Buzz
Alongside Bodh Gaya (India), Shwedagon Pagoda (Myanmar), Luang Prabang (Laos), Doi Suthep (Thailand)... Mount Yen Tu (Vietnam) also stands as one of the 8 ideal pilgrimage destinations for Buddhist devotees, as reported by The Star, Malaysia.
Traveling to Yen Tu: A Top Pilgrimage Destination for Buddhist Devotees
1. Lumbini, Nepal
Considered to be the birthplace of Lord Buddha, Lumbini is the most significant pilgrimage site in Nepal.
In 563 BCE, Queen Mayadevi gave birth to Prince Siddhartha Gautama, who later became the founding Buddha. As a result, Lumbini has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Here, there are numerous temples like Maya Devi, commemorative stupas, meditation centers, and even a museum within the temple complex. Most notably, there is a sacred pond where Lord Buddha bathed.
2. Bodh Gaya, India
Situated within the premises of the Mahabodhi Temple, Bodh Gaya is where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree. For followers of Buddhism, this is one of the four renowned and influential pilgrimage sites.
In 2002, the temple was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
3. Potala Palace, Tibet
As a symbol of Tibetan Buddhism, the Potala Palace stands between the Lhasa Valley and served as the residence of the Dalai Lama until the 14th Dalai Lama decided to relocate to India in 1959.
Thousands of Buddhist devotees come here every year to express their sincerity. This place was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994.
4. Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
Located 205km north of Sri Lanka's capital, Anuradhapura is the ancient capital of primitive Buddhism for centuries. The eight sacred sites where Lord Buddha visited are called Atamasthana, located in this ancient kingdom.
Today, within 40km² around these sacred sites are meditation centers. UNESCO recognized Anuradhapura as a World Heritage Site in 1982.
5. Shwedagon Pagoda, Myanmar
Also known as the Great Dagon Pagoda or the Golden Pagoda, Shwedagon has a stupa covered with gold leaf located in Yangon.
Perched atop Singuttara Hill, this is the holiest site for Buddhist devotees in Myanmar and is believed to hold the treasures of the first four Buddhas.
6. Luang Prabang, Laos
Meaning 'the image of Buddha in the royal palace,' the city comprises 58 villages, 33 of which are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites since 1995. Luang Prabang is renowned for its numerous monasteries and temples.
Every morning, hundreds of monks embark on alms rounds along the streets and landmarks symbolic of Luang Prabang.
7. Doi Suthep, Thailand
Located 15km from Chiang Mai is Doi Suthep – a temple steeped in primitive Buddhism and revered by the Thai people. You can choose to ascend over 300 steps or take an electric tram to visit this sacred site.
There are plenty of temples, stone statues, bells, and even a museum. The most sacred item here is an original bronze phù đồ.
Furthermore, a monastery was established here since the early years of 1383 by King Ke Naone to store the relics of the Buddha.
8. Mount Yen Tu, Vietnam
As the most significant landmark for Vietnamese Buddhist devotees, Mount Yen Tu is famous for its breathtaking landscapes, historical treasures, and ancient temples.
Devotees must climb the stairs on Mount Yen Tu to reach the Dong Pagoda at the summit. This is where King Tran Nhan Tong renounced his throne and became a monk.
According to Tuoi Tre
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Reference: Travel Handbook by Mytour
MytourMay 27, 2016
