Swayambhu literally means 'Self-Existent One.' Swayambunath believe to have been established more than 2,500 years ago. An inscription dated 460 A.D. states that the construction was carried out by King Manadeva. By the thirteenth century Swayambunath had developed into an important Buddhist learning site.

The history of Kathmandu Valley is said to have started with the beginning of Swayambhu. The largest image of the Sakyamuni Buddha in Nepal is in a monastery next to the stupa. Behind the hilltop is a temple dedicated to Manjusri of Saraswati - the goddess of learning. Statues and shrines of Buddhist and Hindu deities dot the stupa complex.

Large numbers of Buddhists and Hindus alike visit Swayambunath. Swayambhu is perhaps the best place to observe the religious harmony in Nepal. The stupa is atop a hill, and requires considerable walk. There is also a road that leads almost to the base of the statue.

 

Other UNESCO Heritage Sites:

• Changu Narayan Temple
• Pashupatinath Temple
• Chitwan National Park
• Bhaktapur Durbar Square
• Swayambhunath Stupa, Kathmandu
• Sagarmatha National Park
• Patan Durbar Square
• Kathmandu Durbar Square
• Bouddhanath Stupa