Swayambhunath; aka The Monkey Temple

Swayambhunath is one of the top "must-see" sights in Kathmandu, and it's sort of a right of passage for every foreign tourist. I remember coming here in 1994 (thanks to the Dirk and Claudia Richards Family!), mostly because of all the monkeys. There are hundreds of them roaming around. Nobody in Nepal calls it "The Monkey Temple", but all the foreigners do, so it's now more or less become known by this nickname. But aside from the monkeys, Swayambhunath really is an interesting place to spend the day. Perched on a hilltop overlooking the Kathmandu Valley, it's religious significance dates back more than 1500 years. And, in it's own unique way, it completely embodies the wonderful blend of Buddhism and Hinduism that exists in Nepal.

The main stupa towers above the complex, and is an iconic image of Kathmandu:

There are hundreds of prayer wheels, which pilgrims and tourists alike spin as they walk clockwise around the main stupa. With each rotation of the wheel, a prayer is offered up.

The prayer wheels are written in both the Tibetan and Sanskrit languages. Another example of how the Buddhist and Hindu traditions mesh together.

Prayer flags are also a significant feature.

Many types of pujas, or rituals, are performed to show devotion and worship.

A Tibetan Monk uses an astrological guide to tell fortunes.

The views really are amazing...

Let's not forget about the monkeys...even at this amazing historical place, they kind of steal the show.

Although, my own kids attracted almost as much attention.

Not sure what it is about Sunday nights, but I *love* making some good old-fashioned Peanut Butter cookies. The last time I wrote about this phenomena, I received accolades from across the globe. I was even dubbed "Mr. Fields." No kidding. And this, of course, was much to my wife's chagrin, who complained that she has been making cookies for YEARS, and no one has ever bothered to comment. I see her point. But don't these cookies look gorgeous???

Yes, they do...