Flying into Kathmandu we had our first glimpse of the Himalayas.
Sunset from the roof of our hotel in Thamel.
Pigeons dominated the rooftops.
Swayambhunath Stupa (Monkey Temple). We could see it from the hotel and would be visiting it later that day.
We arrived during Diwali. One aspect of the festival had people laying out elaborate colored displays (Rangoon) in front of their homes and shops.
A typical meal in Nepal.
Visiting Swayambhu Stupa.
We would encounter many dogs on this trip. Unlike their American counterparts, these dogs were very docile and barely took notice of humans wandering about.
Happy in the warm sun.
The temple was full of monkeys. Luckily they weren’t very aggressive.
Monkeys love ice cream.
A beautiful place to explore.
The ever-present prayer flags. One of the things that really gives Nepal a special character.
Prayer wheels were also a very common sight.
A view of the city from the temple.
After visiting the temple, we descended into the heart of Kathmandu.
Not sure how this mess keeps things running.
Rows of flowers also symbolized Diwali.
Posing with a soldier. Photos of military were only allowed if they were dressed in period outfits.
Pigeons had taken over this temple.
This Hindu priest was offering blessings, accounting for the red marks on everyone’s foreheads.
Durbar Square.
Shree Pashupatinath is the oldest Hindu complex in Nepal, and a place where local Nepalis burn their dead.
It was a strange sight for us to witness the full ceremony and cremation, but it is a normal thing and crowds regularly gather to watch.
On busy days, the area would be full of smoke.
After preparations are made and the body is cleansed with the river, it is moved to the pyre, the eldest son circles three times, and then he lights the fire in the mouth of the deceased.
The ashes are washed into the Bagmati River, and will eventually flow into the Ganges.
This monkey seemed to enjoy Coke straight from the bottle.
Wandering the chaotic streets of Kathmandu.
Tibetan singing bowls. Thu was looking for just the right sound.
Boudha Stupa. One of the largest of its kind, located in the Tibetan area of Kathmandu.
The perfect spot for lunch.
Even the dogs get a blessing!
We had such a nice and informative guide. Little did we know we would be taking a massive road trip with him at the end of our stay in Nepal.
Back at our hotel for sunset.
As the sun went down, the festive lights of Diwali came on and the partying began.
Beautiful skyline at night.