monastery (viharas)

Viharas, or monasteries, are dedicated spaces where Buddhist monks and nuns live, meditate, study, and practice their faith. They serve as centers for spiritual development, community gathering, and religious education. Typically, viharas include living quarters, meditation halls, and places for teaching and discussion. Historically significant across many Asian cultures, these institutions foster discipline, learning, and spiritual growth, providing a supportive environment for practitioners to deepen their understanding of the Buddha’s teachings.