Around Kathmandu

Going to Swayambhu, we came across an enlightening sight. All the plastic in the city had gone to the river.

There were temples on the way and we stopped at each one. We are beginning to grow used to the Nepalis, who don't charge entrance fees to their temples. It's such a nice change.

At Swayambu, I counted 400 steps up; but some say it's closer to 350.

Both Hindus and Buddhists come here to worship.

Behind the houses, there were men digging out these old statues!

Smoggy Kathmandu from the peak of Swayambu.

It's so high that eagles have built their nests here.

It's also called the monkey temple because of the monkeys that are just as numerous as the Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims.

There were a lot of monks, too.

Henri standing next to "The Thunderbolt."

Henri found these growing in a trash heap. What sharp eyes he's got!

The following day, we went east of Kathmandu...

To the gates of Pashupatinath, the holy cremation site for Hindus.

But we didn't want to go in anymore because we'd had our fill of Hindu temples in India, and besides, foreigners are asked to pay a hefty entrance fee for the site, but are not allowed to go inside the temple. So after climbing up the hill beside Pashupatinath, we went north to Bodnath.

Some ass who tried to swing at Henri with a bottle on our way. Long story. (Avoid people from here, even locals say so. Go straight to Bodnath!)

But he didn't ruin the good vibes coming from the Buddhist temple.

This enormous stupa graces millions of postcards and travel posters in Nepal.

It's home to hundreds of Tibetan refugees.

A granny with a nice face stood next to me and made joking jestures about a woman who was sitting on her beads. Such a funny old lady! I didn't want to ruin the moment by taking a picture of her, but I remember her face well. So full of light.

 

A Thai dinner to celebrate our last night in Kathmandu before we go on a Nepali Safari!