Dr Ashin Nyanissara, widely known as Sitagu Sayadaw and Chancellor of the Sitagu International Buddhist Academies, visited Nepal as a special guest of the Nepalese Prime Minister. During his stay, he toured significant religious sites and participated in events promoting peace and sustainable development.

On 30 November, Sitagu Sayadaw visited the Maedaw Maya Monastery in Lumbini Gardens. He also toured the Myanmar Golden Monastery, constructed with contribitions from the Myanmar government and citizens, and the Lokamanicula Pagoda — a 72-foot replica of the Shwedagon Pagoda built in May 1995 as Myanmar’s first religious structure in Nepal. The Sayadaw discussed ongoing maintenance, sustainability of the monastery’s religious buildings, repairs to the Ashoka Pillars, and improving accommodation facilities for pilgrims.

Accompanied by Myanmar’s Ambassador to Nepal and officials, the Sayadaw also visited the Thousands of Buddha Temple at the monks’ and laypeople’s invitation. Welcomed by the temple’s abbot and disciples, he delivered a Vipassana sermon to laypersons.

The venerable Sayadaw participated in the International Seminar on Exploring Gautam Buddha’s Teachings on Peacekeeping and Sustainable Development at Lumbini Buddhist University. In his address, he emphasized the critical role of peace for both global harmony and individual well-being.

On 1 December, the venerable Sayadaw and Nun Daw Dhammawady, an honorary Doctor of Literature, were offered alms by staff of the Myanmar Embassy to Nepal at Dhamma Kirti Vihar Monastery before departing for Myanmar. During his visit, Sitagu Sayadaw donated 100 sets of robes to monks residing at the World Peace Temple in Kathmandu.

This visit underscored Sitagu Sayadaw’s commitment to promoting peace, sustaining religious heritage, and supporting Buddhist communities worldwide.

MNA/TKO

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