Swoyambhu Mahachaitya: The Sacred Stupa of Swayambhunath
Discover the spiritual heart of Kathmandu at Swoyambhu Mahachaitya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site offering breathtaking views and rich Buddhist culture.
Nestled atop a hill, Swoyambhu Mahachaitya, also known as the Monkey Temple, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest religious sites in Nepal. This iconic stupa attracts visitors with its stunning panoramic views of Kathmandu and rich Buddhist heritage.
A brief summary to Swoyambhu Mahachaitya
- P77R+X52, BHAGANPAU, Swayambhu, NP
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy a quieter experience and catch the sunrise over the Kathmandu Valley.
- Dress modestly as this is a religious site; comfortable shoes are recommended for the climb.
- Take your time to explore the various shrines and interact with local monks for a deeper understanding of the site.
Getting There
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Walking
From the center of Nagarkot, head south on the main road towards Bhaktapur. Continue walking for about 1.5 kilometers until you reach the junction with a sign for Swayambhu. Take a left at the junction and follow the signs for Swoyambhu Mahachaitya. It's approximately a 20-minute walk from the center of Nagarkot.
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Walking
If you are near the Nagarkot Buddha Stupa, the Swoyambhu Mahachaitya is about a 30-minute walk. Start by heading down the path from the stupa towards the main road. Once you reach the main road, turn left and walk straight until you reach the junction mentioned earlier. Turn left and continue following the signs.
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Walking
For those staying at the Hotel View Point, exit the hotel and walk towards the main road that leads to Bhaktapur. Walk about 1 kilometer until you see a fork in the road. Keep right at the fork, and you will eventually see signs for Swoyambhu Mahachaitya. This route will take about 25 minutes.
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