Overview
Swayambhunath - the Monkey Temple - is a roughly 2,500-year-old Buddhist site said to have existed when the Kathmandu Valley was still a lake. After climbing 365 steep steps, you reach a golden stupa with sweeping views over the valley. Hundreds of resident monkeys gave it its nickname, and as a shrine sacred to both Buddhists and Hindus, it symbolizes religious harmony. Admission NPR 200 (foreigners). About 15 minutes by taxi from Thamel.
Travel Tips
The east staircase is the traditional pilgrimage route. Wear sturdy shoes for the steep climb, and don't feed the monkeys.
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🇰🇷 Tips for Korean Travelers
Practical info for Korean travelers heading to Kathmandu, Nepal from Seoul (ICN).
Korean Passport · Visa
Check visa rules for Nepal on the Korean MOFA travel advisory site before flying — visa-free, visa-on-arrival or e-visa rules change often. Keep at least 6 months of passport validity.
Flight from Incheon (ICN)
Compare direct and connecting flights from Incheon (ICN) to Kathmandu on Skyscanner or Google Flights. Early-morning departures from Korea are usually the cheapest option.
KRW ↔ Local Currency
Check the live FX widget above for the latest KRW rate. Korean travel cards like Travel Wallet, Hana EZ and Toss FX offer free local ATM withdrawals and competitive rates.
Korean Community · Korean Food
Many cities have an active Korean community in Kathmandu with Korean restaurants, mini-marts, and Korean-speaking guides. Search Naver Cafe or KakaoTalk open chats for "Kathmandu 한인" before you go.
Attractions near Swayambhunath (Monkey Temple)
Tap a pin on the map to jump to that attraction.
Kathmandu Durbar Square
A UNESCO World Heritage Site packed with former royal palaces and temples.
📍 2.0km away
Thamel District
Kathmandu's backpacker hub, packed with shops, restaurants, and trekking gear stores.
📍 2.2km away
Patan Durbar Square
A UNESCO World Heritage square showcasing the finest Newar architecture.
📍 5.8km away
Things to Do in Kathmandu
Boudhanath Kora (Pilgrimage Walk)
Walk clockwise around Boudhanath Stupa spinning prayer wheels alongside Tibetan Buddhist pilgrims. Early morning or dusk offers the most contemplative atmosphere. A meditative and deeply cultural experience.
Thamel Street Food Tour
A guided walking tour through Thamel's backstreets, sampling momos, chatamari, sel roti, and other Nepali street eats. A deep dive into local food culture.
Nepali Cooking Class
Learn to cook dal bhat, momos, and other Nepali dishes at a local home or cooking school. Discover local ingredients and spices, then enjoy the meal you prepared.