The day of arrival only gives you a glimpse of your travel destination. Today we had the chance to really understand the city and in fact much about the country of Nepal. It is a land of contrasts--those who have and those who do not! The everyday man is in the street and in the market selling his wares whether they be plant leaf bowels, clothing or jewelry. We toured the streets of old Kathmandu and Durbar Square by foot and bicycle rickshaw. We saw the crowded streets and the colorful stalls in addition to the temples that are everywhere. Here are some city sites from the "crazy" overhead wires to the stalls and the bicycle transportation.
Around every corner there is a temple in Kathmandu. They are ancient sites which shape current life. The residents flock to these places of spirituality to acknowledge the ancient traditions and to seek peace and harmony in what is a very difficult life of little monetary rewards and creature comforts. Yet each day they pray and begin and end their day with joy no matter what the circumstances. It is a remarkable site and provides an appreciation of the power of spirituality. Perhaps no where more important is the home of the Kumari. This is the place where the girl who is elected to be the living goddess lives until she reaches puberty and again becomes a normal mortal. This young girl chosen for her looks and her horoscope lives a completely sheltered life apart from all but her guardians to act as the dispenser of good fortune. For foreigners like us we are lucky if we get a glimpse of here as she only leaves the house 13 times a year. We were among the favored and did see her from her "audience window."
Finally to finish our day of touring we went to the Swayambhunath which is an amazing Stupa overlooking the city. This UNESCO Heritage site is special since it provides an iconic look at both Buddha statues ad Tibetan chapels, There are all seeing eyes and prayer flags flying as well as monks in residence. We were lucky enough to see them chant in their monastery.
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