Janet Rizvi described the book as follows: A "monumental work of co-operative scholarship by a team of 17 scholars from a dozen different disciplines. Although largely focussed on Zanskar, (...) where most of the fieldwork was done, most of it in the early 1980s before the road over the Pensi-la had brought many changes, the findings resonate in almost every department of Ladakh studies." Detailed descriptions of most parts of Ladakhi/Zanskari life are given from the viewpoints of social anthropology, history, ecology, economy, religion, spirituality, sociology, geology, medicine, etc. Some chapters are quite dry, while others, like James Crowden's account of his winter journey along the Zanskar river, or James Crook's chapter on Ladakhi yogins, are enjoyable to read, in addition to being informative. It's a very thick, well researched and well written book, and a must for any student/ scholar working on Ladakh or Zanskar.

The English language hasn't invented words sufficient to describe the photographs in this magnificent book. Shirakawa's photographs are so mind-blowing that they almost reach out and grab you and propel you up to the Roof of the World. There are full page and double-page photos galore, and some foldout plates that will literally take your breath away. Shirakawa took his photographs at all hours of the day and night; we see the Himalayas in all their majesty in the muted shades of dawn, glowing crimson and purple at sunset, sharply etched at high noon, snow and ice crystals glittering like an overturned jewel box, and lushly green valleys in the foothills. The book is divided into four sections representing the Nepal, Punjab and Sikkim Himalayas, and the Hindu Kush range in India. The text is absorbing and relates the geographical evolution of the Himalayas, as well as giving us a brief look at the history and culture of the people who live in their shadow. But the text is a pale shadow to the incredible, magnificent pictures. Looking at these awesome photographs, one can almost believe in the existence of Shangri-La.

Compiled and organized by Pratapaditya Pal, Himalayas: An Aesthetic Adventure is a stunning artbook quality collection of sculptures, illuminated pages, pigment on cotton artworks, and more -- all skillfully crafted across centuries of Himalayan history. Full-color photography and an extensive, scholarly text filled the pages of Himalayas: An Aesthetic Adventure with history, anecdotes, and insights to create a seminal and impressive work which is very highly recommended for Art History collections and enthusiasts.

This book has the most intense and beautiful pictures of rugged mountains that I've ever seen.

A must book for all Nepal travellers or those, who are interested in the archeological and anthropological history of Nepal. Toni Hagen obtained the first trekking permit ever issued to a foreigner travelling Nepal. In the process, he covered over 8000 miles on foot exploring the country, obtaining insights into the geological, social, and cultural structure of the country. Beautifully photographed, it is a true adventurer's book, as well. There has been recent additions made to the original 1950's publication.

I read this book some ten years ago. I still remember the two British brothers who ran along the Himalaya from East to West in 100 days. One of the best adventure books that I have ever read. Recently, I saw the book in a Kathmandu bookstore (Pilgrims). I wish I bought it then. ...

A goofy book that would do the good Doktor proud with its gonzo traveling companions including ex-chefs for the governor of New York, now Hindu mystics, Kashmiri seperatists, and smugglers. Probably one of the last travel books to truely visit real unexplored territory. This book is a rollicking picaresque tale where the humor and liveliness of the people and country are vividly illustrated without an underlying self-discovery subtext. Not neccessarily a Pulitzer winner, but a great time, like a good Bond movie

Kohli is a mountaineer from India who led an Everest expedition in 1965 that put nine men on the summit. Conboy is a former Heritage Foundation analyst. Immediately after his 1965 triumph, Kohli was asked to lead a covert mission to place a nuclear-powered sensor on the north face of a remote Himalayan peak to monitor Chinese nuclear tests. The monitor was a joint project of the CIA and its Indian equivalent. Because the placement had to be secret, above 22,000 feet, and in one of the most inhospitable regions of the earth, Kohli assembled a group of highly capable climbers and Sherpa porters. Nothing went easily. Weather and bad luck foiled the first attempt, and in the second attempt the nuclear generator was lost. After many difficulties and two deaths the sensor was placed, then promptly went silent. Another expedition was mounted to replace it. Half Cold War adventure and half mountaineering saga. Amateurishly written, but Kohli's obvious enthusiasm and the excitement of climbing comes through. I liked it.

SPIRIT OF HIMALAYA quickened and lifted me in at least three ways. It's really intriguing as a piece of fiction--suspenseful, interesting and beautifully descriptive. Throughout the pages gems of spiritual wisdom abound. What an easy way to receive some of the highest wisdom on the planet! Besides being a book of great fiction which includes wisdom of many planes, reading this book goes beyond normal impressions; it becomes a really personal experience of extraordinary beauty. The lingering memories are now leading me to read it again and experience its beauty and its wisdom and its subtle refinement again. Anyone would be really fortunate to experience "SPIRIT OF HIMALAYA"!