Stupa of Enlightenment: the largest Buddhist stupa in the West, free to enter

The Stupa of Enlightenment is a 33-metre white Buddhist monument on the ridge above Benalmádena, 3.9 km from Benal Beach Apartments a six minute drive.

What it is Inaugurated in 2003 and described as the largest stupa in the western world, it was built as a place of peace open to everyone, not only to Buddhists. Inside there is a single meditation hall with painted murals and a large Buddha figure; outside, a terrace that looks straight down over the whole bay. It is unexpectedly quiet, even in August.

Getting there from the apartment Six minutes by car up towards Benalmádena Pueblo, following signs for the Stupa; the road is narrow near the top. Parking is limited, so avoid arriving with a coach party.

Good to know - Entry is free, but opening hours are limited and vary check before driving up. - Shoes off and phones quiet inside the hall; it is a working place of meditation. - Combine it with the Pueblo or Colomares, both a few minutes away.

Best time to go Late afternoon, for the light over the bay. Avoid the middle of the day in summer: there is almost no shade on the terrace.

See how far everything else is on our location page.