Swayambhu means self manifested or “that which is created by its own accord.” When this temple was founded nearly 2000 years ago, the site – Kathmandu valley – was a large lake. According to legend, a large perfect lotus grew in the middle of the lake. When the bodhisattva Manjusri drained the lake with a slash from his sword, the lotus settled on top of a hill and transformed into a Stupa. Thus, it is known as the “self-created” (swayambhu) Stupa.