A remarkable spiritual journey recently concluded at the majestic Borobudur Temple in Indonesia, as a group of Thudong monk completed a grueling four-month pilgrimage. This arduous trek, originating from Thailand, saw the monks walk thousands of kilometers across multiple Southeast Asian countries, culminating their spiritual quest at the world’s largest Buddhist temple in time for the annual Vesak Day celebration.
The International Thudong 2025 pilgrimage commenced on February 6, 2025, from Bangkok’s Sanam Luang. Over the course of 24 days, the monks traversed through Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore, before arriving in Indonesia via Batam on April 16. From Jakarta, they resumed their spiritual odyssey on foot towards Borobudur in Central Java.
Thudong, derived from the Pali word dhutanga, refers to austere practices undertaken by Buddhist monks to cultivate spiritual discipline and insight. The monks typically travel on foot, carrying minimal possessions, and often rely on alms from devotees along their route, embodying simplicity and endurance.
Throughout their journey across Indonesia, the monks were met with overwhelming warmth and hospitality from local communities, including those of different faiths. This display of interfaith harmony deeply touched the pilgrims, symbolizing unity and mutual respect that transcends religious boundaries, particularly in a predominantly Muslim nation.
Upon their arrival at Borobudur Temple on May 10, 2025, the 36 monks were greeted by thousands of devotees and well-wishers. They immediately ascended to the top of the stupa for prayers, performing the pradaksina ritual of circumambulating the temple three times in a clockwise direction, a profound moment of spiritual culmination.
This year’s Thudong pilgrimage was particularly significant, coinciding with Vesak Day 2569 BE on May 12, 2025. The presence of the Thudong monk added a unique spiritual dimension to the celebrations, attracting Buddhist practitioners and observers from around the world to the sacred site.
The completion of this four-month-long spiritual trek serves as a powerful testament to the monks’ unwavering dedication, patience, and mental fortitude. It also reinforces Borobudur’s status as a global spiritual epicenter for Buddhists and a symbol of interfaith harmony in Indonesia.