Viharas are ancient Buddhist monastic complexes that served as places for meditation, study, and community living. They were often located in serene environments, allowing monks and nuns to focus on their spiritual practices. Viharas typically included living quarters, meditation halls, and sometimes stupas, which are structures containing relics. These structures played a crucial role in the spread of Buddhism across Asia, providing a space for teaching and learning. Many viharas were built near important pilgrimage sites, attracting followers and facilitating the exchange of ideas. Today, some viharas still function as active monasteries, preserving the traditions of Buddhism.