Dharmashila Buddha Vihar, located in Nadipur, Pokhara, is one of the most important Theravada Buddhist viharas in the city. Today, people see it as a turning point in Pokhara’s religious history. This vihar helped Buddhist followers gather in one place, listen to Dhamma, and practice regularly.When you enter the vihar, it doesn’t feel like you are entering a building. It feels like your mind becomes calm. There is no noise, no crowd—only a peaceful environment that reminds you of the path of the Buddha.
How the name “Dharmashila Buddha Vihar” was chosen
The vihar is named after its founder, Anagarika Dharmashila Guruma. She was a strong and dedicated woman from Pokhara who guided many people spiritually. At a time when Pokhara had no Buddhist vihar at all, and when followers had no place to listen to the Dhamma, Dharmashila Guruma started giving teachings from her own home. Slowly, more people began to follow her. Soon, around 50–60 people started gathering in her house every week.When the vihar was finally built, it was named Dharmashila Buddha Vihar in her memory and as a respect for her contributions.This name is not just a name—it represents her life, her struggles, her service, and the light she brought to society.
Story of its establishment: A vihar born through struggle
The vihar was not built with big plans, money, or government support.Dharmashila Guruma did not have a proper place to stay or teach, which made things difficult. She worried, “How can I guide all these followers?”Then came a supporting figure—Upasika Dharmanadi. She understood her teacher’s struggle and felt she had a responsibility to help.Dharmanadi requested her grandfather, and finally, around one and a half ropani of land in Nadipur was donated for the vihar.A two-storey stone-and-mud building sized 18×28 feet was built on that landSlowly, more people started visiting, the teachings spread, and this place became known as the first Buddhist vihar of Pokhara.
Geographical Location
Dharmashila Buddha Vihar is located in a peaceful and safe area of Pokhara-3, Nadipur.There is an old-style gate at the front and a brick boundary around the compound.Inside, there is a large open space where people can sit, meditate, and organize programs easily.At the center of the vihar is a beautiful and peaceful statue of the Buddha.On the left of the Buddha is Sariputta, one of his greatest disciples.On the right is Moggallana, another great disciple known for his spiritual powers.These statues symbolize the two main pillars of wisdom and spiritual practice in Buddhism.Some parts of the vihar are newly built, while some parts still show the old traditional style—making the whole place a mix of the past and the present.
Social and Religious Influence
Dharmashila Vihar has played a big role in spreading Buddhist culture in Pokhara.Regular programs like Panchasheel, Ashtasheel, meditation camps, Buddha Jayanti, Kathina Robe Offering, and youth activities have created a strong spiritual environment here.People come to this vihar not only for religious practice but also to find peace.Meditation rooms, prayer spaces, and open areas make it a community home rather than just a religious site.
Women groups are especially active here, continuing Guruma’s belief that “women must move forward.”
Present Situation: Expansion, Renovation, and Future Dreams
Today, Dharmashila Buddha Vihar is still growing.Some old parts are being repaired, and new structures are being added.Even though funds are limited, the followers, local families, and young people take care of the vihar as if it were their own home.There are future plans as well to expand the meditation center,to build a new building for Dhamma teaching,and to create an archive room to preserve the history of the vihar.
A Local Legend (Kimmadanti)
When the vihar was searching for land, no one was ready to give land easily.It is said that while Dharmanadi Upasika was talking with her grandfather, he had a dream.In his dream, a white-clothed goddess-like figure appeared and said:“This land will be used for religious work. A home of the Buddha will be built here.”The next day, he agreed to donate the land.People still tell this story today.That is why many say:“The land was not given by a person—the land itself offered itself for the vihar.”
References
Bhikkhu Jhajabanto, Upasak of Dharmashila Buddha Vihar
Anagarika Dharmashila and Her Works (a written book about her life)
