“Welcome to the land of Lord Buddha” is the sigh that greets me as I get off the plane. I think I’m going to like it here! 

The 11 temples of Shiva…

Doors to the temple of a local monestary next to our hotel.

Nepal has such contrasts…. dusty and dirty with incredible beauty… people in traditional dress and bare feet while others use cell phones in modern clothes. Sacred holy sites have trash piled up against a temple wall.  The streets are nuts! People, buses, taxis, rickshaws and mopeds weaving in and out with no order…yet somehow it works! The elements of life rub up against each other in this close proximity, none hiding from the other. There are dogs, monks, beggars, school kids in uniforms, mothers and men inhabiting the streets, these dirt streets which send up dust with every passing vehicle. 

Men play a game at the Monkey Temple steps as Buddha looks on.
Out the window of our taxi….this is actually spread out traffic!

Temples are scattered throughout the city offering moments of awe and prayer amidst the chaos. The eyes of Buddha watch over the land and it’s people. And the monkeys! these sacred creatures are a robust and wild element that adds entertainment.

Boudahanof one of the largest stupa in Nepal
Prayer wheels …
The monkeys at aptly named “Monkey Temple”
Candles for prayers….  

It is good to be with Mike and back to companionship. It’s been 3 months and this is a sweet reunion. It involves the shedding of my independent mind frame yet again. I’m grateful for his infinite patience!

Visiting a temple we were blessed and marked.

These thoughts and images are just a taste from the mere 3 days I have spent in Kathmandu. There is so much to learn about the people and culture…. it is different from any I have known. We leave tomorrow for a 23 day trek and I trust our guide and friend Pemba will be a teacher for me.

I am unsure when I will have the opportunity to write next…. but rest assured much more will be posted about this amazing place!