March 7, 2020 Heritage Traveling Overview Tour of Swayambhu Temple (aka Monkey Temple) in Kathmandu, Nepal.
Temple is 3KM west of Thamel within walking distance.
Entrance Fee as of 3/7/20 is Rs. 200 ($2USD)
Taxi Cost from Thamel ~Rs. 300 ($3USD)
Stupa sits on top of a steep hill overlooking Kathmandu City.
The Swayambhu Temple structure dates to 460AD and is second most holy religious site in Nepal for Buddhists, after Boudhanath Stupa. Swayambhu means "self-creating" and comes from a creation legend where the Stupa grows from a giant lotus on the lake which used to cover all of Kathmandu Valley. The nickname Monkey Temple comes from the many monkeys living at the temple and in the surrounding hills.
The Temple has also become a religious site for Hindus and embodies the spirit of inclusive tolerance and co-existence that defines Nepal. Many worshippers of Buddhist and Hindu faiths performs their rituals in the early morning, with some arriving before dawn.
There are two entrances to reach the Stupa, with the main entrance going up a steep hill with 365 steps. The stairs are flanked by shrines and statues of various Buddhist and Hindu Dieties. For those that wishes to reduce the stair climb, we recommend entering via the entrance near the car road/car park. This entrance reduces the stair climb significantly.
There are many shrines and relics on the Temple grounds, as well as a monastery. There are 3 main sections of tourist interest that are highlighted in the video:
1. Main Stupa: At the top of the hill, with a panoramic view of Kathmandu City
2. Wishing Well and Relics Area by the entrance near the car road: Visitors can exchange ~20 Rs. ($0.20USD) for coins to use at the wishing Well. The goal is to make the coins in the bucket. Good Luck!
3. Golden Buddha Statues: Three large statues to the right of the car road exit with relics and shrines and many worshippers performing prostrations and other worship rituals.
Additional information:
- The large golden vessel at the end of the steep stair entrance is called a Vajra, representing spiritual strength and firmness.
- Buddha's eyes are painted on each side of the Stupa, representing Wisdom and Compassion.
- The symbol that resembles a nose is the Nepali symbol of unity
- The third eye on the "forehead" represents divine communication.
- Please remember this site is one of the most holy sites in Nepal and be mindful and respectful
Enjoy the visit and the beautiful Temple Stupa and View!
Visit www.heritagetraveling.com for more information.
