After my Annapurna trek, I returned to Kathmandu for my last week in Nepal.
I could only handle a few nights in rockin' Thamel (the tourist district) after having experienced the tranquility of Pokhara, so I sought refuge in nearby Boudha, home to one of the valley's seven World Heritage Sites.
My new base camp was much quieter at night, and by spending my last few days in Nepal there, I was able to photograph Boudhanath Stupa at all times of day, from sunrise to sunset.
I observed the daily life of the Tibetans who lived there.
I watched them walk around the stupa, spinning prayer wheels, and counting their prayers on malas (beaded necklaces). I walked around spinning prayer wheels too.
And I bought a few wonderful souvenirs from the shops that enveloped the stupa.
Tibetan Buddhism is alive and well in Boudha, and it quickly became one of my favorite places in the world.
johnnyvagabond says
Great photos! I especially like the next-to-last one -- you captured some beautiful light with that one.
Dave says
Thanks Wes, waking up at sunrise paid off in that instance.
I felt lucky to have captured the plane and bird in the shot as well.
I tried to take some photos at night, but there wasn't enough light.
ottsworld says
Was just there recently. I love this site because it's a little calm oasis among the craziness of Kathmandu!
GlobalButterfly says
I LOVE the photo of the man praying at sunrise, wow! What an extraordinary place!!!
Lorraine says
Such warm feelings permeated me as I viewed these pictures. I was here a year ago and Boudhanath was my favorite part of Kathmandu. I was in Nepal for 6 weeks and fell in love with the country, it's people, food, and culture. Boudhanath holds a special place in my heart!
Dave says
Lorraine - glad you liked my photos. It's amazing the effect Nepal has on the people who visit!
Dave says
Lorraine - glad you liked my photos. It's amazing the effect Nepal has on the people who visit!
Deelip K says
Amazing photos Dave.
I have some photos I took during my trekking to Langtang.
Can I post them in this blog?
Dave says
Hi Deelip,
Yes, if you'd like to share a favorite photo or several in the form of an essay, you can check out the submission guidelines for more info:
https://gobackpacking.com/2009/10/19/contributors-wanted/