KATHMANDU MORNINGS
Early morning gloaming illuminates the stately white peaks surrounding the Kathmandu valley like spotlights on towering great monuments.
Light, diffuse through thick layers of mist ekes into the nooks and crannies of the canyon-like streets and alleys, softening the corners and loaning a deep glow to the myriad of colours.
The streets pulse with life as hawkers scurry to line the sides of the road, making the most of the early hours, laying their blankets in front of yet to be opened stores, calling out to passers by as they amble about their morning tasks.
The air hangs rich with fragrance of flowers, incense, pungent spices and decaying vegetation as the people search for the freshest vegetables, tastiest snacks and sweetest tea.
Monkeys patrol the rooftops while sacred cows cruise the squares searching for nourishing morsels left over from last night’s dinner.
Temple bells signal the endless procession of the faithful making offerings to their deities while the chirping toot of motor cycle horns reminds oneself that we really are in the 21st century.
