Find nirvana at Borobudur, Indonesia

Whether or not you’re seeking enlightenment in this lifetime, Borobudur is a UNESCO World Heritage Site worth visiting if you’re in Central Java, Indonesia.

Located near the city of Yogyakarta (a pretty cool city also worth visiting), the 9th century temple is the world’s largest Buddhist stupa, with a surface area of 2,500 square metres, which represents a cosmological model of the universe.

Meant to demonstrate the teachings of Buddha and the path to enlightenment, the stupa features nine terraces, each representing different levels of wisdom one must attain to reach the enlightenment of the Buddha. Pilgrims wind their way up the stupa in a clockwise direction, representing the movement from the everyday world to a state of nirvana.

The first six terraces feature more than 2,600 relief panels of Buddhist doctrines and depictions of Javanese life, while the top three terraces feature 72 small stupas, each with a statue of the Buddha (many are headless, however, thanks to relic hunters). The top is dominated by a large – and empty – stupa. This either represents the “nothingness” of nirvana or the greediness of thieves.

Surrounded by lush green rice terraces and volcanoes, it’s the perfect spot to watch the sun rise while contemplating life. Though you may not actually attain nirvana, you’ll get amazing views at the top.

To get here: Take a public bus from Giwangan bus terminal in central Yogyakarta, go on a mini-bus tour or hire a car/taxi. It’s about a 40-minute drive from the city; the public bus will take 60 to 90 minutes.

Hours: 6am to 5pm (It’s worth going early, since climbing the stupa under a glaring sun can suck all the energy out of you. Tip: Bring lots of water.)

Cost: 150,000 rupiah

Photo Credit: Elaphurus @ Flickr