I have about a million more – but here are a few pictures to paint some sort of visual of my Himalayan adventure…
Abi-lay (grandmother) and I became best friends over the summer. I told her I wanted to send her photos of us together, but she told me that she doesn’t like looking at herself in pictures. Last summer, she threw all her photos over the bridge into the river!
This photo was taken in Karsha village where I spent a week attending a holy festival. Here you can see the traditional dress for Ladakhi women.
Atop a mountain, next to the ruins of the old Zangla palace.
Making the hike to the monk monastery in Karsha. I followed these nuns around like a lost puppy…
Yangdol (3) washing her hands.
A view of Zangla valley…and a yak!
My nine little monkeys.
Khado (5) always knew how to make me laugh. She was the naughtiest of all the children, but definitely the most spirited.
Ancient stupas beneath the old Zangla place. Stupas are Buddhist shrines.
Old Zangla palace featured at the top. I climbed up here several times to meditate!
Lhadon (12) was the artist of the class. The teacher nun wants her to attend art school!
Goofing around with my kiddies.
Abi-lay (84) polishing the puja bowls, and Khado getting ready to do homework.
Five minutes after entering into a new home, and I’m offered to try on a hat
Working hard – these kids love to draw!
It’s almost impossible to not be smiling in Zanskar
On top of the world, prayer flags in hand.
Giggles *-*
Making momos (dumplings) for dinner. MUCH harder than it looks, but the reward is sweet.
Adventures in Zangla village – with beautiful yellow flowers to match.
My stupa perch.
More smiles with my best friend.
Festival in Karsha. Waiting for the holy lama to arrive!
Possibly the sweetest cow in the entire world.
Stanzin (26) headed out to feed the cow.
Healing springs.
The day that everyone was covered in white speckles because we were white-washing all the cottages!
Datsal (5) – the sweetest ray of sunshine you’ll ever meet.
We had more than a few geography lessons during my two months. The girls now know all of the continents and can identify quite a few countries.
Late-afternoon homework time at the Changchub Choling nunnery.