Buzz
Alongside renowned places like Bodh Gaya (India), Shwedagon Pagoda (Myanmar), Luang Prabang (Laos), Doi Suthep (Thailand)… Yen Tu Mountain (Vietnam) is also one of the 8 ideal pilgrimage destinations for Buddhist followers, according to The Star, Malaysia.
Yen Tu Pilgrimage Ranks Among the Top Destinations for Buddhist Devotees
1. Lumbini, Nepal
Considered the birthplace of Lord Buddha, Lumbini holds paramount significance as a pilgrimage site in Nepal.
In 563 BCE, Queen Mayadevi gave birth to Prince Siddhartha Gautama – who later became the founding Buddha. Consequently, Lumbini has been recognized as a World Cultural Heritage site.
Here, there are numerous temples like Maya Devi, commemorative stupas, meditation centers, and even a museum within the temple grounds. Particularly noteworthy is the sacred pond where Lord Buddha bathed.
2. Bodh Gaya, India
Situated within the Mahabodhi Temple complex, Bodh Gaya is where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree. For Buddhist devotees, it stands as one of the four renowned and influential pilgrimage sites.
In 2002, the temple was recognized as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site.
3. Potala Palace, Tibet
As an icon of Tibetan Buddhism, the Potala Palace was built between the Lhasa valley and served as the residence of the 13th Dalai Lama until his decision to live in India in 1959.
Thousands of Buddhist devotees come here each year to express their gratitude. This place was recognized as a World Cultural Heritage in 1994.
4. Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
Located 205km north of Sri Lanka's capital, Anuradhapura has been the capital of primitive Buddhism for centuries. Eight sacred sites where Lord Buddha visited, known as Atamasthana, lie in this ancient kingdom.
Today, within 40km² around these sacred sites, there are numerous meditation centers. UNESCO acknowledged Anuradhapura as a World Cultural Heritage in 1982.
5. Shwedagon Pagoda, Myanmar
Also known as the Great Dagon Pagoda or the Golden Pagoda, Shwedagon has a golden-plated stupa located in Yangon.
Situated atop Singuttara Hill, this is the holiest place for Buddhist devotees in Myanmar, believed to house the treasures of the first four Buddhas.
6. Luang Prabang, Laos
Meaning 'Image of the Buddha in the Royal Palace,' the city comprises 58 villages, with 33 recognized as World Cultural Heritage sites in 1995. Luang Prabang is renowned for its numerous meditation centers and temples.
Every morning, hundreds of monks engage in alms-giving rituals along the streets and iconic landmarks of Luang Prabang.
7. Doi Suthep, Thailand
Located 15km from Chiang Mai is Doi Suthep, a primitive Buddhist temple and a sacred place for the Thai people. You can choose to climb over 300 steps or take a cable car to visit this site.
Abounding with temples, stone statues, bells, and even a museum, the most sacred item here is the original bronze ceremonial offering.
Founded in the year 1383 by King Ke Naone, the meditation monastery serves as a repository for the relics of Lord Buddha.
8. Mount Yen Tu, Vietnam
As the most significant site for Vietnamese Buddhist devotees, Mount Yen Tu is renowned for its stunning landscapes, historical treasures, and ancient temples.
Devotees must ascend the mountain's stairs to reach the Dong Pagoda at its summit. This is where, after abdicating the throne, King Tran Nhan Tong became a Buddhist monk.
Source: Tuoi Tre
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Reference: Travel Handbook from Mytour
MytourMay 27, 2016
