The renovation of Swayambhu, which formally commenced on 1 July, 2008 has just been completed. Pictures of the renovation of Swayambhu stupa in Kathmandu:

PHOTOS: Courtesy of Swayambhu Renovation Project Center for Documentation

Read related article: Renewal: a time for change

Historic drawing of Swayambhu and its vicinity. Image by Daniel Wright
Historic drawing of Swayambhu and its vicinity. Image by Daniel Wright
Mirror puja to remove the 'essence' of Swayambhu before renovation work started, 2008
Mirror puja to remove the 'essence' of Swayambhu before renovation work started, 2008
Swayambhu Renovation 2010 Kathmandu Nepal
Puja to remove the 'essence' of Swayambhu before renovation started
Puja for the reinstallation of the vajra and dharmadhatu mandala before the renovation. July 2008
Puja for the reinstallation of the vajra and dharmadhatu mandala before the renovation. July 2008
Since the early 13th century, 14 major restorations of Swayambhu have been undertaken, roughly one every 50 to 100 years.
Since the early 13th century, 14 major restorations of Swayambhu have been undertaken, roughly one every 50 to 100 years.
Over 100 artisans and other individuals participated in the renovation.
Over 100 artisans and other individuals participated in the renovation.
Artist Lok Ratna Shakya applying a gold-mercury mix to the a statue from a Toran of Swayambhu.
Artist Lok Ratna Shakya applying a gold-mercury mix to the a statue from a Toran of Swayambhu.
Polishing gold
An artist at work
Workers carry pieces of copper up to the stupa for renovation.
Workers carry pieces of copper up to the stupa for renovation.
Tibetan Nyingma Meditation Center (USA) provided funding for the renovation, including for 20 kilos of gold.
Tibetan Nyingma Meditation Center (USA) provided funding for the renovation, including for 20 kilos of gold.
Swayambhu after the renovation was completed
Swayambhu after the renovation is complete