Nepal: A Few Final Days in Kathmandu ~ In and Around the Valley

Visiting the ancient city of Patan, which has a restored Durbar Square (Palace area).

Examples of the architecture.

More ancient sculpture, statuary, and carvings.

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Local kids jumping rope together.

At Bhaktapur, another nearby ancient city - and World Hertitage site.

Visiting Budhanilkantha, a Hindu Temple that contains a Sleeping God that lies in a small pool. We visited on a special day - the first day of the year in Nepal - so there were crowds of celebrants. 

There was much revelry and worshiping going on at the temple during our visit.

Another side trip to a serene Buddhist monastery - Kopan Monastery.

The Kathmandu Valley from a ridgetop near Nagarkot.

An inspirational visit with Olga Murray - one of the founders of the Nepal Youth Foundation (NYF).

Visiting the NYF Child Rehabilitation and Nutrition Center.

A group of student nurses on their way to a training class at the Nutrition Center.

Kathmandu is a strange and wonderful city filled with with smiles, smells, and attractions that often delight the senses.

A farewell salute with the Kathmandu Guest House (KGH) front guard. The KGH was our home away from home for over 10 days - and we loved every minute of our stay at the most centrally located, safe, and friendly enclave in Thamel.

Live long and prosper!

Nepal: What Goes Up, Must Come Down ~ Trekking Back to Lukla

At altitutes over 11,000 ft. the air is noticeably thinner making uphill traverses slow and steady. The workers that haul loads up to the mountain villages are paid by the kilo (2.2 lbs.), so the more they can manage, the more they're paid. The traditional way to carry the load is by basket slung over the back, which are then strapped across the forehead!

Some of the trails were quite steep, making the downhill walks equally challenging. 

Trekking back downward to the village of Monjo.

       

More suspension bridges to cross (has anybody seen the bridge?)

   More scenes of village life.

 And, more spectacular views.

 

Posing with the elder mountain man who has helped collect funds for trail repair and maintanance since the 1980s.

   And - more sacred sites.

    Here's to a successful Himalayan trek!