Kheni (Primitive Figures)

Upon its founding, Kagbeni was surrounded by a defensive wall. Originally there were two entry-exit gates in this wall, both of which were guarded by the people. About a century ago, two Khenis (lit. the ghost eaters) representing a man and a woman replaced the human guards. These grotesque primitive figures, reflecting age-old animist belief, can be seen standing welcoming you till this day. Aminism was practiced here long before the advent of Tibetan Buddhism in 11th or 12th century.