Nepal: Swayambhunath Temple in Kathmandu

And last but not least is this grand temple in Kathmandu -Swayambhunath Stupa – located in the very heart of the city on the highest hill. This is one of the most sacred sights in Buddhism if not the most sacred – the iconic Buddha eyes painted here are reproduced all over other Buddhist sites. Pilgrims from all over the world flock here, climb all the way from the bottom (not drive half way like I did) and then literally go in circles around the stupa. The stupa dates to 462 AD – this is one of the most ancient religious monuments in the world! The hill it sits in is covered with trees and hundreds of monkeys roam around. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Sunset is the place to be here!