There it is, rising in the valley below us—Lhasa, land of the Gods.
I halt my horse for a moment to savor the memory of this view for a lifetime. Lhasa, land of the Buddha—the very name of this place has always sounded so magical to me. Built by the first great dharma king, Songtsen Gampo, many centuries ago, this blessed place is shrouded in tales of mystery and wonder. With magnificent monasteries and towering temples, it holds the holiest of holy, the Jowo Shakyamuni statute.
An overwhelming gulf of gratitude floods my being at the sight, and I can’t contain my happy tears. Lhasa. We’ve made it.
A quick glance from the corners of my eyes reveals that the sight of Lhasa has touched my companions, too. Karma’s lips move in a silent prayer, and Dendup has even taken off his cap, thou
