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Buddhist pilgrimage tours attract not only religious devotees but also travel enthusiasts. Travelers are sure to find relaxation and peace while embarking on pilgrimages to famous sacred sites. This article provides fascinating information about pilgrimage travel and suggests some renowned pilgrimage destinations both domestically and internationally.
1. What is a Buddhist pilgrimage tour?
Buddhist pilgrimage is a ritual of this religion, involving practices such as bowing to Buddha statues, Bodhisattvas, and offering incense while circumambulating stupas and temples.
Gradually, the concept of pilgrimage has expanded to include combining Buddhist rituals at temples and pagodas with tourism. Thanks to this, many Buddhist pilgrimage tours have been chosen by religious devotees, aiming to seek peace and luck while traveling.
Buddhist pilgrimage tours contain many fascinating aspects.
Pilgrimage journeys can be likened to a voyage through time, space, and even within oneself. It helps individuals realize the value and significance of their existence through interaction with others.
2. The significance of Buddhist pilgrimage tours
Traveling on a Buddhist pilgrimage tour is for those who truly seek enlightenment, to experience spiritual life, and reflect on the unique culture of Buddhism. Through this, travelers will gain self-awareness, strengthen their beliefs, and enrich their spiritual lives.
A Buddhist pilgrimage tour not only allows us to admire exquisite architectural wonders but also enriches our spiritual lives. It meets both material and spiritual needs because 'a healthy body leads to a peaceful mind'.
Buddhist pilgrimage tours hold great significance for travelers seeking inner peace.
Furthermore, Buddhist pilgrimage tours always leave unforgettable experiences due to their uniqueness. The sacred imprints along the pilgrimage route have brought followers and travelers closer together.
Apart from special occasions such as Vesak Day, Lunar New Year,... people also often organize Buddhist pilgrimage tours on the fifteenth day of the first lunar month. Most tourists opt for 2-day-1-night pilgrimage tours or visit the ten pagodas to pay homage to the Buddha.
3. Locations for Buddhist Pilgrimage Tours
If you're interested in embarking on a Buddhist pilgrimage tour, there are numerous destinations both domestically and internationally for you to visit. Let's explore some prominent locations below!
3.1 Locations for Buddhist Pilgrimage Tours Overseas
Buddhism is a religion originating from the East. Therefore, most of the famous sites for Buddhist pilgrimage tours are in Asia. Below are some renowned pilgrimage destinations known for their sacredness that travelers can add to their itineraries.
3.1.1 Lumbini - Nepal
Lumbini, situated at the foothills of the Himalayas, is a renowned nation and a sacred pilgrimage site of Buddhism. Lumbini is about 25km from Kapilavastu, India. It is the birthplace of Lord Buddha, Siddhartha Gautama. He is the one who founded Buddhism and brought compassion to all sentient beings.
According to legend, upon birth, Lord Buddha could stand on his feet and take seven steps towards the North. A lotus flower blossomed under each step. Lumbini is also the place where Lord Buddha lived until the age of 29.
If given the chance, travelers should make a pilgrimage to the sacred site of Lumbini in Nepal.
Upon arrival in Lumbini, visitors must explore the Sacred Garden of Lumbini, where Queen Mayadevi gave birth to Lord Buddha.
Additionally, there is a sacred garden that has been constructed in recent years. Situated adjacent to the Maya Devi complex, the World Peace Pagoda stands at the end of a tree-lined avenue (Vishwa Shanti Stupa). Lumbini Sacred Garden is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
3.1.2 Bodh Gaya - India
Bodh Gaya is a small town in the southeastern part of Bihar state, India. Today, it is one of the most famous tourist destinations in Asia. It is home to the Bodhi tree where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment, giving birth to Buddhism.
Bodh Gaya is where Lord Buddha meditated for 49 days. He meditated under the Bodhi tree before attaining enlightenment and establishing the principles of Buddhism. This city is located in the Gaya district of Bihar, India. Visitors should not miss the opportunity to visit the Mahabodhi Temple here.
This is also one of the renowned stopovers for Buddhist pilgrimage tours.
In Bodh Gaya, you can witness the Niranjana River, where Lord Buddha was offered a bowl of milk porridge by a devotee to save his life. Lord Buddha also received a bunch of kusa grass from a farmer to use as a meditation seat.
3.1.3 Sarnath - India
Sarnath is a city in the state of Uttar Pradesh, India. It is located 13 km northeast of Varanasi, near the confluence of the Ganges and Gomati rivers. This place is considered one of the holiest and most significant sites for those following the Buddhist faith.
The Deer Park (or Deer Sanctuary) within the city is where Lord Buddha delivered his first sermon. It is also where Jesus Christ chose his first disciples to spread his teachings.
According to legend, Lord Buddha preached the natural law of all things to five monks in his first sermon. This event took place in the Sarnath Deer Park after attaining enlightenment under the Bodhi tree. Subsequently, Lord Buddha enlightened them here, and the teachings of Buddhism began to spread.
Another destination in India commonly chosen for Buddhist pilgrimage tours.
It's also known as a major center of Buddhist activity for over 1,500 years after the enlightenment of Lord Buddha. And it's also the site of Lord Buddha's first sermon and first monastic residence.
When visiting Sarnath, don't forget to explore the Ganges River. This river is considered India's sacred mother river. You can take a boat ride on the Ganges to witness the sunrise fully. This is also where cremation ceremonies and ritual baths take place. It's a must-visit destination for Buddhist pilgrimage tours.
3.1.4 Kushinagar - India
Travelers on Buddhist pilgrimage tours can journey from Varanasi to Kushinagar, a village in India. Lord Buddha attained enlightenment here.
Along the journey, you can also visit the Mahaparinirvana Temple. Here, there's a 6-meter-long statue of Lord Buddha resting in nirvana. Additionally, there's the Ramabhar Stupa - the site of Lord Buddha's cremation.
Another interesting fact is that Tripitaka Master Xuanzang - the monk who journeyed for scriptures in the famous story Journey to the West - also visited here.
The temples in India feature unique architecture.
Lord Buddha passed away in Kushinagar at the age of 80, in the eastern part of Uttar Pradesh state. Besides, the Nirvana Stupa is an unmissable spot for travelers on Buddhist pilgrimage tours. Here lies a 1,500-year-old stone statue of Buddha and the Nirvana Stupa.
3.1.5 Bhutan
Many find Bhutan's tranquil monarchy regime unusual. But it truly is a paradise on Earth. The ideal pilgrimage journey for every traveler on a Buddhist pilgrimage tour is to Bhutan.
Stepping into the 'Land of Happiness,' travelers can experience the 'breath' of paradise in every aspect of life. Here, travelers can delve deeper into cultural and historical values. But mainly, it's about finding simple happiness in life, tranquility in the soul of each individual.
3.1.6 Myanmar
Myanmar is renowned as the land of Buddhism. It boasts dozens of sacred temples and pagodas scattered across the country, attracting millions of pilgrims from around the globe.
Pilgrims flock here to behold the world's largest reclining Buddha statue or the glittering golden stupa. Below are some pilgrimage sites visitors can explore in Myanmar:
Another world unfolds when pilgrims embark on Buddhist pilgrimage tours to Myanmar.
- The ancient Shwethalyaung Pagoda boasts a renowned reclining Buddha statue stretching an impressive 55 meters. Visitors can delve into the story of Buddha's parinirvana here.
- Shwe Maw Daw Pagoda stands as Myanmar's tallest pagoda, soaring to a height of 114 meters. This sacred site enshrines Buddha's hair relic and bone. Constructed in the 8th century, it holds great historical significance.
- Chauk Htat Gyi Pagoda houses a magnificent 72-meter-long reclining Buddha statue. It's a popular pilgrimage destination for those on Buddhist tours.
- The Lawka Chantha Abaya Lahba Muni Jade Buddha, a seated jade Buddha statue, symbolizes success, good health, and protection from harm.
- The Golden Rock Pagoda, perched atop a naturally formed egg-shaped boulder, is home to Buddha's hair relic. Visitors often come here to lean against the sacred rock adorned with delicate gold leaves, seeking health and peace for their families.
3.2 Domestic Buddhist Pilgrimage Sites
In addition to international pilgrimage sites, you can also visit sacred temples and pagodas right here in our country.
3.2.1 Yen Tu Pagoda - Quang Ninh
Yen Tu Pagoda in Quang Ninh is one of the most revered and majestic temples in northern Vietnam. With its breathtaking natural scenery and profound serenity, Yen Tu Pagoda attracts a large number of visitors. The temple was built during the Tran dynasty under the guidance of Emperor Tran Nhan Tong and King Tran Thanh Tong.
Yen Tu Pagoda in Quang Ninh is not just a single temple; it encompasses several other temples as well. Therefore, pilgrims on Buddhist pilgrimage tours can combine their visit with exploring other sites within the complex. Notable places include Trinh Pagoda, Giai Oan Stream, Suoi Tam Pagoda, the gate of Buddha's steles, and more.
The unique space of Yen Tu Pagoda in Quang Ninh.
Furthermore, the temple sits at the foothills of Yen Tu Mountain at an altitude of nearly a thousand meters, offering a unique vantage point to admire the surrounding forest and the drifting white clouds.
3.2.2 Bai Dinh Pagoda - Ninh Binh
When it comes to famous destinations for Buddhist pilgrimage tours, Bai Dinh Pagoda in Ninh Binh cannot be overlooked. Every Lunar New Year, Bai Dinh Pagoda hosts a remarkable festival.
Bai Dinh Pagoda faces towards Dinh Mountain, where significant historical events of Vietnam took place. It was here that King Dinh Tien Hoang once held ceremonies to pray for favorable weather conditions.
When King Quang Trung prepared to march his troops to Thang Long to expel the Qing army, he also conducted flag-raising ceremonies here. And when Saint Nguyen Minh Khong visited this place in search of medicine for King Ly Thanh Tong's illness, he accidentally discovered the ancient Bai Dinh Pagoda.
Bai Dinh Pagoda in Ninh Binh always attracts tourists during every festival season.
Currently, the Bai Dinh Pagoda complex covers an area of 539 hectares. It includes large and well-invested facilities such as cultural parks, Buddhist academies, reception areas, roads and parking lots, landscape parks, and artificial lakes.
In addition, tourists on Buddhist pilgrimage tours should not miss other attractions in this vast complex. Notable sites include Bright Cave, Dark Cave, Pearl Well, Cao Son Temple, and especially the famous Tam Coc - Bich Dong, Mua Cave nearby.
3.2.3 Tam Chuc Pagoda - Ha Nam
Tam Chuc Pagoda is one of the most famous Buddhist temples in Vietnam. It is also one of the largest temples in the world. The temple boasts a picturesque scenery, with a large lake in the front, surrounded by limestone mountains and natural forests.
Tam Chuc Pagoda has been chosen as the venue for the United Nations Vesak Day celebration. Every Vesak Day celebration at Tam Chuc Pagoda attracts thousands of monks, Buddhists, and researchers from all over.
Tam Chuc Pagoda is a must-visit destination on Buddhist pilgrimage tours.
Located within the Tam Chuc tourist complex spanning 5,100 hectares, Tam Chuc Pagoda features architecture leaning against Thất Tinh mountain, facing Tam Chuc Lake. It is surrounded by limestone mountains and natural forests.
One of the major attractions is the Jade Pagoda. Other places of interest you can explore include the Three Realms Palace, the Palace of the King, and the Shrine of His Holiness.
3.2.4 Thien Mu Pagoda - Hue
Thien Mu Pagoda (also known as Linh Mu Pagoda) is about 5 km from the city of Hue. Situated on the left bank of the Perfume River with charming natural scenery, it has been a source of inspiration for many Vietnamese folk songs and proverbs.
Thien Mu Pagoda is a must-visit stop on the enchanting journey to explore Hue. It is the oldest and most important pagoda in the imperial city of Hue, serving as a symbol of the ancient land for centuries.
Thien Mu Pagoda is the icon of Hue that locals take great pride in.
The ideal time to visit Thien Mu Pagoda is from January to February. The weather in Hue during this time is relatively mild, and it's also when many international tourists flock to the pagoda. A Buddhist pilgrimage tour to Thien Mu Pagoda is always popular among visitors. Thien Mu Pagoda is a collection of many magnificent architectural structures, showcasing the unique architecture of the ancient capital of Hue.
3.2.5 Linh Ung Pagoda Da Nang
One of the famous spiritual sites in Da Nang is Linh Ung Pagoda. The coastal city of Da Nang currently has three Linh Ung pagodas: Linh Ung Son Tra Pagoda, Linh Ung Ba Na Pagoda, and Linh Ung Ngu Hanh Son Pagoda. These three pagodas complement each other to form a famous spiritual 'triangle'.
From 1999 to 2002, Linh Ung Pagoda underwent renovation and was completed. The architecture of the pagoda reflects the traditional style of ancient Northern Vietnam.
The beauty of Linh Ung Pagoda Da Nang - one of the destinations on the Buddhist pilgrimage tour.
This is one of the three oldest pagodas with a long history. The pagoda was built around 1825, located on Son Thuy Mountain. It is one of the five mountains in the Marble Mountains landscape, also the largest mountain here.
3.2.6 Linh Phuoc Pagoda (Ve Chai Pagoda) - Da Lat
Linh Phuoc Pagoda is an indispensable spiritual tourism destination in Da Lat for Buddhist pilgrimage tours. The pagoda is divided into several areas for visitors to explore. Each area worships different Buddhas such as Shakyamuni Buddha, Maitreya Buddha, Quan Yin Bodhisattva, and more.
According to local belief, Ve Chai Pagoda is highly sacred, attracting numerous visitors who often come to offer incense and pray for their families' peace and health.
Linh Phuoc Pagoda boasts a unique architecture and holds numerous records in Lam Dong province. Its structures, from the gate to the sanctuaries, are adorned with pieces of broken glass and ceramic in various colors. Hence, it is also known as Ve Chai Pagoda.
The interior space of Linh Phuoc Pagoda in Da Lat.
Linh Phuoc Pagoda in Da Lat is also known for its 18-storey underground hell structure, stretching 300m beneath the ground. The 18-storey hell recounts the journey of Mulian searching for his mother. This experience helps you understand the law of karma, living a virtuous life, and the humanistic message of Filial Piety, Benevolence, and Righteousness in daily life.
3.2.7 Black Lady Pagoda - Tay Ninh
Black Lady Pagoda in Tay Ninh is a renowned stop on Buddhist pilgrimage tours in the South. Ba Den Mountain, with an altitude of 986m, is dubbed as the 'Roof of the Southeast'.
Black Lady Pagoda in Tay Ninh is a famous destination for those who want to go on Buddhist pilgrimage tours.
Besides admiring the scenery of the pagoda and paying homage at Ba Den Mountain in Tay Ninh, tourists can also participate in the ceremonies honoring the Lady. Each period offers various festivals suitable for Buddhist pilgrimage tours:
- Spring Festival at Ba Den Mountain: Held from the 4th day of the Lunar New Year and lasts until the end of the month. The Spring Festival at Ba Den Mountain features numerous traditional events and religious rituals.
- Lady's Ceremony: This is the most significant festival for tourists on Buddhist pilgrimage tours to Ba Den Pagoda. The ceremony includes distinctive rituals. Tourists can experience a 1-day tour of Tay Ninh to combine pilgrimage with enjoying the panoramic view of the Southeast's Roof.
Due to the high number of visitors to Ba Den Mountain, modern cable car systems have been invested in this area. The cable car system at Ba Den Mountain consists of 2 lines: Van Son line and Chua Hang line. This facilitates tourists in moving up to the summit of Ba Den Mountain or directly to Ba Pagoda more conveniently.
3.2.8 Perfume Pagoda - Hanoi
Huong Pagoda is one of the must-visit destinations for Buddhist pilgrimage tours in the Northern region that tourists cannot miss. Huong Pagoda, also known as Huong Son Pagoda, is located in Huong Son commune, My Duc district, Hanoi.
When visiting Huong Pagoda, you will admire the picturesque natural scenery surrounded by mountains and rivers. You will have the opportunity to experience the sacred atmosphere, light incense, and pay respects at temples, pagodas, or ancient shrines.
The Huong Pagoda festival attracts thousands of tourists every year.
Above are some insights into Buddhist pilgrimage tours. Travelers can rely on the suggestions provided by Mytour to plan their trips. For further advice and information on Buddhist pilgrimage tours, travelers can contact the Mytour hotline Mytour to receive details and book affordable tours.
