Swayambhunath

Swayambhunath, also known as the Monkey Temple, is a Buddhist stupa and temple complex on a hill in Kathmandu, Nepal. It is one of the oldest religious sites in Nepal and a prominent landmark in the Kathmandu Valley.

The name Swayambhu means “self-originated” or “self-manifested.” According to tradition, a primordial lake once covered the Kathmandu Valley, and a lotus from the lake formed the hill, giving birth to the stupa and the surrounding sacred complex.

Architecturally, the complex centers on a large white stupa topped with a gilded tower. The spire bears the eyes of the Buddha on all four sides, and the 13 steps symbolize the stages of enlightenment. The hilltop is encircled by prayer wheels and numerous shrines and monasteries, and is inhabited by a population of rhesus macaques that give the site its nickname.

Swayambhunath is a major pilgrimage site for Buddhists and is also revered by many Hindus. The site functions as a religious and cultural hub, with daily prayers, ceremonies, and a tradition of monastic life in the surrounding temples. The hill offers panoramic views over Kathmandu.

Historically, Swayambhunath predates the founding of Kathmandu and is considered among the oldest Buddhist monuments in Nepal. It was designated as part of the Kathmandu Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, in 1979. The site remains a popular destination for visitors seeking historical, architectural, and spiritual insight into Nepalese culture.