Swayambhunath Temple
Swayambhunath Temple, situated in the northwest of the Kathmandu Valley, offers a peaceful escape from the city chaos. The temple is also popular as the Monkey Temple among visitors from abroad. Swayambhunath Temple is a great place to get a panoramic view of the city. The temple has stood as a hallmark of faith and harmony for centuries, and is believed to have been the starting point of the glory of Kathmandu. It is one of the holiest Buddhist Chaityas in Nepal, resting on a hillock 3 km west of Kathmandu. The oldest of its kind in Nepal, the temple has numerous shrines and monasteries on its premises. Visited by both Hindus and Buddhists throughout the day, Swayambhu is perhaps the best place to observe religious harmony in Nepal.
History
The Swayambhunath Temple is said to have evolved unexpectedly when the valley was created out of a primordial lake more than 2,000 years ago. According to popular legend, Swayambhu was born out of a lotus flower that bloomed in the middle of the lake that once spread across the Kathmandu Valley. Swayambhu literally means "self-existent one". According to the ancient inscription dating back to 460 A.D., it was built by King Manadeva. By the 13th century, Swayambhunath had developed into an important center of Buddhism.
About the temple
A visit to this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the beautiful experiences of Kathmandu. Crowded by monkeys, the temple is a fascinating jumble of Buddhist and Hindu iconography. On the western boundary of Swayambhunath Temple is the largest image of the Sakyamuni Buddha in Nepal. There is a temple dedicated to the Goddess of Learning ? Manjusri or Saraswati ? right behind the hilltop. The stupa complex is filled by Chaityas, Statues and shrines of Buddhist and Hindu deities.
How to Reach
The stupa sits atop the hill and the exceedingly steep stone steps leading up to the shrine is quite a challenge. However, there is also a road going up almost to the top and one can drive up to there.
Temple Entry Fee
The entrance fee for the temple for Indians is 50/- (Indian rupees). For others it is 200/-.
