Random Morning Duty

One of my favorite places to visit during the mornings in Kathmandu is, Swayambhunath. This place has always had a special place in my heart as visiting it early in the mornings use to be a common routine among us friends. 

Swayambhu from afar

Atop a hill, you can clearly see Swayambhu from different parts of Kathmandu, and it looks majestic as always. But with the recent earthquake it has been shaken, as the damage to the property was pretty severe but I think it still holds its calm and serenity. 

The eyes that signify Wisdom and Compassion

Prayers

Swayambhu is of religious importance to both the Hindu and the Buddhist, hence there are a lot of pilgrims and local worshippers that can be spotted here throughout the day. You can see people offering their prayers, lighting butter lamps and even prostrating. 

All the twinkling lights 

Swayambhu is not only a place of pilgrim but is also a vantage point to overlook the Kathmandu Valley. I remember as a kid, I could not hold my excitement to see  the valley from above and looking at all the city lights that twinkled like stars after dark, use to be my favorite thing to do.

The valley view

If you walk around the stupa you will also be able to discover small shops and souvenir carts that sell the different handicraft and artifacts that have been produced by local artisans. 

Local Artisans

Besides the view and serenity one other reason I love visiting this place is for the food. Around the area you can find a lot of local Restaurants that serve awesome food and beverages. My favorite being butter tea and phaley (roti).

Butter Tea

As for the view during the day is quite pleasant but there is a different vibe at night. I feel like visiting Swayambhu during the day and the night have a totally different feel to it, but definitely a good kind of different. 

A lit up Swayambhu

There are many ways you can get to the stupa. There is a driving/riding route which takes you right to the stupa but there is also an alternate route that needs a little more stamina - the stairs.  And trust me walking up that stairs can be quite the adventure in itself. 

Stairs to serenity

Here is to finding little adventures and making memories. 

SHEY