Where You Should Look Twice: Swayambhu Mahachaitya, Kathmandu
Monday, October 13, 2014 Nepal 0 Comments

Swayambhu Mahachaitya, Kathmandu

Help me pick between the power eyes of the Swayambhunath or the power view of the panorama that is Swaymbhunath Hill?

Still completely confused which one is better? Both are equally good, yes?

Quite interesting to know that the Tibetan name for the Swayambhu Mahachaitya means 'Sublime Trees', because there are so many kinds of trees around here. It’s this huge complex with a stupa, shrines and temples, symbolisms, pilgrims, shops, restos, and hotels.

The cool thing though: Buddha Eyes!

In fact, in almost every stupa in Nepal, you’ll see giant pairs of eyes staring out from the four sides of the main tower. Yes, Buddha Eyes – also known as Wisdom Eyes, looking out in the four directions to symbolize the omniscience of Buddha.

Yes, wisdom cool.

On the other hand, the view on Kathmandu from the Swaymbhunath hill is one of the most interesting things you’ll see in Nepal, because it’s not the stereotypical view of city skylines and the like.

Here the highlight is the mesh between clouds, skies, mountains, and bricks. You’ll see a cross stitch of light between the clouds lighter side and darker side. Half of the city is filled with light, while to the other is darker and desaturated. It’s like watching a weather report in Nat Geo. And yes, the Buddha Eyes can see that too!

So you see, both are the best, imo. Will you pick one if you can enjoy both in one sequence? :)