Kathmandu

The great Boudhanath Stupa dominates the skyline of this sector of Kathmandu, sitting on the ancient trade route that once connected Tibet and the Kathmandu valley. The 15th/16th century stupa, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the holiest Buddhist sites in Nepal. With large migrations of Tibetans to Nepal, the stupa is surrounded by more than 50 temples and monasteries.

The majestic Himalayas overlook Kathmandu and Boudhanath, although the clouds of the seasonal monsoon occlude the view of mountain peaks during this visit.

Tomorrow I'll travel by bus through mountains and terraced fields to Pokhara in central Nepal where I'll begin to prepare for my planned trek in the Annapurna Sanctuary later this month.