The soaring roofline welcomed all who looked toward the main temple. Gold leaf sparkled from the surface of ancient carved timbers, worn rough by centuries of mountain living. The soft shadows spilling down across the old wooden stairs wrapped gently around the foot of the magnificent structure, creating a mystical sanctuary of cool, fragrant dreams.

A low rumble of rhythmically murmured sounds drifted out from the interior of the temple. Monks, chanting timeless Buddhist verse in deep sonorous tones, made my soul vibrate along in peaceful harmony.