Remembering India & Nepal: Dad and I took a month-long journey last year, but only now finally sharing pictures (I’m in USA now).
More pictures of our visit to Kathmandu. This time the massive Boudhanath Stupa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest stupas in the world. It was #1 on my father’s bucket list 
In articles about Nepal, it’s always featured and the “sleepy” eyes on the spire probably look familiar.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boudhanath
It is surrounded by a circular plaza thronged with pilgrims who circumnabulate reverently. Around the plaza are numerous shops, cafés, and monasteries. It’s been a pilgrimage site for centuries and the entire village caters to visitors.
Its origin myths differs between ethnic groups, but it is beloved by everyone. The village has been a major destination for Tibetan immigrants. Nepalese folks are proud of how Buddhism and Hinduism exist side-by-side and often blend peacefully. The vibe is friendly 
The dome’s characteristic white spots are from the daily spice-infused water offerings tossed on the sides. Like many other temples, its spire was damaged by the 2015 earthquake. The restoration was entirely funded by private donations, and required more than 30 kg of gold.
We were very fortunate that a nearby monastery was open for public viewing of their enormous 3-storey golden statue of Maitreya Jampa. The entire prayer hall is lushly adorned and imbued with profound spiritual resonance.
We were very fortunate that a nearby monastery was open for public viewing of their enormous 3-storey golden statue of Maitreya Jampa. The entire prayer hall is lushly adorned and imbued with profound spiritual resonance.
This is a great place for people-watching. WiFi is common. Tourists, locals, and devotees in ethnic garb stroll around the temple. It’s delightful to relax in cafés with fantastic views of the monument. My father was in heaven – we lingered here for hours.
If you’d like to join Mom, Dad, and I for our next trip to North India (not Nepal), we are going again at the end of October. C’mon along! We will visit temples, eat delicious food, make art, and move at an easy pace.
Or here is a link for our next group tour called “Seats of Power” on Facebook. Or send me a private message (DM) for more info.
https://m.facebook.com/events/s/seats-of-power/1984377598578873/