Nepal is also known for its architectural legacy which was obvious where ever I turned. In Nepal, most of these centuries-old buildings including the majestic ‘Darbar squares’ were damaged during the 2015 earthquake and restoration efforts were happening in full swing. Even though the prominent buildings have a religious significance to them, what I found most interesting is how well the Nepalese integrated it with nature.
The temple of Bindabasini
The temple of Bindabasini in Pokhara was founded in 1845 BS(Bikram Sambat/Nepalese Calendar) and dedicated to the goddess Durga. Legend has it that it was built after the goddess ordered King Khadagbham Malla to set up her statue there. Nepalese government released stamps printed with the picture of the temple in the year 2045 (Nepalese Calendar). Everything said and done this temple sits majestically atop a mountain amongst the majestic Himalayas and climbing up the stairs to visit this place, was breath-taking (lol!See what I did there.It took me a few minutes to catch my breath :P)
Bindabasini -regarded as the guardian deity of Pokhara
It is believed that King Siddhi Narayan Shah of Kaski brought the deity to Pokhara before Nepal’s unification.
The beautiful white pagoda style architecture
The Swayambhunath temple
Another example of architectural marvel was the Swayambhunath temple. The oldest religious site in Nepal, Swayambhu, meaning ‘Self-Created or Self-Existent’.Worshippers include both Hindus and Buddhists. A damaged stone inscription found at the site indicates that King Mānadeva ordered work done in 640 CE.
Swayambhunath is also known as the Monkey Temple. They also worship the monkeys here.
Swayambhunath is among the oldest religious sites in Nepal.
stupas everywhere
The shape of a stupa is representative of Buddha
View of Kathmandu city.
Stupas @Nagarkot facing the Annapurna ranges.
The places I managed to cover is minuscule compared to the abundance of unique architecture masterpieces present in Nepal.
I would love to visit the Darbar squares once all the renovation is completed. And I suggest you do too 🙂
