Walking Tour to Swayambhunath Monkey Temple in Kathmandu

3 hours • Cancellable until 1 day beforeMeet on locationInstant confirmationGuided • Operated by Amazing Kathmandu • 5.0 from 72 reviews

Why we love it?

The "Walking to the Monkey Temple – Swayambhunath" tour offers a three-hour guided experience through the vibrant streets of Bhaganpau, Kathmandu. Participants will explore significant cultural sites, including the Indrayani Temple and Shova Bhagawati Temple, led by a licensed English-speaking guide who provides insights into the rich heritage of the area. This tour is ideal for those interested in a deeper understanding of Kathmandu's spiritual and historical landscape, as well as for travelers seeking a more intimate group setting. Its distinctive focus on local temples and the cultural context surrounding the Monkey Temple makes it a unique opportunity to engage with Nepal's religious traditions.
Walking Tour to Swayambhunath Monkey Temple in KathmanduWalking Tour to Swayambhunath Monkey Temple in KathmanduWalking Tour to Swayambhunath Monkey Temple in KathmanduWalking Tour to Swayambhunath Monkey Temple in KathmanduWalking Tour to Swayambhunath Monkey Temple in Kathmandu View all (16)

Inclusions

  • Professional Guidance: Tours are led by a licensed, English-speaking tour guide who is knowledgeable and passionate about Kathmandu’s culture and heritage.

Exclusions

  • Entrance Fees: Entrance fee Swayambhunath is 200 Rupees (about US$1.50) in cash paid directly to Temple authorities.
  • Meals: Lunch and other meals during the tour are not provided and are the responsibility of the participant.
  • Gratuities: While not mandatory, tips for the tour guide are greatly appreciated as a gesture of gratitude.
  • Travel Insurance: Participants are responsible for securing their own travel insurance to cover potential risks or unforeseen circumstances.

Itinerary

Meeting Point | PUMPERNICKEL BAKERY

We will meet at Pumpernickel Bakery

Your guide will be available 10 minutes before each meeting time with a sign "Meeting Point - Amazing Kathmandu".

Pumpernickel Bakery is centrally located in Thamel and has excellent offerings, including great coffee, all-day breakfasts, delicious cakes, and bakery items that also cater to gluten-free and vegan diets.

Indrayani Temple

Our journey begins in Thamel and takes us to the famous Indrayeni Temple, located by the banks of the Bishnumati River. The goddess Indrayeni, revered as the  Lhuti Ajima (Golden Grandmother)  by the local Newar community, holds great cultural and spiritual significance. At the temple, you’ll have the chance to see the intricate erotic carvings on the struts, with our guide providing insights into their history and symbolism.

From there, we’ll continue on to the Shova Bhagawati Temple, another remarkable site on our path.

Shova Bhagawati Temple

The Shova Bhagwati Temple is another significant shrine on the way to Swayambhunath. Here, you will encounter the Ashta Matrikas (Eight Mothers) and the Nava Durgas (Nine Durgas), who are among the most revered goddesses in Nepali culture. These deities hold profound spiritual significance and represent the deep-rooted traditions of Nepal.

Bhagwan Pau

Swayambhunath Stupa

This is our main attraction. Swayambhunath, self originated one. We will explore this neighborhood and know about origination of Swayambhunath as well as kathmandu valley, also go through lore and legends about Manjushree, Basics about Buddhism like prayer flag and five elements, four noble truths, eightfold paths and thirteen steps to nirvana. We will explore the various Shrines, Temples and stupas around the Swayambhu premises encircling the stupa itself.

Harati Ajima Temple

You will explore the unique Nepalese pagoda style architecture of the Temple and our experienced tour guide will tell the story how the demon named Harati became Mother Harati and why people around the valley worship her.

Manjushree Temple

A small temple dedicated to Maha Manjushree in Swayambhu Hill. We will go through legends about how Kathmandu Valley is turned into a city from a great lake and enjoy a panoramic view of western side of Kathmandu valley. From here we will climb down the swayambhu hill and go towards Amideva Buddha Park which houses 3 big Buddha Idols

Amideva Buddha Park

Please Note

  • When visiting holy places in Kathmandu Valley, both men and women are encouraged to dress modestly out of respect for the cultural and spiritual significance of these sites.We recommend not wearing revealing clothing or sleeveless tops. Shorts are acceptable but should reach just above the knee and be modest. For women, it is preferable to wear trousers or a long skirt.

Know Before You Go

  • Dress code applies

Cancellation Policy

Fully refundable until 1 day before start

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