We made our first family pilgrimage to a must-see World Heritage Site today. It surely did not disappoint.
Also known as the monkey temple, Swayambhunath is located high above the city and it is considerd a sacred place for both Hindus and Buddhists. It was a feast for all the senses, and I'm sure we'll be back several times with any visitors.
We were warned not to look any monkey directly in the eye, as it triggers their aggression, so the kids had fun enforcing that rule. We climbed steps, circled clockwise, spun prayer rolls, watched the flags flap in the wind, smelled incense and butter candles, surveyed many artifacts and wares for sale, and enjoyed breathtaking views of the city.
On our way down, we passed this man who sold bead bracelets and decided to have one made for each of the kids. It was a highlight! They loved picking out their letters and watching him carefully craft each one. They are already treasures.
Numerous people wanted their pictures taken with the kids. One old man came up and nearly whisked A right away. Another girl's parents wanted a picture of her with their little girl. Other school kids wanted their photos with one, two, three, then all of the kids. At first ours didn't really know how to take it, but eventually they played along and laughed about it.
There have been many such experiences over the years. In fact here's a random one of B several years ago in Germany. I guess she's been a novelty her whole life.
Also known as the monkey temple, Swayambhunath is located high above the city and it is considerd a sacred place for both Hindus and Buddhists. It was a feast for all the senses, and I'm sure we'll be back several times with any visitors.
We were warned not to look any monkey directly in the eye, as it triggers their aggression, so the kids had fun enforcing that rule. We climbed steps, circled clockwise, spun prayer rolls, watched the flags flap in the wind, smelled incense and butter candles, surveyed many artifacts and wares for sale, and enjoyed breathtaking views of the city.
On our way down, we passed this man who sold bead bracelets and decided to have one made for each of the kids. It was a highlight! They loved picking out their letters and watching him carefully craft each one. They are already treasures.
Numerous people wanted their pictures taken with the kids. One old man came up and nearly whisked A right away. Another girl's parents wanted a picture of her with their little girl. Other school kids wanted their photos with one, two, three, then all of the kids. At first ours didn't really know how to take it, but eventually they played along and laughed about it.
There have been many such experiences over the years. In fact here's a random one of B several years ago in Germany. I guess she's been a novelty her whole life.
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