In the sacred atmosphere of Vesak season and the historic April days, Ba Den Mountain (Tay Ninh) — the highest peak in Southern Vietnam — is preparing to welcome a series of large-scale events rich in spirituality and national culture.
Launching Vesak Month with the Buddha Procession on April 26
Kicking off the Vesak celebrations, on the afternoon of April 26, a solemn procession of the infant Buddha will take place at Tay Bo Da Son Square, a sacred site at the mountaintop. The event will feature traditional rituals including chanting, incense offering, Buddhist flag salutation, and a ceremonial offering. A highlight of the ceremony is the symbolic Buddha bathing ritual, which represents the cleansing of body and mind, guiding individuals toward inner peace and mindfulness.
Candle-Lighting Ceremony – A Magical Moment on the Sacred Peak
Following the ceremonial events is the spiritual lantern-offering ceremony, held under the mystical night sky at the “roof of the South.” Thousands of floating lanterns will be lit, carrying prayers for peace, happiness, and compassion throughout the world. This touching and meaningful moment is expected to be one of the most emotionally resonant highlights of this year’s Vesak celebration, drawing Buddhists and visitors from across the country.
“Ve Ngo” Exhibition – Where Art Meets Spiritual Awakening
In addition to religious rituals, Ba Den Mountain will host the “Ve Ngo” (Awakening) art exhibition by painter Hoang Phong, showcasing 45 artworks inspired by Buddhist philosophy. These paintings not only express themes of enlightenment and compassion but also depict iconic spiritual landmarks such as Dau Pagoda, Dong Pagoda, Keo Pagoda, Perfume Pagoda, and Ba Kieu Temple. The exhibition invites visitors to immerse themselves in a meditative artistic atmosphere while reflecting on the traditional values of Vietnamese culture.
Welcoming Vesak 2025 Delegates with Profound Ceremonial Activities
Ba Den Mountain will serve as a key venue for welcoming international delegates during the 2025 Vesak celebration on May 8. The occasion will include sacred activities such as the procession of the Buddha’s relics from India, the planting of 108 Bodhi trees from Bodh Gaya — the place of Buddha’s enlightenment — and a massive candle-lighting ceremony praying for world peace with thousands of participants.
The festive spirit will be enhanced by vibrant folk performances from Tay Ninh, bringing traditional colors and cultural richness to the celebration in this southern spiritual land.
From Battleground to Cultural-Spiritual Landmark
Beyond being a popular pilgrimage site, Ba Den Mountain is a historic “red address” in Vietnam’s revolutionary past. Many soldiers fought and fell here during the resistance against American forces. The mountain was officially liberated on January 6, 1975 — one of the key milestones leading up to the great Spring Victory on April 30. Historic sites such as Kim Quang Cave, Hang Pagoda, and Son Than Shrine still bear the heroic imprints of that time.
Fifty years since liberation, Ba Den Mountain has been transformed with a range of grand spiritual and cultural projects, serving both as a symbol of Vietnamese faith and a tribute to national unity and ancestral gratitude.
With a unique blend of spirituality, history, and art, Ba Den Mountain is increasingly affirming its role as a major cultural and religious center in Southern Vietnam — especially during significant occasions like Vesak and the 50th anniversary of national reunification. This is not only a place for pilgrimage and prayer but also a journey back to one’s roots, inspiring meaningful reflections and positive values for both Vietnamese people and international visitors. If you’re seeking a spiritually rich destination during this festive season, Ba Den Mountain is not to be missed.
