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

21st Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Travel
Relaxing Mind

I had a remarkable experience during your visit to Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka, capturing a moment of meditation by young monks at the Thuparamaya Buddhist temple. Anuradhapura is an ancient city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its historical and religious significance, especially in the context of Buddhism. The Thuparamaya temple is one of the most important religious sites in Anuradhapura and is believed to be the first Buddhist dagoba (stupa) in Sri Lanka. Observing young monks in meditation at such a sacred and historic location must have been a profound and memorable experience, allowing you to connect with the spiritual essence and traditions of Sri Lanka. The combination of the temple's architectural beauty and the monks' meditation practices would have created a serene and deeply meaningful scene.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 12.2020
Date Uploaded: 09.2023
Photo Location: Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
Camera: NIKON D850
Copyright: © ASHANE MARASINGHE