Author: saumenc

A challenging journey of a lifetime – a pilgrimage for many, an uplifting experience for others Mount Kailash holds a sacred place in the hearts of adherents from multiple religions, including Hinduism, Jainism, Tibetan Buddhism, and Bon, the indigenous Tibetan faith. For Hindus, it is the revered abode of Lord Shiva. Tibetan Buddhists consider Mt.… Read more

Lhasa-Shigatse-Darchen-Gyirong-Lhasa On Day 4, we embarked on our journey from Lhasa to Shigatse, our first stop being Gamala Pass. Clouds hung over the mountains, lending the pass a dreamy quality. However, the sight of animals by the roadside, looking dejected as tourists paid to pose with them, was disheartening. We continued onward to Yamdrok Lake,… Read more

Who hosted us On our way from Lhasa to Shigatse, we stopped by a local Tibetan family’s home for lunch. It was a unique experience visiting the inside of a traditional Tibetan home and enjoying their hospitality. Key features Tibetan culture, with its rich traditions spanning thousands of years, is truly unique. Tibetan families are… Read more

the challenge is to let them know they’re invaluable Asking unknown people for a portrait with a camera can always be a challenge. The purpose is unknown, and the apprehension can take away from the natural look. While it may be awkward in the Western world, photographers have often commoditized the portraits of unknown characters… Read more

The grandeur of nature where you forget everything and only she remains unforgotten Tibetans call this mountain “Qomolangma”, Nepalese call “Chomolungma” – means the “Goddess Mother of the World” or “Goddess Mother of the Wind”. The Green (“Eco”) bus was crowded on the way to Everest Base Camp (EBC), and then a spontaneous cheer erupted… Read more

A charming palace with red and white combination, stands tall as historic landmark of tradition and administration While entering the Potala Palace, our guide Tenzing forgot his sunglasses at the checkpoint and hurriedly went inside. He returned with a winning smile, introducing Potala Palace as the winter residence of the Dalai Lama since the 7th… Read more

effulgent at Jokhang Temple Faith is fundamental to all religions, though it may be expressed differently. While various religions have distinct practices, at their core, believers hold onto their anchors with utmost sincerity. The holy land of Tibet radiates spirituality, and the Jokhang Temple stands as the epicenter of faith in Tibetan Buddhism. Now a… Read more

The kids give a look, at first shy, then no stranger They’re amazing! Children are my joy to photograph – their spontaneity, charm, and liveliness captivate me. Tibetans often welcome cameras with a V sign or the action of snapping a photo. Though the V sign carries potential misinterpretation in Western cultures, for Tibetans it… Read more

The monasteries still make the mark in the holy land of Tibet. There’s always a first time for everything, and on July 14th of 2024, we landed at Lhasa Airport, which sits at an altitude of nearly 12,000 ft (3600 meters). While I had experienced thin air at summits before, landing at such a high… Read more