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Seeking the Sacred
Nghệ An is renowned as the land of extraordinary individuals, giving birth to numerous heroes and heroines who served and saved the nation. It's also a region rich in cultural and spiritual landmarks. Most notably, the Special National Historical Site of Kim Liên, intimately connected to President Hồ Chí Minh's childhood, family, and homeland.
The Chung Son Temple, part of the Special National Historical Site of Kim Liên (Nam Đàn). Photo by Lê Thắng
Especially, Nghệ An is adorned with numerous famous and sacred temples, steeped in ancient traditions. Among them are three temples considered part of the 'four spirits' (four sacred temples) of Nghệ An in the ancient belief system: Cờn Temple (Hoàng Mai town), Quả Sơn Temple (Đô Lương), and Bạch Mã Temple (Thanh Chương).
These three temples are strategically situated. Cờn Temple sits beside the Mai River and coastline, offering picturesque and sentimental scenery, dedicated to the worship of the Four Holy Mothers. Quả Sơn Temple, positioned along the Lam River, venerates Uy Minh Vương Lý Nhật Quang, the eighth prince of Emperor Lý Thái Tổ, who played a pivotal role in developing and safeguarding the Nghệ An region.
Historical site of Quả Sơn Temple (Đô Lương). Photo by Nguyễn Đạo
Not far from the banks of the Lam River, Bạch Mã Temple honors Phan Đà, a valiant general who sacrificed himself in the battle against Ming invaders during Lê Lợi's reign. The temple still retains its ancient architectural charm, spacious grounds, and tranquil ambiance, enhancing its sacred aura.
In addition to the three temples mentioned earlier, Nghệ An is graced with many other beautiful and spiritually significant temples and pagodas, such as Cuông Temple (Diễn Châu), Vạn Lộc Temple (Cửa Lò town), Đức Hoàng Temple (Yên Thành), Ông Hoàng Mười Temple (Hưng Nguyên), Quang Trung Temple (Vinh city), Chín Gian Temple (Quế Phong), and Vạn – Cửa Rào Temple (Tương Dương), along with Gám Pagoda (Yên Thành), and Đại Tuệ Pagoda (Nam Đàn)...
The shimmering Đại Tuệ Pagoda (Nam Đàn). Photo by Hồ Đình Chiến
These historical and cultural landmarks, along with the temples and pagodas, serve as ideal destinations for travelers welcoming the New Year. As Tet approaches and Spring arrives, the Vietnamese people have a tradition of visiting temples and pagodas to seek prosperity, blessings, and the favor of good fortune.
Explore the famous attractions
During Tet, if you can manage your time, consider heading to Nghệ An with your family or friends to explore and experience ecological tourist spots, ensuring moments of relaxation. Close to Vinh city is the tea island (Thanh Chương), often referred to as the 'Hạ Long Bay of Nghệ An'.
The captivating beauty of Hòn Mát (Nghĩa Đàn). Photo by CSCC
Many travelers from Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and various provinces have come to admire and be truly impressed by the beauty of the tea island. Here, visitors have the opportunity to cruise, admire the beautiful landscapes, and indulge in local produce. In the warm atmosphere of Spring, with fresh shoots of greenery, strolling amidst the vibrant green scenery is sure to uplift spirits and fill hearts with joy and hope.
Fascinating check-in point at Trương Gia Farm (Nghĩa Đàn). Photo by CSCC
For a more extended getaway, consider heading to Con Cuông district and immerse yourself in the Phà Lài Ecotourism Area, nestled in the vast Pù Mát primeval forest. Marvel at the poetic beauty of the Giăng River and experience the lively Tet customs, welcoming the Spring with the graceful melodies of Thai folk songs, rhythmic traditional dances, and lively folk games.
If you find yourself on National Highway 48, venture into the Nghĩa Đàn region to discover enticing ecological tourist spots. These include the Hòn Mát Ecotourism Area (Nghĩa Lộc), Trương Gia Farm (Nghĩa Long), and notably, the sunflower fields (Nghĩa Lâm) in full bloom during the festive Tet season.
Sunflower fields (Nghĩa Đàn) in full bloom during the Lunar New Year of 2023. Photo by CSCC
The distinctive feature of ecological tourist spots in Nghĩa Đàn is the enchanting and romantic atmosphere, blending the natural beauty bestowed by the heavens with the intentional arrangement and craftsmanship of human hands. Here, Spring arrives with vibrant colors of flowers and lush greenery, bringing forth exuberant joy and fostering hope and belief in the early moments of the new year.
Immerse in the vibrant hues of Mường Lống flowers
If you're a young adventurer, fond of exploration, pack your bags and head straight to Mường Lống (Kỳ Sơn), often referred to as the 'Sa Pa of Nghệ An'. Situated at an altitude of 1,500 meters, with the characteristic cold climate of high mountains, Mường Lống is the home of the Mông ethnic group and their unique cultural practices.
Flower valley of Mường Lống (Kỳ Sơn). Photo by Hồ Nhật Thanh
This season, Mường Lống is adorned with a myriad of flowers, earning it the nickname 'Mường Hoa'. As you ascend, you'll witness plum blossoms blanketing the forests in white, cherry blossoms flaunting their pink hues amidst the villages and terraced fields, creating a surreal fairyland experience. Engage in the local residents' festivities, hear the echoes of friendly calls resonating through the mountains, and join in the joyous bottle-throwing games of the young men and women along the mountain slopes.
Enchanting beauty of 'Sa Pa in Nghệ An'. Photo by Nguyễn Đạo
Source: Nghệ An Newspaper
