Sunday, November 7, 2010

Kumari Devi, Living Goddess of Nepal

One of the things I looked forward to in Nepal was to visit the house of Kumari Devi, the Living Goddess of Nepal. Choosing a pre-pubescent young girl as a living goddess is an old tradition in Nepal. When she reaches her first menstruation her divinity and reign ends, and the search for her successor begins.



It says it all: This is the House of the Living Goddess, Kumari.






Durbar Square, Kathmandu

The most popular UNESCO World Heritage site in Nepal is Durbar Square. It's only a half hour stroll from the backpacker area of Thamel.

Some of the temples date back to the 12th century.

For a bit of modernity there is the Royal Palace (the white building).













Thursday, November 4, 2010

Crazy Thamel (Shopping & Eating), Kathmandu Part 3 of 3

Thamel can overwhelm you. From trekking gear, handicrafts, bookstores to souvenirs, Thamel won't disappoint. After a hard day of exploring the city, its numerous bars and restaurants are welcoming.




A kukri, the fearsome weapon of the Gurkhas, is the perfect souvenir.






 Have a cup of tea with the locals.Two hard boiled eggs easily fortified me for half a day.
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