Destination
Kathmandu
Tour Grade
Easy-Moderate
Max Altitude
1406m
Season
September-May
Trip Details
Swayambhunath, often referred as the “Monkey Temple” is one of the holiest Buddha Stupas in Nepal. Perched atop of a hill, it offers a panoramic view of the valley below. You will be seeing a lot of monkeys along the way to the temple and the surrounding. Believed to date back to around 460 A.D., Swayambhunath is revered as one of the oldest stupas of its kind in Nepal. Over the centuries, it has evolved into a prominent religious center, embodying the essence of Buddhist teachings and philosophy. The stupa itself is a dome-shaped structure adorned with the iconic Buddha's eyes and eyebrows painted on each side. These symbolic eyes, representing the wisdom and compassion of the Buddha, overlook the valley, bestowing blessings and enlightenment upon all who behold them.
According to the legends, Swayambhunath was created from a primordial lake over 2000 years ago. Swayambhu myth tells you the story that the valley was once a vast lake. In the lake, a lotus grew, and it radiated the dazzling light. Manjushri, the bodhisattva- a Buddhist saint of wisdom and learning, envisioned this radiating light emerging out of the lotus. When he saw that light, he decided to go there and worship the shining lotus. He also felt that if there was no lake of water, more human pilgrims could come and experience the close view of the lightning lotus. So to make the site more accessible for human pilgrims, he decided to cut a gorge at Chovar (Pharphing side- we can even go and look at there which shows like the hill has been cut by the huge sword). Then the water drained away, leaving the Valley of Kathmandu. Finally, the lotus was converted into a hill, and flowers became Stupa. The valley is now known as Swayambhu, which means ‘self-created.’
Half day sightseeing tour of Kathmandu Durbar Square and Swayambhunath
We'll start your tour by picking you up from your hotel and taking you to Kathmandu Durbar Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Nepal's Kathmandu Valley. This square is known for hosting Buddhist and Hindu rituals, royal events, and coronations. Surrounding the square are fountains, ancient statues, small ponds, and courtyards like Mohan Chowk and Sundari Chowk, making it a peaceful and spiritual place.
Next, we'll visit Swayambhunath, also called the 'Monkey Temple.' This ancient shrine over 2500 years old, is situated on a hill and offers a beautiful view of Kathmandu Valley. The highlight of Swayambhunath is the Buddha's compassionate eyes, symbolizing wisdom and unity. After your meal at a nearby restaurant, we'll provide transportation back to your hotel.
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+977 (01) 4511 225
Mountain Travel Nepal
House No : 309
Shree Marga 1,Khursanitar
Kathmandu, Nepal
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