The stupa is a cosmic egg and the womb of the universe.It is the axis mundi and the tree of life, a representation of the Buddha and a map of the path to Buddhahood. The stupa is a reliquary, an embellished burial mound, and a monument marking spots where Buddhas and saints performed mythic acts. Its is a votive offering erected by the devout in thanksgiving or celebration. However the stupa is conceived by monk,laymen, pilgrim,traveller or tourist, it constitutes an ineluctable part of the Kathmandu Valley landscape and an integral part of the mindscape of the Valley people.
Stupas stand, monumentally,on the surrounding peaks and preominences of the Valley. They lie on the passes into the Valley. They are to be found at the gates of the old cities, welcoming the homecoming and blessing the departing pilgrims and traders on the traditional trade routes to India and Tibet.
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