As a traveler who has visited temples and spiritual communities around the world, I found the City of Ten Thousand Buddhas to be one of the most unexpectedly peaceful places in Northern California.

Visitors should know that only the visitor center, café, and main temple are open to the public, but that is more than enough to get a sense of the spirit of this remarkable place. We were greeted at the visitor center by a wonderfully kind gentleman with a great sense of humor who shared stories about the community and even quizzed us in a fun, engaging way.

The grounds feel like a true oasis. Peacocks wander freely, monastics pass by with gentle smiles and loving kindness in their eyes, and the entire atmosphere encourages you to slow down and breathe. In contrast to parts of Ukiah, which seem to be struggling these days, this place feels like a sanctuary of calm, care, and intention.

Whether you’re Buddhist or simply curious, it’s well worth a visit.

I’ve traveled quite a bit over the years, and places like this are rare. The peacocks here are absolutely beautiful—graceful, unbothered, almost as if they belong to another world.

I also truly enjoyed the vegetarian food—simple, clean, and surprisingly satisfying. It’s the kind of meal that leaves you feeling better, not heavier.

But what I appreciated most was the peace. There’s a quiet here that you don’t often find anymore. No rush, no noise—just a sense that everything is exactly as it should be.

I’ll certainly be coming back.