Where Heaven and Mountains Meet: Zanskar and the Himalayas

Deep in the heart of the Himalayas, the ancient kingdom of Zanskar with its Tibetan Buddhist culture is isolated from the outside world by snow for nine months of the year. Olivier Föllmi has made numerous trips to Zanskar over the past twenty years. Journeying across the freezing terrain sometimes proved to be hazardous, even life-threatening; but his fascination for the region led him to return many times. The results of his travels are eloquently revealed in this book of breathtaking colour photographs. Zanskar’s extraordinary landscape, together with portraits of its people, provide a unique glimpse into an existence that is now changing as contact with the modern world increases. Complementing the photographs, delicate watercolours by Rapkar Wangchuk re-create the quintessential images of Tibetan Buddhism. A moving commentary tells the story of the author’s fascination with Zanskar and records the rites and customs of an exceptional society.