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Swayambhunath, known as the Monkey Temple to non-Buddhist visitors, is one of the holiest stupas in Nepal.
Chin means consciousness in Sanskrit, Mudra means seal which is essentially an energetic and spiritual gesture that controls the flow of energy within the body.
One of the many World Heritage Sites to be found in Kathmandu is the Boudhanath Stupa. It stands at 36m high and, along with the local temple, is considered to be the centre of Tibetan culture in Nepal important to Buddhists and Hindus alike. Mystery surrounds its build date with some experts suggesting a structure has been here since the 5th century, while others think the version here is closer to the 15th century. No one doubts its beauty though, and tourists were never far away on my visit.
My journey here was by way India and a three-week holiday I managed to secure from work in 1983. Getting so long away from the desk wasn't easy for a 'beanie', and thanks were due to an accommodating boss who, helpfully, also had a touch of the wanderlust.
I'd intended to arrive here from Darjeeling by way of a 36 hour jeep ride, but an ill-judged cup of chai purchased a few days earlier at Tundla Junction station robbed me of nearly two days and left me precariously sensitive in the 'core' area. I ended up flying in and flying out again, eventually landing back in the UK some 12 pounds lighter. A lesson learned.
A break from trains.
Agfa CT18
27th November 1983