Swayambhu, also known as Swayambhunath or the Monkey Temple, is one of the oldest and most sacred Buddhist sites in Nepal. It sits atop a hill on the edge of Kathmandu Valley and offers stunning views over the city.
The site is famous for its iconic white stupa topped with a gilded spire painted with Buddha’s all-seeing eyes. Surrounding the stupa are shrines, temples, prayer wheels, and fluttering prayer flags. It's a spiritual spot for both Buddhists and Hindus and a popular place for pilgrims and tourists alike.
Monkeys roam the area freely, adding to its unique atmosphere — hence the nickname "Monkey Temple." It’s a powerful symbol of peace and enlightenment, deeply rooted in Nepalese culture and history.
Despite being 'sacred' and a World Heritage Site, it has been terribly neglected and littered with rubbish for many years. The native forests have been degraded by human intrusion and replaced by non-native pine trees that acidify the soil with their needles.
