The world’s largest seated Tian Tan Buddha takes you to new heights

Locals love to come here – they take the Ngong Ping cable car from Tung Chung to Ngong Ping Village – it’s a 25-minute ride that provides some impressive views of the Lantau highland

They normally spend a brief moment wandering through the ‘artificial’ village before arriving at Po Lin Monastery Complex. Here, there is a full vista of one of Hong Kong’s most impressive attractions.

The Tian Tan Buddha is the largest seated Buddha statue in the world –  its scale is unprecedented, and you only realise how huge it is when you get up close after hiking the 286 steps to the feet of the bronze god. When you’re at the top, you will also be rewarded with superb views of Lantau Island’s lush greenery and the shimmering South China Sea. 

Tip: Its proximity to Hong Kong International Airport means you can fit this experience in during a short layover.  

Expect big crowds as it is a very popular attraction in Hong Kong. Best to go early on weekday mornings if you want to avoid the crowds.

 

If you plan on hiking to the statue instead of taking the cable car, you might want to avoid doing so in summer as the humidity will possibly make it a very uncomfortable experience.

 

One of the best days to see the monastery is on Buddha's birthday. There will be crowds, but that's part of the attraction, as everyone gathers to watch the monks bathe the feet of all the Buddha statues.

 

A bit of leg work is required to get to the top (286 steps to be exact), but the view of the Lantau hinterland and the shimmering South China Sea from the top is beautiful.