July 22: It was a once in a lifetime opportunity which was not to be missed. And many did not miss it. Even as the day broke, many people climbed to vantage points like Sangaygang and Dochula to witness the total solar eclipse. Many others watched the event LIVE on BBS TV.

The sky was overcast at 6am. By then hundreds of spectators including tourists who have come from various parts of the world just to look at the solar eclipse have gathered at Sangaygang. Many of them were disappointed. But the sky opened slowly revealing the magnificent show. The spectators were relieved. At exactly 6.58, the sun was fully engulfed by the eclipse. The view left them awe struck.

Among the spectators at Sangaygang was David Alan Wright, a member of the Norwegian Astronomical Society. Including the solar eclipse this morning, he has witnessed four such events.

For many, it was their first experience. It is an event they will remember and cherish for a long time.

The day is considered to be an auspicious one. So a nun nearby in Sangaygang spent the morning immersed in prayers.

At the Tashichhodzong, monks performed a special prayer ceremony.
And many spent the morning, not by witnessing the solar eclipse, but by circumambulating the memorial chorten and saying prayers.

Elsewhere, people including children witnessed the event wearing special glasses designed for looking at the eclipse. Others tried to capture the image in bowls of water.

Japanese residing in Bhutan chartered a Drukair plane to get as close a view as possible. For everybody, it was a worthwhile experience.