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

21st Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Travel
Houses Cluster like a Mosaic in Kathmandu, Nepal

Under the watchful eyes of the Himalayas, the dense and vibrant landscape of Kathmandu valley in early morning, as seen from the vantage point of the famous Swayambhunath Temple, also known as the Monkey Temple. This sprawling mass of buildings is packed tightly together, displaying a variety of architectural styles and colours. The color palette is diverse, with buildings painted in various shades, reflecting the lively and dynamic character of the city. The narrow streets meander through the clusters of houses, and amidst the concrete, a few trees can be spotted, offering a touch of greenery. This image shows the essence of Kathmandu's urban density and the way it has grown organically over time.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 09.2023
Date Uploaded: 11.2023
Photo Location: Kathmandu, Nepal
Copyright: © Diana Ishii