Kathmandu
The pray flags were fluttering over Kathmandu, with their faded (yet symbolic) blue, white, red, green and yellow. Nepal is a country of contradictions and extremes. Here in the modern city the ancient Buddhist traditions still prevail and prayer flags are an everyday aspect of society.
But the old ways are changing fast. Only a few decades ago electricity was introduced and since then the western culture promoted by satellite television and the internet has transformed the city. Kathmandu has a population of one million who squeeze themselves onto the valley floor. As the principle city and capital of Nepal it has a booming economy.
Handmade rugs remain one of the main industries. Workers can be seen sat in their shops hand knotting the threads. These are some of the finest rugs and carpets in the world and the bright purple and aubergine dyes makes them characteristic of the area. If you can buy one they are a wonderful investment, but as with so much of the developing world, true bargains are a thing of the past; the global market has alerted the Nepalese to their true value.
It is sadly a country in conflict. There is an aggressive Maoist guerrilla movement that is seeking to overturn the current regime. Soldiers are noticeable in and around Kathmandu, their drab olive, beige and black uniforms in stark contrast with the bright cloths of the Nepalese. Yet they are a happy people and for most of them there is a growing prosperity.
The back drop of the city are the Himalayan Mountains, mauve and lilac on their lower slopes, with brilliant white ice covered peaks. From the city they are breathtaking, more especially so in the red glow of a sunrise or a sunset. Kathmandu really is a city of delights.