Morning:
- Enjoy a wholesome breakfast at the hotel.
- Prepare for your therapeutic sessions.
Therapeutic Sessions (4 hours):
- Attend your therapeutic yoga and energy-healing meditation sessions.
- Return to the hotel.
Afternoon City Sightseeing (Pashupatinath, Patan Durbar Square, and Bouddhanath):
- Savor a delicious lunch at the restaurant followed by Sightseeing in the following areas.
1. Pashupatinath Temple:
- Location: Pashupatinath Temple is located on the banks of the Bagmati River in Kathmandu.
- Significance: This temple is one of the most sacred Hindu temples in Nepal and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Iconic Aspects
- Hindu Rituals: Pashupatinath Temple is a hub of traditional Hindu rituals and ceremonies. Visitors can witness priests performing rituals like aarti (ceremonial worship with fire), bhajan (devotional songs), and puja (offerings) to Lord Shiva, the principal deity of the temple.
- Bagmati River: The temple sits on the banks of the holy Bagmati River. It's common to see devotees bathing in the river as it's believed to cleanse the soul and prepare it for spiritual activities.
- Cremation Ghats: Along the river, you'll find cremation ghats where the deceased are cremated in accordance with Hindu traditions. The atmosphere here is solemn and reflective.
2. Patan Durbar Square:
- Location: Patan Durbar Square is situated in the heart of Patan, a city neighboring Kathmandu.
- Significance: This Durbar Square is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its rich history and well-preserved architecture.
- Iconic Aspects:
- Intricate Architecture: Patan Durbar Square boasts stunning Newari architecture with intricately carved wooden windows, doors, and temples. The historical buildings showcase the craftsmanship of the Newar artisans.
- Patan Museum: The Square houses the Patan Museum, which displays an impressive collection of art, sculptures, and artifacts, offering insights into the region's cultural heritage.
- Patan Durbar: The ancient palace complex at the square serves as a reminder of the royal history of the Malla kings who once ruled the region.
3. Bouddhanath Stupa:
- Location: Bouddhanath is located in the northeastern outskirts of Kathmandu.
- Significance: It is one of the largest stupas in Nepal and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It holds great religious importance for Buddhists.
- Iconic Aspects:
- The Stupa: Bouddhanath Stupa is an architectural marvel. It features a massive white dome adorned with colorful prayer flags. The stupa is said to represent the enlightened mind of the Buddha.
- Prayer Wheels: Around the base of the stupa, you'll find rows of prayer wheels. Devotees and visitors can spin these wheels, which are inscribed with mantras, to send their prayers and wishes into the universe.
- Serene Atmosphere: Bouddhanath offers a tranquil and serene atmosphere. The area is a center for Tibetan Buddhism in Nepal, and you can often see monks and devotees circumambulating the stupa, offering prayers and meditating.
Visiting these places during the retreat allows participants to immerse themselves in the spiritual and cultural richness of Kathmandu Valley, witnessing ancient traditions and experiencing a sense of profound spirituality and history.
