Friday, February 8, 2013

S2L77: Swayambhunath Monkey Temple

Kathmandu, Nepal
February 21-27, 1977

I lined up an overland bus tour to London. The easy way out but a relief to me.

I spent today trying to finalize overland plans. Visas have me worried a lot. I walked to the Indian Embassy only to discover I had forgotten to bring passport photos.

I picked up my Indian visa, went to the Pakistan Embassy (no visa needed). I went to the casino to pick up some greenbacks needed for an Afghan visa (US$7 cash, no travelers checks accepted, no pounds, no rupees, everyone must pay with US cash). At the casino, I changed a traveler's check into US cash and left with that plus gambling winnings of 43 Indian rupees besides. Free drinks, too!

I spent time in the American library reading current US magazines.
Source: Personal travel notes.

From 1977 02 21 Nepal

I said goodbye to Kathmandu with a visit to Swayambhunath, an ancient religious complex atop a hill a short walk from Kathmandu's Durbar Square. The site affords solitude and an expansive view of Kathmandu Valley. Yeah, I know, the string of flags make the stupa look a little like a grand opening of a gas station in Appleton, Wisconsin, but forget that. The monkeys remind you where you really are.

More photos after the jump.



From 1977 02 21 Nepal

From 1977 02 21 Nepal

One of a continuing series.
Start: Around the World in 800 Days
Previous: Kathmandu Durbar Square
Next: Pokhara, Nepal

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