The climax of the Vesak 2568 BE celebrations at Borobudur Temple, Central Java, is set to take place on Thursday, May 23, 2024. Thousands of Buddhists from Indonesia and several Asian countries will gather at this iconic site. The highlight of the Vesak celebrations will be accessible to tourists, featuring a lantern release on May 23, followed by a meditation walk and the Medang market around Borobudur Temple from May 24 to 26.
Maya Watono, Director of Marketing and Tourism Programs at InJourney, announced that the Vesak events are open to the public. “We hope the community gains a profound spiritual experience by witnessing the Vesak 2024 celebrations at Borobudur Temple,” she stated in a press release last weekend.
The main Vesak event kicks off with a procession from Mendut Temple to Borobudur Temple, the observance of the Vesak moment, pradaksina (circumambulation) of Borobudur Temple, and the release of lanterns.
The lantern release at Borobudur Temple’s Vesak celebration is a perennial favorite, eagerly anticipated by devotees and the public alike. This festival has become a significant draw for both local and international tourists. The lantern release symbolizes the fulfillment of the prayers offered.
Guidelines for Participating in the Vesak Celebrations
To partake in the Vesak 2024 festivities, visitors need only purchase an entry ticket to Borobudur Temple. According to the InJourney website, the entrance fee to Borobudur Temple’s courtyard is Rp50,000 for adults (local) Meanwhile for foreign tourists IDR 225,000 (children) and for adults IDR 375,000. Tickets can be purchased online at ticket.borobudurpark.com.
Additionally, visitors must adhere to specific regulations during the event. These include not bringing outside food and drinks to the lantern release area, no smoking, flying drones without permission, and taking photos too close to and without the consent of monks during their prayers.
Attendees are also requested to wear modest, white clothing and maintain silence throughout the Vesak proceedings.
