Is Po Lin Monastery (Hong Kong) Worth Visiting?
Po Lin Monastery, nestled high in the hills of Lantau Island, is definitely worth a visit. It's all about experiencing a unique blend of spiritual serenity and impressive sights, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.
The monastery is best known for the Tian Tan Buddha, a colossal bronze statue that dominates the landscape. Its cultural significance and the peaceful atmosphere make it a must-see for anyone exploring Hong Kong.
Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit Po Lin Monastery (Hong Kong)
Planning your visit to Po Lin Monastery? Knowing the opening hours and the best time to visit will help you make the most of your trip and avoid the crowds.
- Opening Hours: The Monastery is generally open from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM daily. The Big Buddha has the same opening hours.
- Best Time to Visit: Aim for weekdays, particularly Tuesdays or Wednesdays, to avoid the weekend crowds. The best time to see the Buddha is during the late morning or early afternoon for optimal lighting.
- Estimated Visit Duration: Allocate at least 3-4 hours to fully explore the monastery, the Big Buddha, and the Wisdom Path.
Location Details about Po Lin Monastery (Hong Kong)
Understanding the location of Po Lin Monastery is key to planning your trip. Here's what you need to know about where it is and how accessible it is.
- Address: Po Lin Monastery, Ngong Ping, Lantau Island, Hong Kong.
- Parking Availability: Limited parking is available near Ngong Ping Village, a short walk from the monastery. Parking spaces can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and public holidays.
- Wheelchair Accessibility: Ngong Ping Village and the area around the Big Buddha are generally wheelchair accessible. However, some parts of the monastery itself may have limited accessibility due to steps and uneven surfaces.
How Much to Enter / Visit Po Lin Monastery (Hong Kong)
One of the great things about visiting Po Lin Monastery is that it doesn't cost a thing to enter. Here's the lowdown on tickets, passes, and tours.
- Tickets: Entry to Po Lin Monastery and the Big Buddha is free.
- Pricing Variations: There are no entry fees, regardless of the day of the week or age.
- Where to Buy: As entry is free, there are no tickets to buy. However, you might want to purchase a vegetarian meal ticket at the monastery's dining hall for a traditional culinary experience.
How To Go to Po Lin Monastery (Hong Kong)
Getting to Po Lin Monastery is an adventure in itself! Here's a breakdown of the best ways to reach this iconic landmark.
- MRT & Bus: Take the Tung Chung Line on the MTR to Tung Chung Station. From there, take New Lantao Bus (NLB) number 23 to Ngong Ping. The bus journey takes approximately 45-60 minutes.
- Airport Route: From Hong Kong International Airport, take bus S1 to Tung Chung Bus Terminus, then transfer to New Lantao Bus 23 to Ngong Ping.
- Public Transport Tips: An Octopus card is highly recommended for easy payment on public transport in Hong Kong. Consider taking the Ngong Ping 360 cable car for stunning views, but be prepared for potential queues, especially during peak season. Alternatively, Ride Hailing is also available.
Things To Do in or near the Po Lin Monastery
Po Lin Monastery and its surroundings offer a wealth of activities and sights. Here's a list of things to do in and around this cultural gem.
- Activities in Po Lin Monastery:
- Admire the Tian Tan Buddha (Big Buddha).
- Explore the Main Temple and its intricate architecture.
- Enjoy a vegetarian meal at the monastery's dining hall.
- Wander through the beautifully landscaped gardens.
- Light incense and offer prayers for good fortune.
- Activities Nearby Po Lin Monastery:
- Hike the Wisdom Path, a series of wooden columns inscribed with the Heart Sutra.
- Visit the Ngong Ping Village for souvenir shopping and dining.
- Take the Ngong Ping 360 cable car for panoramic views.
- Explore Tai O Fishing Village, known for its stilt houses and traditional way of life.
- Relax at Cheung Sha Beach, one of the longest beaches in Hong Kong.
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Nearby MRT Station & Bus Stops near the Po Lin Monastery Hong Kong
Knowing the closest transport links can make your visit to Po Lin Monastery much smoother. Here's a guide to the nearest MRT station and bus stops.
- Nearby MRT Station: The closest MRT station is Tung Chung Station (Tung Chung Line). From there, you'll need to take a bus (NLB 23) to Ngong Ping.
- Nearby Bus Station: Ngong Ping Bus Terminus is located right next to Ngong Ping Village, a short walk from the monastery. This is where bus NLB 23 from Tung Chung terminates.
- Transport Card Info: An Octopus card is essential for easy and convenient payment on Hong Kong's public transport system, including the MTR and buses. You can purchase and top up an Octopus card at any MTR station.
Tips To Go to Po Lin Monastery (Hong Kong) and Safety Tips
Planning a trip to Po Lin Monastery? Here are some handy tips and safety guidelines to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit.
- What to Bring:
- Comfortable walking shoes, as you'll be doing a fair bit of walking.
- Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses, as the area can get quite sunny.
- Water to stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
- An umbrella or raincoat, as the weather in Hong Kong can be unpredictable.
- Respectful clothing that covers your shoulders and knees when visiting the monastery.
- Tourist Safety Tips:
- Be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings safe.
- Stay on marked paths when hiking and avoid venturing off into unknown areas.
- Check the weather forecast before you go and be prepared for changes in conditions.
- Be mindful of the local customs and traditions, especially when visiting religious sites.
- If taking the Ngong Ping 360 cable car, be aware of potential delays due to weather conditions or maintenance.
Best Hotel Area in Hong Kong
Choosing the right area to stay in Hong Kong can significantly enhance your travel experience. Each neighbourhood offers a unique vibe and caters to different preferences.
- Best Area to Stay in Hong Kong:
- Tsim Sha Tsui (Kowloon): Ideal for tourists who want to be in the heart of the action, with easy access to shopping, dining, and stunning harbour views.
- Central (Hong Kong Island): Perfect for business travellers and those seeking a sophisticated urban experience, with upscale hotels, restaurants, and nightlife.
- Wan Chai (Hong Kong Island): A vibrant district with a mix of old and new, offering a lively atmosphere, diverse dining options, and convenient transport links.
- Causeway Bay (Hong Kong Island): A shopper's paradise, known for its department stores, boutiques, and bustling street markets.
- Mong Kok (Kowloon): A budget-friendly option with a local flavour, offering a wide range of street food, markets, and affordable accommodation.
Where to Eat Inside or near Po Lin Monastery (Hong Kong)
Whether you're craving a sit-down meal or a quick bite, there are plenty of options to satisfy your hunger in and around Po Lin Monastery.
- Cafes/Restaurants:
- Ebeneezer's Kebabs & Pizzeria (Ngong Ping Village): A reliable option for familiar Western fare like kebabs and pizzas.
- Hong Kong Day (Ngong Ping Village): Offers a variety of local Hong Kong dishes in a casual setting.
- Po Lin Monastery Vegetarian Restaurant: Located within the monastery, this restaurant serves traditional vegetarian cuisine, providing a unique culinary experience.
- Local Street Food:
- Egg Waffles (Gai Daan Zai): A classic Hong Kong street food snack, these sweet, crispy waffles are a must-try.
- Fish Balls (Yu Dan): Curry fish balls are a popular and flavourful street food option.
- Pineapple Buns (Bo Lo Bao): A sweet bun with a crumbly topping that resembles a pineapple.
Shopping Places near Po Lin Monastery (Islands District)
While Po Lin Monastery is primarily a cultural and spiritual destination, there are still opportunities for shopping nearby, especially in Ngong Ping Village and the broader Islands District.
- Shopping Places near Islands District:
- Citygate Outlets (Tung Chung): Located near the Tung Chung MTR station, this outlet mall offers a wide range of international brands at discounted prices.
- Maritime Square (Tsing Yi): A large shopping mall with a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
- APM Millennium City 5 (Kwun Tong): While further afield, APM is known for its late-night shopping and trendy boutiques.
Best Hotels to Stay near Po Lin Monastery (Hong Kong)
Finding the perfect place to stay near Po Lin Monastery can enhance your visit to Lantau Island. While options directly next to the monastery are limited, here are some excellent hotels in the broader Hong Kong area.
- Best Hotels to Stay in Hong Kong:
- The Peninsula Hong Kong: A luxurious hotel in Tsim Sha Tsui, offering stunning harbour views and world-class service.
- Hilton Garden Inn Hong Kong Mongkok: A modern hotel in the heart of Mong Kok, providing comfortable accommodation and convenient access to shopping and dining.
- Cordis, Hong Kong: Located in Mong Kok, this stylish hotel features a rooftop pool and a Michelin-starred restaurant.
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Hotels with Swimming Pools near Po Lin Monastery
After a day of exploring Po Lin Monastery and Lantau Island, relaxing by a swimming pool can be the perfect way to unwind. Here are some hotels in Hong Kong that offer fantastic swimming facilities.
- Hotels with Swimming Pools in Hong Kong:
- The Peninsula Hong Kong: Boasting a Roman-style indoor pool, this hotel offers a luxurious swimming experience.
- Grand Hyatt Hong Kong: Features a stunning outdoor pool with panoramic views of Victoria Harbour.
- Island Shangri-La, Hong Kong: Offers both indoor and outdoor pools, surrounded by lush greenery.
Hotels with Parking near Po Lin Monastery
If you're planning to drive to or around Po Lin Monastery, finding a hotel with parking is essential. Here are some hotels in Hong Kong that offer convenient parking facilities.
- Hotels with Parking in Hong Kong:
- The Peninsula Hong Kong: Offers valet parking for guests.
- Hyatt Regency Hong Kong, Tsim Sha Tsui: Provides convenient parking options for hotel guests.
- Kerry Hotel, Hong Kong: Features ample parking space and easy access to major roads.
Searching for a place to stay in Hong Kong? Explore top hotels in popular destinations: Best Hotels in Hong Kong Island (Central) | Best Hotels in Tsim Sha Tsui (Kowloon) | Best Hotels in Hung Hom (Kowloon) | Best Hotels in Mong Kok | Best Hotels in Kowloon
Best Hotels near Hong Kong International Airport
For travellers seeking convenience and comfort, staying near Hong Kong International Airport is an excellent choice. Here are some of the best hotels in the area, offering easy access to flights and a range of amenities.
- Best Hotels near Hong Kong International Airport:
- The Regala Skycity Hotel offers a luxurious stay with multiple dining options and a convenient location connected to the airport.
- The Novotel Hong Kong CityGate is a great choice, providing comfortable rooms and easy access to both the airport and Citygate Outlets for shopping.
- The Regal Airport Hotel is directly connected to the airport via a covered walkway, making it an incredibly convenient option for travellers.
- The Hong Kong SkyCity Marriott Hotel offers a luxurious experience with excellent dining options and a relaxing atmosphere near the airport.
- The Four Points by Sheraton Hong Kong, Tung Chung, provides comfortable accommodation and is conveniently located near the airport and Tung Chung attractions.
Average Room Rate hotels near Po Lin Monastery
Hotel prices in Hong Kong can vary depending on the season, location, and hotel star rating. To find the best deals, it's always a good idea to check Traveloka for the latest prices and promotions.
The average room rate for hotels near Po Lin Monastery (or in the broader Hong Kong area) can range from £80 to £250 per night. Keep an eye out for hotel discounts and promos, especially if you're a new Traveloka user – you can often get up to 8% OFF with the promo code BOOKTRAVELOKA!
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Conclusion
Planning a trip to Hong Kong and considering a visit to the magnificent Po Lin Monastery? Booking your flights and accommodation through Traveloka can make your travel experience seamless and affordable. With a wide range of options and exclusive deals, Traveloka ensures you get the best value for your money.
Traveloka offers a user-friendly platform to compare prices, read reviews, and book with confidence. Whether you're looking for cheap hotels nearby or the most luxurious stays, Traveloka has something for every traveller. Plus, with regular promotions and discounts, you can save even more on your Hong Kong adventure.
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