Introduction:
Gunakirti Mahavihar, located north of Hiranyavarna Mahavihar in Ward No. 5 of Madhyapur Thimi Municipality, is situated in Digu Twa. Locally, it is known as “Digu Baha.”

Historical Background:
This Baha has historical records that confirm its establishment. The site contains a stupa in the Licchavi-style and a statue of Guru Padmasambhava, believed to have been constructed during the Licchavi period. Historical records indicate that the Baha was established in Nepal Sambat 808.

Subsequently, in Nepal Sambat 842, Dandapani Vajracharya renovated the Baha and established a statue. The Baha contains golden images of Dipankar Buddha and statues of monks. Statues of Dipankar Buddha, constructed in Nepal Sambat 684 and 689, are preserved in the Baha.

It is recorded that on the 13th day of the dark fortnight of Chaitra, Nepal Sambat 696 (a Thursday), Tuladhar Jitaraj from the Asan area organized a Samyak Dana and invited Dipankar Buddha to the Baha. This confirms that Gunakirti Mahavihar had already been established by Nepal Sambat 684.

This Mahavihar is an essential part of Thimi’s historical and cultural heritage, contributing significantly to the preservation of traditional Buddhist religion and culture.

Structure of the Vihar

Gunakirti Mahavihar (Digu Baha) is a crucial monastery dedicated to preserving the cultural and religious heritage of the Thimi region. The Vihar exemplifies ancient Buddhist architecture.

Architecture:
The main entrance (Mukh Lukha) of the Mahavihar is adorned with two large lion statues. Between these lions, a Patala (threshold) is placed. Near the entrance, there is also a statue of Mahakala. The central part of the Vihar is built in a square (quadrilateral) shape, with stupas at all four corners representing Ashoka Pillars.

Between the stupas, a Dharma Dhatu Mandala and a Yajna Kunda are established. In the center of this quadrilateral is a stupa containing a statue of Guru Padmasambhava.

Special Statues:
In the western part of the Vihar, there is a statue of Akshobhya Buddha. The base structure of the statue is made of Vajra plaster. The entrance features artistic designs, Torana (gateway), and statues that enhance the beauty of the Vihar.

Above the Torana are statues of Vajradhara and Namasangiti. The lower part of the Torana is decorated in the Makaras (crocodile-head) style. The Torana contains an inscription mentioning Ranjit Malla from Nepal Sambat 857, reflecting its historical significance.