Swayambhunath Stupa

About Swayambhunath Stupa

Swayambhunath crowns a wooded hill west of Kathmandu, and legend says it rose from a lotus that bloomed when the valley was still a lake. Its white dome and golden spire, painted with the all seeing eyes of the Buddha, are visible across the city. The site is especially important to Newar Buddhists and also contains Hindu shrines, reflecting the blended faith of the valley.

Pilgrims climb 365 stone steps on the eastern side, passing statues and resident monkeys, which earned the site its nickname, the Monkey Temple. At the top, a giant vajra, prayer wheels, chaityas, a temple to the goddess Harati and the bustle of monks and families make for a lively scene. Sunrise and sunset views over the valley are superb.

What to see

• Main stupa with painted Buddha eyes
• 365 step eastern stairway
• Great vajra and Harati Devi temple
• Panoramic views over Kathmandu
• Resident monkeys

Visiting Swayambhunath Stupa: practical guide

Best time

October to April

Hours

Open at all times; best early morning

Entry

About NPR 200 for foreigners

Dress code

Modest clothing and good shoes for the stairs

Nearest airport

Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu (KTM), 8 km

Tips from experienced pilgrims

• Keep food out of sight of the monkeys
• A car park on the west side avoids the climb
• Walk clockwise around the stupa

Festivals and special days

• Buddha Jayanti
• Gunla month observances
• Losar

Etiquette for visitors

Guidance drawn from Buddhism tradition. Always follow signs and local custodians.

• Remove shoes and hats before entering temple halls.
• Cover shoulders and knees, and avoid revealing clothing.
• Never point your feet toward a Buddha image or monk.
• Women should not touch or hand items directly to Theravada monks.
• Walk clockwise around stupas and prayer wheels.
• Do not climb on or pose disrespectfully with Buddha statues.

Location map

Open in OpenStreetMap · Get directions

Frequently asked questions