Kathmandu Durbar Square
Kathmandu Durbar Square is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the heart of Kathmandu, Nepal. It is a complex of ancient temples, palaces, courtyards, and shrines that showcase the rich cultural heritage and architectural prowess of the Nepalese people. The square was once the royal palace of the Malla and Shah Kings of Nepal and is a popular tourist destination for its exquisite woodcarvings, intricate architecture, and historic significance.
Swayambhunath (Money Temple)
Swayambhunath Stupa, also known as the Monkey Temple, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located on a hilltop in Kathmandu, Nepal. The stupa is one of the oldest and holiest Buddhist shrines in Nepal and is known for its spectacular architecture and stunning views of the city. The temple is also famous for its resident monkeys, which are considered sacred and are believed to be the protectors of the temple.
By: Paige Oswald
Today our tour guide took us to a tea spot he goes to a lot. He explained that everyone in Nepal has tea in the morning and it is a big part of their culture. Then he showed us the Kumari Palace. The Kumari is a young girl who has 32 special signs such as a nice voice and facial features. She is then brought to live in the palace until 11-12 years old.
By: Michael Cyktor
I learned during day 3’s session that nightlife is very similar to what we know as nightlife in America (going out, drinking, and dancing). I was very surprised though that nightlife is mainly for tourists and locals don’t usually do it. I thought the monkey temple was very beautiful and interesting to learn about too especially with how monkeys don’t interact with people if they don’t have food on them. I enjoyed learning about the nightlife and the supermarkets the most. I was surprised that the supermarkets carried props and jewelry and the much shorter hours compared to most supermarkets in America.
By: Alyssa Agard
On the third day, I enjoyed learning about the different types of tea, especially masala tea and chai. Chai is a part of my own culture and one of my favorite drinks, so it made me smile because earlier in the day, my ABA client spontaneously requested for masala tea. My client is Filipino and I am Caribbean so hearing these similarities among our cultures warms my heart.
By: Michael Schone
I liked seeing the monkeys running around the city. When we were by the road and seeing all the monkeys it felt like I was really there in Nepal.