The top of the main stupa at Swayambhunath in Kathmandu is covered in more than 20 kilograms of gold and has the iconic eyes and eyebrows of Buddha painted on it.

Kathmandu's Buddhist World Heritage

Two of the holiest Buddhist sites in Nepal are the stupas of Swayambhu and Bauddhanath in Kathmandu. They are part of a UNESCO World Heritage site and can be combined with a pilgrimage to Lumbini.

The complex at Swayambhunath stretches out across the hill to more shrines, a monastery, and rest areas. – © Michael Turtle

The golden ‘vajra’, or thunderbolt, at the front of the main stupa represents enlightenment and indestructibility. – © Michael Turtle

Prayer wheels circle the base of the main stupa at Swayambhunath. – © Michael Turtle

The climb up the 365-step staircase to the top of the hill at Swayambhunath is long but there are places to rest along the way. – © Michael Turtle

There are views of Kathmandu Valley in every direction from the top of the hill at Swayambhunath. – © Michael Turtle

The complex at Swayambhunath stretches out across the hill to more shrines, a monastery, and rest areas. – © Michael Turtle

If you are spending time in Kathmandu during your trip to Nepal, you may be interested in visiting the Buddhist stupas of Swayambhu and Bauddhanath. These two religious complexes are the most important in the country. They are part of the 'Kathmandu Valley' World Heritage Site that consists of seven locations, including three Durbar Squares and two Hindu temples.

Swayambhunath is at least 1500 years old and is dominated by the enormous stupa at the highest point. The top of the stupa is covered in 20 kilograms of gold and has the iconic image of Buddha’s eyes and eyebrow painted on it. Surrounding it are various temples and shrines that have been added over the centuries.

On another part of the hill, the complex has been expanded to create a monastery where prayer flags are tied between the trees. From here, there are beautiful views across the Kathmandu Valley and to the surrounding mountains.

Bauddhanath is located about eight kilometres east of downtown Kathmandu and the stupa dominates the skyline. The enormous mandala not only makes it one of the city's most imposing sights, but also one of the world's largest stupas, standung 36 metres high.

It's believed Bauddhanath was built around the 5th century AD and renovated in the 8th century. It was designed to replicate the Gyangtse of Tibet and sits on the ancient trade route to Tibet. For centuries, Tibetan merchants would have rested and prayed in this spot.