On Monday, May 12, 2025, Borobudur Temple in Central Java, Indonesia, will once again become the spiritual heart of Southeast Asia as thousands gather to celebrate Vesak 2569 BE.
This year’s theme, “Enhancing Self-Control and Wisdom to Realize World Peace,” reflects a universal message that transcends religion—inviting all to embrace mindfulness, harmony, and compassion.
Known in Indonesia as Waisak, Vesak commemorates three pivotal events in the life of Siddhartha Gautama—the Buddha: his birth, enlightenment, and passing into Nirvana.
The Borobudur celebration is among the largest Vesak festivals in the world, drawing both Buddhists and non-Buddhists alike.
A Legacy of Faith and Culture
The tradition began in 1929, organized by local Buddhist groups. It gained national recognition in 1983, when it was declared a public holiday. Apart from its religious significance, Vesak has evolved into a cultural gathering that showcases Indonesia’s spirit of tolerance and unity.
Around 85% of participants in the Lantern Festival are non-Buddhists, mainly local Muslims—reflecting Indonesia’s religious harmony. As Bhante Victor Jaya Kusuma beautifully puts it, “People come from different faiths, yet all unite in peace.”
Two sacred elements begin the ritual: the Eternal Flame from Grobogan and Holy Water from Umbul Jumprit. Thudong monks walk over 2,500 km from Thailand to Borobudur as a form of spiritual pilgrimage.
In 2025, the festival spans May 4–12, with both spiritual rituals and social outreach efforts. However, the temple is only fully open to Buddhists for rituals during Vesak.
Key Dates and Activities:
- May 4: Opening prayers and cemetery clean-ups to honor national heroes.
- May 10–11: Free medical services provided to up to 8,000 locals.
- May 12 at 11:55:29 AM: The Vesak Moment, aligning with the full moon.
- May 12 (2–4 PM): Grand procession from Mendut Temple to Borobudur.
- May 12 evening: Lantern Festival and drone light show featuring 450 drones projecting peace symbols in the sky above Borobudur and 2,569 lanterns which represent the current Buddhist calendar year.
Joining the Celebration
Most activities, such as the procession and public prayers, are free and open to everyone, regardless of faith. However, access to the Lantern Festival inside Borobudur Temple requires a ticket.
Based on 2024, the age requirement to participate was 5 years and older, and each lantern was shared by a group of 4 people.
How to Book Tickets for the Vesak Lantern Festival 2025
Tickets for the Vesak Lantern Festival 2025 are available online through WALUBI’s official website (https://www.walubi.or.id/) and Loket.com. Follow these steps to book your tickets:
- Visit the official website: loket.com/event/festlampionborobudur2025
- Select your preferred session (Session 1 or Session 2).
- Choose the number of tickets you wish to purchase.
- Fill in your personal details as per your official ID (KTP/SIM).
- Make the payment using one of the available methods.
- Once payment is successful, an e-voucher will be sent to your registered email or WhatsApp number.
Participant Terms:
- The minimum age to participate is 5 years old.
- Participants must attend according to the date and time listed on the ticket.
- Ticket donations are non-refundable for any reason.
- During the event, participants are expected to maintain silence and respect (set communication devices to silent mode).
- One lantern will be flown by at least four participants, guided by the event organizers.
Detailed information about National Vesak Day is available at www.walubi.or.id or via the link: linktr.ee/waisaknasional.
Whether you’re on a spiritual journey or simply curious about cultural heritage, Vesak at Borobudur offers an unforgettable experience beneath the moonlit sky at the world’s largest Buddhist temple.
Source: kumparan.com, sokoguru.id, kontan.co.id
Special Photo Credit: kemenag.go.id
