Exploring the Chau Doc Pagoda in An Giang - A Sacred Site

Buzz

Content

Discovering the Chau Doc Pagoda in An Giang

Origin of the Lady Temple in Chau Doc, An Giang

Directions to Lady Temple in Chau Doc, An Giang

Architecture of Lady of the Realm Temple on Sam Mountain

Statue of Lady of the Realm on Sam Mountain, An Giang

Best Time to Visit the Châu Đốc Lady of the Realm Temple

The Chau Doc Pagoda in An Giang is currently attracting a large number of pilgrims and tourists during festivals and Tet holidays. Situated at the foot of Sam Mountain in Nui Sam Ward, Chau Doc City, An Giang Province, Chau Doc Pagoda is one of the important historical, architectural, and spiritual landmarks that need preservation and development.

Discovering the Chau Doc Pagoda in An Giang

Chau Doc Pagoda is an attractive spiritual tourist destination (Photo: ST)

Whenever the mention of Sam Mountain or Chau Doc arises, thoughts invariably drift to the sanctuary of Lady of the Realm. With its sacredness and miraculous responses, the yearly prayers at the Lady Temple draw millions of visitors for sightseeing and paying respects. It's not only a cultural hub for the An Giang locals and the Mekong Delta residents but also a captivating spiritual tourism destination during festivals and Tet holidays.

Origin of the Lady Temple in Chau Doc, An Giang

Image of Lady of the Realm Statue (Photo by ST)

According to historical accounts, 200 years ago, locals in Chau Doc discovered the Lady statue atop Sam Mountain and attempted to bring it down. However, despite the efforts of strong young men to carry the statue, they failed. Later, through the mouth of a medium known as 'Ms. Dong', it was relayed that only 9 virgin girls could bring it down. Yet, upon reaching the foot of the mountain, the Lady statue unexpectedly became incredibly heavy, halting any further movement. The locals believed the Lady chose this spot for her sanctuary and thus erected a shrine in reverence.

Image of precious offerings brought by visitors for worship (Photo by ST)

Directions to Lady Temple in Chau Doc, An Giang

Located more than 200km from Ho Chi Minh City and approximately 36km from An Giang City. Travelers can consider the following routes.

– Departing from Ho Chi Minh City: Follow Phan Van Hon to Tan Thoi Nhat on Dai Han Avenue/QL1A. Then take the Ho Chi Minh City – Trung Luong Expressway/DT01 and QL62 to DT 819 in Tan Lap. Continue along DT 819 to 3 Thang 2 Street in Tan Hung town.

Map directions to Lady Temple in Chau Doc, An Giang (Photo by ST)

Then travel along TL831/Provincial Road 831, DT831, DT842, and DT841 to Thường Phước 2. Proceed to Tân Châu/Tân Châu – Hồng Ngự Ferry. Upon arrival, purchase tickets for the Tân Châu/Tân Châu – Hồng Ngự ferry route. Cross the river and continue straight to Phà Tân Châu/Tân Châu – Hồng Ngự Ferry. Upon reaching My Nguyet Hair Salon, turn right onto Trần Hưng Đạo/DT954. Then drive straight on DT953 to Phà Châu Giang in Phú Hiệp.

Travelers proceed to the second ferry crossing, finally arriving at Châu Thị Tế/Tân Lộ Kiều Lương at Núi Sam.

Lady of the Realm Temple at the foot of Sam Mountain (Photo by ST)

– Departing from An Giang City: Drive to Vĩnh Thạnh Trung and follow DT945 – QL91 to Kinh 4 in Châu Phú B, Châu Đốc City. Then, drive to Châu Thị Tế/Tân Lộ Kiều Lương at Sam Mountain.

Architecture of Lady of the Realm Temple on Sam Mountain

Lady of the Realm Temple in Chau Doc, An Giang features stunning architecture (Photo by ST)

The Lady of the Realm Shrine on Sam Mountain is renowned not only for its sanctity but also for its unique and beautiful architecture. In the past, the shrine was constructed simply with bamboo and leaves, facing northwest with its back against the mountain wall, while the main hall overlooked the road and village fields.

Festival of Lady of the Realm Temple (Photo by ST)

In 1870, the shrine was rebuilt by locals using fired bricks. Between 1972 and 1976, architects Huỳnh Kim Mãng and Nguyễn Bá Lăng reconstructed the shrine, giving it the appearance it has today. The shrine features a 'national' shape architecture, with tower blocks resembling blooming lotus flowers. Its triple-tiered roof is tiled with beautiful green glazed ceramic tiles, while the roof corners soar high like the prow of a boat riding the waves.

Splendid night view of Lady of the Realm Shrine (Photo by ST)

Inside the shrine, the design and decoration heavily feature Indian artistic elements. Skilled artisans intricately carve and sculpt the shrine's doors. Moreover, numerous pillars and lintels here are adorned with radiant gold leaf.

Interior of Lady of the Realm Shrine on Sam Mountain (Photo by ST)

The statue of the Lady is placed in the center of the main hall, surrounded by the Council table in front, with the Predecessor and Successor altars on the sides. The Uncle's altar is on the left, featuring a large stone Linga, about 1.2m tall, while the Aunt's altar is on the right, featuring a small wooden goddess statue...

Statue of Lady of the Realm on Sam Mountain, An Giang

Residence of the Lady of the Realm statue atop Sam Mountain (Photo by ST)

According to local folklore, during the years 1820 – 1825, Siamese troops invaded our land, and the people fled to the summit of Sam Mountain where they encountered the statue of the Lady. Despite their efforts, the invaders couldn't lift the statue. One of them, in a fit of rage, broke the Lady's arm and was immediately punished. Since then, people called her Lady of the Realm and built a shrine to pray for favorable weather, abundant harvests, protection from invaders, and diseases.

Lady of the Realm Temple at the foot of Sam Mountain today (Photo by ST)

According to French archaeologist Malleret's research in 1941, the statue of Lady of the Realm on Sam Mountain belongs to the Vishnu deity (male deity) type. It is carved with a thoughtful and elegant posture, made of red stone, and holds high artistic value. The statue was carved at the end of the 6th century and is likely one of the remaining artifacts of the ancient Óc Eo culture.

A beautiful corner at Lady of the Realm Shrine, An Giang (Photo by ST)

In 2009, the statue of the Lady was recorded in the An Giang Record Book as the oldest stone statue in Vietnam made of ancient basalt and with the most elaborate ceremonial robes. Today, the Bà Châu Đốc An Giang temple stands out as a focal point for spiritual tourism in the Mekong Delta region.

Best Time to Visit the Châu Đốc Lady of the Realm Temple

Image of pilgrims heading to the Lady of the Realm Temple (Photo by ST)

Due to the increasing demand for pilgrimages to Châu Đốc, especially from January to March in the lunar calendar, it is advisable to choose an appropriate time to avoid crowds, pushing, traffic jams, and pickpocketing. Our advice for you is to plan your pilgrimage to the temple during the early and mid-week days. During these times, ticket prices are usually lower and the crowds are less compared to holidays and festivals.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main historical features of Chau Doc Pagoda in An Giang?

Chau Doc Pagoda, located at the foot of Sam Mountain, is known for its rich history and stunning architecture. The shrine has a unique design influenced by Indian artistry, showcasing intricate carvings and a statue of the Lady of the Realm, believed to date back to the 6th century, making it a significant cultural landmark.

How can I get to Chau Doc Pagoda from Ho Chi Minh City?

To reach Chau Doc Pagoda from Ho Chi Minh City, follow Phan Van Hon to Dai Han Avenue, take the Ho Chi Minh City – Trung Luong Expressway, and continue on local roads until you reach the ferry crossing. After crossing, follow the designated routes to arrive at the pagoda.

Is there a best time to visit Chau Doc Pagoda to avoid crowds?

Yes, the best time to visit Chau Doc Pagoda is during the early and mid-week days, particularly from January to March in the lunar calendar. This timing helps avoid large crowds, making for a more pleasant pilgrimage experience while also typically reducing ticket prices.

What spiritual significance does the Lady of the Realm hold in Chau Doc?

The Lady of the Realm is a revered figure in Chau Doc, embodying protection and blessings for the locals. Historically, she is associated with miraculous responses to prayers, making her temple a focal point for spiritual tourism, especially during festivals and Tet holidays.

What architectural styles are prominent in the design of Chau Doc Pagoda?

Chau Doc Pagoda features a blend of traditional Vietnamese architecture with Indian influences. It showcases a triple-tiered roof, lotus flower designs, and intricate carvings adorned with gold leaf, contributing to its spiritual and aesthetic significance in the region.

Can you tell me about the origins of the Lady statue at Chau Doc Pagoda?

The Lady statue at Chau Doc Pagoda has a fascinating origin story involving local folklore. Discovered atop Sam Mountain, attempts to move it failed until it was deemed that only nine virgin girls could do so, leading to the establishment of the shrine at its current location.

What cultural activities take place during festivals at Chau Doc Pagoda?

During festivals at Chau Doc Pagoda, various cultural activities are held, including prayers, offerings, and ceremonies dedicated to the Lady of the Realm. Pilgrims from near and far come to pay respects, creating a vibrant atmosphere filled with devotion and community spirit.

Mytour's content is for customer care and travel encouragement only, and we are not responsible.

For errors or inappropriate content, please contact us at: [email protected]