say good-bye to Pokhara

Situated in the foothills ofthe Siwalik range in the district of Rupandehi, Lumbini, the birthpace ofthe Buddha is one of the most important pilgrimage sites. Since the Lumbini Development Zone was founded in 1978, Buddist nations from around the world have constructed extravagant monasteries around the birthplace of the Buddha. Separated by a long canal, the monastic zone is divided into Mahayana and Theravada sects. Each reflects the unique interpretation of Buddhism of its home nation and
together the monasteries create a fascinating map of world Buddhist philosophy.

As the site is extremely spread out, and the 38/39 degree C. sun very hot (I know I did say that, but it bears repeating), we decided to rent a rickshaw to look at the various Monasteries. This was well worth the 400 NR. or $4.00.

Outside the main compound, but easily accessible was the impressive, gleaming, white World Peace Pagoda which was constructed by Japanese Buddhists at a cost of US $1millon. The shining golden statue depicts the Buddha in the posture he assumed when he was born. Near the base of the stupa is the grave of a Japanese monk murdered by anti-Buddhist extremists during the construction of the monument.

The Lumbini Development Zone was well worth the beautiful journey to get there and well-worth the amazing spiritual sense while being there.




Having spent the afternoon at the Zone, we headed back to our hotel, by foot, as it was only a 2km walk. Given the kitchen and dining space at our hotel, we opted to go for supper, next door at the $60.00 a night hotel. Here, in an air-conditioned, luxurious hotel, we had a delicious spaghetti meal meal at a very reasonable price and headed back to our hotel.



heading back to Pokhara from Lumbini

Coming back to our hotel room, the power went out and they turned on the generator, which was very close to our room. We could hear and smell it strongly. We asked to have our room moved and the management accommodated this change, which was great. After a very sleepless night, for many reasons, we headed back to Lakeside Pokhara the next day, New Year's Day at 7:00 a.m.

You should see the girls on their scooters cruising the main streets with the boys on their motorcycles. The traffic can be very crazy and unpredictable here for riders and pedestrians. They drive on the opposite side of the road which is very confusing, not to mention the volume of traffic and the kinds of transportation from rickshaws to cars.

Arriving back in Pokhara, we spent a very leisurely afternoon and evening taking care of ourselves after the beautiful, but tiring journey back through the mountains.

This morning, April 15th, we are preparing to say good-bye to Pokhara go back to Kathmandu, by plane. It is approximately a one-hour journey.