City of Ten Thousand Buddhas
A vast Buddhist monastery offering a serene escape with ornate temples, lush gardens, and resident peacocks.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peace
City of Ten Thousand Buddhas
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peace
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vast Buddhist monastery offering a serene escape with ornate temples, lush gardens, and resident peacocks.
"A truly special place! Beautiful, serene, and vibrant with a lovely spirit."
🤫 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders & knees out of respect for the monastic community. :pray:
🦚 Peacock Spotting
Keep an eye out for the beautiful peacocks roaming the grounds! :feather:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Buddha Hall
Main Temple
Marvel at the mesmerizing 10,000 gold Buddhas and the vast meditation hall. A truly spiritual centerpiece.
Wandering Peacocks
Grounds
Encounter the vibrant peacocks that freely roam the monastery grounds. A delightful and unexpected sight!
Peaceful Gardens
Throughout the monastery
Stroll through lush gardens offering a tranquil escape and beautiful landscaping. Perfect for quiet contemplation.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Serenity
Wildlife Encounters & Dining
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🤫 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders & knees out of respect for the monastic community. :pray:
🦚 Peacock Spotting
Keep an eye out for the beautiful peacocks roaming the grounds! :feather:
🍽️ Vegetarian Cafe
Don't miss the on-site vegetarian cafe for a delicious and affordable meal. :apple:
🚶♀️ Explore the Gardens
Wander through the serene gardens for a peaceful and contemplative experience. :lotus_flower:
Tips
from all over the internet
🤫 Dress Modestly
Cover shoulders & knees out of respect for the monastic community. :pray:
🦚 Peacock Spotting
Keep an eye out for the beautiful peacocks roaming the grounds! :feather:
🍽️ Vegetarian Cafe
Don't miss the on-site vegetarian cafe for a delicious and affordable meal. :apple:
🚶♀️ Explore the Gardens
Wander through the serene gardens for a peaceful and contemplative experience. :lotus_flower:
📚 Free Books
You might find free books offered, a thoughtful gesture from the monastery. :books:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the City of Ten Thousand Buddhas for its profound peace, stunning architecture, and unique wildlife encounters. Many highlight the mesmerizing Buddha Hall and the serene gardens as major draws. While the vegetarian cafe receives positive mentions, some wish for more dining variety. The respectful atmosphere and the opportunity for quiet contemplation are frequently cited as reasons for a return visit.
"We went in an early afternoon mid September. Not many visitors around. A volunteer approached us and told us about stories from the early days - how the peacocks came to be, how the well was successfully found after many attempts etc. We also went to visit the Buddha hall. Some ceremony was going on and we enjoyed listening for a few minutes. It was a fun stop while exploring what Ukiah has to offer."
Jie Chen
"Amqzing Monastery . The person at the administrative office is very helpful and guides what to visit and shares the details of how it became what is it today. Lots of peacock including a white peacock.Buddha Hall is especially mesmerizing . It has 10000 gold buddhas and large meditation hall. They were offering 15 books for free . Wish I could see their vegan/ vegetarian cafe."
Nidhi Bansal
"Beautiful temple, it is very peaceful to sit inside the main shrine area. Lots of peacocks wandering around. There is also a great vegetarian restaurant on site open for lunch most days."
Manish Bhatt
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The City of Ten Thousand Buddhas is located in Ukiah, California, about a 2-hour drive north of San Francisco. You can drive directly via US-101 N. Public transportation options are limited, so driving is generally recommended for ease of access. +1
Yes, there is parking available on-site for visitors. It's usually ample, especially on weekdays.
Absolutely! Many visitors enjoy the City of Ten Thousand Buddhas as a peaceful day trip to explore the grounds and soak in the serene atmosphere.
The grounds are quite spread out, so comfortable walking shoes are a must. You can explore on foot, taking your time to see the various buildings and gardens.
Ukiah offers a few attractions, including wineries and the Grace Hudson Museum. The City of Ten Thousand Buddhas is a unique spiritual destination within the region.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the City of Ten Thousand Buddhas is generally free. It's a place of worship and contemplation, not a ticketed attraction. Donations are welcome to support the monastery.
While specific hours can vary, the grounds are typically open to visitors during daylight hours. It's always a good idea to check their official website or call ahead for the most current information.
There is no entrance fee. The City of Ten Thousand Buddhas operates as a spiritual center and welcomes visitors to experience its peace and beauty without charge.
The City of Ten Thousand Buddhas offers opportunities for retreats and longer stays, often with a work-trade program. Inquire directly with the administration for details on availability and requirements.
Visitors are asked to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, out of respect for the monastic community. Please maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the stunning Buddha Hall with its 10,000 gold Buddhas, wander through peaceful gardens, observe resident peacocks and deer, and visit the library. It's a place for quiet reflection and appreciating Buddhist architecture. +1
Yes, the intricate architecture, serene gardens, and roaming peacocks offer many beautiful photo opportunities. Remember to be respectful and avoid intrusive photography, especially during ceremonies. +1
While some TikTok videos show dogs on the grounds, it's best to confirm pet policies directly with the monastery. Some areas might have restrictions.
Originally a former state asylum for the criminally insane, the site was transformed into a significant Buddhist monastery. This unique history adds another layer to its profound atmosphere.
Visitors are welcome to observe ceremonies respectfully. The monastery may also offer meditation sessions or talks; inquire at the administration office for schedules.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a vegetarian cafe on-site that is highly recommended by visitors. It's a great place to enjoy a peaceful meal after exploring the grounds. +1
The cafe typically serves delicious and affordable vegan and vegetarian dishes. It's a popular spot for both visitors and residents.
The cafe is usually open for lunch most days, but hours can vary. It's advisable to check their schedule in advance or inquire upon arrival.
While you can bring snacks, it's respectful to consume them in designated areas and to support the on-site cafe if you're looking for a full meal.
Yes, the cafe is known for its vegan and vegetarian offerings, making it a great option for those with dietary preferences.
📸 📸 Photography
The Buddha Hall, the serene gardens, the ornate temple architecture, and the roaming peacocks are all fantastic subjects for photography. +1
While generally allowed, be mindful and respectful. Avoid intrusive photography, especially during ceremonies or in private monastic areas.
Photography inside the main Buddha Hall might be restricted during ceremonies or specific times. Always observe signage and be respectful of ongoing practices.
A camera that handles low light well is beneficial for the interiors, while a versatile lens is great for capturing both grand architecture and wildlife like peacocks.
Drone usage is typically prohibited at religious sites to maintain peace and privacy. It's best to assume drones are not permitted.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🧘 Solo Travelers & Spiritual Seekers
📸 Photographers & Art Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A History of Transformation
This history is often shared by volunteers and staff, adding depth to a visitor's experience. Understanding this past can offer a new perspective on the peace and tranquility that now pervades the grounds. It's a testament to the power of renewal and spiritual dedication, turning a site of past turmoil into a sanctuary of calm.
Encountering Wildlife
Beyond the peacocks, visitors often report spotting deer grazing peacefully on the grounds. These encounters add a touch of natural magic to the spiritual atmosphere. It's a reminder of the harmonious coexistence between the monastic community and the surrounding environment. Remember to observe wildlife from a respectful distance and avoid feeding them.
The Heart of the Monastery: The Buddha Hall
Beyond the visual splendor, the Buddha Hall offers a profound sense of peace and tranquility. It's a space designed for meditation and contemplation, and many visitors find it to be a deeply moving experience. The large meditation hall within the complex provides ample space for quiet reflection, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a moment of serenity.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit