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Embarking on a journey to the mystical realms of Western Vietnam is a choice many travelers make, drawn to its plethora of temples, shrines, and renowned churches. Some places in this region attract thousands, even millions, of visitors annually due to their profound sanctity. For those curious about pilgrimage tours or sacred sites in the Mekong Delta region, this article is a must-read.
1. Understanding the Essence of Pilgrimage Tours
Beyond typical sightseeing excursions, many travel enthusiasts opt for pilgrimage tours, especially those focusing on the Western Vietnam region, to partake in specific annual rituals.
Pilgrimage Tours: Discovering Sacred Destinations
In Vietnam, the concept of pilgrimage tours extends beyond Buddhist temples to encompass various religious denominations, becoming a branch of tourism.
In Vietnam, travelers often visit renowned sacred sites for pilgrimage and prayer.
Abroad, the idea of pilgrimage has been prevalent for a considerable time. One notable example is the religious journeys made by devotees to sacred lands, a tradition spanning across Asia and Europe long before the advent of scriptures.
Today, travelers of any religious background can embark on pilgrimage tours, not limited to Buddhist pilgrimages, particularly pilgrimage tours to the Western region. These tours aim not only to explore religious relics and artifacts but also for spiritual and other values.
2. The Significance of Pilgrimage Tours to the Western Region
The primary significance of embarking on pilgrimage or pilgrimage tours to the Western region is the opportunity for travelers to marvel at the magnificent and unique architectural structures of their respective religions. Pilgrimage sites may include temples, churches, historical sites, or other spiritually significant locations.
At these destinations, travelers can pray, seek peace, and express gratitude to their divine beings. As a result, after the journey, travelers often feel more tranquil, content, and at ease.
Moreover, pilgrimage tourism is also a suitable type of travel for those who love and crave spiritual life, seeking to understand more about the unique culture of their pursued religion. Through pilgrimage, each traveler will be enriched with faith, cultural knowledge, to have a moral compass, peace, and happiness in life.
3. When is the best time to go on a pilgrimage tour to the Mekong Delta?
The Mekong Delta is renowned for its diversity in spiritual culture. Therefore, this land also has many famous religious sites, temples, and monuments. Consequently, most travelers choose the Mekong Delta as their pilgrimage destination. Moreover, they can visit pilgrimage sites on special occasions like Tet holidays, but sometimes tourists go on pilgrimages at any suitable time of the year.
The Tet holiday is when people often go on pilgrimage tours to the Mekong Delta to pray for a peaceful new year.
3.2 Tháng Giêng
Besides going on pilgrimage tours during Tet Nguyen Dan, many travelers also opt for pilgrimage tours to the Western region in the first month of the lunar calendar. Tháng Giêng is the beginning month of the year, making it a suitable time to visit pilgrimage sites. Pilgrimage in Tháng Giêng allows travelers to pray for a peaceful new year, smooth work, happy family, and more.
Especially, in Tháng Giêng, there is the Tet Nguyen Tieu festival (15th day of the 1st lunar month), which is the first full moon day of the year. This is a very special day, considered a major full moon day of the year for many religious followers.
During the lunar month of Tháng Giêng, travelers will find that pilgrimage sites in the Western region always welcome thousands of visitors each day. The popular pilgrimage sites in the Western region include Ba Chua Xu Temple, Dinh Cau, Ba Phi Yen Temple, Nam Hai Pagoda, Vo Thi Sau Tomb, and more.
3.3 Commencement and Full Moon Days Every Month
Not only the first day of the year or the first month, but many travelers also opt for spiritual tours in the Mekong Delta on the first day and full moon day of each month depending on personal preferences. This is the time when Buddhist devotees flock to temples, shrines, and meditation centers to seek blessings.
Moreover, during major festivals, destinations typically featured in Mekong Delta spiritual tours are extremely crowded.
4. Key Tourist Attractions in Mekong Delta Spiritual Tours
4.1 Mieu Ba Chua Xu in Chau Doc (An Giang)
A must-visit destination on spiritual tours in the Mekong Delta for any Southern Vietnamese, including travelers from neighboring regions, is undoubtedly the renowned Mieu Ba in An Giang. Situated at the foot of Sam Mountain, Chau Doc City, An Giang Province, Mieu Ba Chua Xu has become an incredibly sacred spiritual tourism site, attracting millions of visitors from both domestic and international locations annually for sightseeing and blessings.
Mieu Ba Chua Xu is a small temple nestled within a vast, tranquil tourist complex boasting breathtaking scenery and is one of the top 10 famous floating pagodas in the Mekong Delta. With its lotus-shaped tower architecture, three-tiered roof, blue tiles adorned with striking creative patterns, and intricately carved details, including ornate horizontal lacquered boards and parallel sentences, it exudes an air of ancient reverence and solemnity.
Not only revered, but the architecture of Mieu Ba Chua Xu is also a standout feature.
Mieu Ba Chua Xu on Sam Mountain in Chau Doc is a popular destination year-round. However, many people choose to visit during Tet Nguyen Dan to seek peace in life.
Furthermore, tourists from around the world often opt for spiritual tours in the Mekong Delta to visit during the period from the 24th to the 27th day of the 4th lunar month. This is when the festival honoring Ba Chua Xu on Sam Mountain takes place. Therefore, visitors may encounter crowded conditions at the temple during this time, especially on the 25th, the main festival day.
Tourists can choose the most suitable time to visit this famous spiritual site depending on whether they wish to visit, pray, or make donations. Every year, visitors flock to Mieu Ba Chua Xu to pray for luck in the new year. At the Sam Mountain tourist area, the festival atmosphere is lively and bustling.
4.2 Vinh Trang Pagoda
Vinh Trang Pagoda in Tien Giang captivates not only with its scale and grandeur but also with its unique architectural style. The pagoda's architecture blends Eastern and Western cultures while preserving the essence of traditional Vietnamese art. Additionally, Vinh Trang Pagoda is one of the largest pagodas in the Mekong Delta, located about 3km from the center of My Tho city, making it convenient for tourists on spiritual tours in the Mekong Delta.
You can combine a visit to the pagoda with spring outings by participating in the annual pagoda festival, held from January to March in the mild spring weather. However, this is the peak tourist season. Therefore, those who enjoy the peaceful and solemn atmosphere of temples can visit Vinh Trang Pagoda at a different time of the year.
The famous giant Buddha statue at Vinh Trang Pagoda, Tien Giang.
Vinh Trang Pagoda has about 60 Buddha statues sculpted from various materials from the late 19th to early 20th centuries. Inside the pagoda are three famous large Buddha statues such as the 98cm tall Amitabha Buddha statue; the statues of Avalokitesvara and Mahasthamaprapta, both 93cm tall, and the Dharma Treasure Bell, 1.2m tall, weighing about 150kg, with the inscription of the temple's name “Vinh Truong Tu” in the mid-19th century.
Moreover, Vinh Trang Pagoda is also famous for the 32m-long, 10m-high, 250-ton statue of Lord Buddha Shakyamuni, exquisitely crafted to attract visitors from all corners. The pilgrimage feels serene and tranquil. A prominent feature in the temple grounds is the 24m-tall Amitabha Buddha statue, symbolizing the protective and benevolent nature of the Buddha towards all beings. This statue is considered the emblem of the temple to this day.
4.3 Truc Lam Zen Monastery
Truc Lam Zen Monastery in Can Tho is the largest Zen monastery in the Mekong Delta and one of the most significant Buddhist constructions in the Southern Mekong Delta region. Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery in Can Tho holds spiritual, cultural, and Buddhist significance along with many traditionally and creatively constructed structures, making it an enticing tourist destination for temple tours in the Mekong Delta. Travelers on spiritual tours in the Mekong Delta can also offer incense, pray for peace, and blessings for their families at Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery in Can Tho.
Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery is famous for its tranquility.
Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery is located in Nhon My Hamlet, My Khanh Commune, Phong Dien District, about 15 km from Can Tho City. You can combine garden sightseeing with a visit to the nearby My Khanh Tourism Village, just about 1km away.
Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery in Can Tho is quite spacious, allowing visitors to explore the three entrances, main hall, bell tower, etc., while on spiritual tours in the Mekong Delta.
4.4 Chen Kieu Pagoda
Chen Kieu Pagoda, also known as Sa Lon Pagoda, is located in My Xuyen District, Soc Trang Province, about 12 km from Soc Trang City towards Bac Lieu direction.
The walls of this temple are the most outstanding feature. The uneven paint on the walls, without cement cladding or using paint colors like other temples, is one of the factors that contribute to making Chen Kieu Pagoda famous. The walls of this temple are designed to be covered with pieces of broken ceramics, pottery, and porcelain, which look quite unique yet strangely adorable and attractive.
Chen Kieu Pagoda has beautiful architecture like temples in Thailand.
Chen Kieu Pagoda is a famous temple in Soc Trang and is the main spiritual pilgrimage site for Buddhists, especially the Khmer people. It is a sacred place where one can find peace and tranquility. When visiting Chen Kieu Pagoda on spiritual tours in the Mekong Delta, tourists have the opportunity to learn about Khmer culture alongside experiencing the unique architecture of the temple.
Khmer artisans have decorated the walls and towers with various cups, bowls, and plates provided by the people, creating a harmonious and visually appealing architecture. Most of these are damaged or cracked objects gathered and rearranged into decorative patterns. Meanwhile, newer items are placed directly on the walls or form fences around corridors or staircase railings.
4.5 Nam Hai Lady Buddha
One of the destinations on spiritual tours in the Mekong Delta is Nam Hai Lady Buddha. Nam Hai Lady Buddha in Bac Lieu is constructed in the traditional Northern Sect style. Additionally, the architecture of this temple is similar to other Mekong Delta temples. The compound of Nam Hai Lady Buddha includes the main hall, reception room, and the master's room. A standout feature is the visitors will surely be impressed by the large statue of Quan The Am Bodhisattva in the front courtyard.
The most prominent feature of Quan The Am Bodhisattva Tower is the extremely tall statue, or simply referred to as Mother Nam Hai, facing the East Sea symbolizing the salvation of sentient beings, protecting and bringing peace to fishermen. This is a deeply spiritual Buddhist construction, renowned as the most sacred temple in the Mekong Delta region amidst vast wind power fields nearby.
The Quan The Am Bodhisattva statue is considered the guiding light for distant fishing boats and is revered by many local residents who make a living from the sea in neighboring areas. It can be said that Mother Nam Hai plays an important role in the lives of the people here, especially the fishermen who live by the sea. They see Mother Nam Hai as someone who always listens and protects people from the uncertainties of life.
Moreover, the sanctity of Quan The Am Bodhisattva has inspired countless sacred stories with the image of Mother Quan Am carrying a pitcher of orange water to rescue sentient beings, instilling faith in protection and peace into people's hearts. Therefore, this place is considered one of the most famous destinations on spiritual tours in the Mekong Delta.
Quan Am Bodhisattva Temple is located near the sea, so it is quite cool as it is always refreshed by sea breezes. Here, visitors only need to pass through the three entrances to reach the sky gate, followed by the majestic Hang Long - Phuc Ho screen.
Additionally, visitors can see the main hall adjacent to the 49-meter-high flagpole. Standing in the temple courtyard, visitors can observe the statue of Quan The Am Bodhisattva sitting on a lotus throne from here. This is considered the most famous spot when it comes to spiritual tours in the Mekong Delta.
The statue of Nam Hai Lady Buddha is famous for its sanctity in Bac Lieu.
Not only that, from here, visitors will also see around the Thien Phu Temple and Dia Tang Temple, and the majestic Hang Long - Phuc Ho screen and 32 Bodhisattvas standing in front of the ceremonial courtyard. Everything creates a harmonious scene, bringing about a grandiose and solemn cultural and spiritual atmosphere.
4.6 Tomb of Father Truong Buu Diep
In addition to the famous sacred Buddhist pilgrimage sites, there are also some other religious pilgrimage sites. Tac Say Church, where the tomb of Father Truong Buu Diep is located, is one of the pilgrimage sites visited by thousands of people every year.
The most notable church in the Mekong Delta is Tac Say Church, also known as Father Diep's Church. Visitors to Tac Say Church, besides enjoying the unique architecture of the Catholic church - one of the most beautiful churches in the Mekong Delta provinces, also visit the tomb of Father Truong Buu Diep.
Tac Say Church is closely associated with a famous monk - Father Truong Buu Diep, a monk revered by the people as a saint for his sanctity and protection for those who believe and pray.
The sanctuary of Tac Say - where the tomb of Father Truong Buu Diep lies.
There are several stories related to the death of Father and the history of Tac Say Church that visitors can explore when mentioning Tac Say Church. But all attest to Father Diep's courage, readiness to sacrifice himself to defend others.
Many individuals come here to pray and express gratitude. Then, word of mouth spreads, drawing people from all over to Tac Say Church, making it a pilgrimage site attracting visitors to Bac Lieu on their Mekong Delta pilgrimage tour. Interestingly, among the pilgrims coming here, up to 70% are not Catholics. However, due to its proximity, many people often combine their trip into a Father Diep and Mother Nam Hai pilgrimage tour.
4.7 Bat Pagoda
In the Khmer belief, Bat Pagoda, also known as Bat Temple, is an architectural complex steeped in tradition. Travelers can not only admire the unique beauty and history of the temple but also immerse themselves in the mysterious atmosphere of the temple grounds, where bats hang from trees.
Bat Pagoda with its splendid architectural style.
Apart from marveling at the Khmer architecture, tourists visiting Bat Temple are mainly fascinated by the sight of thousands of bats hanging like fruits on branches and leaves. Visitors to the temple will see it attracting around one million bats during peak times. Although Soc Trang has many serene temples and shady gardens, the reason why bats choose Bat Temple as their home remains a mystery. They only roost in the trees within the temple grounds, never outside.
4.8 Võ Thị Sáu Tomb Visit
This is one of the most significant pilgrimage sites in the South. Every year, numerous tourists on Western pilgrimage tours come here to visit the tomb of Võ Thị Sáu, expressing gratitude and praying for peace and prosperity.
When visiting Võ Thị Sáu's cemetery on a pilgrimage to the West, it's recommended to go after 10 p.m. to make the prayer session more solemn. Additionally, visitors must bring a conical hat, a hand mirror, gold coins, mineral water, candles, and more when visiting Võ Thị Sáu's tomb.
Hang Duong Cemetery - where tourists often come to visit Võ Thị Sáu's tomb.
Travelers can visit Võ Thị Sáu's tomb by going to Bà Rịa Vũng Tàu province, taking a boat to Côn Đảo, and then moving to Hang Duong cemetery.
4.9 Clay Pagoda
In addition to Chùa Chén Kiểu and Chùa Dơi, Clay Pagoda is a renowned pilgrimage site in the West, renowned for its spiritual significance across the region. Most of the statues in this temple are made of clay, making it unique.
Clay Pagoda with its unique architecture is an ideal destination for Western pilgrimage tours.
Clay Pagoda is not very large, and visitors can see the structure built in Khmer style with beautiful dragon and tiger motifs adorning the temple. Visitors can admire the 'Three Religions in Harmony' (Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism) with a system of Buddhas: Amitabha Buddha, Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva, Confucius, Laozi, Jade Emperor, Maitreya Buddha...
4.10 Visit An Son Temple, also known as Bà Phi Yến Temple
After paying respects to the heroic martyr Võ Thị Sáu, travelers on the Western pilgrimage tour to Côn Đảo must not miss Bà Phi Yến Temple. Lady Phi Yến was the concubine of Lord Nguyễn Ánh. During their stay in Côn Đảo, Lady Phi Yến and Prince Cải provided great assistance to the local people, earning their gratitude, and leading to the establishment of a temple in their honor.
Bà Phi Yến Temple is one of the famous landmarks in Côn Đảo.
Visitors come here not only to admire the temple but also to pray for peace for their loved ones, families, and friends. If you've come to pay respects at Bà Phi Yến Temple, you can also learn about her story, related to the famous folk song 'The wind takes the vegetables to the sky - The coriander stays to endure life's bitterness.'
5. Experience for Western pilgrimage tours
In addition to choosing the right time, travelers planning to go on a Western pilgrimage tour need to equip themselves with some secrets to make the trip complete. Besides considering the suitable time to start the journey, there are many other things to pay attention to when going on a pilgrimage in the Southwest. Here are some things to keep in mind when traveling on a pilgrimage, especially in the Western region:
5.1 Stay vigilant in all situations
Famous pilgrimage sites are often crowded, leading travelers to encounter potential theft issues during their pilgrimage tours. Those wearing valuable jewelry or carrying expensive items become easy targets for thieves. Therefore, when visiting crowded places like pilgrimage sites, travelers should avoid wearing expensive items, minimize jewelry, and remain vigilant of their surroundings at all times.
5.2 Make specific plans
Although embarking on a pilgrimage, it's advisable for travelers to make clear plans when going on a Western pilgrimage tour. Specific plans should include estimated travel time, dining arrangements, rest periods for long journeys, and budget considerations. Moreover, travelers need to meticulously plan their pilgrimage visits as there are specific times of the day when it's optimal to visit certain pilgrimage sites in the West.
For instance, those who have visited the tomb of Võ Thị Sáu in Côn Đảo often advise visiting her tomb in the evening, around 10 p.m., as prayers are believed to be more likely to come true at that time.
Furthermore, any journey requires a specific itinerary to ensure that all processes proceed according to schedule. Travelers may encounter difficulties if they deviate from the itinerary.
5.3 Choose appropriate attire
When going on a Western pilgrimage tour, travelers have to cover a considerable distance from home to the tourist destination. Whether traveling by modern means such as planes, trains, buses, or cars, it still requires considerable effort. Additionally, travelers will undoubtedly have to walk from the entrance to the pilgrimage area. Walking is not just about reaching the pilgrimage site; it also symbolizes the pilgrim's gratitude towards the Buddha or saints.
Therefore, travelers need to select attire that is suitable for the journey. It's advisable to choose lightweight, breathable clothing that absorbs sweat well to avoid health issues after going on a Western pilgrimage tour.
Another crucial aspect when embarking on a Western pilgrimage tour is that travelers must choose solemn and modest attire to show respect for the divine. Avoiding revealing clothing is considered a sign of disrespect towards deities, Buddhas, etc. Some pilgrimage sites have very strict regulations regarding this matter.
In fact, if travelers wear short skirts or revealing tops, they will not be allowed to enter the pilgrimage site. This is an important point that travelers on a Western pilgrimage tour need to keep in mind to avoid the inconvenience of traveling without being able to visit Buddha or saints.
Travelers can wear traditional Ao Dai when going on a Western pilgrimage tour.
A small tip for travelers on a Western pilgrimage tour is that they can bring a wide-brimmed hat or broad-brimmed hat to shield themselves from the sun.
Western pilgrimage tours always stand out as one of the hottest tours in the Southern tourism market, especially during the early months of the year or on the full moon days of each month. Depending on their purpose, religious beliefs, and suitability, travelers can choose from the various destinations for their 2024 pilgrimage tour. If travelers need more detailed information about pilgrimage tours or book travel tours, they can contact Mytour via hotline Mytour for consultation.
