Before morning breaks in the Valley of the Kings (Tombs of Tibetan Kings), Tenzin Phuntsok’s day begins around the ancient tombs. The 25-year-old monk, together with 68-year-old Jampa Choesang, are guardians of the biggest mausoleum found in Tibet, located at the southern bank of the Yarlung Zangbo River in Shannan Prefecture.

From dawn to dusk, their lives echo the illuminated butter lamps of the temple.

My name is Tenzin Phuntsok. I guard the tomb of Sontzen Gampo. I’ve practiced and believed in Buddhism since I was very young. Buddhism is good; it helps people in dealing with difficult times. It's not just about appearances, but also about the heart. So, I like it; it's about devotion. I began working as the guard here from April 2014. I'm not lonely here, because the master is here. He teaches me Buddhism; it's helping me relieve stress. I like Tibet, because Tibet is the holy land of Buddhism. I will be here till I die, guarding this tomb.