Swayambhunath: Entire Guide of Nepal Capital’s Monkey Temple
Most people know Swayambhunath as the “Monkey Temple Kathmandu Nepal,” a historic Buddhist temple perched atop a hill in Kathmandu Valley.
This well-known holy location has a stunning white stupa with the Buddha’s eyes, representing compassion and wisdom.
Vibrant prayer wheels and flags encircle it, adding to the feeling of spiritual intensity and tranquillity. Buddhists and Hindus place abundant cultural and religious significance on Swayambhunath Nepal.
Because of its location, which provides breathtaking panoramic views of the Kathmandu Valley, pilgrims and tourists love visiting it. Nepal People called Swayambhunath is Swayambhu in Nepali.
As a result of its proximity to a monkey population, the temple has acquired the moniker “The Monkey Temple Nepal.” These monkeys charm the temple, but their sporadic naughty antics also make them renowned.
A testimony to Nepal’s rich spiritual and cultural traditions is the Swayambhunath Monkey Temple. The height of Swayambhunath Temple Nepal surprises visitors.
More About the Swayambhunath Stupa
Swayambhunath Stupa is a World Heritage site that blends the beliefs and customs of the Hindus and Tibetans. Swayambhunath Temple Kathmandu is the favorite depiction of Nepal in all ways.
There are a variety of temples and shrines, and also there is a domed stupa. Artisans highly decorate every temple at Swayambhunath with gold and prayer flags.
This decoration is not only the one factor that attracts lots of visitors.
This stupa is a white dome with a golden spire. Along with this temple, the temple committee have added a Tibetan monastery, library, and museum this year to attract more and more visitors.
The Swayambhunath Stupa Kathmandu consists of a dome and a cubical structure. The cubical form has the eyes of Buddha, who is looking in all directions.
It also has Torans in the shape of pentagons above all the sides of Buddha with the statues engraved in them. Swayambhunath Temple is a sacred pilgrimage that draws various faithful every year.
There is one more way to visit the temple, that is from the west side. Recently, Essay on Swayambhunath Temple and Swayambhunath Drawing are famous in the Nepal schools. Swayambhunath quotes are renowned in the Nepal newspaper, social media, and others.
Swayambhunath Temple History
Swayambhu Nath Temple, sometimes called the Kathmandu Monkey Temple. Swayambunath Temple is one of Nepal’s oldest and most important religious monuments. Here is the history of Swayambhunath Temple:
It has been around for more than 2,000 years. The growth of Buddhism in Nepal closely links to the history of the stupa. Supposedly, people constructed it atop a hill where a prehistoric lake lay beneath the Kathmandu Valley.
Swayambhu meaning “Self-Arisen One,” According to legend, Swayambhu came from a lotus flower that blossomed in the centre of a lake that formerly covered the Kathmandu Valley.
Numerous monarchs and kingdoms have influenced the architecture and cultural significance of Swayambhu Mandir over the ages through multiple renovations and expansions. The all-seeing eyes of the Buddha and the famous golden spire were added or refurbished at different times.
When was Swayambhunath built? In May 2010, the stupa underwent a comprehensive refurbishment—its 15th in approximately 1,500 years since its construction and its first significant renovation since 1921.
Who built Swayambhunath Stupa? Built by King Manadeva in 460 A.D., it became a Buddhist centre by the 13th century. Supposedly, a lotus blossom created Swayambhu while flowing in a lake that previously covered the Kathmandu Valley.
In addition to being a Buddhist shrine, Swayambhunath Kathmandu has also historically served as a Hindu destination of devotion, signifying the peaceful coexistence of Nepal’s two main religions. Shrine meaning in Nepali is Mandir and Tirthsthal.
The stupa still represents resiliency and spiritual significance in Nepal’s cultural environment, having withstood numerous earthquakes and natural calamities.
Swayambhunath Temple Timings
Known by many as the “Nepal Monkey Temple,” Swayambhunath Mahachaitya is one of Nepal’s most famous and revered religious locations.
This historic stupa, perched atop a scenic hill in the Kathmandu Valley, has significant cultural and spiritual value for Buddhists and Hindus. Both visitors and pilgrims should visit the temple because of its majestic construction and tranquil atmosphere.
Knowing the hours of Nepal Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) is crucial if you want to appreciate its charm. So the opening time and closing time of this temple is:
| Opening Days | Opening Swayambhunath Hours |
| Monday to Sunday | 24 Hours |
Swayambhunath Stupa Architecture
Located in Nepal’s Kathmandu Valley, Shyambu Stupa, popularly called the Monkey Temple, is a mesmerizing architectural marvel perched atop a hill.
This historic stupa has an elaborate and distinctive architectural style that blends aspects of Hindu and Buddhist architecture.
A golden spire tops its recognizable white dome that features the Buddha’s vigilant “All-Seeing Eyes,” a symbol of compassion and wisdom (Objectives of Swayambhunath). Swayambhunath Stairs has 365(Swayambhunath Temple Steps) from the hill’s eastern side.
Several lesser stupas, shrines, and prayer wheels surround the main stupa, evoking a tranquil and holy environment. Beyond its exquisite architecture, the stupa is significant because it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and pilgrimage site for Hindus and Buddhists.
The design reflects Nepal’s rich cultural legacy and spiritual traditions of Nepal Swayambhunath Stupa, which harmoniously combines spirituality with aesthetics.
Swayambhunath Location
Where is Swayambhunath temple located? Swayambhunath Mandir is a revered and well-known holy shrine in Nepal perched atop a charming hill in the Kathmandu Valley.
It is now a popular tourism destination for people worldwide and a spiritual retreat because of its remarkable location and beautiful panoramic views. Here, we have provided the Monkey Temple location and Swayambhunath Address:
Swayambhunath Monkeys Temple BHAGANPAU, Nepal 44600
5 Interesting Things to do near Swayambhunath
Monkey Temple Swayambhunath, is one of Nepal’s most famous and spiritual sites. Pilgrims and travellers visit this historic stupa on a hill overlooking Kathmandu Valley.
Beyond its stunning stupa and spiritual atmosphere, Buddha Temple Kathmandu has several engaging activities to complete your visit.
- Discover the Stupa: Climb the hill to better look at the magnificent stupa and sweeping vistas of the Kathmandu Valley.
- Observe Monkeys: Have fun observing the entertaining monkeys who live on the temple grounds.
- Explore Ancient Shrines: Find sculptures and smaller shrines devoted to different gods.
- Think and Meditate: Discover serenity in the spiritual atmosphere.
- Purchase mementoes: Look through neighbourhood stores to find handicrafts and mementoes made in Nepal.
5 Famous Places to Visit near Swayambhunath
The Monkey Temple, or Swayambhu Temple Kathmandu, is one of Kathmandu’s most venerated religious monuments.
From a hill, this historic stupa gives stunning views of the Kathmandu Valley.
It is famous for its spiritual significance and mischievous monkeys. The area around Swayambhunath is also a must-see for culture and history.
Five notable places around Swoyambhu Mahachaitya will improve your trip to this magical section of Nepal.
- Kathmandu Durbar Square
- Pashupatinath Temple
- Patan Durbar Square
- Garden of dreams
- Bhaktapur Durbar Square
Below, we have provided some details of five places near the Swoyambhu:
- Kathmandu Durbar Square: UNESCO historical monuments in Kathmandu, including Kathmandu Durbar Square, showcase centuries-old palaces, temples, and exquisite architecture, revealing Nepal’s royal history and cultural legacy.
- Pashupatinath Temple: Nepal’s Pashupatinath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is one of the holiest Hindu temples. The spiritual significance and gorgeous architecture draw adherents and visitors.
- Patan Durbar Square: Patan Durbar Square in Lalitpur, Nepal, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its Newari architecture and history. It showcases Nepal’s royal and cultural heritage.
- Garden of Dreams: The Kathmandu Garden of Dreams is a tranquil paradise with neoclassical architecture, lush foliage, and tranquillity. It provides a peaceful respite from the metropolis.
- Bhaktapur Durbar Square: The UNESCO World Heritage Site at Bhaktapur Durbar Square in Nepal displays medieval palaces, temples, and exquisite art. It protects Nepal’s artistic history.
When to visit the Swayambhunath Temple?
I have visited there on the weekend. At that time, lots of people packed the temple. There was a massive crowd of people in and around the temple.
It also happens during the Losar festival, held between February and March; the Buddha Jayanti, held between April and May; and the Gunla festival, between August and September.
Many people visit the temple during these festivals because these are big and famous festivals, and there is a big crowd there.
Tips for Travelling to Swayambhunath Temple
Travelling to Nepal’s magical Monkey Temple is an excursion into its cultural and spiritual past.
Visitors to this hallowed place on a hill in Kathmandu Valley can experience the blending of Buddhist and Hindu traditions. Take advantage of these crucial guidelines for a fulfilling and respectful stay.
- The temple is much more inclined around a hundred steep stone steps; carry a lighter bag while visiting the temple.
- Be careful of the monkeys at the temple and on the way.
- Offer food to beggars instead of encouraging them by giving money.
I recommend everyone to travel to Kathmandu for the temple. The people living in Kathmandu are Buddhist.
That is why Swayambhunath Temple is a famous holy place in Kathmandu, Nepal.
Swayambhunath Tickets Price
Attractive to tourists and a spiritual and cultural gem, Monkey Temple, the old and hallowed Monkey Temple of Kathmandu, is one of Nepal’s most visited locations.
The ticket cost is one practical thing to consider when visitors arrange their visit to this famous location. Accurate information is crucial to maximizing your visit, and knowing the entrance fee guarantees a seamless and pleasurable trip to the temple.
| Foreign Countries (NPR =Nepalese Rupee) | SAARC Countries (NPR =Nepalese Rupee) | Chinese (NPR =Nepalese Rupee) | Nepal Citizens | Add. Information |
| NPR 200 | NPR 50 | NPR 200 | No Charges | Free for below Ten years old |
How to reach the Swayambhunath
Monkey Temple is located in the Kathmandu Valley, close to Kathmandu, the country’s capital, making transportation there reasonably easy. The following are some typical ways to get to the temple:
- In Kathmandu, taxis are an easy and accessible form of transportation. To go to Swayambhunath, hail a cab and tell the driver to take you to the “Monkey Temple.”
- You can use the local bus services in Kathmandu to get to the temple. Seek to find buses with “Monkey Temple” or “Swayambhu” printed on their route boards.
- The distance from Tribhuvan International Airport to Monkey Temple in Kathmandu is 8 kilometres. It is the nearest Airport.
5 Eye-Opening Facts about Swayambhunath Temple
Both Buddhists and Hindus alike cherish this historic and revered stupa. It is a representation of Nepal’s rich spiritual and cultural legacy. Below, we have provided the Swayambhunath stupa facts:
- Historical significance: It is one of Nepal‘s oldest and holiest sacred landmarks at nearly 2,000 years old.
- Panoramic vistas: Tourists and pilgrims go to Monkey Temple for its stunning views of Kathmandu Valley.
- Spiritual Centre: It is a Buddhist and Hindu pilgrimage place. People worship Harati Devi here, demonstrating Nepal’s religious peace.
- Swayambhunath’s monkeys: The temple’s native monkeys roam freely. Temple monkeys are part of the temple’s atmosphere.
- UNESCO World Heritage Site: In 1979, Monkey Temple was recognized for its cultural and historical value, reinforcing its global prominence.
5 Best Hotels To Book Near Swayambhunath
Swayambhunath’s breathtaking mountaintop location in the Kathmandu Valley and its spiritual appeal draw travellers and pilgrims alike.
Luckily, many hotels close to Swayambhunath can accommodate different spending limits and tastes, making it more straightforward for tourists to experience this beloved location. Below, we have provided the list of hotels where you can book a room:
- Hotel Mystic Buddha
- Kathmandu Regency Hotel
- Ai Boutique Hotel
- Hotel Pomelo House Inn
- Hotel Lotus Buddha Inn
11 Must-Have Items for the Swayambhunath Trip
Swayambhunath, the famous Monkey Temple in Nepal‘s Kathmandu Valley atop a tranquil hill, is a site of great spiritual and cultural significance.
Consider what to bring with you to get the most out of your visit to this hallowed location. Proper items can make all the difference on your trip to the temple.
- Incense Sticks
- Comfortable shoes
- Power Bank
- Camera
- Snacks
- Water Bottle
- Binocular
- Travel Bag
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- First aid kit
FAQs
This stupa is the oldest in Nepal and has numerous shrines and monasteries on its premises.
It is said that it came into being when the Buddhist Deity Manjushri spent time on the hill where the temple was set. Another reason is there is a huge population of monkeys in the temple.
The biggest temple of Nepal is “Nyatapola Temple”.
In Kathmandu, Nepal, Swayambhunath Temple is about 1,400+ meters above sea level.
In addition to being a sacred location for Hindus who worship the goddess Saraswati or Manjusri, Swayambhunath is principally a Buddhist temple Kathmandu dedicated to worshipping Lord Buddha.
These are some famous restaurants near this temple:
1. Swayambhu Coffee House
2. Yangling Tibetan Restaurant
3. Rosemary Kitchen and Coffee Shop
4. ZAMBALA RESTAURANT
5. KwalityCafe & Banquet
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