Photo: Wikimedia CommonsPerched on a wooded hilltop with commanding views over the valley, Swayambhunath is one of Nepals oldest and holiest sites, its gilded stupa watched over by the Buddhas all-seeing eyes. The steep stairway is lined with cheeky resident monkeys that give the place its nickname. Spin the prayer wheels clockwise as you circle the stupa among pilgrims and fluttering flags. Climb up in the late afternoon for golden light and the best panorama over Kathmandu below.