Stupa · Buddhist
Swayambhunath Stupa
Kathmandu, Nepal
Part of the Kathmandu Valley UNESCO World Heritage Site
Stupa · Buddhist
Kathmandu, Nepal
Swayambhunath, often called the "Monkey Temple" by visitors for its resident monkeys, sits atop a hill overlooking Kathmandu and is among the oldest and most sacred Buddhist sites in the valley.
The stupa is significant to both Buddhists and Hindus, reflecting the Kathmandu Valley's long history of religious syncretism, and is considered one of the oldest religious sites in Nepal.
The site's origins are traditionally dated to over 1,500 years ago, with the stupa rebuilt and expanded through many centuries; a 365-step staircase leads to the hilltop complex.
Early morning offers the best light and coolest temperatures for the climb up the hillside steps.