If one were to view the stupa from above, on the other hand, one would notice that its circular shape is marked, at each of the four cardinal points, by gates that allow entrance to the area around the stupa. This is shown in the diagram below and illustrated with images on the next slide.
All four gates direct one to circle the mound in a clockwise direction, with one's right side to the stupa. This is the direction traditionally prescribed for honoring a person or sacred object.
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Updated: August 30, 2004

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