SIGHT SEEING>>
Bouddha Nath:
BouddhanathThe all knowing Buddha. The great white "Garbga" of Buddhism- Bouddhnath Lord of Wisdom, is the largest Buddhist "chaitya" in the world. The hemisph- ere on a four stage plinth is built on an octagonal base. Its eighty small recesses each bear the image of the Lord. The base of the shrine is shaped like a mandala, a geometrical and astrological representation of the world the cubic construction represents the earth. A triple series of thirteen steps leads up to the white glistening dome, stark in the sunshine. While the base symbolises the earth, the white- washed mound symbolises another element, water. The central tower, fire, the crescent, the air, the flame on top, ether and the thirteen steps between the mound and the pinnacle represent the 13 stages one must go through, to attain perfect knowledge or Bodhi. The stem of the Chudamani that crowns it is composed of a pyramid from the square base on the hemisphere thirteen golden rings taper towards and support an umbrella of polished metal, while on its four sides are the all knowing, penetrating eyes of the Buddha, supreme in His Wisdom.
Budhanilkantha:
BuddhanilkanthaAt the foot of the Shivpuri Hill is an image of Vishnu recumbent, in a square pool, on a bed of snakes. An excellent example and stately example of the art of stone, this fine work of art was sculpted in the sixth century and disclosed a strong and effective blending of the Gandhara and the Gupta Schools of Art. It is beautifully proportioned lifelike to the last detail and supremely realistic in expression and posture. At the same time, it discloses a fine understanding of human anatomy and a rare spirit of dedication. A place of pilgrimage, the holy place is surrounded by monasteries. A drive to Tokha Hill from here goes through beautiful pine trees. It lies nine kilometers north of Kathmandu.
Changu Narayan:
Changu NarayanThe temple built on a hilltop some 18 km east of Kathmandu dates back to the 4th century, is the oldest temple in Kathmandu Valley. In the courtyard among half a dozen Vishnu statues, a 5th century image with 10 arms is the masterpiece. There is also an image of Garuda, the mythical bird that serves as Vishnu's heavenly vehicle. Beside, there is one of the oldest and most important inscriptions of the valley.