Cai Bau Pagoda – Beauty Along Bai Tu Long Bay

Cai Bau Pagoda (or Truc Lam Giac Tam Zen Monastery), nestled on the shores of Bai Tu Long Bay, is acclaimed as the most beautiful coastal pagoda in Vietnam. The pagoda draws many Buddhist devotees, pilgrims, and nature enthusiasts.

Cai Bau Pagoda – Beauty Along Bai Tu Long Bay

Cai Bau Pagoda has been reconstructed on the historic site of Phuc Linh Pagoda, once the place of worship for Tran Dynasty generals during the 13th-century resistance against Mongol invaders. This area witnessed the crucial events leading to the resounding victory at Bach Dang River in 1288.

In remembrance of the heroic deeds of Tran Dynasty heroes, Truc Lam Giac Tam Zen Monastery constructed a shrine within the spiritual grounds of the pagoda. Despite facing significant damage over time and historical changes, the pagoda stands resilient.

In 2007, the pagoda initiated construction on a sprawling 20-hectare site in Ha Long commune, Van Don district, Quang Ninh province. After 2 years, the magnificent pagoda was inaugurated, upholding the historical and cultural values of the nation.

With its back nestled against the mountains, facing the sea, and distant from residential areas, Cai Bau Pagoda emanates tranquility and solemnity. The pagoda comprises the main hall, bell tower, drum tower, and triple gate.

The architecture, layout, and reliefs of the pagoda are reminiscent of many other temples. Cai Bau Pagoda includes a 2-storey main hall spanning 6,000 square meters, a triple gate, ancestral house, bell tower, abbot's residence, monk and nun guesthouse, abbot's office, meditation hall, meditation path, and a special 50-meter Buddha statue atop the mountain behind.

The main hall, the widest section, houses the statue of Buddha Shakyamuni, with copper reliefs depicting the Bodhi tree – where Buddha attained enlightenment. On either side are statues of Manjushri Bodhisattva and Avalokiteshvara, symbolizing wisdom and compassion.

Flanking the meditation center are bell and drum towers adorned with intricate carvings. On the left side of the meditation center stands a 4.8-ton bronze statue of Laughing Buddha.

From the meditation courtyard, visitors can gaze far and wide, marveling at the majestic Bai Tu Long Bay with its towering rocky mountains. The breathtaking scenery instills a sense of peace, momentarily freeing visitors from the worries of life.

Cai Bau Pagoda advocates against burning incense and offers no commercial stalls or wandering vendors outside the temple grounds. As a result, visitors truly immerse themselves in an atmosphere of absolute tranquility, with only the sounds of the temple bells and the serenity of nature.

As per Mytour

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Reference: Mytour Travel Handbook