An estimated 3,500 official and thousands of unofficial members from 80 countries and territories will honour the day in Ha Noi from May 13-17.

Their message will be that of peace, conciliation, harmony, mercy, progress and global sustainable development.

Quang Ninh is one of the four localities that will host key activities for the celebrations and will welcome the delegates to Ha Long Bay and Yen Tu Mountain on May, 17.

Birds will be freed amid sky lanterns at the Trinh Pagoda on Yen Tu Mountain on May18 when prayers will be said for peace and fine weather.

Vesak marks Buddha’s birthday, his attainment of Enlightenment and his entry into Nirvana.