How To Visit Swayambhunath – The Kathmandu Monkey Temple Guide
Swayambhunath – better known as the Kathmandu Monkey Temple, is one of the most iconic things to do in Nepal, and for good reason. Ancient stupas, prayer wheels, Himalayan views, and yes, an absolutely ridiculous number of monkeys. This guide covers everything you need to know before you go. How to get there, what to expect on the climb, and tips to make the most of your visit.
I will also go over how my Swayambhunath experience was, and tips for your Nepal travel itinerary.
Table of Contents
What is The Kathmandu Monkey Temple
Swayambhunath Temple is one of the oldest and most important religious sites in Kathmandu, Nepal.
It is over 1,500 years old and sacred to both Hindi, and Buddhist people. Prayer wheels, shrines, Buddha’s, flags, and gift shops…the monkey temple has everything you could need as a tourist or a religious person.
Why is called the monkey temple? You’ll see from the moment you arrive. There are genuinely monkeys EVERYWHERE, which could be very intimidating actually.
Swayambhunath is a UNESCO heritage site in the Kathmandu Valley, so plan to see other tourists. You will not need a pre-buy a ticket or anything…you just have to climb 365 steps. I have no idea if that has any historical significance or what, but let’s imagine that it does.
Visiting Swayambhunath
I took an Uber here. Well, InDrive, because they don’t use uber in Nepal, like I wrote about. The first step was to immediately buy a giant water from a nearby vender, you’re going to need hydration for this trek.
The best time to visit the Kathmandu Monkey Temple is probably as early as you can. But make sure the sky is clear in order to really capture this moment.
My driver pointed out to me where to go but you really can’t miss it. There will be a bunch people standing around, and when you look up, you’ll just know. Surrounded by benches and a bunch of buddhas, it almost feels like a little park at the entry. There will be a bunch of stray animals…and most importantly…MONKEYS.
If you have some type of phobia, I’m not joking…don’t go. I saw so many monkeys that it’s actually hard to even describe.
Once you’re ready, start climbing the steps. There are vendors selling coconuts (scam prices) and souvenirs (scam prices) on the way up. They’re working hard all day, feel free to help them out without feeling like you “got trapped”. Nepal is not the wealthiest place I’ve seen, so helping out a family goes a long way.
Depending on your fitness, you might have to pull aside and take a few breaks. It’s funny because you will see 12 year old kids just sprinting up while their parents can’t even breathe. Once you get to the top you will be stopped by the guards and have to pay. I don’t remember the cost, but it wasn’t much…just a few USD After that, you’re in.
You’ll immediately see the breathtaking Buddha stupa and all 4 eyes facing every direction. To my understanding, they represent wisdom and maybe a few other things. That’s a question to ask the locals and make friends while you there…do not research that right now.
The view of the mountains is incredible. You’ll be able to explore whatever side you want to. Yes, there will probably be a lot of people but there are plenty of spots you can go for silence and a break. It’s almost like a large plateau up top. Grab a beer, ice cream, or even buy some magnets for your friends.
Just linger around and do what you want to do. If you are looking for more education, there will be plenty of people trying to sell you a tour. In Kathmandu, I noticed that some of the touts would back off instantly, but others would harass a little bit longer. Just say “no thank you” and keep ignoring them if you have no interest.
Top Tips For Visiting Swayambhunath
Walk Clockwise
When visiting this stupa, you will notice people all walking the same direction and spinning the wheels. Walk the same direction they do. I made the mistake of entering and walking counterclockwise. I didn’t receive any bad looks or comments, I just knew it was a scumbag move. Don’t do that.
Negotiate Fairly
Negotiate for your souvenirs. You’re going to get disgusting prices, but also don’t insult them trying to make a living. Meet in the middle and help them out, they’ll appreciate it.
Trust your gut and figure out who has good intentions. Reward them for giving you an honest price
Dress Appropriately
Dress appropriately and have your shoulders covered out of respect…as you should do at all other holy sites.
I’d personally say that some of the stupas in Kathmandu felt quite casual. They didn’t feel like visiting the Bangkok Reclining Buddha if you have visited something like that. Just be normal and you’ll be fine.
Wear Proper Footwear
Honestly, if you’re visiting Kathmandu…you’re probably ready for this one. I might have been the only person that was not going hiking in Nepal and wearing not the best climbing footwear. But like I said..365 steep steps.
Protect Yourself From The Monkeys
DO NOT sit with your water or food next to you. The monkeys are going to steal it. This isn’t a joke. I saw so many monkeys just eating plastic bottles and other ridiculous things. Some guy was basically fighting a monkey to try and get his Gatorade back. Don’t do that either.
Just stay at a reasonable range of the monkeys and observe them being funny. They’re not just going to attack you or anything, you’ll be fine. (I am not liable if not).
Don't Leave Trash
Remember, it’s called the monkey temple, not the human temple. Don’t leave any trash around, despite what you may see in some spots in Nepal.
Trust me, this is a top thing to put on your Nepal travel to-do-list. Swayambhunath is incredible.
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