Phuong Thanh's journey to study and practice Buddhism on a mountain 4000 meters high.

Phuong Thanh participated in a short-term meditation course at Hemis Monastery (from September 13th to 26th). This monastery was founded in the 17th century by the Buddhist king Sengge Namgyal. It is located in the high mountains of Ladakh, in Leh – the former capital of the Ladakh kingdom, now situated in northern India at the foot of the Himalayas, in the state of Jammu and Kashmir.

Every day, the singer and other Buddhists walk along the mountain slopes from morning until late at night to visit places of worship and listen to sermons. She and everyone else only eat mixed vegetables and white rice.

She said, "Traveling broadens the mind; looking out at the vast world, I realize how small I am. Walking has taught me patience."

Phuong Thanh recounted that living at an altitude of about 4,000 meters above sea level, she had to get used to the very cold weather. At night, the temperature drops below 0 degrees Celsius. The singer had to wear many layers of clothing to be able to sleep.

"The trip has given me many valuable life experiences," the singer said.

She took a commemorative photo at the border region between China and Ladakh. Ladakh is known as the "land of Gompas (monasteries)". Historically, this area was inhabited by Tibetans and had many Buddhist monasteries. Therefore, Ladakh is also called "Little Tibet".

The singer went to the central market to buy souvenirs and learn about the lives of the local people.

The singer with a monk in Ladakh.

Rapper Tiến Đạt participated in a spiritual retreat with his senior colleague. However, he did not shave his head like singer Phương Thanh.

Buddhists participate in a short-term meditation course with Phuong Thanh.

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