Spectacularly jagged, arid mountains enfold this magical, Buddhist ex-kingdom. Picture-perfect gompas dramatically crown rocky outcrops amid whitewashed stupas and meditational mani walls topped with mantra-inscribed pebbles. Colourful fluttering prayer flags spread their spiritual messages with the mountain breeze. Prayer wheels spun clockwise release more merit-making mantras. Gompa interiors are colorfully awash with murals and statuary of numerous Bodhisattva. Trekking in India brings a whole new level of excitement.