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22nd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest People
Bhutanese Monk in front of a sacred temple in Punakha Dzong

Punakha Dzong is such an enchanting place. Nestled in the mountains of Bhutan, the largest monastery captures the heart of anyone who explores the temples within the scared ground. Stories preserved through time as told by the locals and tour guides transports you to a world filled with tradition, wonder and spirituality. Such a sight to behold! This image captures a Bhutanese monk leaving the scared temple where only monks, the King and his family can enter. I was lucky to see them outside of the temple.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 10.2024
Date Uploaded: 11.2024
Photo Location: Punakha, Bhutan
Copyright: © Ara Charissa Sam