Kathmandu Shyambhu Stuppa

Swayambhu Stupa

The most ancient and enigmatic of all the Valley's holy shrines lies 2 km west of Kathmandu city, across the Vishnumati river. The golden spire of Swayambhunath stupa crowns a wooded hillock and offers a commanding view of Kathmandu city. On clear days one can even view a line of Himalayan peaks. The view is splendid at dusk as city lights flicker one by one, and even better when a full moon hangs in the sky. The establishment of Swayambhunath Stupa goes back to the legendary beginning of the Kathmandu Valley.The legend says that when the bodhisattva Manjushri drained the waters of the lake to reveal the Kathmandu valley, the lotus of the lake was transformed into the hillock and the blazing light became the Swayambhu stupa. Swayambhunath stupa is a World Heritage Site. One can get to Swayambhu by taxi or bike or have a nice short walk from the Kathmandu city, leaving the hustle and bustle of the city for the quieter neighborhood on the banks of the Vishnumati river. The main gate of the stupa leads to the steep stairs, which is indeed a traditional ancient pilgrim route. It's really wonderful to climb up the worn stone steps, 365 in all,that leads straight up to the top, where Swayambhunath's painted eyes peer down at all comers. If one doesn't want to climb all these stairs, one can go around the south side of the hill where you will find a small parking area for taxis and tourist bus. Once one is in the site of Swayambhunath, one can explore the hillock and visit a small stupa of Manjushri too. Entrance fee Rs.50 for overseas visitors. (SAARC nationals Rs. 30)