Tabo - Gods of Light

More than a thousand years old, the monastery complex of Tabo in the north-Indian region of the Himalayas is the oldest temple complex in the Tibetan cultural area to have been preserved in its original state. Its main temple, the Temple of the Enlightened Gods, is a unique expression of Tibetan culture and architecture, while its halls form a horizontal walkable mandala. In addition, the monastery holds a wealth of exquisitely preserved artworks, including sculptures and paintings.

For this book, the Archaeological Survey of India allowed Peter van Ham unprecedented access to this otherwise forbidden place. The result is a stunning visual account of the outstanding beauty and history contained within the monastery. A concise text accompanies the images, bringing in the latest research on the sanctuary of Tabo, making this volume an absolute must-have for art historians, travelers, and anyone else who has been captivated by the history and culture of Tibet.