Bhaktapur
Bhaktapur is one of the old kingdoms in the Kathmandu Valley . UNESCO recognised Bhaktapur as being on significant cultural heritage and therefore listed it as a World Heritage Site. This place never ceases to amaze as it is like stepping back in time. Its a bucolic 'village' where rice is the main staple, chickens are everywhere, goats live at the temples eating offerings. And the dogs, how could I not mention the dogs. These dogs are real heart breakers and many are just desperate for affection. Bhaktapur is also the site of the famous potter's square where the Bhakapuri craftsmen have the reputation as being the best potters in the valley. The could also be said about the carvers. Bhaktapur is both a religious and Nepali Buddhist town and religion is very alive and a major part of daily life. The temples here are some of the best you will see in the valley, but alas, a few have now fallen down in the devastating earthquakes that hit the valley this year (five months after I was there). My favourite thing to do when here (apart from eating Royal Curd) is wander the maze of streets with camera in hand. The light in the morning and evening is nothing short of wonderful. And the kids are just a joy to be around often demanding to have a photo taken of them. The early mornings are also the time to be at the temples. This place is nothing short of fantastic. While it is a place of colour, black and white can also work so well. Enjoy my three days there.
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