Smithsonian magazine's 22nd Annual Photo Contest | Made possible through the support of MPB.com

22nd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Travel
A Prayer Amidst the Peaks

In the heart of the Everest region, a man on horseback pauses to offer a prayer, surrounded by the majestic Himalayan landscape. This photo captures a moment of spiritual reflection, but it also tells the story of his vital role in the Everest trekking community. As a local guide, he provides an essential service to those who are unable to continue their journey back from Everest Base Camp. For trekkers who face exhaustion or altitude sickness, he helps by offering a ride on his horse to the nearest tea house, ensuring their safety and well being. His prayer, a moment of gratitude and blessing, is a call for strength, protection, and guidance for both himself and the trekkers he helps. It reflects the deep spiritual connection between the people of the Everest region and the sacred mountains they call home.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 10.2024
Date Uploaded: 12.2024
Photo Location: Solukhumbu, Nepal
Camera: Canon EOS 700D
Copyright: © Narayan Dhungana