Seokguram Grotto

The Seokguram Grotto is a Buddhist temple in Gyeongju, South Korea, renowned for its exquisite stone carvings and architectural sophistication, and is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Seokguram Grotto is a beautiful stone temple located in Gyeongju, South Korea. Built during the Silla Dynasty, it boasts exceptional architectural and artistic value. Along with Bulguksa Temple, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995.

Key Features and Highlights:

Historical Significance:

  • Seokguram Grotto was built by Kim Dae-seong during the reign of King Gyeongdeok of Silla (751 AD). It is an important relic that showcases the pinnacle of Silla’s Buddhist art.
  • It offers a glimpse into the advanced architectural techniques and artistic prowess of the Silla period.

 

Architectural Beauty:

  • Seokguram Grotto is an artificial stone cave meticulously crafted from granite, demonstrating remarkable architectural skill.
  • Various Buddhist statues and sculptures are harmoniously arranged around the main Buddha statue.
  • The beautiful form and intricate carvings of the main Buddha statue are particularly awe-inspiring.

 

Beautiful Natural Scenery:

  • Seokguram Grotto is situated on the slopes of Tohamsan Mountain, blending harmoniously with the surrounding natural scenery and creating a mystical atmosphere.
  • The sunrise over the East Sea as seen from Seokguram Grotto is considered a spectacular sight.

 

Main Viewing Points:

  • Main Buddha Statue: The central Buddha statue in Seokguram Grotto, featuring intricate carvings and a serene expression.
  • Eleven-Faced Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva Statue: A beautiful Bodhisattva statue located behind the main Buddha statue.
  • Admiring the various Buddha statues and sculptures inside the grotto.
  • Enjoying the beautiful natural scenery from Seokguram Grotto.

 

Nearby Attractions:

  • Bulguksa Temple: A Silla Dynasty temple designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with Seokguram Grotto.
  • Gyeongju National Museum: A museum exhibiting various relics from the Silla Dynasty.
  • Daereungwon Tomb Complex: A collection of tombs of Silla royalty, offering views of beautiful ancient burial mounds.
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Visiting Information:

Location: 873-243 Bulguk-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do, South Korea

 

Opening Hours: Daily 09:00 – 18:00 (Hours may vary depending on the season)

 

Admission Fees: Free

Seokguram Grotto is an important site where you can experience Korean history and culture, and it’s a place where you can appreciate the essence of Korean Buddhist art amidst beautiful natural surroundings.

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  • 238 Seokgul-ro, Gyeongju-si, Gyeongsangbuk-do
Seokguram Grotto
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Shahina Loraine S.
10:27 18 Feb 25
Very nice grotto, interesting to learn more about the Buddhist religion here. A bit of a shame that we cannot take pictures of the statue but not the end of the world. If you go to bulguksa you might as well make your trip here too and see both.
Peter A. K.
02:10 17 Oct 24
Seokguram Grotto, GyeongjuOk, not that far from Bulgugsa Temple, about an half an hours drive, this must have been the most disappointing stop!For clarity, the grotto & the Buddha statue are amazing, but that’s where it stops!Parking easy, the entrance gate great, then about a 1/2 mile walk through the forest, still acceptable, the many steps over stone hewn stairs, challenging but still ok! Then comes the surprise, what looks like a storefront for a coffee shop, was the actual teeny weeny entrance to the grotto, with a double door sized glass panel with a view to the statue, and plenty of stickers telling one NO CAMERA, NO PHOTOS!Seriously?I get it for worshippers it’s a must do, for the photographers tourist, why on earthed is that not publicised at the entrance so one can make an informed decision, especially when the legs are no longer of a young persons?SUPER DISAPPOINTING!So if you are a believer, by all means, if you are a serious photographer, save yourself the trip and better off to spend more time at the Yangdon Village!Some info on the grotto:(Credit goes to Trazy Blog, a site which I found most informative and worth using as a guidance!)Seokguram Grotto is a stone cave that holds a statue of Buddha. There is a majestic stone statue that is one of the most valued stone statues in Korea. It is located close to Bulguksa Temple, both in Tohamsan Mountain. It is recognized for its outstanding architectural techniques and artistic merits.Enjoy the photos of entrance & surroundings!#busan #southkorea#touristystuff #gyeongju #bulgugsatemple #seokguramgrotto#sightseeing #tourismkorea
Raymond T.
08:30 14 Apr 24
The ancient temple are so fascinating into Korea's rich history. The site is beautifully maintained, and you can really feel the sense of reverence and respect to the history.. the park was really enjoyable to walk around. But the temple not to large..
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