Day 2: Touring Kathmandu - Bhaktapur - The Old City

After touring Pashupatinath, we returned to the old city center. According to Wikipedia, Durbar Square at Bhaktapur is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its well-preserved palatial courtyards as well as metal and stone artworks.

 The word "Bhaktapur" comes from the old Sanskrit / Nepali meaning "City of Devotees." Many shrines dot the Durbar square, including Nyatapola Temple below, a 5 story pagoda style building erected in the early 18th century. The temple is devoted to the worship of Laxmi, the Hindu goddess of wealth.

Nyatapola Temple

Adding a little color to our visit were the demonstrations taking place. Nepal has seen political turmoil in recent years, with the strife and even deaths among the royal family. This has given rise to outside parties seeking power, including Communist parties. During our visit, one of these parties was actively demonstrating in the area. After sightseeing and having lunch, we made our way towards Swayambhunath, the Monkey Temple, which was situated several kilometers away atop a hill overlooking the Kathmandu valley.