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Find Your Moment of Zen at The Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park (Sedona AZ)

Updated: Sep 9

There are a number of different reasons why people flock to Sedona each year. For many the beautiful red rock landscapes play a huge factor.


For others, it's the miles of hiking trails that serpentine through those same red rock valleys.


If adventure is more your passion there are are fleets of off-road vehicles and mountain bikes available for rent.


Buddha Statue Man Meditating
Enjoying a few moments of meditation with the Buddha

Sedona also caters to those looking for a more spiritual experience as evidenced by the numerous crystal shops, famous Sedona Vortices, The Chapel of the Holy Cross and my personal favorite the Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park.


You'll notice some links and advertisements from partner or affiliate sites throughout this post. I typically earn a small commission on any purchases made through those links at no additional cost to you. If you check those out, great. If not, I'm still happy you're here!

 

Where is Sedona's Buddha Statue?


Even if Buddhism isn't your spiritual cup of tea that doesn't mean you can't visit and enjoy the area in your own way. You can take part in the ritual of pacing around the Stupa three times, pray or meditate in the presence of the giant golden Buddha or experience the Peace Park as you see fit.


For some that might just mean coming to take in the Peace Park's unique atmosphere, culture and energy.


Large gold wooden Buddha statue
The Buddha Statue shown here was carved from a single piece of wood

If you're looking for ideas on how to plan a full day around this concept - I'd consider the Sedona spiritual trifecta to involve visiting the Stupa, Chapel of the Holy Cross and at least one of the famous vortices. We did all of these things during my recent visit.


Regardless of how you exercise spirituality on a personal level, Sedona is certain to have something for you. It's a great place to experience the perspective of other cultures when it comes to this topic.



You'll find wedding ceremonies, yoga classes and individuals meditating scattered throughout the red rocks during your stay as everyone looks to soak up a little bit of Sedona's unique energy.


How to Reach Amitabha Stupa in Sedona


Actually, this is one of the easiest activities to do when visiting Sedona. The park is located on the northern side of West Sedona, just a few minutes from the main road 89A that cuts through town. Chances are if you're staying in Sedona, the Amitabha Stupa is no more than a 10-15 minute drive from your home base.


Stupa
The Amitabha Stupa

What about the parking situation you ask? It must be awful? Actually, this was one of the few times during our visit to Sedona where we didn't have to arrive super early to avoid the struggle of limited parking spots.

How Much Time Should I Spend at Amitabha?


Most people will spend about an hour or less on this activity. The Stupa and Buddha area is a quick 5 minute walk from the parking lot. There isn't an actual bathroom or any facilities here, but in a pinch there is a porta potty available.


There is no parking or entrance fee, but donations to support the park are kindly appreciated!


Large Buddha and Stupa
Views of the Buddha looking on past the Stupa

You'll find that the locals and individuals who have moved to Sedona over the years embrace the red rocks as having healing and spiritual powers.



This was a sacred land to the Native Americans who preceded the current population but the spiritual draw of this geographic region is an aspect of the culture that has withstood the test of time!


Buddha with red rock back drop
I'm not sure there is a more peaceful back drop for something like this!

Looking for more Sedona ideas?


Be sure to check out my post on visiting Bell Rock if you haven't already. It's a must see stop in Sedona and while it technically qualifies as a hike, you're only looking at a 1.0 mile commitment.


If you want to turn the difficulty up, once you reach the base of Bell Rock you can scramble up some of the steeper portions to get a better view. Bell Rock is also home to one of Sedona's popular vortices so be sure to add it to your list of things to do!


Looking for a more comprehensive Sedona travel guide? I've put together a list of my favorite Sedona activities you can read here. Or if you prefer a video version, I have a Sedona Video Guide available on YouTube as well.


Bell Rock Sedona
Views of Bell Rock from the trailhead

You could spend an entire day soaking up the various spiritual points of interest that Sedona has to offer. Pair your visit to the Stupa with stops at Bell Rock and The Chapel of The Holy Cross!

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