Bhaktapur

Less than an hour’s death-defying drive from Kathmandu on traffic-choked roads, dodging water buffalo, and narrowly averting gaudily decked out Indian trucks belching black smoke and hammering on their horns, we arrived at the town of Bhaktapur. What a relief to spend a few quiet hours wandering the traffic free cobblestone streets of this fascinating place. We were thrilled to get lost in the town's medieval era labyrinth of lanes, and were fortunate to stumble across a primary school “sports day” race in progress. No PE attire for these cuties, just their too big/too small grubby school uniforms, shoes that needed lacing, and adorable little mugs that shouted enthusiastic hellos to us before it was their turn at the starting line. Most ran their little hearts out, but some lost interest halfway through the contest, gave it up, and wandered unperturbed back to their cheering classmates. What great timing for us! We also got to see Bhaktapur’s Nepali New Year preparations in progress, as the town was busy preparing their traditional triple-roofed chariot for hauling around during the festivities. The photo of the wooden peacock is from a 15th-century window, and is reputed to be the finest carved window in the valley.