Viet Booking is proud to be the first company to introduce a spring flower garden tour combined with a visit to The Great Stupa of Universal Compassion (Jade Buddha Temple) and a chance to admire the world's largest solid jade Buddha statue. This tour is specially designed for guests who love flowers, enjoy photography, and wish to explore temple landscapes.
TOUR PROGRAM:
>> Forest Glade Gardens: A private "forest garden" in the Italian style, located in the Macedon Ranges. The garden is especially beautiful during two seasons: "spring blossoms" and "autumn leaves." During this time, various plants bloom with vibrant shapes and colors. The meticulously maintained garden is adorned with many beautiful European art statues, making it an ideal spot for sightseeing and photography.
>> The Canola flower season turns Forest Glade Gardens into Canola flower fields:
Visit the canola flower fields, take souvenir photos, tour the vineyard and winery. Enjoy live country music performances. Have breakfast and morning coffee in a peaceful countryside setting (food and drink expenses are self-paid).
>> Sacred Heart Cathedral: (Sacred Heart Cathedral). This is the cathedral of Bendigo, built in 1895 in a beautiful, ancient, and majestic Gothic style. It features a statue of Saint Mary, the only Australian nun to be canonized. This is a wonderful place to visit and capture impressive photos.
>> Bendigo Town Hall: Built in 1893, Bendigo Town Hall is a beautiful and historic building located in the central square, in a well-preserved old town area that offers a picturesque setting and perfect photo opportunities. Adjacent to it is the "Conservatory Garden," which is meticulously cared for both inside the greenhouse and in the outdoor grounds. Every spring, the garden is enhanced with additional flowers, making it a favorite spot for flower lovers and photography enthusiasts. From September 13 to October 7, the vibrant Tulip Festival will take place here. If you have the chance, don't miss this ideal check-in spot!
>> Vintage talking tram: This century-old tram will take you on a tour around the heart of Bendigo. The driver, dressed in vintage attire, will narrate the attractions and share the city's rich history, including its prosperous era with a major gold mine right in the city.
>> Joss House Temple: The Quan Kong Temple, one of the oldest Chinese temples in Australia with over 152 years of history, was established in the early days of Bendigo. As gold mines attracted many Chinese immigrants for mining and trade, they built the Quan Kong Temple, also known as the Guild Hall, as a place for worship and mutual support.
>> The Great Stupa of Universal Compassion: This large and unique Tibetan-style stupa, standing 50 meters tall, is both majestic and visually striking. It was constructed to replicate the ancient Great Stupa of Gyantse in Tibet, with meticulous attention to detail by the Tibetan community to honor their homeland, which was invaded by China. Built from donations collected worldwide, including significant contributions from Vietnamese Buddhists, this monumental stupa offers visitors the opportunity to experience Tibetan architecture and capture stunning photos without traveling to the Himalayas. Additionally, visitors can admire the world’s largest Jade Buddha and explore the beautifully landscaped temple grounds.
>> Return to meeting point: Guests will part ways with many memories, a bit of nostalgia, and a lasting impression of the temple and the story of the gentle and devout Tibetan people. Finally, you’ll have a "special photo collection" after a day of exploration.
TOUR PRICE: $150/ Adult; $130/ Child
Additional service: $20 for a VIP seat, giving priority to comfortable seating for a better experience during the journey. Each vehicle has a maximum of 3 VIP slots.
PICK-UP: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM. The canola flower farm event will depart at 8:00 AM, allowing time to visit and enjoy breakfast coffee at the farm.
PICK-UP LOCATIONS:
- Near Southern Cross Station - 628 Bourke St, 3000. At 8:30 AM
- The Spinal Studio Footscray - 78 Moore St, Footscray VIC 3011. At 8:45 AM
- Red Rooster Sunshine - 485 Ballarat Rd, Sunshine, Vic 3020. At 9:00 AM
INCLUDES:
- Entry tickets to the gardens in Macedon/ ticket for the canola flower farm event
- Ticket for the vintage tram
- 8 - 12 - 22 seat vehicles. Experienced driver/guide, especially assisting in capturing beautiful souvenir photos for guests.
- 1 bottle of 600ml water or 2 bottles of 250ml water per guest.
GUESTS NEED TO PREPARE:
- Bring food, or buy food at the destinations.
- Prepare season-appropriate clothing. Dress nicely for photos.
- Guests should prepare a TIP; this is a motivational gesture for the driver/guide who actively supports and takes special photos for guests throughout the journey.
