The Garden of One Thousand Buddhas Is the Hidden Park in Montana That Almost No One Knows About

In a state like Montana, there are certainly plenty of places where you can disappear for some alone time. In some cases, just a trip outside the house and a long walk can lead to someplace relatively undiscovered. After all, this is Big Sky country, and there are plenty of hidden gems in Montana just waiting to be found! But, when you need something extra special, consider making your way to Arlee. This town on the Flathead Indian Reservation offers a respite from the everyday and hides a lovely, one-of-a-kind garden. In fact, this hidden park in Montana is so little visited that there's a good chance you'll have it all to yourself.

Welcome to the Garden of One Thousand Buddhas in Arlee. Located on Flathead Indian Reservation land, this 10-acre park is one of the most incredible places to unwind and rejuvenate. It's also one of Montana's best hidden gems. So few people know about this unique place that you're sure to find plenty of solitude here to clear your mind, which is exactly what the garden is designed to do!

Established in 2000 as an international center for peace, the garden is open to people of all religious denominations. Of course, the garden is focused on Buddhist teachings. The area is also home to the Ewam Buddhist Institute, and visitors are invited to enjoy the area with the goal of fostering a positive transformation in those who spend time there.

Buddhist texts teach that life is an enormous cycle of time. This time, known as the Fortunate Aeon, will see 1,000 Buddhas born and attain enlightenment. As you walk around, you will see one thousand hand-cast Buddha statues that sit around a single figure—Yum Chenmo—or the Great Mother. Yum Chenmo is the manifestation of the perfection of wisdom. The one thousand statues are to instill impressions of wisdom and compassion.

Additionally, throughout the garden, you’ll find all kinds of trees, flowers, and other vegetation that create a beautiful place to spend time being still, reflecting, and enjoying peace and quiet. 

Visitors can stroll the grounds any time of year. And, it's certainly worth seeing the garden in every season. Guided tours are also available from April to May. In addition to spending time in the garden, visitors can also participate in courses and retreats through Ewam International.

Whatever your reason for visiting, any time spent here is special. Just remember that this area is sacred—please be respectful.

The Garden of One Thousand Buddhas is open throughout the year, but each season offers different hours. To plan your visit, be sure to check out the Garden of One Thousand Buddhas' website. Additionally, you can see more photos of this hidden park in Montana by following the Garden of One Thousand Buddhas on Facebook.

For more fantastic, lesser-known spots, take our Montana hidden gems road trip. You can also plan your own adventure in the Treasure State using our Only In Your State itinerary planner.