The role that Buddhism plays in the life of the Dai people is almost insurmountable, influencing every aspect of their art, culture, economy and lifestyle. There, to say that this temple is the most sacred religious site of the Dai people is no passing comment. 650,000 pilgrims attended the opening ceremony which revealed the largest Theravada temple in the whole of China.

This temple embodies Buddhism, literally constructed in the shape of a sitting Buddha. A vast flight of stairs leads up to a golden statue of Buddha so big that you wouldn’t even believe it could be real. It towers in the background of the temple, keeping a watchful eye over everything.

Exquisitely designed pagodas and Buddhist sculptures decorate the area. Within the red roofed, gilded, lavishly styled temple, celestial mosaics create a mystical and mesmerizing vibe.