Perhaps, the word Vihara is more popular and customary in Buddhist world. In Nepal, this vihara which is a Buddhist institution or monastery is popularly known as baha or bahal where Bhikshu sangha (householders of certain caste of the community) perform different types of rites and rituals. It is also important to know that another word bahi, which is also like a baha but of slightly less prominence in terms of religious settings and activities. Difference between a baha and a bahi would be understood in much more details once a little more of Newar Buddhism is known. Every household is attached to a baha or a bahi which provides them as a venue for performing their religious and cultural activities. Newars have very intricate rituals that they observe at different time periods of their life span. Besides that, Mahayana Buddhism posses several deities and people worship them at different times following lunar calendar. Although there are many similarities among baha but then are some important differences as well. 

A very short description of a baha would be a square shaped house with a square courtyard surrounded by small rooms all around. The main deity, which is called Kwapa-dya, is enshrined opposite to the main entrance. It has a finial or a small tower on the roof above the main shrine. The courtyard contains at least one Chaitya. Then there are several other deities enshrined at different places. Usually a team of elderly person of that identity belonging to Vajracharyas and Shakyas caste lead all religious activities and they are respected with the title if Aaju. Baha offers a living testimony of Buddhist art flourished since the mediaeval times.

The kirat and Lichchhavi periods are the most significant periods of ancient Nepal as far as the vihara culture is concerned. Moreover, the Lichchhavi period proved more significant as the Lichchhavi rulers helped the Vihara or Sangha enthusiastically to perform activities effectively. The fact is well proved by the inscriptions that are prevalent profusely in those baha. These baha and bahi date back to 400 years to 2200 years.