Perched on a hilltop west of central Kathmandu, Swayambhunath — popularly known as the Monkey Temple for its resident troops of rhesus macaques — is one of the oldest and most sacred Buddhist sites in the Kathmandu Valley, believed to be over 1,500 years old.
The climb up 365 stone steps is rewarded with panoramic views across the entire valley, and a stupa complex rich with prayer wheels, ancient chaityas, and small Hindu shrines that reflect the centuries of shared worship between Nepal's Buddhist and Hindu communities. Sunrise and sunset are the best times to visit, when the light softens over the valley and the crowds thin out.
Our half-day Swayambhunath tour includes the walk to the summit, a guided explanation of the site's Buddhist symbolism, and time to explore the surrounding monasteries and viewpoint cafés.
