Bhikkhu Thudong Journey to Borobudur for Vesak Day 2025
A group of 36 monks, known as bhikkhu thudong, have embarked on a spiritual journey covering more than 2,763 kilometres from Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand, to Borobudur Temple, Central Java, Indonesia. This pilgrimage is part of their observance in welcoming Vesak Day on 12 May 2025.
Setting out on 6 February 2025, the monks crossed three countries: Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore, before arriving in Indonesia on 16 April 2025.
The journey is a living reflection of ancient Buddhist tradition, one that resonates deeply with the teachings of the Buddha and his practice of wandering from place to place to spread the Dhamma.
Bhikkhu Tudong Arriving in Central Java
On 5 May 2025, the monks were seen walking along the Soekarno Hatta Highway in Kendal Regency, Central Java. Their destination: the iconic Borobudur Temple in Magelang, a spiritual epicentre for Buddhists around the world, especially during the annual Vesak celebration.
@zukhr98 Sebanyak 36 biksu berjalan kaki sejauh 2.763 km dari Nakhon Si Thammarat, Thailand, melewati Singapura, Malaysia, hingga sampai di Indonesia. Mereka melaksanakan ritual Thudong (jalan kaki) dalam perjalanan menuju Candi Borobudur untuk merayakan Hari Waisak pada 12 Mei 2025. #biksu #biksujalankaki #thudong #waisak #batang24jam #fyp ♬ MANGU Fourtwenty – Aalotu
According to organisers, the monks are scheduled to arrive at Borobudur on Saturday, 10 May 2025 at 17:00 WIB.
“A total of 14 out of 36 monks also participated in Thudong in 2023 and are returning this year,” said Prabu Diaz Mahadeva, International Thudong 2025 Coordinator.
The group includes monks and dayakas (lay supporters) from various countries, including Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Cambodia, and the United States.
Along their path through Indonesia, the monks have rested overnight at temples and monasteries, typically staying only one night before continuing their journey on foot.
What is Bhikkhu Thudong?
Thudong is a term derived from the Pali word dhutanga, which refers to austere practices undertaken by Buddhist monks.
In this context, bhikkhus thudong signifies a journey on foot, often covering vast distances, undertaken as a form of meditation, simplicity, and spiritual discipline.
This tradition, said to date back to the time of the Buddha, was born out of necessity. With no fixed dwellings, early monks travelled by foot through forests and villages, relying on alms for sustenance and spreading the teachings of the Dhamma wherever they went.
In the modern era, the Thudong ritual has been preserved as a symbolic journey of endurance, humility, and inner reflection. It typically takes place during the dry season and lasts several months.
Understanding the Thudong Ritual: Spiritual Journey to Borobudur Temple
During their pilgrimage, the bhikkhu thudong wear only their saffron robes, simple sandals, and socks. They face all weather conditions and survive on just one meal per day, consuming only what is necessary.
This lifestyle of renunciation teaches the monks valuable lessons in patience and detachment, reflecting the Buddha’s teachings that patience is among the highest forms of Dhamma practice.
The monks often fast before beginning their journey, and as they walk, they meditate deeply and maintain mindfulness. The goal is not only to reach a destination but to cultivate insight and spiritual discipline along the way.
Vesak 2025 at Borobudur Temple
The 2025 Vesak Day celebrations will take place on 12 May at Borobudur Temple, where tens of thousands of Buddhists from Indonesia and abroad are expected to gather. There will be an areas that will be used for worship processions.
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The Vesak programme will include rituals such as water lantern lighting and wish writing, which mark the beginning of the spiritual observance.
This year, 34 monks from countries including Thailand, Cambodia, Malaysia, and the United States are officially participating in the Vesak Day observance at Borobudur.
The arrival of the Thudong monks is one of the most anticipated moments of the celebration, symbolising dedication, sacrifice, and spiritual unity.
The event is supported by the Directorate General of Buddhism, Ministry of Religious Affairs, who continue to promote awareness and understanding of Buddhist traditions across Indonesia.
Thudong Journey
Every year, the Thudong ritual attracts public interest and admiration, particularly on social media. In 2024, the monks’ journey went viral, with many Indonesians and international observers expressing curiosity and respect for the tradition.
This continued public engagement highlights not only the cultural significance of the ritual but also its potential to foster greater spiritual awareness in a fast-paced, modern world.
