When it comes to discovering tranquil spaces around the Empire State, you'll find plenty of peaceful places that you can plan unforgettable day trips to. In the past here at Only In New York, we've highlighted beautiful monasteries that you can visit, as well as an actual Peace Pagoda that will leave you feeling completely zen. If you're looking to find more beautiful spaces like this around New York, then it's time you see how the largest Buddha statue in the western hemisphere is right here in our state. See for yourself!
Tucked away in the Hudson Valley within Putnam County, the Chuang Yen Monastery has been around since the spring of 1981.
Situated on over 200-acres of land in Carmel, the Chuang Yen Monastery is one of the most peaceful and out of this world destinations that you can experience here in New York.
Meaning 'majestically adorned', the Chuang Yen Monastery was designed by architect Edward A. Valeri and is meant to provide inspiration and a sense of widsom development to all those who visit.
Styled after China's Tan Dynasty, since first opening up back in 1981, the monastery has continued to add new buildings to the property over time.
Photos of the Chuang Yen Monastery never do this awe-inspiring place justice, but there's one part of this place that's beauty is easy to understand - the massive Buddha statue.
Surrounded by 10,000 tiny Buddhas in the Great Buddha Hall, the largest indoor Buddha statue in the Western Hemisphere is here in New York at the Chuang Yen Monastery.
An incredible sight to see that will leave you completely speechless, the 37-foot-tall Buddha statue is visited by people of all religions from all around the world.
Aside from the larger-than-life statue that's here, you'll also find a Gift Shop on the second floor of the Great Buddha Hall, a library where you can further dive into Buddhist literature, the Thousand Lotus Memorial Terrace, and even its own Dining Hall.
Open to the pubic between April and January, those who are seeking a truly peaceful adventure should look no further than the Chuang Yen Monastery.
To find out more about visiting the Chuang Yen Monastery, click here.
To stay up to date with all that's happening here at the Chuang Yen Monastery, be sure to follow their official Facebook page!
Monastery Hours from April 1 to January 1:
Open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
If you're ready to take on more of the Empire State's larger than life attractions, then be sure to also read about how The World’s Largest Kaleidoscope Is Right Here In New York At The Emerson Resort!y
Subscribe to our newsletter
Get the latest updates and news
Thank you for subscribing!