Surrounded by the highest mountains in the world and an adventurer’s dream, the fascinating kingdoms of the Himalayas.

Secluded and relatively untouched, and a hidden treasure of mankind, Sikkim, for centuries a segregated and independent Buddhist kingdom situated on the edge of the Himalayas, possesses more than two hundred monasteries.

Just two kilometres from Pelling an impressive monastery is perched at the end of a ridge high above the Rangit River, Pemayangtse Gompa. It was founded in the seventeenth century by Lhatsun Chenpo and belongs to the Nyingmapa Order.

A funeral in the Mangru Monastery: with music and prayers and the participation of the entire community. The few monks of the tiny monastery pray for the deceased and the villagers receive food and drink next to the spot where the body has been cremated.

The route to Paro Dzong travels along a valley to Dungtse Lhakhang, a small temple that is shaped like a Tibetan chorten. The fortified Paro Monastery is one of the most beautiful buildings in Bhutan, a mighty fortress that once controlled the route by which the Tibetan armies repeatedly invaded.

From curve to curve the Taktshang Monastery comes into view, secured within the steep rock of the world famous, Tiger's Nest. Flags flutter in the cool breeze and prayer wheels rotate at almost three thousand metres above sea level. We arrive at this holy place that is situated between Heaven and Earth and where Guru Rinpoche landed triumphantly on the back of a flying tigress.

The kingdoms on the roof of the world continue to captivate and inspire along with their unique monasteries and rich monastic culture.