Annapurna Layers

Nepal Himalaya

High in the Annapurna range of central Nepal, enormous snow and glacier capped summits tower above in every direction. Still enraptured by our surroundings after a 19-day walk around the Annapurna Massif, we decided to hike into the Annapurna Sanctuary to the heart of the range. The sacred Machhapuchhare towered starkly above down valley, up valley the spectacular Annapurna South and Annapurna I (8091 m) surrounded me in an amphitheather of rock and ice. Here at Annapurna Base Camp, the textures of the high Himalaya come into focus.

Boudinath Eyes

Kathmandu, Nepal

I was out early my second morning in Nepal, definitely before the sun. Kathmandu was quiet and calm as I took a rickshaw across town to Boudinath, a site where Buddhists from all directions come bringing offerings to Buddha. Many interesting photo opportunities presented themselves to me as I roamed for hours absorbing this completely new culture. This elder monk was offering blessings to those who came seeking.

Boudha Monks

Kathmandu, Nepal

Early my second morning Nepal, I found myself at Boudinath stupa as the day was dawning. I was amazed by the number of the people up so early who had come to give offerings, pray with the lamas, and circumambulate the stupa. In the warm morning light, these young monks collect alms as the devoted pass by leaving offerings.

Brushing on the Bank

Varanasi, India

The monsoon season is not the ideal time to find yourself in India. I did though, early in June, just before the rains began to flood the plains for a few months. The heat was building daily, the humidity was beyond anything Iíve ever felt. Soaked constantly from sweat, drained from the sun's intensity, I still made it out to take some photos. The characters I met on the banks of the Ganges (the Ganga in India) were some of the most interesting I've had the chance to photograph. Hereís a man taking care of some personal hygiene Indian style.

Dhalaugiri Sunrise

Nepal Himalaya

Standing powerfully out of the early morning haze, the first light hits Dhalaugiri. At 8167 meters, it is among the earthís loftiest summits.