In Buddhism, a vihara is a monastery or residence for Buddhist monastics.
The term originally referred to a dwelling or place of wandering, but it came to describe an established monastic residence. Early Buddhist monks often traveled, especially outside the rainy season, while permanent viharas provided spaces for lodging, teaching, meditation, and communal life.
Viharas developed throughout South and Southeast Asia. Some were simple residences, while others became large complexes with cells, assembly halls, shrines, libraries, and teaching areas. Famous examples include Nalanda in India and monastic institutions in Sri Lanka and mainland Southeast Asia.
A vihara differs from a stupa, which is a reliquary or commemorative monument, and from a chaitya, a prayer hall often containing a stupa. In modern usage, vihara can also refer to a Buddhist temple or community center, depending on regional language and custom.