Swayambhunath Sunrise Walk
The Swayambhunath sunrise walk takes you to Kathmandu's oldest Buddhist stupa at the most beautiful time of day. Climb the steep eastern stairway past stone Buddhas and playful monkeys, join local pilgrims spinning prayer wheels on the kora, and watch the sun rise over the Kathmandu Valley, with the Himalaya on the horizon on clear mornings.
Hotel pick-up, guide, entry fee and breakfast included.
Trip highlights
- Swayambhunath stupa at dawn
- The eastern stairway
- Morning kora with pilgrims
- Views over the Kathmandu Valley
- Breakfast with a view
Short itinerary
View detailed itinerarySwayambhunath Sunrise Walk overview
Quick answer: a half-day walk to Swayambhunath at dawn, back in Thamel by about 9 am, from US$25 per person including breakfast.
Swayambhunath is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. See our Swayambhunath guide.
At a glance
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | About 3 hours |
| Start | Before sunrise, from your hotel |
| Highlights | Eastern stairway, stupa, valley views |
| Cost | From US$25 per person |
Day-by-day itinerary
What’s included
Included
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off
- Licensed guide
- Swayambhunath entry fee
- Breakfast
- All government and local taxes
Not included
- Drinks
- Tips
Useful info
Monkeys
Keep food out of sight; the monkeys will grab it.
Etiquette
Walk clockwise around the stupa and dress modestly.
Packing list
- Comfortable shoes
- Warm layer for the early start
- Camera
Add-ons & trip options
Choose add-ons and quantities on the booking form.
More options, quoted on request:
- Continue to Kathmandu Durbar Square.
- Combine with Boudhanath at dusk.
Frequently asked questions
Before sunrise; the time varies by season.
About 365 on the eastern stairway.
From US$25 per person.
Because of the monkeys that live on the hill.