Buddhist Architecture's Adaptability Across Asia

A T Magazine travel issue cover story by Aatish Taseer examines Buddhism's architectural journey through Nepal, Thailand, and Taiwan. The religion, originating in sixth-century B.C. India, lacks a holy book or commandments but spread across Asia by blending with local cultures. Key monuments include the fifth-century Swayambhunath Stupa in Nepal with its 13-parasol finial and Tantric eyes, Wat Phra Dhammakaya's futuristic Great Memorial Hall of Phramongkolthepmuni (built 2002) north of Bangkok, and Taipei's Lungshan Temple (erected 1738) with Hokkien-style architecture. The article features a map, timeline, glossary, and reading list, plus an editor's letter by Hanya Yanagihara. Buddhism's adaptability is highlighted as key to its survival, with structures like stupas, pagodas, monasteries, chaityas, and rock-cut caves being reinterpreted locally, leading to creative flourishing.