kathmandu Valley for guests who want context before a longer pilgrimage journey, or who only have a single day.
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