Barely an hour outside of Katmandu, the city of Baktapur will mesmerize
you the moment you enter its city gate. Though trapped in a perpetual
time warp, the city has remained unchanged since the ancient times.
This, however, is not some replica of Medieval Times where actors dress up
as knights in shinning armors appease to their guests and go home in their
Chevys and Fords when the show is over. Baktapur's residents are every
bit as real as you and I and what you see is exactly how they live their
lives. So, start your time machine and let's transport ourselves, oh,
just a few centuries back.
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Gateway to the Past
Through dedicated efforts of NGOs and UN sponsorship, Baktapur has preserved its heritage through the fees it collects from tourists. And from these fees basic services such as street cleaning and garbage collection is provided. |
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Durbar Square
Impressive in its own right, the Durbar Square in Baktapur is definitely a must see |
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Friends for "hire"
Since so many tourists visit Nepal, some of the locals have gotten very used to taking advantage of tourists. Not only will they not leave you along after repeated attempts at telling them "No, I don't need a tour guide," they will often use guilt trips like "Why don't you Americans understand we have a problem?" These two kids at first be friended me but then as I was about to leave asked me for money for their "services." Sigh... |
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Prayer Wheels
By spinning the wheels, one gain the good karma as written in the manuscripts stored inside the wheels. |
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Giant Chariots
The residents of Baktapur prepares for a festival where giant chariots are constructed and later burnt! |
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Streets of Baktapur
Though most of remained unchanged, some modern inventions have found its way into the city. Can you spot them? |
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Ready for Some "Momo"?
Momo is our equivalent of steamed dumplings and is a main dish in Nepal |
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A Window to the Past
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Time to Make Some Meal
And I thought shopping at the local supermarket was hard... |
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Aren't I So Cute?
Isn't she just adorable? |
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