Swayambhu

Centre of Nepal Mandala, as per Newar (original community of Kathmandu valley) Buddhist mythological history. The local people pay huge respects to this sacred image and its philosophy, as it relates to every Buddhist's religious activities since the start of their dwelling in the valley. Buddhist pilgrims from around the world travel here to do the same. The original Swayambhu (dome/stupa) consists of many shrines. Although it does not have the actual date of its initial construction, its re-construction dates back to 4 th  Century. It is located on the top of a hill from where you can view the whole valley and it has amazing panoramic views of the mountains. Many varieties of plants and trees are decorated with prayer flags which flutter in the wind and the monkeys are common sights. The base of Swayambhu is surrounded by Mani (prayer) walls that many Buddhist circle around every morning reciting the powerful Mantra “Om Mani Padme Hun”. Climbing steep steps from the base to the top ground “Dorje” meaning 'Huge thunderbolt' can be a breathless experience.