File number: 07NEP-4800

In Khumjung village (12,400 feet / 3780 meters), in Sagarmatha National Park, eastern Nepal: Mani stones are stone plates, rocks and/or pebbles inscribed, usually with mantra or shtamangala, as a form of prayer in Tibetan Buddhism. The repetition of the Tibetan phrase “Om Mani Padme Hum” invokes compassion. Om Mani Padme Hum means “Hail to the jewel in the lotus”. Out of respect, people should walk to the left or clockwise around Mani Walls. Mani stones are placed in mounds or cairns along roadsides and rivers as an offering to spirits of place (or genius loci).