Vedang Shahane
Greetings, globetrotters! Today, on Day 6 of our Hong Kong adventure, Vedang Shahane is taking you on a journey beyond the bustling cityscapes. We’re escaping the urban jungle and venturing to Lantau Island, a haven of natural beauty and spiritual significance. Our destination? The awe-inspiring Tian Tan Buddha, also known as the Big Buddha!
A Scenic Journey to Lantau Island:
Our adventure begins with a scenic ferry ride from Hong Kong Island to Lantau Island. As you sail across the turquoise waters, keep your eyes peeled for stunning views of the outlying islands and dramatic coastline. This tranquil ferry journey is the perfect way to unwind after a day of theme park thrills at Disneyland.
Reaching New Heights: Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car
Upon arrival on Lantau Island, the adventure continues with a ride on the Ngong Ping 360 cable car. This thrilling ride offers breathtaking panoramic views of the island’s lush greenery, rolling hills, and the distant South China Sea. For the truly adventurous, opt for the “Crystal Cabin,” a transparent cabin that allows you to experience the ride suspended seemingly in mid-air!
A Beacon of Serenity: Tian Tan Buddha
Finally, we reach the crown jewel of Lantau Island – the Tian Tan Buddha. This majestic bronze statue of Buddha, towering at 34 meters tall, is a symbol of peace and serenity. As you approach the statue, take a moment to appreciate the intricate details and the sheer scale of this awe-inspiring monument.
Climbing to Tranquility: The 268 Steps to Wisdom
To truly appreciate the grandeur of the Tian Tan Buddha, you’ll need to climb the 268 steps leading to the base of the statue. Consider this climb a pilgrimage of sorts, a chance to find inner peace and tranquility amidst the breathtaking scenery.
A Glimpse into Buddhist Culture:
At the base of the Tian Tan Buddha lies the Po Lin Monastery, a vibrant Buddhist temple complex. Explore the serene courtyards, admire the intricate architecture, and learn about Buddhist culture and traditions. This is a chance to step back from the fast pace of travel and experience a moment of mindfulness.
A Culinary Adventure:
After exploring the Tian Tan Buddha and the Po Lin Monastery, you’ll likely be feeling famished. Luckily, Lantau Island offers a variety of restaurants catering to all tastes. Here are a few suggestions:
- Vegetarian Delights: The Po Lin Monastery offers a vegetarian restaurant where you can sample delicious Buddhist cuisine.
- Local Seafood: Lantau Island boasts several seafood restaurants offering fresh catches from the South China Sea.
- International Fare: For those seeking familiar flavors, several restaurants offer international cuisine to satisfy your cravings.
Sunset Serenade:
As the sun begins to set, casting a golden glow over the landscape, take a moment to soak in the serenity of Lantau Island. Whether you choose to meditate in the Po Lin Monastery gardens or simply relax and enjoy the view, this is a moment to reflect on the beauty and tranquility you’ve encountered today.
A Day of Contrasts:
Our day on Lantau Island has offered a refreshing contrast to the bustling energy of Hong Kong. From the peaceful ferry ride to the awe-inspiring Tian Tan Buddha, and the serenity of the Po Lin Monastery, this day has been a journey of spiritual discovery and breathtaking natural beauty.
This was all day 6 as we were so exhausted after all the stairs and unplanned hike, on day 7 my flights were scheduled and I came back to India. To connect: https://cal.com/vedangshahane
