Monkey Temple - Swayambhunath Tour - Private/Small Group in Kathmandu, Nepal
Kathmandu, Nepal

Monkey Temple - Swayambhunath Tour - Private/Small Group

Outty Ranking 86 5.0 · 91 traveler reviews3 hoursFrom $15
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Outty Ranking

86/100

Exceptional. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

5.0/5

Based on 91 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Monkey Temple - Swayambhunath Tour - Private/Small Group worth booking?

Monkey Temple - Swayambhunath Tour - Private/Small Group is a 3-hour experience in Kathmandu, Nepal, from $15 per person. It scores 86 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 5/5 rating across 91 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
86 / 100
Rating
5/5 (91)
Duration
3 hours
From
$15 per person

The private walking tour is NOT sold out, you can book for 1 person and can come with more people. The private tour with transportation is for max 3 people because of the vehicle limitation. Also here you book for 1 person. Your guide will contact you with 24h after your booking and we have 100% refund policy with cancelations. This small group tour of max 5 participants focuses on the myths and legends of Swayambhunath and the origin of the Kathmandu valley. While enjoying the glorious ancient architecture that you will pass during this tour, your knowledgeable and helpful local guide will lead you through the neighborhoods of Swayambhu and Saraswotithan. Highlight of this tour is Swayambhunath Temple, one of the holiest Buddhist stupas in Nepal, on a hilltop in the center of Kathmandu.Your guide will give you a better understanding of the place, especially when religious ceremonies are taking place.

What you get

    About this experience

    The private walking tour is NOT sold out, you can book for 1 person and can come with more people. The private tour with transportation is for max 3 people because of the vehicle limitation. Also here you book for 1 person. Your guide will contact you with 24h after your booking and we have 100% refund policy with cancelations. This small group tour of max 5 participants focuses on the myths and legends of Swayambhunath and the origin of the Kathmandu valley. While enjoying the glorious ancient architecture that you will pass during this tour, your knowledgeable and helpful local guide will lead you through the neighborhoods of Swayambhu and Saraswotithan. Highlight of this tour is Swayambhunath Temple, one of the holiest Buddhist stupas in Nepal, on a hilltop in the center of Kathmandu.Your guide will give you a better understanding of the place, especially when religious ceremonies are taking place.

    What's included

    Included

    • English speaking guide

    Not included

    • Tea and coffee
    • Entrance fee Swayambhunath is 200 Rupees (about US$1.50) in cash paid directly to Temple authorities

    What you'll see and do

    1. This will be our meeting point, in the heart of Thamel. It takes approximately 30 minutes to reach Bhagwan Pau.

      15 minutes here

    2. It is said that in the 13th century when Licchavi King Gunakamdev made Kathmandu city, he established eight Matrikas in the shape of Khadga. And this temple of Indrayani / Luti Ajima is one among them. On the Way we also go through the story How Indrayani got the another name Luti Ajima and the story of other Matrikas.

      Pass by without stopping

    3. Bijeshwori Temple is considered sacred to both Hindu and Buddhist followers. It is a significant pilgrimage for Tibetan Buddhists since the temple is affiliated to Buddhism. Some of the Hindu disciples also regard the place as a sacred Shaktipeeth. More during tours.

      Pass by without stopping

    4. Bhagwan Pau as name for the feet of Lord Buddha is at the bottom of Swoyambhu hill, from where the main entrance which consists of 365 stairs begins. We will take a rest for a while, drink water and prepare ourselves to climb the 365 stairs to get to the top of the hill and explore SwayambhuNath Stupa.

      20 minutes here · Admission included

    5. Swaymbhunath

      This is our main attraction. Swayambhunath, self originated one. We will explore this neighborhood and know about origination of Swayambhunath as well as kathmandu valley, also go through lore and legends about Manjushree, Basics about Buddhism like prayer flag and five elements, four noble truths, eightfold paths and thirteen steps to nirvana. We will explore the various Shrines, Temples and stupas around the Swayambhu premises encircling the stupa itself.

      40 minutes here · Admission not included

    6. You will explore the unique Nepalese pagoda style architecture of the Temple and our experienced tour guide will tell the story how the demon named Harati became Mother Harati and why people around the valley worship her.

      5 minutes here · Admission included

    7. World Peace Pond is located on the western side of the Swayambhunath Temple . A brass statue of a Buddha standing on a Lotus flower is right in the middle of the pond. The words on the wall, written in English and Nepali, say May Peace Prevail On Earth.

      Pass by without stopping

    8. Manjushree Temple

      A small temple dedicated to Maha Manjushree in Swayambhu Hill. We will go through legends about how Kathmandu Valley is turned into a city from a great lake and enjoy a panoramic view of western side of Kathmandu valley. From here we will climb down the swayambhu hill and go towards Amideva Buddha Park which houses 3 big Buddha Idols.

      15 minutes here · Admission included

    9. Amideva Buddha Park

      Amideva Buddha Park, featuring the 3 gigantic idols of Amitabha Buddha (Amideva) 67 Feet in center, Chenrezig and Padmasambhava 64 Feet in two sides. We will walk around this park and share the story of Siddhartha Gautam, who later became Gautam Buddha , Avalokitesvara and The Precious Master. This is the last place we stop at before going around the Swoyambhu Hill towards Bhagwan Pau and back to Meeting point, where our tour ends.

      20 minutes here · Admission included

    10. Shova Bhagawati is a holy shrine devoted to the goddess Bhagwati on the bank of the Bishnumati River in Kathmandu, Nepal. This temple is one of the four major Bhagwati temples in Kathmandu built in the Licchavi regime. More about religion and history during the tour.

      Pass by without stopping

    11. From Bhagwan Pau we will walk back to Kathmandu Eco Hotel, Thamel, our Meeting point. If any travelers want to explore around the Swayambhu and want to walk back to the meeting Point on their own, they can end the tour at any point.

      30 minutes here

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    Kathmandu

    Your guide will be available 15 minutes before each meeting time with a sign "Meeting Point - Amazing Kathmandu". Pumpernickel Bakery is centrally located in Thamel and has excellent offerings, including great coffee, all-day breakfasts, delicious cakes, gluten-free and vegan diets.

    Hotel pickup

    No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.

    Ends at

    Your guide will be available 15 minutes before each meeting time with a sign "Meeting Point - Amazing Kathmandu". Pumpernickel Bakery is centrally located in Thamel and has excellent offerings, including great coffee, all-day breakfasts, delicious cakes, gluten-free and vegan diets.

    Options you can book

    • Walking Tour at Swayambhunath

    • Private Tour Swayambhunath

      Duration: 3 hours

    • Private With Transportation

      Vehicle with dedicated driver Pick up from your hotel

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    en
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 5 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Amazing Kathmandu Tours

    Know before you go

    • Service animals allowed
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
    • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
    • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
    • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
    • Travelers with severe asthma and knee problems are not advised to join the tour.

    Photos

    Swayambhu and stairway, Monkey Temple - Swayambhunath Tour - Private/Small Group in KathmanduSwayambhu hiltop and langtang mountain range on background., Monkey Temple - Swayambhunath Tour - Private/Small Group in KathmanduBhagawan Pau, footsteps of Buddha, Monkey Temple - Swayambhunath Tour - Private/Small Group in KathmanduStairway towards Swayambhu, Monkey Temple - Swayambhunath Tour - Private/Small Group in KathmanduVajradhatu Mandala, Monkey Temple - Swayambhunath Tour - Private/Small Group in KathmanduSwayambhunath Stupa, Monkey Temple - Swayambhunath Tour - Private/Small Group in Kathmandu

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 83 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    7 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    The guide

    3 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Physical effort

    2 mentions

    Expect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.

    Traveler reviews

    83 verified traveler reviews for Monkey Temple - Swayambhunath Tour - Private/Small Group. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    82
    4 star
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    3 star
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    2 star
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    Sort
    JoseGarcia6691 · October 2026

    Such a beautiful time we spent with Sandip in Katmandu. From Thamel to Golden Temple, walks, pics and knowledge. TY

    We had a beautiful time in Katmandu with Sandip. We started at 9AM in Thamel and walked till the Golden Temple. We made several stops. A lot of stories, sharings and knowledge. Hindu temples, Bhudist Stupas and urban architecture. We visited many local artists and drank a cup of team in the end. Real friends meeting ❤️ Thank you

    via Tripadvisor

    Michael_S · October 2026

    Amazing tour with a new friend!

    Today I did a walking tour with Sandip and it was an amazing half day experience. The tour felt more like a day out with friends. Sandip created a relaxed feel to the tour, whilst also providing a wealth of knowledge to supplement the amazing places we saw. I would recommend this trip to everyone that visits Kathmandu!

    Response from the operator: Namaste Michael and thanks for your review! Sandip has a gift for turning a morning at Swayambhunath into time with a friend, prayer wheels, stories and all. Great hearing it felt that way for you too. Please share your Nepal experience with friends and family, we'd love to welcome them here. Cheers, Menno Amazing Kathmandu Tours

    via Viator

    604felixa · October 2026

    Amazing Katmandu Tours

    Sanjib is quite the knowledgeable ,intelligent ,full of fun facts. His English was impeccable, including idioms. Later we booked a trip to Bathtapur and his explanation of the demon death by a avatar of Vischnew (Narasingha). Was just another of his best stories

    Response from the operator: Namaste and thanks for your review! Sandeep's stories, like Vishnu's Narasingha avatar in Bhaktapur, are exactly the kind of fun facts we love our guides sharing. Glad his English and energy made the day memorable. Please share your Nepal experience with friends and family, we'd love to welcome them here. Cheers, Menno Amazing Kathmandu Tours

    via Tripadvisor

    kayakjanet · October 2026

    Fun and informative

    Sandip was an excellent guide with through knowledge of the monkey temple. Getting to know the neighborhood on foot was fun and educational. His style of delivery was very engaging and fun, full of information about the temple. I highly recommend the walking tours. A great way to slow down and enjoy the pace of Nepal.

    Response from the operator: Namaste and thanks for your review! Sandip loves slowing the pace down at Swayambhunath so you actually see the neighborhood, not just rush through it. Glad that style landed well with you. Please share your Nepal experience with friends and family, we'd love to welcome them here. Cheers, Menno Amazing Kathmandu Tours

    via Tripadvisor

    S4195BYveronicat · September 2026

    An amazing tour and time with Sandip!

    I honestly couldn’t recommend taking a tour with Sandip enough! Within minutes of meeting him, I knew I was going to have an amazing time. It genuinely felt less like I was on a guided tour and more like I was exploring Kathmandu with a friend. Sandip is incredibly knowledgeable and so passionate about Buddhism, and the history & culture of Nepal. He has an amazing personality, a great sense of humor, and made the entire experience so enjoyable. We walked through the city while he shared the history of Kathmandu, stopped for a drink along the way, and then prepared ourselves for the stairs up to Swayambhunath Temple! Once we reached the top, we took some time to sit and talk while Sandip explained the history of the temples, the meaning behind the symbols, and the significance of everything around us. And just a heads up—there will be a quiz later, so make sure you have your listening ears on! 😂 I absolutely loved this experience and had such an amazing time. I feel incredibly grateful that I got to experience Swayambhunath with Sandip as my guide. His knowledge, humor, and passion made the experience truly special, and I would 100% recommend him to anyone visiting Kathmandu! You will not regret it!!

    Response from the operator: Namaste Veronica and thanks for your fantastic review. Wow, Sandip clearly found his perfect tour companion! Exploring Kathmandu with a friend for a day is exactly the experience we hope to create, and your review captures that beautifully. We’ll make sure Sandip reads this, although his quiz may become even harder now! Please share your Nepal experience with friends and family, we'd love to welcome them here. Cheers, Menno Amazing Kathmandu Tours

    via Tripadvisor

    Good to know

    Duration
    3 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Price range
    $15 to $99
    Hotel pickup
    No pickup, meet at start point
    Booked in 30 days
    32
    Verdict
    Exceptional

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by Amazing Kathmandu Tours, who run 8 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 63.3.

    See everything Amazing Kathmandu Tours runs

    Why this scores 86

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)99
    Review evidence (18% weight)85
    Booking momentum (14% weight)82
    Value for money (12% weight)73
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)57
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Monkey Temple - Swayambhunath Tour - Private/Small Group: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Kathmandu.

    How much does Monkey Temple - Swayambhunath Tour - Private/Small Group cost?

    +

    Prices start at $15 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Kathmandu usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Monkey Temple - Swayambhunath Tour - Private/Small Group take?

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    Plan for about 3 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Kathmandu is not rushed.

    Is Monkey Temple - Swayambhunath Tour - Private/Small Group worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 86 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 91 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most highly reviewed in Kathmandu, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Monkey Temple - Swayambhunath Tour - Private/Small Group?

    +

    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Monkey Temple - Swayambhunath Tour - Private/Small Group suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 3-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Monkey Temple - Swayambhunath Tour - Private/Small Group?

    +

    Around 32 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Kathmandu can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Kathmandu and add a light layer if any part of the 3-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Monkey Temple - Swayambhunath Tour - Private/Small Group start and how do I get there?

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    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Kathmandu within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Kathmandu?

    +

    On Outty we rank every Kathmandu experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Kathmandu Sightseeing | UNESCO World Heritage sites Private/Group, Manaslu Circuit Trek, Manaslu Circuit Trek: Private Group & Discounte Price. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Kathmandu?

    +

    Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Kathmandu?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

    +

    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Monkey Temple - Swayambhunath Tour - Private/Small Group?

    +

    Included: English speaking guide. Not included: Tea and coffee; and Entrance fee Swayambhunath is 200 Rupees (about US$1.50) in cash paid directly to Temple a. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Where is the meeting point for Monkey Temple - Swayambhunath Tour - Private/Small Group?

    +

    Your guide will be available 15 minutes before each meeting time with a sign "Meeting Point - Amazing Kathmandu". Pumpernickel Bakery is centrally located in Thamel and has excellent offerings, including great coffee. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.

    What languages is Monkey Temple - Swayambhunath Tour - Private/Small Group offered in?

    +

    It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Monkey Temple - Swayambhunath Tour - Private/Small Group?

    +

    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is Monkey Temple - Swayambhunath Tour - Private/Small Group wheelchair or stroller accessible?

    +

    The operator notes: Not recommended for pregnant travelers. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Monkey Temple - Swayambhunath Tour - Private/Small Group if the weather is bad?

    +

    It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Kathmandu. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

    What do travelers say about Monkey Temple - Swayambhunath Tour - Private/Small Group?

    +

    Across 91 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include knowledge and storytelling, the guide. Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted. One thing to know: Expect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.

    What booking options are available for Monkey Temple - Swayambhunath Tour - Private/Small Group?

    +

    There are 3 options to choose from, including Walking Tour at Swayambhunath, Private Tour Swayambhunath, Private With Transportation. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.

    Ready to lock in your spot?

    Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Monkey Temple - Swayambhunath Tour - Private/Small Group.

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