Po Lin Monastery, Hong Kong - Po Lin Monastery, Lantau Island, Hong Kong
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Po Lin Monastery Hong Kong

4.5
·10k reviews·, Hong Kong

Home to the majestic Tian Tan Buddha and a vibrant Buddhist monastery on Lantau Island, offering spiritual serenity and stunning views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Po Lin Monastery, Hong Kong - Po Lin Monastery, Lantau Island, Hong Kong

Po Lin Monastery Hong Kong

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Home to the majestic Tian Tan Buddha and a vibrant Buddhist monastery on Lantau Island, offering spiritual serenity and stunning views.

4.5
(10k reviews)

"A truly awe-inspiring spiritual journey with breathtaking views and delicious vegetarian fare."

Vertical photo
TIP

Wear comfortable shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing stairs to the Big Buddha! :athletic_shoe:

Dress modestly

Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for the monastery. :pray:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Tian Tan Buddha (Big Buddha)

Tian Tan Buddha (Big Buddha)

Lantau Island

Majestic 34-meter bronze statue offering panoramic island views. A must-see spiritual icon.

Po Lin Monastery

Po Lin Monastery

Lantau Island

Vibrant Buddhist monastery with colorful architecture and serene courtyards. A peaceful retreat.

Wisdom Path

Wisdom Path

Lantau Island

Serene trail featuring carved wooden pillars with Buddhist scriptures. A contemplative walk.

Planning Your Visit

Plan Your Lantau Island Adventure

Po Lin Monastery and the Tian Tan Buddha are on Lantau Island. Consider dedicating a full day to explore this area, as it often involves a scenic cable car ride and can be combined with other island attractions. Check the weather, as it can get hot and humid.

Respectful Visit to Po Lin Monastery

As a place of worship, dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered) when visiting Po Lin Monastery. Be mindful of prayer times and maintain a quiet demeanor. Many visitors find the spiritual atmosphere profoundly peaceful.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons (post-lunch)
Why
Tour groups thin out
Crowd
Medium
When
Cooler months (Oct-Apr)
Why
Pleasant weather for exploring
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Does anyone know of any good Buddhist shrines / monuments to visit in Hong Kong?

Wear comfortable shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing stairs to the Big Buddha! :athletic_shoe:

Dress modestly

Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for the monastery. :pray:

reddit.com

Tian Tan Buddha - Po Lin Monastery - Lantau Island, Hong Kong.

reddit.com

Looking for advice on my 6-day Hong Kong trip

Consider the cable car

The Ngong Ping 360 cable car offers stunning views on your way to the monastery. :mountain_cableway:

Bring water & snacks

Options can be limited and pricier on-site. Stay hydrated! :water_wave:

reddit.com

[Help] Hello r/Buddhism -- I accidentally broke my boyfriend's Tian Tan pendant from the Po Lin Monastery in Hong Kong. It's very important to him; does anyone know where/how I can find a replacement? Grateful for any help or advice!

Tips

from all over the internet

Wear comfortable shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking and climbing stairs to the Big Buddha! :athletic_shoe:

Dress modestly

Cover shoulders and knees out of respect for the monastery. :pray:

Consider the cable car

The Ngong Ping 360 cable car offers stunning views on your way to the monastery. :mountain_cableway:

Bring water & snacks

Options can be limited and pricier on-site. Stay hydrated! :water_wave:

Allow ample time

Lantau Island attractions, including the monastery, require a full day. :clock1:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(10k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the awe-inspiring scale of the Tian Tan Buddha and the serene beauty of Po Lin Monastery. The scenic cable car ride is a major draw, and the vegetarian food receives high marks. Some find the crowds can be overwhelming during peak times, and the climb to the Buddha can be tiring.

"Visiting Po Lin Monastery was a serene escape. The peaceful ambiance, intricate temple details, and the majestic Big Buddha nearby made it unforgettable. The vegetarian lunch was simple yet delicious. A perfect blend of culture and tranquility. Must-visit!"

М М

"It is a temple that is famous for their big Buddha statue. So after the Buddha you can walk to this temple and it is very amazing as well

There is a canteen beside the temple which serves vegetarian food only but it is actually not bad. Worth giving it a try

The temple itself is quite big and the statues inside are beautiful as well

A must visit place after the big Buddha statue"

Neo

"Beautiful monastery with a magnificent backdrop. Highly recommend visiting! Recommend taking the bus up to the top (fraction of the price of the ngong ping 360 gondola) it’s very peaceful and the whole monastery is maintained very well and is in use so please be respectful when you visit. Noticed that near the Buddha there are sections that you are not allowed to film/photograph. Don’t be THAT tourist that doesn’t care. You have many opportunities to take photos outside with the big statue. The 10000 Buddha hall is also amazing to see."

anisha2k

What People Like

Majestic Big Buddha
Peaceful monastery grounds
Scenic cable car ride

What People Dislike

Large crowds
Strenuous climb

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most scenic route is via the Ngong Ping 360 cable car from Tung Chung. Alternatively, you can take bus routes 23 from Mui Wo or 2 from Tung Chung. Both options offer unique perspectives of Lantau Island. Reddit

Yes, public transport is readily available. Buses are a budget-friendly option, while the cable car provides a more spectacular journey. Plan your route in advance. Reddit

The Big Buddha is located at Po Lin Monastery. You can reach it by bus or the Ngong Ping 360 cable car. The cable car ride itself is an experience! Reddit

Limited parking is available near Po Lin Monastery, but it's often easier and more convenient to use public transport, especially if you're visiting during peak times. Reddit

Travel time varies. The cable car ride is about 25 minutes, plus travel to Tung Chung. Bus journeys can take 40-60 minutes from Tung Chung. Allow for transit and potential queues. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to Po Lin Monastery itself is free. However, there are charges for the Tian Tan Buddha statue's interior and the Ngong Ping 360 cable car. Reddit

Access to the base of the Tian Tan Buddha is free. There is a small fee to enter the actual Buddha statue and see the relics inside. Reddit

It's highly recommended to book Ngong Ping 360 cable car tickets online in advance, especially during weekends and holidays, to save time and potentially secure your preferred time slot. Reddit

Po Lin Monastery is generally open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM. The Tian Tan Buddha statue has similar hours. Always check the official website for the most up-to-date information. Reddit

Discounts may be available for children, seniors, and students for the cable car. Check the Ngong Ping 360 website for current offers. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Besides admiring the Tian Tan Buddha and the monastery's architecture, you can explore the Hall of Ten Thousand Buddhas, enjoy vegetarian meals, and walk the Wisdom Path. Reddit

Yes, you can climb the steps to reach the base of the Tian Tan Buddha. There's also an option to enter the statue itself for a small fee. Reddit

Yes, families can enjoy the impressive Buddha statue, the monastery grounds, and the scenic cable car ride. The Wisdom Path offers a peaceful walk. Reddit

Take your time to climb the steps, appreciate the scale of the statue, and enjoy the panoramic views. Consider visiting the interior for a closer look at the relics. Reddit

While not always formally advertised, you might find local guides offering services. However, many visitors prefer to explore independently using information from guidebooks or online resources. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Po Lin Monastery is famous for its delicious vegetarian cuisine. There are restaurants on-site offering set meals and a la carte options. Reddit

You can enjoy traditional Buddhist vegetarian dishes, including mock meats, tofu, and fresh vegetables. It's a popular spot for a meat-free meal. Reddit

The monastery's own restaurants offer reasonably priced vegetarian meals. Outside the immediate monastery area, options might be more limited, so eating at the monastery is often convenient. Reddit

While you can bring your own snacks and water, it's generally expected to be respectful of the dining areas and not to picnic in prayer or sacred spaces. Reddit

Many visitors rave about the monastery's vegetarian dim sum and the 'Buddha Jumps Over the Wall' vegetarian version. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the grandeur of the Tian Tan Buddha from its base, the colorful monastery buildings, and the panoramic views from the top. The Hall of Ten Thousand Buddhas also offers unique shots. Reddit

Photography is generally permitted in most outdoor areas. However, check for specific restrictions inside the monastery buildings or the Buddha statue itself. Reddit

Early morning or late afternoon light can be beautiful, offering softer shadows and golden hues. Midday can be harsh, but the sheer scale is still impressive. Reddit

Drone usage is typically restricted in and around religious sites and national parks to ensure safety and respect. It's best to assume drones are not permitted. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the Buddha and monastery. A telephoto lens can be useful for details. A tripod might be helpful for low-light conditions, but be mindful of crowds. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Po Lin Monastery and the Tian Tan Buddha offer a unique and engaging experience for families. The Ngong Ping 360 cable car is a definite highlight for kids, providing exciting aerial views. Once at the monastery, the sheer scale of the Big Buddha is awe-inspiring for all ages. Climbing the steps to the Buddha's base is a fun challenge, and the monastery grounds offer space to explore. Reddit

Consider packing plenty of water and snacks, as well as comfortable shoes for walking. The vegetarian food at the monastery is generally mild and appealing to children. While the spiritual aspect is central, the visual grandeur and the journey itself make it a memorable outing for the whole family. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Spiritual Seekers

For solo travelers and those seeking a spiritual retreat, Po Lin Monastery offers a profound sense of peace and contemplation. The Wisdom Path, a short hike featuring wooden pillars inscribed with Buddhist verses, provides a tranquil space for reflection away from the main crowds. Reddit The monastery's serene atmosphere, combined with the majestic presence of the Tian Tan Buddha, creates an environment conducive to meditation and introspection. Engaging with the vegetarian cuisine can also be a mindful experience. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Lantau Island, particularly Po Lin Monastery and the Tian Tan Buddha, presents numerous photographic opportunities. The iconic Big Buddha is a must-capture subject, with its imposing size and detailed bronze work. Experiment with different angles from the base, and consider the climb for elevated shots. Reddit The colorful architecture of the monastery, the Hall of Ten Thousand Buddhas, and the surrounding natural landscapes offer diverse compositions. Early morning or late afternoon light can enhance the mood and detail of your photographs. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Journey to Lantau Island

Reaching Po Lin Monastery on Lantau Island is an adventure in itself. The most popular and visually stunning way is via the Ngong Ping 360 cable car. This 25-minute ride offers breathtaking aerial views of the island's lush landscapes and the South China Sea. Visitors often describe the journey as a highlight, with options for crystal cabins offering a glass bottom for an even more immersive experience. Reddit

Alternatively, you can opt for public buses. Bus route 23 from Mui Wo or bus route 2 from Tung Chung provide access to the monastery. While less scenic than the cable car, buses are a more economical choice and still allow you to soak in the island's natural beauty. Reddit Planning your transport in advance is key, especially if you're aiming to visit during peak hours or weekends, as queues for the cable car can be significant. Reddit

Experiencing the Tian Tan Buddha

The Tian Tan Buddha, affectionately known as the Big Buddha, is the undisputed centerpiece of Po Lin Monastery. Standing at an impressive 34 meters tall, this majestic bronze statue is one of the largest seated Buddhas in the world. Visitors are encouraged to climb the 268 steps to reach the Buddha's base, where you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and sea. Reddit

For a deeper experience, you can purchase a ticket to enter the three floors within the base of the Buddha statue. Inside, you'll find sacred relics, including a fragment of the Buddha's finger bone, and murals depicting Buddhist stories. The climb and the spiritual significance make this a profound part of the visit for many. Reddit Remember to dress respectfully, covering your shoulders and knees, as this is a sacred site. Reddit

Culinary Delights at the Monastery

Po Lin Monastery is renowned for its delicious vegetarian cuisine, offering a peaceful and flavorful dining experience. The monastery's restaurants serve a variety of traditional Buddhist dishes, often featuring fresh vegetables, tofu, and mock meats prepared with skill and care. Reddit

Visitors frequently praise the monastery's vegetarian set meals and a la carte options. It's a popular spot for both pilgrims and tourists seeking a healthy and satisfying meal. Don't miss the chance to try their vegetarian dim sum or the renowned vegetarian version of 'Buddha Jumps Over the Wall.' Reddit While dining options outside the monastery might be limited, the on-site restaurants provide a convenient and authentic culinary experience that complements the spiritual journey. Reddit

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