Although Nepal is recognized as a Hindu Kingdom, it is also the center Buddhism or the birth place of Buddha. The influence of Buddhism is inevitably felt with both Hindus and Buddhists accepting each other's religion harmoniously within the country. Sculptures and inscriptions in the temple, claims Swoyambhunath to be the oldest Buddhist temple in the valley and is one of the oldest nation wide. Standing mighty on top of the hillock, the temple is 175m above the valley, providing as exceptional vista of the entire Kathmandu valley. As the myth holds, before the human settlement, Kathmandu valley was a lake, and the place where Swoyambhunath now stands bloomed a radiant lotus believed to hold special value in Buddhism. The temple is astounding with a white dome, on top of which is a harmika with two wise eyes of Buddha painted on both sides and the 13 steps of the sprire. You can either climb the famous 400 steps of the temple, with the notorious monkeys keeping you company on the way or opt for the short climb from the western side of the temple. Either way, you will reach the magnificent spiritual domicile perched on top, emanating wisdom of peace for everyone within its reach.