Swaymbunath

Swayambhunath Stupa (the "Monkey Temple") is a hub for several significant events throughout the year. If you are looking for current or upcoming events for May 2026, the most important one has just recently passed, but there are several recurring traditions to be aware of.  

Major Annual Events

Buddha Jayanti (Buddha's Birthday): This is the biggest event at Swayambhunath. In 2026, it was celebrated on May 1st. Thousands of devotees gather to circumambulate the stupa, light butter lamps, and participate in grand processions. The stupa is often repainted and decorated with fresh prayer flags for this day.  

Swayambhu Mahotshab (Swayambhu Festival): This is a week-long cultural and religious festival usually held in April or early May. In 2026, it ran from April 25th to May 2nd, featuring local craftsmanship, traditional music, and food stalls around the Bhuinkhel and Kimdol areas.

Gunla Parva (August): This is a month-long festival for the Newari Buddhist community. Devotees climb the 365 steps every morning at dawn, accompanied by traditional Gunla Bajan (flute and drum music), to pray and find spiritual renewal.  

Losar (Tibetan New Year): Celebrated in February, this event brings vibrant masked dances, chanting, and special rituals performed by monks in the surrounding monasteries.  

Daily & Weekly Rituals

If you missed the major festivals, you can still experience the site's spiritual energy through daily events:

Sunrise & Sunset Kora: Every day at dawn and dusk, hundreds of locals perform Kora (clockwise circumambulation) around the stupa while spinning prayer wheels and chanting mantras.  

Evening Butter Lamp Offerings: Near the Harati Devi temple, you can participate in lighting butter lamps as the sun sets over the Kathmandu Valley.

Full Moon Prayer Sessions: Every full moon (the next one is May 31, 2026), the stupa sees increased activity with special group meditations and chanting sessions led by local monks. 

Quick Tips for Visitors

The Monkeys: They are considered sacred but can be bold. Avoid carrying loose food or plastic bags that look like they contain treats.  

Dress Code: While there isn't a strict uniform, it is respectful to wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.

Photography: Photos are generally allowed around the main stupa, but be mindful of signs inside the smaller temples or during active prayer ceremonies.