To a Mountain in Tibet by Colin Thubron - 4 stars (BWF)

[Joy D]

To a Mountain in Tibet by Colin Thubron - 4* - My Review

To a Mountain in Tibet is a Colin Thubron’s memoir about his walking journey to Mount Kailas, a sacred peak in western Tibet that is revered by multiple faiths including Buddhism, Hinduism, Jainism, and the indigenous Bon religion. The narrative provides insights into the cultures and beliefs of the people Thubron encounters. He weaves in historical information about Nepal, Tibet, and Tibet’s past and present relationship with China. He cites examples of various pilgrims who have made the journey to Kailas over centuries.

Thubron’s prose is evocative. He vividly describes the rugged terrain, and the challenges he faced in navigating treacherous paths, high altitudes, and the harsh environment. One of the highlights of this book is Thubron’s reflections on mortality. He began the trek after the deaths of his family members, and his journey becomes a combination of emotional, spiritual, and physical. He offers insights into Buddhism’s concept of samsara (the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth) and how it shapes the Tibetan worldview. He contrasts this with his own cultural background and secular mindset. It is a beautifully written memoir that will appeal to those who enjoy reflections on life, death, loss, and grief, along with insights into history and world cultures.

PBT October BWF extra T and tagged "travel" x210

[Booknblues]

Nice review. I read this book and Levinson Wood's Walking the Himalayas and it made some interesting reading as both Wood and Thubron are very good travel writers whose slow approach I appreciate.

My introduction to Thubron was Shadow of the Silk Road and I greatly appreciated it. I hope at some point to read his The Amur River: Between Russia And China

[Joy D]

Thanks! I have read and enjoyed Wood's Himalaya book and also Walking the Nile. Thanks for the tips on the last two - I'll check them out!