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The steps are leading to, Swayambhunath ( Monkey Temple) along with the huge Boudhanath stupa to the east, is one of the most ancient and holiest Buddhist sites in the Kathmandu. It sits on a hill in the west of Kathmandu overlooking the city. Swayambhunath, is among the oldest religious sites in Nepal. According to the Gopālarājavaṃśāvalī Swayambhunath was founded by the great-grandfather of King Mānadeva (464-505 CE), King Vṛsadeva, about the beginning of the 5th century CE. This seems to be confirmed by a damaged stone inscription found at the site.[2] The history of the site itself apparently dates back to long before the arrival of Buddhism in the Kathmandu valley.

Although the site is considered Buddhist, the place is revered by both Buddhists and Hindus. Numerous Hindu kings are known to have paid their homage to the temple including the most powerful king of Kantipur- Pratap Malla.
Swayambhunath at night
The stupa consists of a dome at the base. Above the dome, there is a cubical structure present with eyes of Buddha looking in all four directions. There are pentagonal Toran present above each of the four sides with statues engraved in them. Behind and above the torana there are thirteen tiers. Above all the tiers, there is a small space above which the Gajur is present.