The Monks’ Journey to Borobudur: Meaningful Inspiration Behind Vesak Tradition

The Vesak celebration at Borobudur Temple is always marked as a sacred and peaceful moment. One tradition that often captures public attention is the monks’ journey to Borobudur. 

Not only is this journey part of a religious ritual, but it also reflects the values of perseverance and self-discipline, as monks undertake long marches on foot. Let’s explore the monks’ journey to Borobudur below! 

The Monks’ Journey to Borobudur in 2026, Starting from Bali 

In 2026, the monks, also known as Thudong monks, embarked on a spiritual journey to Borobudur, presenting a new color through a concept titled Indonesia Walk for Peace (IWFP). IWFP involved dozens of monks from multiple countries (Thailand, Laos, Malaysia, and Indonesia) who traveled on foot from Bali to Borobudur.

IWFP aimed to spread messages of peace and humanity, more than a religious ritual. This journey lasted about 20 days, covering 666 km, starting on May 9th, 2026, and the monks were estimated to arrive in Mageland on May 28th, 2025, just ahead of the peak of the Borobudur Vesak celebration on May 31st, 2026. 

The journey began with the ceremonial send-off of the monks at Brahmavihara-Arama, Bali. Then, the pilgrimage continued to Banyuwangi, Pasuruan, Sidoarjo, Surabaya, Gresik, Mojokerto, Jepara, Demak, Semarang, and Solo. 

Upon arriving in Solo, the monks (Bhante) visited Vihara Dhamma Sundara, Pura Mangkunegaran, and Loji Gandrung. Some sacred traditions were also held, including foot-washing and cultural parades with the Mayor of Solo. 

In this process, Bhante walked from Vihara Dhamma Sundara to Solo City Hall to receive food donations from local communities. Afterward, the monks were officially sent off to continue their long march to Borobudur Temple through Klaten. 

Support from Various Local Communities Along the Journey 

More than just a symbolic journey, the messages of peace and humanity carried by the monks were clearly reflected in the enthusiasm shown by communities across regions as they welcomed and supported them along the way. 

Not only Buddhists, but also people with various religious backgrounds showed this enthusiasm. This demonstrated that the differences in culture and religion do not have to become barriers to humanity. 

In their visit to Solo City Hall, Bhante Tejapunno Mahathera once stated, “May the diversity in Indonesia stay united to create a harmonious, peaceful, and happy life. The world peace we all hope for can be realized by people who live peacefully”.

Arrived at Borobudur, the Meaningful Journey Comes to An End

The monks’ journey to Borobudur was filled with deep meanings, including simplicity, patience, and resilience. Throughout this journey, the monks carried only their necessities and were permitted to eat once a day. They also had to walk under the hot sun. 

Once the monks arrived at Borobudur Temple, this meaningful spiritual journey came to an end. The monks then continue with a series of rituals leading to the peak of Vesak night on May 31st,  2026. This Vesak celebration at Borobudur carries the theme “Dharma Menjaga Perdamaian Dunia”, emphasizing the importance of noble, spiritual, and social compassion values. 

The peak of the Tri Suci Vesak celebration at Borobudur is the sacred moment that commemorates three major events in the life of Buddha Gautama: the birth of Siddhartha, the attainment of Enlightenment, and Parinibbana, or the passing of the Buddha. This year’s Vesak is scheduled for May 31st, 2026, on 12.44.44 WIB. 

At the end of the Vesak celebration at Borobudur, the atmosphere is expected to be filled with peace and warmth. Thousands of lanterns will be released into the sky, creating a dazzling, peaceful night view. 

The small lights from lanterns symbolize spiritual awakening and carry prayers, hopes, and reflections from many people attending this special moment. This tradition is not only a part of Buddhists’ celebration but also a cultural and spiritual experience that can be appreciated by everyone, including you. 

If you would like to take part in this meaningful experience, make sure to book your ticket in advance. Borobudur Vesak Ticket can be purchased online via the official InJourney Destination website.

So, do not miss this chance to witness the Borobudur sky full of lantern lights together with thousands of visitors! 

Read also: Borobudur Vesak 2026 with InJourney: Schedule, Tickets, and Event Information