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Swayambhunath Temple, Kathmandu

4.6
#2 of 1,668 in Things to do in Nepal
World heritage site · Religious Site · Tourist Spot
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Watching over the capital from its hilltop vantage point, Swayambhunath Temple stands proudly as one of the nation's most popular tourist and religious sites. Featuring a white dome topped with an iconic golden spire, the World Heritage-listed temple likely dates back to before the 5th century, when it was already a vital pilgrimage destination. The structure endured the devastation of the 2015 earthquake, its prayer flags continuing to flutter in the breeze. Step inside to see a fusion of Hindu and Buddhist iconography, or try spinning the prayer wheels yourself. Make Swayambhunath Temple a part of your Kathmandu vacation plans using our Kathmandu day trip app.
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Swayambhunath Temple reviews

TripAdvisor traveler rating
TripAdvisor traveler rating 4.5
6,283 reviews
Google
4.6
TripAdvisor
  • Big hike up to the stupa. Get a bus there or a taxi. Sunset views are a good time to go. Monkeys were not a pest at all. Picturesque and beautiful. An impressive stupa. 
    Big hike up to the stupa. Get a bus there or a taxi. Sunset views are a good time to go. Monkeys were not a pest at all. Picturesque and beautiful. An impressive stupa.  more »
  • One of the must see temples in Kathmandu. There are 2 ways to enter, the first is for the fit people as there are 365 steep steps up and the other involves only a few. Also known as the monkey temple....  more
    One of the must see temples in Kathmandu. There are 2 ways to enter, the first is for the fit people as there are 365 steep steps up and the other involves only a few. Also known as the monkey temple....  more »
  • I was skeptical about the visit after hearing many bad stories. There are way too many people, the monkeys are aggressive, and if Western Females, the crowded situation can lead to uncomfortable... 
    I was skeptical about the visit after hearing many bad stories. There are way too many people, the monkeys are aggressive, and if Western Females, the crowded situation can lead to uncomfortable...  more »
Google
  • I had a pleasure to visit this amazing place. Despite the hot weather, the temple can give you an insight into the local culture. You can also get a guide who will tell you the story of the place and explain in details particular things (with a payment). Definitely a must see place if you’re planning to come to Kathmandu and nearest cities.
  • It is at the top of valleys mountain. Best place to get a pleasure. I really love the place. We can see whole Kathmandu valley from there. Best to visit there once in a life. We must visit there in life to get some Best experience in life with eyes not by captured photos. Some how it is the place to get something Best in life experience.
  • This place has a significant importance in Buddhism. We visited this place after sunset but will recommend all of you to visit this place during day light. And be aware of monkeys. The complex is huge yet so beautiful and serene.
  • Beautiful place in Kathmandu. So peaceful. Buddhist temples are there. Such a silent and loving place. You will feel the vintage construction of the building. You will definitely feel a positive vibe there. You can see the whole Kathamandu view from there. Try to go at around 4.30-5.30 in the evening. There are a lot of monkeys around they are friendly and you can feed them.
  • Visited this from the other side on a rainy evening, didn't actually visit the Temple but other end, the view was great and beautiful. It's mostly crowdy, but it's obvious from what place offers, a mesmerizing view, trees, clean air and a good height. I like this place and been planning to visit next time I'm there. In such crowded city, it's challenge to maintain place like this, but they have done it very well and that's very remarkable as things are not same in Kathmandu with many other heritages. It is a must go place for anyone who wants to explore Kathmandu Valley.

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