The 40 minute trek to this special Buddist Temple (Gumbha) was more than worth it. Uzie was generous enough to walk us up the mountain to the top where this spiritual place sits. Uzie and her family take this walk twice a week, which is quite amazing due to its intensity. The view was magnificent and words cannot describe it. We walked through a small town much quieter and quaint than what we are used to in Thamel. It was a nice breath of fresh air to visualize a different aspect of Kathmandu. At the beginning of our climb, for a split second I thought I was walking up the Great Wall of China because of the steepness and amount of steps. We were very sweaty when we reached the top, but no one cared. From the viewing area, we could see well into the Kathmandu Valley and the pictures will prove its beauty. We walked through the gumbha, clockwise of course, and saw the Tibetan original writings and even a group of monks completing their prayers. Breathtaking. I have a deep respect for the Buddhists and what they believe. I will leave you with this, one of the most beautiful statements I have ever read.
"The way to happiness is to keep you heart free from hate, your mind from worry. Live simply, give much. Fill your life with love. Do as you would be done by."
Buddha speaks brillantly.
PS- we are beginning to learn more Nepali! I can say Thank you, good morning, please, and little phrases here and there. I can't wait to practice and learn more!
More to come. Today we are a little sleepy after a long, fun night. We began to explore KTM night life, including the houka!
Lessons from Nepal:
1) The roads are muddy! Be prepared to have dirty feet and shoes 24/7.
2) Nepali people love teaching you- so be interested when you are here! You will be suprised on how much you can learn from the natives.
3) When you speak the language (even if you know only a little) the chances of you getting 'scammed' are far less- so use your cheat sheet!
We learn more and more each day so I will keep you posted!
Much Love,
Jessi
1 comment:
Walk to Swayambhu must have been awesome. Did you know that stone steps you climbed has exactly 365 steps? And around the base of the mountain, a whole half of it, is the Nepal Army Post and they make explosives in there. Jessi, you were only 20 minutes walk from where I went to school in Balaju, Kathmandu. I am glad to hear you are having fun.
Always, have fun and stay safe!!
Samir
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