Description

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Jeff Greenwald's classic travelogue follows his quest for the "perfect" Buddha statue. At turns hilarious and moving, his quest features a cast of amazing characters -- from a passionate palmist to a flying lama -- who provide unforgettable glimpses into the daily life and culture of the former kingdom (including a wild ride on Kathmandu's very first escalator). Greenwald doesn't shy away from Shangri-la's darker side. Along with colorful descriptions of Hindu and Buddhist mythology, the book tells of the rampant corruption, art smuggling, assassination attempts and human right abuses that would ignite Nepal's violent "People Power" Revolution in April 1990.

A new afterword by the author recounts Nepal's tumultuous recent history -- including the massacre of the royal family -- in vivid detail. And a new preface introduces this 25th anniversary edition with some thoughts about how Nepal, and travel writing, have evolved since the book's first publication. Shopping for Buddhas remains a must-read for anyone who has visited, or plans to visit, Nepal.

About the Author

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Jeff Greenwald is a writer, photographer, and performer. He is the author of six books, including The Size of the World, for which he created the first Internet travel blog. His work has appeared in Wired, Salon, Smithsonian, Afar, The New York Times Magazine, and many other publications. Jeff serves as the executive director of the nonprofit Ethical Traveler. He has also created a critically acclaimed solo show, Strange Travel Suggestions, which draws from his tales as a travel journalist. Jeff's most recent book, Snake Lake, is set during Nepal's 1990 Democracy revolution. He lives in Oakland, CA.

Praise For…

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A wonderful travel companion for anyone who wants to view afresh the wonders and oddness of humankind.” Amy Tan

Jeff Greenwald could take a trip to Costco to buy socks, and I’d want to hear the story.” Mary Roach

Reading Shopping for Buddhas was a huge relief! Someone who loves the joyful dharma still seeing the earthy humor in the behavior of Buddhists, who also just happen to be human!” Robert Thurman

Kathmandu forged an unbreakable link to my innermost travel instincts on my first visit, over 40 years ago and every time I open a copy of Jeff’s magical book, I’m reminded exactly why.” Tony Wheeler, founder of Lonely Planet