Page 8 - Nepal Bhutan Myanmar 22 Day Sample Itinerary

DAY 04 KATHMANDU Enjoy the day exploring Kathmandu. Begin with a drive to the central Durbar Square ('HamUMAn Dhoka), the ancient royal residential quarter. Visit Mahadev and Parvati Temple, the temple of the Living Goddess who acknowledges the greetings of the devotees from the balcony of her temple residence. Also visit Swayambhunath a Buddhist Stupa said to be 2000 years old. The Stupa which forms the main structure is composed of a solid hemisphere of brick and earth supporting a lofty conical spire capped by a pinnacle of copper gilt. Painted on the four-sided base of the spire are all the seeing eyes of Lord Buddha. At first glance you will recognize Swayambunath as Nepal’s definitive icon. Pay attention to the “nose”, which is actually the Nepali number ek, (one) celebrating unity. Situated on top of a hill on the Western end of the valley, the “eyes” of the Buddha look out in all directions. Enjoy spectacular views of Kathmandu valley. Guarding the lower stairs of the stupa are a band of amusing monkeys performing acrobatics and angling for a snack. This afternoon visit the ancient cities of Pashupatinat and Boudhanath.