How The Amitabha Stupa Offers Serenity In Sedona, Arizona

Looking for peace in Sedona is like looking for fish in Parker Canyon Lake: you're going to find what you're seeking.

Sedona is the very embodiment of peace. I spent the weekend there and noticed that even sitting in traffic is a tranquil experience. No one is driving fast or trying to weave in and out of traffic lanes. It's hard to feel anything but joy when you're surrounded by such breathtaking beauty.

The Path that leads to the Stupa | Photo by Val Davidson/TSM

Unexpected Find in Sedona: Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park

When I think of Sedona, all the "touristy" things come to mind: perusing crystal shops, meandering through art galleries, taking a Pink Jeep tour, hiking the vortexes, camping, getting your palm read by a mystic seer. You know. Typical new-age-spiritual adventures.

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Photo by Val Davidson/TSM

One thing wasn't on my radar, but I'm glad I found it. If you get that chance, be sure to check out the Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park.

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There are many prayer flags around the Stupa. | Photo by Val Davidson/TSM

What is a Stupa and Why Was it Built in Sedona?

You can reach the Stupa with a short, gentle hike. Through poor planning on my part, I was able to navigate the path in flip-flops, but if you've a pair of tennis shoes or hiking boots available, you'll be more comfortable than I was.

The Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park is a sacred Buddhist site. The whole area just feels peaceful, and it should. It's well-known for its spiritual significance and serenity. It's also considered to be one of Sedona’s spiritual vortexes

A stupa is a Buddhist monument that symbolizes enlightenment and serves as a spiritual generator for prayers, meditation, and blessings.

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Taken from a ridge above, you get an idea of how large the Stupa is. The covered seating area is a lovely spot to meditate and take in the Stupa.| Photo by Val Davidson/TSM

According to a large sign on the grounds, the park was built by Jetsunma Ahkon Lhamo, the spiritual director of Kunzang Palyul Choling, a Tibetan Buddhist organization.

The Stupa and the surrounding area is a beautiful refuge, and it's easy to feel the reverence visitors have for the site. You don't have to be a practicing Buddhist to appreciate it; people of all faiths can find peace there.

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You're invited to spin the prayer wheels. Photo by Val Davidson/TSM

It's hard to tell from the photos, but the Stupa somehow towers over the visitors, and yet it seems unimposing. The Amitabha Stupa is 36 feet tall and named after Amitabha, the Buddha of Limitless Light.

If something is weighing heavily on your heart, you may find a way to set your burden down at the Stupa. It's considered a Wish-Fulfilling Jewel. According to the information about the location, prayers and meditations offered up there are believed to be amplified.

Photo by Val Davidson/TSM