Get Inspired at Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple)
Swayambhunath popularly known as the monkey temple is a great source of inspiration for visitors. It is one of the UNESCO world heritage of Nepal and was listed in 1979 AD.
Every element of the temple is inspiring and carries a story behind it.
Monkey Temple: A Truth Behind it
Swayabhunath is hard to pronounce which is usually a tongue twister for foreigners. Due to which it was named as monkey temple in 1970.
In addition, there is a lot of monkeys roaming around due to which Swayabhunath is called a monkey temple. The monkeys in this temple were formed from the lice of Manjushri due to which the monkeys in this temple are holy.
Origin of Swayambhunath
Swayambhu was self-originated around 2000 years ago. It is believed that the Swayambhunath has emerged from the lotus flower. Manjushri, the bodhisattva of wisdom, cut the gorge that dried out the Kathmandu valley which was drowned in water.
Later, the land dried out and offered people the religious value, the Swayambhunath. King Manadeva found Swayambhu and built it around the 13th century.
Center of attraction:- The monkey temple
Currently, the Swayambhunath temple maintains religious harmony among Hindus and Buddhists, the two religions.
As you get around in Swayambhu the main entrance has 365 steps where you can see side stalls selling souvenirs. These souvenirs include meditation bowls, statues of god, necklaces, and many more.
Besides that, you can monkey hovering around you. It is better to not carry any food or any bag that can be snatched away. This monkey can reflect any aggressive behavior if you have eye contact or try to feed them.
After you climb the stairs, you should purchase a ticket to your left. Around the corner, you can view the bajra, temples, and statues.
Elements forming Swayambhunath
The main stupa of Swayambhu indicates the enlightened mind of Buddha. The structure of the stupa has Umbrella representing the enlightenment, the gilded spire is painted with gold and represents the 13 steps to complete the enlightenment.
In addition to it, the eyes of the buddha that are on the 4 sides of the square see everywhere. The nose is written in Nepali number 1, which indicates unity. The dome which is painted in white symbolizes earth.
Apart from this, around the temple, you can view different statues of Buddha representing the fundamental elements as Akshobhya (water), Ratnasambhava (earth), Amitabha (fire), Amoghasiddhi (air), and Vairocana (ether).
Important Monuments to See
- Vajra: the huge gold plated thunderbolt set in the east side of Swayambhu
- The Sleeping Buddha
- Buddha statue on the west side of Swayambhu.
- The Dewa Dharma Monastery
- The Harati Devi temple
The main Festival of Swayambhunath
These are the main three festivals celebrated in Swayambhu.
Things to See Around
- The main stupa of Swayambhu.
- Swayambhu Buddhist Museum
- The Chaityas courtyard
- The Stairs of Swayambhunath
- The viewpoint
- The World Peace Pond
- The Monkey Pool
- The Monasteries
- The Buddha Amideva Park
Some frequently asked questions about Swayambhunath
Swayambhu is a Sanskrit word that is often proved as a tongue twister for everyone. Swayabhu means self-manifested which means the stupa reflects self-existence.
How to get into Swayambhunath?
Swayambhunath is one of the centers of attraction lying in Kathmandu. You can get around in Swayambhu on your private hire, public bus, or foot as per the distance to be covered.
Where can I stay near Swayambhunath?
You can stay in a hotel near Swayambhunath. There are a lot of hotels with reasonable prices and excellent services.
How many stairs are there in Swayambhu?
There are 365 steps/ stairs in Swayambhu. There are no alternatives but the only way to get to the top is by climbing the 365 steps to enjoy the scenic beauty of Kathmandu.
Is Swayambhunath the largest/ biggest Stupa in the world?
No, Swayabhunath is not the largest/ biggest stupa in the world. But, the largest stupa located in Nepal is the Boudhanath stupa. Do not forget to visit the biggest dome in Nepal.
Besides that, the tallest stupa in the world is Jetavanaramaya Stupa, located in the ancient city of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka.
When was Swayambhunat listed as a UNESCO world heritage site?
Swayambhunath was listed as a world heritage site by UNESCO in 1979.
Originally published at Get Inspired at Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple) on August 13, 2021.
