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Located on the peaceful cliffs of Lantau Island in Hong Kong, the Po Lin Monastery Hong Kong is a calm retreat away from the bustling city life. The monastery is enveloped by nature, and it provides a blend of spirituality and beauty. Founded over a hundred years ago, the monastery has become an esteemed religious site in Hong Kong as it attracts pilgrims and sightseers. The Tian Tan Buddha, which sits high on a cliff, stands out as a symbol of this site’s grandeur. It will invite you into an area where tradition, belief and nature come together.
Quick Details
Po Lin Monastery Hong Kong Address: Ngong Ping Rd, Ngong Ping, Lantau Island, Hong Kong.
Po Lin Monastery Hong Kong Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
Nearest Airport: Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA)
Nearest Railway Station: Tung Chung Station
Best Time To Visit: October to April for comfortable weather and a tranquil experience.
Main Attractions: Tian Tan Buddha (Big Buddha), Wisdom Path, Hall of Ten Thousand Buddhas, Ngong Ping Village, Po Lin Monastery Vegetarian Restaurant
About
Established back in 1906 by three Buddhist monks from Mainland China, the Po Lin Monastery started as a simple wooden hut, which then turned into a massive spiritual centre over the years. The monastery is also called “Precious Lotus” because it holds great value in the religious and cultural life of Hong Kong. Its architecture mixes classic Chinese styles, and it consists of prayer halls, colourful pagodas and elaborate carvings. The Tian Tan Buddha is the monastery’s most iconic feature, which is also called the “Big Buddha”.
How To Reach
Photo: HK Arun / Wikimedia Commons
By Air: The Hong Kong International Airport is the closest airport to Lantau Island, as it’s 10 km away. From the airport, get to Tung Chung Station on the S1 bus and then transfer to the Ngong 360 cable car or just take a bus to Ngong Ping Village.
By Rail: Reach the Tung Chung Station via the MTR Tung Chung Line. From there, take the Ngong Ping 360 cable car and enjoy the views of the lush cliffs as you head towards the monastery.
By Road: You can take buses from areas like Lantau Island and Kowloon, which will take you to Ngong Ping Village. The Bus 23 from Tung Chung will directly take you to Ngong Ping, and then a monastery is a short walk away. Car rentals and even taxis are available as well.
Things To Do
1. Explore The Monastery Grounds
Photo: Enochlau / Wikimedia Commons
Take a look at the prayer halls of the monastery when you will be encircled by the quiet setting. The buildings display classic Chinese architecture with curved and graceful roofs, rich gold and red details and carved wooden beams. All these things signify peace and fortune. When you stroll through the monastery’s grounds, you will find well-maintained gardens and even multi-coloured flowers that add a touch of nature’s fragrance and grandeur. The entire setting feels inviting and serene, which encourages all the sightseers to absorb and relax in the quiet surroundings.
2. Ascend To The Tian Tan Buddha
Photo: Béria Lima de Rodríguez / Wikimedia Commons
Climbing up all the 268 steps to the Tian Tan Buddha is not just a physical challenge but also a spiritual experience. Every step you take will bring you closer to the massive bronze figure, giving you the chance to reflect on inner peace and life’s journey. Once you reach the top section, you will witness some remarkable views of the clear skies that stretch in all directions and the dense peaks. When you stand beside this massive statute, it will offer you a profound sense of inspiration and awe.
3. Participate In A Ceremony Or Meditate
Photo: Mk2010 / Wikimedia Commons
When you’re visiting the monastery during the prayer sessions or festival, you can take part in the Buddhist meditation or ceremony. The chanting from the monks creates a calm setting, filling the air with invocation. You can sit quietly and let the sound of the chants bring you a sense of peace otherwise take part in meditation to connect with the inner stillness. Whether you want a spiritual connection or quiet reflection, this monastery will offer you the space you need to find peace.
Places To Visit Near Po Lin Monastery
1. Ngong Ping Village
Photo: Jasmine Carter / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
This village is not just a stop towards the monastery but a spot that consists of the cultural charm of Hong Kong. At the Ngong Ping Village, when you walk along the cobblestone streets, you will witness many traditional Chinese buildings that have elaborate wooden details, red lanterns and colourful roofs. You will also find souvenir stores that sell hand-crafted trinkets and Buddhist artefacts. The air around this village is filled with the scent of local food, which will give you a chance to enjoy the tastes of Hong Kong.
Distance From The Monastery: 1.0 km
The Timings: 24*7
2. Tai O Fishing Village
Photo: Camille Bismonte / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Dubbed the “Venice of Hong Kong”, the Tai O Fishing Village is a remarkable coastal site that will take you back to simpler times. Constructed on stilt houses right above the tidal waves, this particular village has an old-world and unique feel. Its narrow paths are filled with seafood markets where you will see the fresh fish have been hung to dry. The locals in this village will greet you with friendly smiles, and you might get the chance to spot the pink dolphins during a boat ride via the silt homes.
Distance From The Monastery: 7.4 km
The Timings: 24*7
3. Lantau Peak
Photo: LiquidGhoul / Wikimedia Commons
If you love adventure, visiting the Lantau Peak will be an ideal option. This peak is the second-highest mountain in Hong Kong and will offer you spectacular panoramas, particularly during sunrise. To get to this spot, you should begin hiking early in the morning, and once you ascend, you will get to enjoy the journey’s excitement and also the cool air. Once you reach the summit, the view of the sky, the sea and the cliffs soaked in the golden morning rays is simply stunning. The effort to reach the mountain will be worth it as it will offer you a bewitching scenery and a sense of accomplishment.
Distance From The Monastery: 2.4 km
The Timings: 24*7
Where To Stay
Photo: Man Pan / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
There are plenty of places to stay near Po Lin Monastery, catering to different budgets and tastes. Some of the options include Noah’s Ark Hotel and Resort, YHA Ngong Ping Davis Youth Hostel, City Oasis Guesthouse, Tai O Inn by the Sea, Tai O Heritage Hotel and Regal Airport Hotel.
Where To Eat
Photo: Yuen Tao Chun / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
The monastery’s vegetarian restaurant is a must-try, serving traditional dishes like tofu stew and spring rolls. Some famous restaurants that you can eat near the monastery are Po Lin Monastery Vegetarian Restaurant, Zen Noodle Cafe, Linong Tea House, Ebeneezer’s Kebabs & Pizzeria, Tai O Stilt House Café and Ngong Ping Garden Restaurant.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Rana Sawalha / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Tips For Travellers
- The monastery grounds are vast, and climbing to the Big Buddha requires good footwear.
- Mornings are less crowded and offer a more serene experience.
- Dress modestly and remain quiet inside the temple halls.
- Many smaller vendors and eateries in Ngong Ping Village prefer cash.
- You’ll be walking a lot, so keep a bottle of water handy.
- You should also check the Po Lin Monastery timings when you plan to visit. The monastery is open to the public between 8 AM – 6 PM. Try to follow these timings.
Visiting Po Lin Monastery is a chance to step away from daily life and engross yourself in a world where peace is treasured, nature is revered, and knowledge is shared. Whether you desire spiritual comfort, architectural splendours, or simply a sensational view, Po Lin Monastery Hong Kong, offers it all in an experience unlike any other. Plan a trip with TripXL and have the best experience.
Cover Photo: kosta karampelas / Pexels
