Under a perfect crystal clear blue sky with soft puffy clouds in all directions the Boudhanath stupa is as it has always been - majestically seated, a shining white pearl surrounded by nothing but color and sunshine.
This place is magic in the truest sense of the word - I have written about it many times, and each time I am always in awe, trying to come up with words to describe the feeling I have in my heart when I walk around its base is essentially impossible. It is quite simply the most beautiful place on earth, a sense of home and serenity for me, and for all others who walk its path it is a deeply powerful place of prayer and peace. The reconstruction has already begun, scaffolding surrounds the tree of life as they have commenced the repairs. It is still so beautiful despite the construction, its white surface glowing in the afternoon sun as the warm light cascades across the courtyard bringing out the deep reds of the earthen brick that make up its kora path. They are renovating the marble and stone walkway at the same time, and in just a few weeks it will all be back to its original glory.
It makes me so happy to see that the repairs and rebuild have kicked off with such earnestness and speed, they are not wasting any time here to bring back this landmark and all its wonderful details. Bouddha, this magic place at which I have so many wonderful memories is already well on its way back to perfection. As it has stood here for years and years we can all rejoice that it will continue to do so for so many more to come. Perhaps the most well known, and rightfully so, famous landmark of Kathmandu is coming back to life. The reconstruction has started - the stupa will be once more a shining symbol of Nepal’s great heritage, Kathmandu’s culture and history, and my own personal favorite place on earth.
Together we can Nepal, we can rebuild, we will rise again!
