Swayambhunath Buddhist Complex, Kathmandu (must see)

The Swayambhunath Buddhist Complex, also known as the Monkey Temple, is a religious structure situated west of Kathmandu. It is known to be the most sacred pilgrimage site for Buddhist Newars and the second most sacred site for Tibetan Buddhists.

Swayambhu is one of the oldest religious places in Nepal. It is said to have been founded by King Manadeva in the fifth century. Before this, in the third century, Emperor Ashoka built a temple that was later destroyed.

The complex includes a series of shrines and temples that date as far back as the first century. The main feature of the complex is the stupa, a hemispherical structure containing relics and used as a place for meditation. The stupa has Buddha's eyes and eyebrows painted on it. The number one, in Devanagari script, takes the place of his nose.

The complex also has a Tibetan monastery, a museum, and a library. Visitors can shop for souvenirs at the Swayambhunath Buddhist Complex, where multiple vendors sell art, incense, idols, and jewelry. There are also several restaurants in the complex.

The Swayambhunath Buddhist Complex primarily uses Newar Buddhism iconography. However, it is a religious place for many Buddhist sects. It is also revered by Hindus.

The complex is also known as the Monkey Temple due to the holy monkeys that live there. Those monkeys are said to be descended from Manjushri, the deity of wisdom and learning.

The stupa was renovated in 2010 with funding from the Tibetan Nyingma Meditation Center of California. The shrine was also regilded in more than 44 pounds of gold.