A Monk's Journey to Borobudur: The Inspiration for the Meaningful Vesak Tradition

The Vesak celebration at Borobudur Temple always brings a sacred and serene atmosphere. One tradition that captivates the public is the journey of monks to Borobudur. 

Not only is this journey part of a religious ritual, it also reflects the values ​​of simplicity, perseverance, and self-control practiced by monks during their long journeys on foot. Let's take a look at the monks' journey to Borobudur below!

Monks' Journey to Borobudur 2026, Starting from Bali

In 2026, the journey of Thudong monks to Borobudur will take on a new dimension, under the concept of the Indonesia Walk for Peace (IWFP). The IWFP will involve dozens of monks from across Thailand, Laos, Malaysia, and Indonesia, walking from Bali to Borobudur.

The IWFP aims to convey a message of peace and humanity, not merely a religious ritual. The journey will last approximately 20 days and cover a distance of 666 km, starting on May 9, 2026, and is expected to arrive in Magelang on May 28, 2026, just before the peak of the Vesak celebrations at Borobudur on May 31, 2026.

The journey began with the monks' farewell at Brahmavihara-Arama in Bali. It then continued to Banyuwangi, Pasuruan, Sidoarjo, Surabaya, Gresik, Mojokerto, Jepara, Demak, Semarang, and Solo.

Upon arrival in Solo, the monks visited the Dhamma Sundara Temple, the Mangkunegaran Temple, and the Gandrung Lodge. Various sacred ceremonies were also planned, from footwashing to a cultural parade with the Mayor of Solo. 

During this process, the monks walked from the Dhamma Sundara Temple to Solo City Hall to receive alms from the community. Afterward, the monks were officially released to continue their journey. long march heading to Borobudur Temple via Klaten.

Community Support from Various Regions During the Journey

Not just a symbol, the message of peace and humanity brought by the monks during the journey is evident from the enthusiasm of people from various regions in welcoming and giving support to the monks during the journey.

This enthusiasm is evident not only among Buddhists, but also among people of various religious backgrounds. This demonstrates that cultural and religious differences do not limit humanity.

During his visit to Solo City Hall, Bhante Tejapunno Mahathera said, "Hopefully, with the diversity that exists in Indonesia, we can all continue to work together so that we can live in harmony, peace, and happiness. The peace we all hope for, world peace, can be realized by peaceful people."

Arriving at Borobudur, a Meaningful Journey Comes to an End

The monks' journey to Borobudur is imbued with profound meanings, including simplicity, patience, and endurance. On this journey, the monks carry only the bare necessities and are even permitted only one meal a day. This is compounded by exposure to the scorching sun.

Upon arrival at Borobudur Temple, this meaningful spiritual journey concludes. The monks will then continue with various rituals until the final night of the Vesak celebration on May 31, 2026. This year's Vesak celebration at Borobudur carries the theme "Dharma: Maintaining World Peace." This theme emphasizes the importance of noble values, spirituality, and social awareness. 

The highlight of the Vesak Tri Suci Feast at Borobudur is the Vesak Day, a sacred moment commemorating three important events in the life of Gautama Buddha: the birth of Siddhartha, his attainment of Enlightenment, and his Parinibbana, or passing away. This year, Vesak Day falls on May 31, 2026, at 3:44:44 PM WIB.

At the end of the Vesak celebrations at Borobudur, the atmosphere is filled with peace and warmth. Thousands of lanterns are released into the sky, creating a stunning yet calming nightscape.

The small lights from these lanterns symbolize awakening and carry the prayers, hopes, and reflections of everyone present at this special moment. This tradition is not only a Buddhist celebration, but also a cultural and spiritual experience that everyone, including you, can enjoy.

If you want to be part of this meaningful experience, be sure to book your tickets early to avoid missing out. Borobudur Vesak Tickets can be purchased online online through website official InJourney Destination.

So, don't miss the chance to witness the Borobudur sky filled with lantern light with thousands of other visitors!

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