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Bandipur, Himalayan village of another world!
Most people have not heard of Bandipur. Tucked away in the mountains of the Himalayas this little village is a heaven on earth. Untouched, preserving much of its original Newari architecture, Bandipur is the place you want to be if you are looking for a retreat with some amazing views. The town is dotted with small Hindu temples, hiking trails, giant fig and banyan trees, and young Nepali children eager to strike up a conversation with you.
Our group was up early today in hopes to catch the sunrise over a clear Himalayas. And they were blessed with a spectacular show. A clear sky allowing a 180 degree view of the mountains above a sea of clouds below with green mountain tops peaking through the clouds – it was quite a spiritual experience in itself.
After the sunrise, we sat down to meditate with the mighty Himalayas as our backdrop. Learning to concentrate and draw our awareness deep within, holding it on the object of our meditation. The guided meditation lasted 30 mins and for many it was
We said goodbye to sweet Bandipur and headed to Pokhara making a stop at a lake called Begnas Tal. Some ventured out into the lake in boats and others just enjoyed being there. From here it was a short drive to Pokhara, where we will be spending 3-nights. The drive to Pokhara from the lake was quite scenic with the Annapurna mountain range clearly visible.
Enchanting village in the Himalayan mountains
Day 3 of our spiritual adventure in Nepal and today we left Kathmandu and headed west. After a couple of hours of driving I requested the driver to pull over so that we could cross a hanging bridge. The bridge spanned the Thrisuli river and the group bravely made their way across and enjoyed the&...
Read MoreTemples, stupas, monks and palaces in Kathmandu
The second day of spiritual adventure in Nepal saw us visit the Pashupatinath temple in Kathmandu. We wandered the grounds worshipping at the various shrines before stopping by a group of sadhus. We also a witnessed a cremation taking place along the banks of the Bagmati river. From here we heade...
Read MoreOur spiritual adventure in the Himalayas begins!
It is October 17th and the first day of our spiritual adventure in the Himalayas. Participants have traveled far to be here. Our day begins with an orientation meeting at the lovely Hyatt hotel in Kathmandu. We get to know one another and I share about the classes that will conducted on this jour...
Read MoreSacred Swayambunath
It was still dark outside when I left my hotel this morning at 5:30am and started walking towards Swayambunath. Many locals were already up and participating in rituals during these holy days of Nepal’s biggest festival. 30 mins later I arrived at the base of the hill and proceeded to climb...
Read MoreEnjoying a Newari Feast in Kathmandu
Today I met up with a good friend of mine Thomas Kelly who has been living in Nepal for the last 33-years. Thomas is an excellent photographer and has shot for the National Geographic, New York Times, Time, etc. See some of Thomas Kelly’s excellent photography here. Later in that evening Th...
Read MoreI will be your friend
When I was at Boudanath Stupa yesterday sitting in a somewhat quiet corner watching everyone circumambulate the stupa, I noticed two young boys seated at an entrance to an alley way. What I saw then was extremely touching. One was severely disfigured from burns it looked like it. His friend seate...
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