Swayambunath, Nepal

Swayambhunath is one of the holiest Buddhist sites in the area of Kathmandu. It sits on a hill in the west of Kathmandu overlooking the city.

It is thought to have been built in the 5th century AD.

The meaning of the stupa is thus:

The dome at the base represents the entire world. When a person awakes (represented by eyes of mercy and self knowledge) from the bonds of the world, the person reaches the state a bit higher. After that, the person has to cross thirteen stages represented by the tiers before attaining Nirvana.

Each morning before dawn, hundreds of pilgrims will ascend the 365 steps that lead up the hill, file past the gilded Vajra and two lions guarding the entrance, and begin a series of clockwise circumambulations of the stupa.

On each of the four sides of the main stupa there are a pair of big eyes. These eyes are symbolic of God's all-seeing perspective. There is no nose between the eyes but rather a representation of the number one in the Nepali alphabet, signifying that the single way to enlightenment is through the Buddhist path. Above each pair of eyes is another eye, the third eye, signifying the wisdom of looking within. No ears are shown because it is said the Buddha is not interested in hearing prayers in praise of him.

There are fantastic views across the Kathmandu valley. Its called the Monkey Temple because of the monkeys that roam wild there.

Be warned there are also a lot of beggars at this temple.

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Swayambhunath, Known also as “The Monkey Temple” is a Must when visiting Kathmandu.
A Pleasant ¾ hour walk from Thamel or 70 NPR / $1 / 50p in a taxi or rickshaw.
There are a steep set of steps to climb up to the Temple and 1 100 NPR entrance fee, However IF you choose to avoid this Entry Fee get the taxi / rickshaw to drop you at the rear steps, There is No Toll Booth at the top of these !!
Local craftsmen do slate carvings and sell these on the steps for a few rupees, they make an inexpensive and unusual souvenir.
On a clear day the views over the Kathmandu valley are wonderful !!
Don’t miss this temple !!

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Once you have reached the top of the steps you will be rewarded with all the small temples and the views from Swayambhunath,
There are lots of souvenir shops but it’s mainly tat, you can buy snacks and drinks too.
But the main thing is Not to forget your camera,

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On of the most known landmarks of Nepal, the Swayambhunath temple complex is not to be missed: temples full of Buddhist symbols, responding even to the western imaginary on exotic hidden temples surrounded by vegetation and monkeys. Besides, an afternoon visit will be rewarded by panoramic views over the Valley and a religious ceremony at the Buddhist monastery (aka gompa).

According to Nepalese mythology, while the entire Kathmandu valley was once with an enormous lake, a lotus flower grew on this singular hill who rising above the waters. The water drained out of the lake, leaving the valley in which Kathmandu now lies. The lotus was transformed into a hill and the flower become the Swayambhunath stupa. Hence, the place is called 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 refuge around the complex and in its surrounding park.

More information and pictures on my Swayambhunath page.

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The Swayambhunath Stupa is suposed to be the oldest stupa of Nepal and welcomes pilgrims of Hindu belief as well as of Bhuddist belief. Situated on a hill on the outskirts of Kathmandu, gives the best opportunity to enjoy the panorama over the complete city. So it is certainly worth to clim the steep and exhausting long steps all the way up - dont miss it!

BUT be aware of the monkey "gangs". They take what they can get :-)

Swayambhunath Temple is one of the most recognisble sights around Kathmandu and is a lovely way to spend a couple of hours. The stairs up are quite long and steep (a good way to prepare for your trek) but it is all well worth it. Also watch out for the monkeys (which is how this place got its affectionate name.)

This is the Buddhist Temple on the hill in Katmandu. There are a lot of other tips on this.

I would add that I highly recommend you go early in the morning. This is when there are less tourists. The views of the Himalayaas at dawn, cloud permitting, are outstanding. The ambiance of the place is humbling.

The Swayambhunath stupa is one of the oldest in the world (VI centrury BC), decorated on all sides with the Buddha eyes.
Originally Swayambhunath was destined to gather the Buddha remains. Swayambhunath is one of the seven world heritage sites all over the Kathmandu valley.