I greatly enjoyed my time here. The staff was supportive; the programs I've attended have been quality; the community was generous and the environment was positive. I look forward to my next retreat here.
So beautiful, calm and peaceful! It’s just an hour drive from hectics of New York City. Visiting here feels like you’ve entered a different world
Best Buddhist temple in Hudson Valley. This Sakyamuni Buddha Statue is the most powerful Universal Power energy point in this temple. Any person who meditate and can see through the deep mind will confirm this truth.
Most Saturday mornings I do Healing Prayers for various needy people in front of this Buddha Statue.
For Buddhists the Monastery is a place to learn and seek spiritual guidance. For other visitors it is a still a place to learn. In addition to the Temple and other buildings the complex which has expanded considerably over the last generation offers a verdunt setting (closed January-March).
Nice temple, largest Buddha in the western hemisphere, delicious vegetarian food (it tastes so much better than it looks) and very kind people (there is a nice tour at 1 pm, weekends)
I've been going to Chuang Yen Monastery since I was six months old, so it holds a very special place in my heart. It is a beautiful and (mostly) peaceful temple in the quiet mountains, worth a visit for anyone interested! I would've given it five stars if it weren't for the many rude tourists I encountered during my last few visitsthere was even someone shooting a dance MV right in front of the Guan Yin statue at the pond! Now everyone is entitled to their own beliefs, but if you want to visit a Buddhist temple at least follow their etiquette and don't do things you wouldn't do in a church such as wearing tank tops and short shorts, talking loudly during prayers or letting kids loose on prayer mats.
As to why it's closed in winter season: there's simply too much snow to drive safely. And all their events are posted in English on the numerous bulletin boards if you look closely. I really should join one of their meditation sessions one day.
Gorgeous place. Temple is so open and tranquil. Grounds are wonderful place to walk around. Lunch is delicious
This is the best place for any New Yorker to have a peaceful moment and enjoy the traditional Chinese style temple.
Visited there yesterday, and had a very pleasant experience. The environment is nice and peaceful, and they supply tons of free Buddhism books. Also heard a beautiful chanting in Guan Yin Hall, which is also a perfect place for Meditation. But missing lunch there, and lunch is only available for Saturday and Sunday. Will visit there again.
During college I used to visit as a part of Sociology classes Certainly a very pristine, quiet, peaceful place. One of simplicity and insight. Plus they enjoy groups visiting and you get to learn a lot of insight into the Buddhist Culture
I visited for the first time today (July 10, 2016). It is peaceful, tranquil and promotes unity and happiness. I was transfixed with the surroundings and how beautiful it was and how well they kept their property. I visited the Big Buddha and shared some prayers outside the Hall. Can you tell me the significance of the 18 statues that lead to the Great Buddha Hall? I also got to say 'Hello' to the elephants at the top of the walkway. They are my spirit animal and they give me strength, prosperity and keep me safe.
I plan to come back to visit regularly. Thank you all!