Swayambhunath Temple in Kathmandu, Nepal

Swayambhu in the English language means "self-existent one". It has a steep pathway of stone steps leading up to the shrine. Swayambhunath Temple, Kathmandu Nepal is among the must-visit places in Kathmandu city and witnesses large footfall throughout the year. The Tibetan name of the place means “Sublime Trees” due to the presence of a variety of trees at the hilltop.

History

Swayambhunath Temple, Kathmandu Nepal was built by King Manadeva and was later developed into a centre of Buddhism by the 13th century. According to some sayings, it is believed that the Swayambhunath Temple evolved on its own during the creation of the valley, out of a primordial lake dating back to more than 2000 years ago. Legends believe that Swayambhunath Temple was evolved from a lotus flower which blooms at the centre of a lake which was spread across the Kathmandu Valley. A huge image of the Sakyamuni Buddha in Nepal is present on the western boundary pedestal of the temple. A temple of Manjusri or Saraswati - the Goddess of Learning is situated behind the hilltop. The base is covered with prayer wheels.  Devotees move around the temple all day.

Attractions

Major attractions which can be witnessed in the Swayambhunath Temple, Kathmandu is the large gold-plated Vajra ‘thunderbolt’ which has been placed on the east side of the stupa. The Sakyamuni Buddha statue and the Sleeping Buddha statue is a delightful site. The Dewa Dharma Monastery is famous for the bronze statue of Buddha, and the place also has many traditional Tibetan paintings. The Swayambhunath Temple is dedicated to The Goddess of all children, Harati. This temple is very beautiful with enchanting arrangement amidst nature and placed on a hilltop.