Vihara

Vihara, from Sanskrit vihāra and Pali vihāra, is a term in Buddhist contexts that denotes a dwelling place for monks. It is commonly used to refer to a Buddhist monastery or monastic residence, and by extension the living quarters and cells within such a complex. In classical Indian Buddhist usage, a vihara was a place where monks resided, studied, and meditated, often distinct from a chaitya, or prayer hall.

Architecturally, viharas range from cave monasteries to brick and stone complexes. They often outline a planned compound around a courtyard or cloister, with cells or verandahs for monastic residents and a central assembly hall for gatherings. Many Indian cave sites, such as the Ajanta and Ellora complexes, include viharas as the residential component alongside worship spaces.

As Buddhism spread through Asia, the term was adopted in various languages to designate Buddhist temples and monastic centers, especially in South and Southeast Asia. In Sri Lanka, Nepal, Indonesia, and parts of Southeast Asia, vihara is a common element in temple names and in reference to monasteries open to residents and lay visitors alike. In modern usage, vihara often denotes active monasteries, meditation centers, or educational institutions associated with Buddhist practice.

In architectural terms, a vihara is typically distinguished from a chaitya or stupa hall, which functions as a monumental prayer and commemorative space, whereas the vihara functions primarily as living quarters and a place for study and community life within the monastic complex.