Lost in the Himalayas: A Journey of Self-Discovery That Turned into Catastrophe

IN THE SPIRIT OF “SHANTARAM” AND “INTO THE WILD”! A book-investigation into what a journey in search of spiritual revelation can become. In the northern part of the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh—in the Indian Himalayas—there is one of the most mysterious and little-known places on Earth: the Parvati Valley. It is also called the Valley of Shadows and the Valley of Death. There are many legends and myths connected to this place. One of them says that it was here that the Hindu god Shiva meditated for 1100 years. Many believe that in this valley lies the mythical kingdom of Shambhala. Numerous secrets and breathtaking nature draw adventurers here from every corner of the planet. And yet, people keep disappearing here. Justin Alexander Shetler was 32 when, in 2014, he gave everything up and set off on a round-the-world journey. He crossed the United States by motorcycle, then went to South America, visited the Philippines, Thailand, and Nepal—and in 2016 found himself in India. Justin went to the Parvati Valley for spiritual enlightenment. There, for many days, he lived in a cave, meditating and learning under the guidance of a sadhu. At the end of August, Shetler set off for a sacred lake—a journey he would never return from. So what is happening in this mystical valley, and what could have happened to Justin Shetler on the way to the sacred lake? Answers to these and many other questions will be revealed by journalist and author Harley Rustad, who spent several years gathering materials and interviewing everyone involved in the events.