I only dimly remember the TV series, and the photos in the paperback veriosn of the book are not very helpful, quite small and dark.

Palin's friendly voice comes through in his writing, even when discussing events that are quite serious, like members of the crew suffering from altitude sickness seriously enough to be hospitalised and senior army officers being kidnapped by Maoists during a Gurkha recruiting session.

The book can really ony scratch the surface of some of these fascinating place, but there is a 'further reading' list at the end for those who want to explore more and I certainly will. And perhaps re-watch the series. ( )

Taking in parts of Pakistan, India, China, Bhutan and Bangladesh, this marathon journey is quite entertaining, with some stunning photos and informative and often amusing text. ( )

unlike the others, i enjoyed this perhaps because i enjoy the very positive palin. ( )

Everyone knows by now that I really enjoy Michael Palin’s travel diaries of his TV series (even though I have read more of the books rather than watch the series). Himalaya has spent some time on the bestseller list and it’s easy to see why. Palin and crew cover areas that the average person would be unlikely to visit and give you a warts and all experience, including what it feels like to have altitude sickness and meet the Dalai Lama.

I haven’t seen the TV series of this one, but I bet it’s majestic. The pictures in my copy covered spectacular scenery, as well as scenes from a different lifestyle (eg. catching fish and putting them down the front of your shirt). Once again, Palin’s style of writing is easy to read and easily transports you from your comfy chair to Nepal, Pakistan or Mt Everest. He is honest about when he’s not really liking something (like a bad cold going up to Everest) and truly delightful when he enjoys the experience.

I think I’m fairly unlikely to visit any of the areas Palin visited any time soon (my travel desires revolve around Europe, south east Asia and North America at present) but at least I can sound intelligent about the area thanks to Michael!

Read it if: you’re an armchair travel or are saving for your next trip. It’s not full of Monty Python references (sadly). ( )

Wonderful photographs, drenched in colour; a great book for just dipping into and reading a couple of pages, but of course, not enough time or scope for depth to develop. But as a taster for the countries he visited, good fun. ( )