Situated on a small hill lock named Swayambhunath to the Northwest of the Kathmandu Valley, the famous Swayambhunath temple is also known as the monkey Temple. This is because you will find many monkeys everywhere as soon as you arrive. It is home to thousands of resident monkeys wandering in the area without rules. When you were a child, did you ever imagine having a monkey as a pet?
The cuteness of these creatures does not surpass the fact that they are crooks who will attempt to steal anything you leave hanging on your bag. It is a popular tourist destination that receives pilgrims and tourists from all over the world. As per mythology, this structure was the source of the glory of this destination. In this blog, we will explore Swayambhunath Stupa to learn more about it.
Everything you need to know about exploring Swayambhunath Stupa:
History of Swayambhunath
Kathmandu used to be a big lake, according to legend. A lotus flower bloomed in the middle of this lake and gave rise to the hill of Swayambhu. It is said that Swayambhu (Swayambhu means “self-built” / “self-created”) arose on its own. From China, Manjushri, the bodhisattva of learning and knowledge, saw and adored the lotus; after being branded by its bright light, he cut a gully at Chobhar with his sword to drain the lake, finally making Swayambhu accessible to everyone.
There’s no exact date for Swayambhu’s building, but its Stupa is the oldest (known) Stupa in Nepal (over 2,000 years old). Early evidence of the Swayambhu stupa’s presence dates back to the 5th century. It’s thought that King Vrsadeva, Manadeva’s great-grandfather, built Swayambhunath. During the Licchavi period (400-750 CE), some shrines and temples were built around the Stupa. Exploring Swayambhunath Stupa will give you a new type of energy which is very difficult to get anywhere in this world.
The Architecture of Swayambhunath Stupa
The base of the Swayambhunath Stupa is cube-shaped. There is a pentagon-shaped Toran on all four sides of the Temple. In addition, on all sides of the Stupa, a pair of eyes are also present. In other words, God is everywhere. Above each pair of eyes, there is also another eye which shows the eye of sense.
All sides of the Stupa are adorned with Panch Buddhas (five Buddhas). As you walk the steps in the Temple, you will find two lion busts defending the doorway. There is a staircase that pilgrims prefer to use to enter the Stupa on foot, which is the most recommended route. There is, however, another entrance that is easier to access if you can drive to the side of the Stupa.
On the eastern side of the staircase at the bottom of Swayambhunath Temple is an outsized gate with a 12-foot Tibetan prayer. The wheel might require two strong people to rotate it. There is a bell sound for each revolution. At the entrance of the Temple, several small wheels can be spun. There are spiritual carvings on the wheels.
Right before the steps, you can find a trio of Buddha statues dating from the 17th century. There is a worship of these statues by females. Along the steps are many Tibetan stones with inscribed text. You’ll also find merchants selling such stone replicas in small shops. There are many monkeys in the forest area that you will pass through as you follow the steps.
There may be a white dome on top of the main stupa building. Numerous statues and artifacts fill the Stupa. There is a 13-level golden spire located at the top of the tower. On top of the spire, there is a bowl that is filled with precious stones and gems. Several other shrines surround the main building. King and other political figures donated all of these items. It is a perfect idea to learn more before exploring Swayambhunath Stupa.
Top 4 Attractions at Swayambhunath Stupa: A Quick Guide
There are many other shrines, temples, and monuments around the Swayambhunath Stupa, and they are the primary sources of attractions for tourists.
1. Harati Temple
It is one of the famous Hindu temples dedicated to Hirati, the Goddess of smallpox and other epidemics and the saver of all children. Buddhists adopted the Hindu deity to help protect Buddhist kids from feared smallpox. You will be surprised to know that Hirati is a Hindu deity.
There is a small brick pagoda that serves as the Temple. It usually is a trend among children and women who visit the Shrine to seek blessings. The woman prays for the good health of their children by offering food such as rice and bread.
2. Great Thunderbolt (Vajra)
You can see the huge brass-plated Vajra when you reach the top of the Eastern stairs. The Vajra is the Tantrik sign of the power of insight. A massive and impressive Thunderbolt is what garnered the Stupa’s attention.
In terms of decoration, the Thunderbolt honours the Tibetan Calendar with the animals featured, and lions flank the Vajra on either side.
3. The World Peace Pond
Situated on the Western side of the Swayambhunath stupa. There is a statue of Buddha standing on the lotus flower in the middle of the pond. According to tradition, if you toss a coin into the white pond and your coin reaches the metal bucket, your wishes will indeed be granted.
4. Pratapur and Anantapur
There are two temples located in a shape similar to a bullet. These structures on either side flank the Stupa. During the 17th century, King Pratap Malla built these temples as a gift to honour his victory over Tibet. The Temple is adorned with twin bells that have inscriptions depicting his victory.
It is wise to visit these places when you are exploring Swayambhunath Stupa.
Swayambhunath Stupa: Main Festivals
Gunla, Buddha Jayanti, and Lhosar are the three main festivals celebrated at the Swayambhunath.
- In Swayambhu, Gunla is one of the most important festivals. Newar Buddhism is an annual festival celebrating the retreat of the rains. Throughout the festival, devotees gather daily to recite scriptures and listen to traditional Newar music. August is the typical month for the festival.
- A Buddhist festival called Buddha Jayanti, also called Buddha Purnima, commemorates the life and teachings of Lord Buddha; more specifically, his birth, enlightenment, and death, Mahaparinirvana. It usually falls during April or May.
- Swayambhu celebrates Losar as one of its most important festivals. In Buddhism, the festival celebrates the Buddhist New Year (the word ‘Lo’ means ‘new’, and the word ‘Sar’ means ‘year’). It usually takes place in February.
Things you must know before exploring Swayambhunath Stupa
This is deemed to be one of the most divine Buddhist temples. If you are not into the mass, it may not be a good notion to visit during dates with religious value, mainly in Mein during Buddha’s birthday.
In addition, be aware that many monkeys are dawdling in the area, so it is advisable to be aware of your bags or any loose items, mainly beverages or food. These monkeys can be hostile and scratch or bite you.
Therefore it is a wise idea to maintain a good distance, and if they try to take your food, just give them away. Visiting the hospital is not a wise idea on a trip. Thus, keep this in mind before exploring Swayambhunath Stupa.
Opening hours: 24 hours, daily
Admission: 200 NPR (1.72 USD)
Exploring Swayambhunath Stupa: How to get there
A 5-kilometer drive from Kathmandu takes you to the Temple. You can reach the Temple by bus or taxi as soon as you arrive in Kathmandu.
The Stupa is approximately 10 minutes away by taxi from the center of Thamil. A taxi can take you there, or if you hire a car for the day, you can visit Pashupatinath, Boudhanath Stupa, Kathmandu Valley, and Patan on day trips.
From Thamil, walking may take around 45 minutes. Although the road to the Stupa steepens as you approach it, the walk may not be for everyone. In addition, you will pass through streets lined with local shops, hotels, and neighborhoods, which may be pleasant for some individuals. It is wise to learn more about it before exploring Swayambhunath Stupa.
Summary,
This whole mentions exploring Swayambhunath Stupa. This temple is so famous worldwide, and visitors from every corner of the world visit it yearly. Then what are you seeking? Make a plan with your family members regarding exploring Swayambhunath Stupa. Here you will enjoy your life without any fear.
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