Gautama Buddha was a monk, a philosopher and a teacher whose words of peace, kindness, and enlightenment have forever changed the lives of millions. As news of his wisdom spread throughout Ancient India and then the rest of the world, he became the historical religious leader we know him as today. His teachings continue to inspire many, not only in their actions but in their art forms. Buddhist monasteries are spread across the world for those looking to find moments of calmness and serenity and a safe haven. From California to various hills all across southeast Asia, monuments have been built dedicated to honoring this great and virtuous leader of souls. Here are 20 of such monuments from gorgeous locations that are definitely worth a visit if you’re looking for a moment of enlightening beauty!
1. Large Gautama Buddha statue in Buddha Park of Ravangla, Sikkim, India
(By Subhrajyoti07, Wikimedia Commons)
2. Statue of Buddha inside Pullahari Monastery (Gumba), Kathmandu
(By Bijay chaurasia, Wikimedia Commons)
3. Buddha Statue as seen from Tank Bund in Hyderabad, India
(By Nikhilb239, Wikimedia Commons)
4. Lord Buddha Statue at Sarnath, Uttar Pradesh, India, where Buddha preached his first sermon
(By Kasyap, Wikimedia Commons)
5. Ancient Buddha Statue with the treasure at Thanthrimale, India
(By Wisha.imagination, Wikimedia Commons)
6. Reclining Buddha Statue at Wat Pho, Bangkok, Thailand, to Commemorate the death of Buddha
(By Michael Gunther, Wikimedia Commons)
7. The sleeping statue of Buddha at Dhauli Shanti Stupa, India
(By Rocky 734, Wikimedia Commons)
8. Buddha Statue at Heidefriedhof Dresden (The Heath Cemetery, Dresden, Germany)
(By Klausronja, Wikimedia Commons)
9. Tian Tan Buddha, also known as the Big Buddha located at Ngong Ping, Lantau Island, in Hong Kong
(By Béria L. Rodríguez, Wikimedia Commons)
10. Phra Buddha Shinnasee (Front) and Phra Suwanakhet (Behind) at the chapel of Wat Bowonniwet, Bangkok, Thailand
(By Supanut Arunoprayote, Wikimedia Commons)
11. Shrine with Buddha and Bodhisattva statues in the Clinton neighborhood, Oakland, California
(By greenkozi, Wikimedia Commons)
12. 100 feet lying statue of Gautama Buddha, Ramu, Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh
(By RockyMasum, Wikimedia Commons)
13. Buddha Statue near Belum Cave, Andhra Pradesh, India
(By Saisumanth532, Wikimedia Commons)
(By Arttantra, Wikimedia Commons)
(By Arttantra, Wikimedia Commons)
15. Buddha statue in Nanzoin, Japan
(By 20041027 tatsu, Wikimedia Commons)
16. Statue of buddha in Pitak island, Thailand
(By Bell2kim, Wikimedia Commons)
17. Buddha Statue at Varanasi, India
(By Tanmoy1980, Wikimedia Commons)
18. Statue of Buddha in the Atadage in Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka
(By Nicolas Chadeville, Wikimedia Commons)
19. The "Great Departure" of Siddhartha Gautama, The Guimet Museum, France
20. The gilded "Emaciated Buddha statue" in an Ubosoth in Bangkok representing the stage of his asceticism
(By Chainwit, Wikimedia Commons)
In Photos: 15 Gorgeous Cities from Around the World
We have curated a collection of 15 stunning photographs that capture the essence of these cities or showcase their breathtaking sights in a single frame.
Paper Cutouts Turn the World Into Small Scale Scenes
15 paper cutouts on world-famous monuments.
The Mastery of Capturing a Fraction of the World
Professional photographers come in to show us all again the true mastery of capturing the world through a lens. Enjoy.
The World’s Tallest Statues are a Sight to Behold!
Statues are built to commemorate people, gods and history. The tallest ones attract tourists and are magnificent works of arts.
This Ukrainian Pastry Chef Creates Cake Masterpieces
This chef is a shining star in the skies of handmade artisanal pastries. She is so exceptionally creative that she can be defined as a sculptor chef.
Fall Back in Love With Summer in South California
A retired military man has been documenting his travels to South California for the past two years. Enjoy the coast through his lens- you can really see the love.
History’s Oldest Buildings That Have Stood for Centuries
Here's a look at some of the oldest surviving man-made structures on our planet that have a fascinating past.
It's Hard to Believe These Hotels Really Exist!
Hotels can be much more than just a place to sleep, take a shower and change your clothes! Here are 18 unique and splendid hotels from around the globe.
Take a Scenic Ride Through Europe’s Highest Alpine Railway
Embark on a journey all the way to Jungfrau mountain in the Swiss Alps, 3.454 meters (8.051 ft) above sea level, on a train!
The Tyrol Cow Festival - Celebrating With 100,000 Cows!
The Tyrol Cow Festival is an incredible occasion with 100,000 cows!
The Spectacular Story Behind the Creation of Lady Liberty
One of the most iconic creation in all of history, the Statue of Liberty has an interesting story behind it.
This Fantastic Tour of New York City Will Leave You in Awe
Ever wanted to visit New York City, but haven’t had the chance yet? This great video will whet your appetite until you get a chance to visit yourself!
Britain Has Many Destinations That Prove its Sheer Beauty
There's a lot more to the United Kingdom than just London, as these amazing destinations will prove to you. Take a look at 14 traveler hotspots in the UK.
I've Never Seen Gardens as Beautiful as the Japanese Ones
These Japanese gardens will leave you just wishing for a calm walk in such a beautiful place.
Have You Ever Seen Bulgaria's Vast Nature?
Come fly with us over the heartbreaking vistas of Bulgaria.
Are These the 30 Best Places to See Before You Die?
When you look at these 30 photos, you'll realize just how much wonderful stuff in life there is still to do!
The World is Full of Unique Places, But These 8 Stand Out
The world is full of intriguing places, some of which are incredibly unique. Here are 8 of the most fascinating ones.
13 Unmissable Sights in the Exotic City of Baku
To ensure you make the most of your trip to Baku, we have compiled a short guide of 13 must-see attractions.
COLLECTION: 9 Incredible Festivals From Around the World
his unique interactive image is your gateway to exploring nine of the world's most vibrant and unique festivals.
Poland's Castles Are Full of Medieval Mystery & Splendor
Poland, lying in the middle of Europe, has some of the most spectacular castles you've ever seen.
Bermuda: Relax Among Shimmering Green and Blue Waters...
This is the perfect kind of video for relaxation and beauty. See the gorgeous blues and greens of Bermuda as your mind lets go and your problems blow away in the wind.
February Is a Gloomy Month, So Why Not Take a Vacation?
February isn't generally the most pleasant of months, so why not hop on a plane and go somewhere fun? These are the 10 best places to be in February.
The Beauty of Guyana Is Sure to Take Your Breath Away
Guyana is an English-Speaking country in Caribbean South America that houses an incredible variety of plant and animal life.
Nature's Canvas: 15 Awe-Inspiring Outdoor Spaces
Get ready to be mesmerized by the perfect blend of nature and human creativity in these stunning landscaping photos!
20 Unusual and Intriguing Maps to Trigger Your Curiosity
You won’t view the world the same way after seeing these unusual maps.
These Gorgeous Colorized Postcards Are Over 100 Years Old
You might think that colored photos in the early 20th Century were unheard of, but Photocrom already existed. Take a look at these stunning colorized postcards.
Big Wheeled Beauties to Make You Want to Live on the Road
These 10 Recreational Vehicles come packed with all the space, comfort and durability needed for the ultimate road trip
The Gorgeous City of Turin, Italy Awaits You...
Turin is one of the most beautiful places to visit, and you're about to see it all...
Bavaria: Land of Beautiful Castles, Palaces and Fortresses
The land of castles, picturesque Alpine landscapes and a rich history and traditions, Bavaria is one of the most-visited places in Europe
First-Class Travel Looks Very Different on These Airlines
First-class air travel is one of the most luxurious modes of transport you can take, but the experience differs from airline to airline. Take a closer look.
Discover the Ancient Italian City Where Time Stood Still
The city of Pompeii was destroyed by a volcano in 79 C.E., but much of it remains preserved, giving us a glimpse to the Roman times.
COLLECTION: The Incredible Beauty of Historical Europe
Discover this huge collection of articles dedicated to the beauty of historical architecture and unique places throughout Europe.
Batumi, the Most Charming City On the Black Sea Coast
Read everything you need to know about Batumi and its alluring tourist destinations.
World's Strangest Towns That You Didn't Know Existed!
Explore some unusual places that defy convention, from a one-person town to a unique settlement where all residents share a single building.
19 Timeless Treasures of Our World You Need to See
Uncover the world's most captivating and awe-inspiring creations through the lens of history, archaeology, art, and architecture.
The Terracotta Army: 7,000 Warriors Strong
A Chinese emperor left a standing army behind him upon his death, both to protect him and for the world to admire. Welcome to the terracotta army.
These Past Architectural Designs Were Ahead of Their Time
Architecture in the 20th century was so unique! Here are some amazing examples.
Welcome to One of the Most Beautiful French Cities...
Prepare to immerse yourself in all that Montpellier has to offer - discover what sights are truly worth seeing and experiences worth having.
13 Astonishingly Beautiful Coastlines You Need to See
Let us take you on a trip across the world’s most astonishing coastlines.
Why Do Passports Have Different Colors?
Most people don't suspect that the color of their passport actually has quite a lot of intention behind it. Here's what common flag colors really mean...
A Beauty to See: 10 Sun-Drenched, Rainbow Colored Cities
I love visiting a great city for the first time, but seeing these multi-colored rainbow cities I feel like if I went there I would never leave. See what I mean?
How I'd Love to Visit the Remarkable Mount Fuji...
Get to know the fantastic visuals and the rich history of this astounding mountain.
Pearl of Southeast Asia: 5 Reasons You Need to Visit Burma
A comprehensive travel guide to Myanmar in Southeast Asia
Aren't Tuscany's Landscapes Absolutely Magnificent?
Tuscany is one of Italy's highlights, take a look at it's stunning countryside here.
These Quaint Villages in England Are Pure Eye Candy
Visit one of these quaint English villages and take a step back in time.
See the Seven Wonders of the World in Stunning 4K
Very few things on this planet come close to the beauty and majesty of the Seven Wonders of the World, as this 4K video proves.