Our time in China has come to an end. We are grateful to have had the opportunity to visit such an interesting place, but also grateful that we don't have to live there. We have many memories and stories to share, but not on this blog. 'Nuff said!
Our next stop, Nepal.
The flight from Lasha to Kathmandu offers us the most amazing view of Mount Everest.
We are met at the airport by James Lama, a old schoolfriend of Norma's.
It's so good to have a local guide.
We quickly unpack and head for the Bakery Cafe where we meet Sanomaya,
a friend of a friend, to deliver photos and gifts from the U.K.
The streets around the hotel are fascinating, filled with colourful sights and sounds
and delightful cafes serving Kathmandu local beer!
The local transport is pretty cool too.
There is a fuel crisis here at the moment, petrol is not getting through,
so we are particularly thankful that James has been saving his fuel for our visit.
He very kindly arranges a personal tour around the historical centre.
Buddhist Monastery, Hiranya Varna Mahavihar, popularly know as "Golden Temple",
believed to have been consecrated in 12th century.
Pashupatinath, a sacred Hindu temple located on the banks of the Bagmati River
Wooden funeral pyre. Cremations on these platforms are a common activity.
Sadhus are wandering ascetic yogis, who are trying to acquire liberation
from the cycle of death and rebirth by meditating.
The Great Boudha Stupa, much seen on the news following the recent earthquake.
An important place of pilgrimage and meditation for Tibetan Buddhists and local Nepalis.
We like Kathmandu, it's a place of contrasts ...
here we observe how many people can fit into, and onto, a mini bus
then retreat to the wonderful Garden of Dreams,
before returning to our rather unusual hotel
Too brief a stay here ... definitely on the "to return to" list.
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