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Favorite thing: The stupas are tipically Buddhist. From simple domed burial mounds, “build to hold relics of Buddha”, stupas they evolved over the centuries to become complex structures that represent Buddhist philosophy.
The five elements characteristic to the Buddhist universe are represented in the stupa structure – the base symbolises the earth, the dome - water, the spire – the symbol of fire, the umbrella – air and the pinnacle – ether.
At the lowest level of the stupa is the plinth, which may be a simple square platform or terraced one. Atop the plinth is the hemispherical dome (kumbha), which is freshly whitewashed every year.
Atop the dome is a harmika, a square base usually painted on each side with a pair of eyes. Topping the harmika is a tapering section of 13 stages, said to represent the 13 stages of perfection on the way to Nirvana.
Written Jan 26, 2007
Favorite thing: The thunderbolt (dorje) symbolises the male force or compassion, and the bell symbolises the female wisdom. Around the pedestal supporting the mighty thunderbolt are the animals of the Tibetan calendar.
Written Jan 26, 2007
Favorite thing: The pairs of animals on each side of the steps as you climb towards the temples –lions, elephants, horses and peacocks are the vehicles of Dhyani Buddha.
Written Jan 26, 2007
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Reviews and photos of Swayambhunath attractions posted by real travelers and locals. The best tips for Swayambhunath sightseeing.
The pairs of animals on each side of the steps as you climb towards the temples –lions, elephants, horses and peacocks are the vehicles of Dhyani Buddha.
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The Swayambhunath a.k.a. the Moneky Temple, could be named as the “symbol” of Nepal, indeed, everyone looking at the wellknown “third eye Buddha”, would immediately think about Nepal. The Monkey...
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Self-Created Stupa or Swayambhu Stupa
This magnificent temple is one of the oldest and holiest temple in the valley. According to the legend there was a great lake in the Kathmandu Valley, in the center of it a Lotus flower grew and when...
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Swayambhu, meaning the “Self-Created”
Although often referred to by the foreigners as the Monkey Temple, this given name does not mean that the temple is dedicated to Hanuman, the monkey-god. This is the result of the many monkeys taking...
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I've got some interesting experiences in Swayambhunath. I'd love to share with you the 1 tip I've written, the 4 photos uploaded, and 0 travelogues I've created.
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Swayambhunath - an island in the lake
It is said that the Kathmandu valley was once a lake and a legend says that the hill on which Swayambhunath stands was an island!
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