Best of Wollongong
Nan Tien Temple Wollongong: Visiting Australia's Largest Buddhist Temple
Nan Tien Temple in Berkeley, about 10 kilometres south of Wollongong city, is one of the largest Buddhist temples in the southern hemisphere and a remarkable piece of architecture set against the Illawarra Escarpment. The temple complex is open to visitors and includes ornate prayer halls, a pagoda, gardens and a vegetarian restaurant and guesthouse. Guided tours and meditation programs are available, and the grounds are peaceful and open for quiet walking. The name means "Paradise of the South" in Mandarin. Entry to the grounds is generally free, with some programs and activities carrying a fee. The temple operates a clear code of conduct for visitors, and modest dress is expected. It is best reached by car from Wollongong, or by train to Unanderra station followed by a short ride.
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- 1
Main Shrine Hall
The centrepiece of Nan Tien Temple, a three-storey hall housing a 13-tonne jade Buddha statue, guided tours explain the symbolism and Buddhist practice.
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Nan Tien Museum
A museum of Buddhist art and culture on the temple grounds, with artefacts from across Asia and interactive displays about Fo Guang Shan Buddhism.
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Temple Garden and Heritage Pagodas
The beautifully maintained garden precinct with memorial pagodas, stone carvings and a peaceful walking loop around the temple's landscaped grounds.
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Pilgrim Lodge Retreat Stays
Overnight retreat stays at the Pilgrim Lodge on the temple grounds, with vegetarian meals, morning meditation and a digital-detox environment.
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Vegetarian Restaurant
A popular lunch restaurant on the temple grounds serving Buddhist vegetarian cuisine, open to the public and a genuine highlight of any visit.
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