1. The Lantau Island, Hong Kong’s largest island, located at the mouth of the Pearl River, houses the “Tian Tan Buddha” or “Big Buddha”, the second biggest outdoor bronze seated Buddha.

2. Situated next to the Po Lin Monastery, the Tian Tan Buddha, a unique attraction of Lantua, is separated by a 10-minute walk away from Ngong Ping, a highland in the western part of the island.

3. This imposing outdoor statue of the Buddha is seated sombrely on the top of Mount Muk Yue. It is positioned south, facing towards Beijing, the capital city of China.

4. The statue is split into two parts: the body which is 26.4m tall and measures in total 34m from the lotus throne and the base of the statue.

5. Totally 250 tonnes of bronze was used in casting the statue built over 12 years. The statue was modelled on the lines of the Siddhartha attaining enlightenment sitting under the Bodhi tree.

6. The “imparting fearlessness” mudra of the Buddha’s right hand represents compassion to relieve man of all his sufferings; the “fulfilling wishes” mudra of the left hand onto his lap expresses the vow to bestow happiness and blessings upon one and all.

7. There is a pedestal inside which is a three-storey exhibition hall displaying numerous precious religious artefacts including relics of Buddha.

8. Visitors need to climb up 286 steps to access the three-storey pedestal, and enjoy a panoramic view of South China Sea and Lantau.

9. Take a few steps into the area of the statue to catch a glimpse of the six smaller bronze statues called “The Offering of the Six Devas” enwreathing the Buddha.

10. It bears the posture of flowers, lamp, incense, fruit, ointment, music and fruits offered to the Buddha, symbolizing the Six Perfections of morality, generosity, zeal, patience, patience and wisdom, all of which form the core of enlightenment.

11. If the magnificence of the Big Buddha under the bright blue skies is a visual treat as well spiritual retreat, the cable car ride that begins close of day on the 1st and 15th day of the lunar calendar offers a stunning view of the illuminated Big Buddha.