Swayambhunath Stupa, an ancient and enigmatic holy shrine in the northwest of Kathmandu Valley. It is also commonly popular as “Monkey Temple” from the 1970s. As many monkeys reside in the shrine and can be seen jumping from trees and stealing food from the visitors. From the top of this landmark one can see most parts of the valley giving the visitors a panoramic view of the city itself. This stupa has stood the test of time, faith and harmony along with many Hindu temples and deities incorporated in this Buddhist site.
Swayambhunath is one of the holiest Budhhist stupas found in Nepal and is said to have been spontaneously evolved when the valley was created out of a primordial lake more than 2,000 years ago. It was believed to be built around 460 A.D by King Manadeva. Among the many shrines and monasteries that Nepal houses this is the oldest of its kind. The historical records which were found on a stone inscription provides evidence that the stupa was an important Budhhist pilgrimage destination by the 5th century AD. There are various legends about the site as the 15th century Swayambhu Purana speaks of a miraculous lotus planted by a past Buddha which blossomed from the lake that once covered the entire Kathmandu Valley. The name of the place came to be Swayambhu meaning ‘Self-Created or Self-Existent’ when the lotus mysteriously radiated a brilliant light. Prayer wheels and statue of deities surround the base of the hill entirely. As the exceedingly steep stone steps that lead up to the shrine is quite a challenge. But there is also another way leading up to the shrine where vehicles are accessible with just a short walk to the top.
Many locals may be Buddhist or Hindus flood the shrine throughout the day. But during the Buddha Jayanti which is the birthday of Lord Buddha the place can be seen filled with devotees coming from all over the city to pay respect.
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Some Major Monuments to see in the Swayambhunath Stupa area are:
- In the east side of the stupa one can witness the huge gold plated “Vajra” (Thunderbolt)
- The statue of Buddha on the west side of Swayambhu
- The statute of the sleeping Buddha
- The popular bronze icon of Buddha and traditional Tibetan paintings in The Dewa Dharma Monastery
- The temple of the goddess Harati. Legends say that she was an ogress before Lord Buddha changed her to be the caretaker of all children
- The holy Shiva Jyotir Linga temple of Pashupantinath
- A beautiful stupa of Boudhanath
- The temple of Changu Narayan
How To Reach Swayambhunath Stupa?
You must be wondering how do I reach this majestic place, the following information will help you reach the holy place and have a wonderful day.
- By taxi:
Through the medium of taxi or any other vehicle you can reach the stupa in about 10-15 minutes from Thamel in non-rush hour. Most taxi’s will try to overcharge but bargain the price before getting in. Average price is about Rs. 150.
- By walking:
The Stupa is approximately 60 min far from Thamel in Kathmandu. You can also visit another temple which is nearby Swayambhu Mandir which is beside ring road where you can explore a small museum of natural history.
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Swayambhunath Stupa
How far is Swayambhunath from Thamel?
Swayambhunath is approximately 3km from Thamel. If your trying to reach Swayambhunath on foot then it will probably take you 45-60min and on vehicle around 11-15min.
How many stairs are there in Swayambhunath?
The total number of steps that are there in Swayambhunath is 365.
When was the Bouddhanath Stupa built?
The first stupa at Boudhanath was built sometime after AD 600, when the Tibetan king, Songtsen Gampo, converted to Buddhism.
What is the meaning of Swayambhu?
The meaning of the name Swayambhu is “self-sprung.”
How far is Boudhanath from Thamel?
Boudhanath is approximately 6km from Thamel and it takes 22min to reach bouddha on a vehicle if there is no traffic.
What is the name of the hill on which the Swayambhu Stupa is situated?
The tibetan name for the site means ‘Sublime Trees’ as many varieties of trees are found on the hill.
What is Swayambhunath famous for?
Swayambhunath Stupa is famous for being one of the holiest buddhist stupa and is also popularly known as the “Monkey Temple.”
Who built Swayambhunath Stupa?
King Manadeva was the man responsible for building the holy Swayambhunath Stupa.
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