- Location: Kathmandu, Nepal, 44600
- Website: swayambhu.buddhism-foundation.org
On the outskirts of Kathmandu is a temple complex Swayambhunath, or monkey temple. This is where pilgrims from both Hindu and Buddhist faith come, as in their territory the holy places, in many respects similar to each other, peacefully coexist.
What is Swayambhunath in Nepal?
The famous Buddhist stupa Swayambhunath is a famous and colorful landmark of the capital. During the earthquake, in April 2015, she received significant damage and lost her upper part, striving to the sky. Since then, active work is underway to restore it, and the lower part of the stupa is open to tourists.
To the top of the stupa are 365 steps, which can not be overcome by everyone. They symbolize the number of days in a year. Around this sacred building for each Nepalese structure there are smaller stupas, which were also built a long time ago. In addition to the stupas, Hindu monasteries and a Tibetan school for monks found their shelter here. Local residents consider Swayambhunath a place of power. Indeed, when they are here, many feel some unusual renewal and enlightenment of the soul.
Unusual inhabitants of the temple
But the most interesting thing that attracts tourists here who came to Kathmandu is the temple of monkeys, which has no analogues. Monkeys live in a temple park, broken around, and have complete freedom of action. Tourists bring them various treats, so these monkeys are hand-made. But do not forget that they are primarily animals - there have been cases of bites by monkeys, so it's best not to try to pat them or make them self.
How to get into the monkey temple in Nepal?
First you need to come from the center of Kathmandu to the outskirts of the city, where the temple complex is located. By car, the journey takes from 17 to 22 minutes. depending on the route chosen, which can pass through Swayambhu Marg, Siddhicharan Marg or Museum Marg.