# Swayambhunath vs Boudhanath: Which Stupa Should You Visit?

_Published 14 September 2026_

Kathmandu's two great Buddhist stupas are both UNESCO-listed and both unmissable, but they offer very different experiences. Ideally, see both.

**Quick answer:** **Swayambhunath** is a hilltop stupa, often called the "Monkey Temple", with shrines, monkeys and panoramic views over Kathmandu. **Boudhanath** is one of the largest stupas in the world, on flat ground, surrounded by monasteries and the centre of Tibetan Buddhist life in Nepal. Visit Swayambhunath at **sunrise** and Boudhanath at **dusk**.

## Side by side

SwayambhunathBoudhanathSettingOn a hill west of the cityOn flat ground east of the cityHighlightsViews, shrines, monkeys, the eastern stairwayThe giant dome, the kora, monasteriesAtmosphereMixed Hindu and Buddhist shrinesTibetan Buddhist communityBest timeSunriseDuskEffortSteep stepsFlat and easy## Visiting both

Our [Kathmandu sightseeing day tour](/kathmandu-sightseeing-day-tour) includes both, and our [Swayambhunath sunrise walk](/swayambhunath-sunrise-walk) catches the best light. Stay near Boudhanath for evening walks around the stupa; see [hotels near Boudhanath](/accommodation/hotels-near-boudhanath-and-pashupatinath).

## Etiquette

Walk clockwise around both stupas, spin prayer wheels with your right hand, and dress modestly.

## Frequently asked questions
### Which stupa is bigger?
**Boudhanath**, one of the largest in the world.

### Why is Swayambhunath called the Monkey Temple?
Because of the monkeys that live on the hill.

### When is the best time to visit?
Swayambhunath at sunrise and Boudhanath at dusk.

### Can I visit both in one day?
Yes, easily.


Web page: https://himalayanhiking.com/blog/swayambhunath-vs-boudhanath