Insights into the Western Pilgrimage Tour: Essential Know-Hows for Travelers

The Western pilgrimage tour is always a top choice for many travelers as it's a land of spirituality, boasting numerous revered temples, shrines, and churches. Some places even attract from thousands to millions of visitors annually due to their sanctity. If travelers want to learn more about pilgrimage tours or pilgrimage sites in the Southwestern region, don't miss this article.

1. What is a pilgrimage tour? 

Apart from regular sightseeing tours to explore landscapes at tourist destinations, many travel enthusiasts also opt for pilgrimage tours, especially Western pilgrimage tours, to visit specific places at certain times every year.

Excursions to visit and pay homage at sacred religious sites are referred to as pilgrimage tours. However, when it first emerged, the term 'pilgrimage' typically referred to the act of devotion by Buddhist followers. These individuals would perform rituals such as lighting incense at the religious site by circumambulating stupas, temples, or pagodas to pay respects and offer incense at various Buddha halls within that location.

Gradually, the concept of pilgrimage tours in Vietnam is not only limited to visiting Buddhist temples but also extends to other religions, becoming a branch of tourism.

In Vietnam, tourists often visit famous sacred sites for pilgrimage and prayer.

Abroad, the concept of pilgrimage has been around for a long time. The most notable example is the pilgrimages of religious devotees to sacred lands. These pilgrimages have existed in both Asia and Europe long before the scriptures appeared.

Currently, tourists of any religion can go on pilgrimage tours, not just Buddhist Pilgrimage Tours, especially pilgrimage tours in the Mekong Delta. The purpose is not only to visit relics and religious artifacts but also for spiritual and other religious values.

2. The significance of going on pilgrimage tours in the Mekong Delta

The first significance of going on pilgrimage or pilgrimage tours in the Mekong Delta is that tourists can admire and explore the magnificent, majestic, or extremely unique architectural works of their respective religions. Pilgrimage sites can be temples, churches, relics, sacred places,...

At these places, tourists can pray, seek peace, and express gratitude to their deities. As a result, after the trip, tourists often feel more peaceful, serene, and comfortable.

Moreover, pilgrimage tourism is also a suitable form 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 tourist will be enriched in faith, cultural knowledge, enabling people to lead a more virtuous, peaceful, and joyful life.

3. When is the best time to go on a pilgrimage tour in the Mekong Delta?

The Mekong Delta is renowned for its cultural and spiritual diversity. Therefore, this land also has many famous and sacred religious sites. Consequently, most tourists choose the Mekong Delta as their pilgrimage destination. Moreover, they can visit these pilgrimage sites on special occasions, festivals, such as Tet holidays, but sometimes tourists go on pilgrimage at any suitable time of the year.

Tet is a time when people often go on pilgrimage tours in the Mekong Delta to pray for a peaceful new year.

However, the peak season of pilgrimage tourism can help each destination welcome thousands of visitors. The peak seasons in the year may include:

3.1 Tet Nguyen Dan (Lunar New Year):

Vietnamese tourists often believe that the first day of the new year should be spent visiting sacred religious sites to pray for peace and luck for the whole year. Depending on each person's religion, tourists can choose different destinations to visit. If tourists follow Buddhism, visiting temples at the beginning of the year is an essential activity.

Additionally, tourists can also go to churches to attend the first-day Mass or visit temples according to their religion. Therefore, tourists can easily see many tourists choosing to participate in pilgrimage tourism during Tet Nguyen Dan, especially pilgrimage tours in the Mekong Delta. 

3.2 January

Besides going on pilgrimage tours during Tet Nguyen Dan, many tourists also choose to go on Mekong Delta pilgrimage tours in January. January marks the beginning of a new year, making it a suitable time to visit pilgrimage sites for worship. Pilgrimage in January allows tourists to pray for a peaceful new year, smooth work, happy family, etc.

Especially, in January, there is the Lantern Festival (on the 15th day of the 1st lunar month), which is the first full moon day of the year. This is a very special day, considered one of the major full moon days of the year for many religious followers.

During the lunar January, tourists will see that Mekong Delta pilgrimage tours destinations always welcome thousands of visitors every day. Popular pilgrimage sites in the Mekong Delta include Lady Xu Temple, Cau Temple, Lady Phi Yen Temple, Nam Hai Pagoda, Vo Thi Sau Tomb, etc.

3.3 Beginning of Month and Full Moon Days

Not only on New Year's Day or the first month, but many tourists also go on Mekong Delta pilgrimage tours on the beginning of each month and on full moon days according to their personal preferences. This is the time when Buddhist followers flock to temples, shrines, and meditation centers to pray for good luck.

Moreover, during major festivals, the destinations commonly seen on Mekong Delta pilgrimage tours are extremely crowded.

4. Tourist Attractions for Mekong Delta Pilgrimage Tours

4.1 Mieu Ba Chua Xu in Chau Doc (An Giang) 

A destination on the Mekong Delta pilgrimage tour that every Southern native, including tourists from neighboring regions, must have heard of and visited is Mieu Ba in An Giang. Mieu Ba Chua Xu is located at the foot of Sam Mountain, Chau Doc City, An Giang Province, and has become an extremely sacred spiritual tourism site, attracting millions of domestic and international tourists to visit and pray for blessings every year.

Mieu Ba Chua Xu is a small temple nestled amidst a vast, tranquil tourism complex with breathtaking scenery and is one of the top 10 famous floating pagodas in the Mekong Delta. With its tower architecture resembling a blooming lotus, three-tiered roof, blue tiles adorned with creative prominent patterns, and exquisite intricate carvings, horizontal lacquered boards elevate its solemn and venerable appearance.

Not only sacred, 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 chosen by many throughout the year. However, many opt to visit her during Tet Nguyen Dan to seek peace in life.

Moreover, tourists from around the world often choose to go on Mekong Delta pilgrimage tours to visit her between the 24th and 27th of the lunar April. This is when the ceremony honoring Mieu Ba Chua Xu on Sam Mountain takes place. Therefore, visitors may encounter crowded conditions at the temple during this time, especially on the 25th, which is 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 offerings. Every year, pilgrims come to Mieu Ba Chua Xu to pray for luck at the beginning of the 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 Province attracts visitors not only for its scale and grandeur but also for its unique architecture. The pagoda's architecture combines Eastern and Western cultures while still preserving the quintessence 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 visiting Tien Giang on Mekong Delta pilgrimage tours.

You can combine a visit to the pagoda with a spring outing by participating in the pagoda festival, held annually from January to March in the mild spring weather. However, this is the peak time of the tourist season. Therefore, those who enjoy the peaceful and solemn atmosphere of pagodas can visit Vinh Trang Pagoda at a different time of the year.

The famous giant Buddha statue at Vinh Trang Pagoda in Tien Giang.

Vinh Trang Pagoda has about 60 Buddha statues carved from various materials since the late 19th and early 20th centuries. In the pagoda, there are three famous large Buddha statues such as the 98cm tall Amitabha Buddha statue; the 93cm tall Avalokitesvara and Earth Store Bodhisattva statue; and the 1.2m tall Dharma Protection Bell, weighing about 150kg, with the inscription 'Vinh Truong Tu' engraved on the body in the mid-19th century.

Moreover, Vinh Trang Pagoda is also famous for its statue of Lord Buddha Shakyamuni, which is 32m long, 10m high, and weighs 250 tons, with an extremely elegant appearance that attracts visitors from all over the world. The pilgrimage feels serene and tranquil. A prominent feature within the pagoda grounds is the 24m tall Amitabha Buddha statue, symbolizing the protective and benevolent Buddha, which is considered the icon of the pagoda 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 sites in the Southwestern region of Vietnam. Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery in Can Tho holds spiritual, cultural, and Buddhist significance with many traditional and innovative architectural structures, making it an attractive tourist destination for Mekong Delta pilgrimage tours. Pilgrims on Mekong Delta pilgrimage tours 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 renowned for its serenity.

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 My Khanh Tourist Village nearby, 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, and more while on Mekong Delta pilgrimage tours.

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 in the direction of Bac Lieu.

The walls of this temple stand out the most. The uneven paint on the walls, without cement or paint like other temples, is one of the factors contributing to Chen Kieu Pagoda's fame. The walls of this temple are designed to be covered with pieces of broken pottery, porcelain, and ceramics, giving it a unique yet strangely adorable and captivating appearance.

Chen Kieu Pagoda boasts architecture reminiscent of temples in Thailand.

Chen Kieu Pagoda is a famous temple in Soc Trang and is a primary 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 a Mekong Delta pilgrimage tour, tourists have the opportunity to learn about Khmer culture alongside experiencing the unique architecture of the temple.

Khmer artisans have adorned the walls and towers with various cups, bowls, and plates provided by the local people, creating a harmonious and visually appealing architecture. Most of these are damaged or cracked objects gathered and rearranged into decorative patterns. Meanwhile, newer pieces are placed directly on the walls or form a fence around corridors or stair railings.

4.5 Nam Hai Bodhisattva

One of the destinations on the Mekong Delta pilgrimage tour is Nam Hai Bodhisattva. Nam Hai Bodhisattva in Bac Lieu is constructed in the traditional Northern Buddhist style. Additionally, its architecture resembles other temples in the Mekong Delta region. The compound of Nam Hai Bodhisattva includes the main hall, a reception room, and the master's quarters. Particularly impressive is the large statue of Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva in the front courtyard.

The most prominent feature of Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva Tower is the extremely tall statue, commonly known as Mother Nam Hai, facing the East Sea, symbolizing salvation, protection, and peace for fishermen. This is a profoundly spiritual Buddhist site, renowned as the most sacred temple in the Mekong Delta region amidst vast expanses of rice paddies and wind farms nearby.

The statue of Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva is regarded as a beacon guiding distant fishing boats and is revered by many coastal residents in neighboring areas. It can be said that Mother Nam Hai plays a crucial role in the lives of the locals, especially the fishermen who rely on the sea for their livelihoods. They see Mother Nam Hai as someone who listens and protects them from the uncertainties of life.

Moreover, the sacredness of Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva has inspired countless spiritual stories depicting Mother Avalokitesvara carrying a jug of sweet dew to save sentient beings, instilling faith in protection and peace in people's hearts. Therefore, this place is regarded as one of the most famous destinations for Mekong Delta pilgrimage tours.

Quan Âm Pagoda is located near the sea, providing a cool and breezy atmosphere due to the sea breeze. Upon arrival, visitors pass through three gates leading to the sky gate, followed by the majestic Hang Long - Phuc Ho screen.

Additionally, visitors can see the main hall adjacent to a 49-meter tall pillar. Standing in the temple courtyard, visitors can observe the statue of Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva sitting on a lotus throne from here. This is considered the most famous spot when mentioning Mekong Delta pilgrimage tours.

The famous sacred statue of Mother Nam Hai in Bac Lieu is revered.

Not only that, from here visitors will also see the surrounding Thien Phu and Dia Tang temples, along with the majestic Hang Long - Phuc Ho screen and 32 Bodhisattvas standing in front of the ceremonial courtyard. Everything creates a perfectly harmonious scenery, bringing about a grandiose and solemn cultural and spiritual atmosphere.

4.6 Truong Buu Diep's Tomb 

In addition to the famous sacred Buddhist pilgrimage sites, there are also some other religious pilgrimage destinations. 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 not only enjoy the unique architecture of the Catholic church - one of the most beautiful churches in the Mekong Delta provinces but 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.

Tac Say Cathedral - where Father Truong Buu Diep's tomb lies. 

There are some 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 bravery, willing to sacrifice himself to defend others.

Many individuals come here to pray and express their gratitude. Then, word of mouth spreads, and people from all over flock to Tac Say Church, making it a pilgrimage site attracting visitors to Bac Lieu in the Mekong Delta pilgrimage tour. Interestingly, among the pilgrims, up to 70% are not Catholics. However, due to its proximity, many people often combine their visit into a Father Diep - Mother Nam Hai pilgrimage tour.

4.7 Bat Pagoda

In the Khmer belief, Bat Pagoda, also known as Ma Toc Pagoda, is a complex of traditional architecture. Visitors 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 upside down on trees.

Bat Pagoda with its magnificent architectural style. 

Besides admiring Khmer architecture, tourists visiting Ma Toc Pagoda are mainly interested in the sight of thousands of bats hanging like fruits on branches and leaves. Visitors to the pagoda will see the temple attracting about one million bats during peak times. Although Soc Trang has many serene temples and shady gardens, the reason why bats choose Ma Toc Pagoda as their home is still a mystery. They only roost on trees within the temple grounds, never outside.

4.8 Visit the Tomb of Vo Thi Sau

This is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in the South. Every year, many tourists on Western pilgrimage tours come here to visit the tomb of Vo Thi Sau, expressing gratitude and seeking peace and prosperity in their endeavors.

When visiting Vo Thi Sau's cemetery on a pilgrimage to the West, it is advisable to go after 10 p.m. to make the prayer session more solemn. In addition, visitors must bring along a conical hat, a hand mirror, gold, spring water, candles, and more.

Hang Duong Cemetery - where tourists often come to visit the tomb of Vo Thi Sau. 

Visitors can pay respects to Vo Thi Sau by traveling to Ba Ria-Vung Tau province, taking a boat to Con Dao, and then moving on to Hang Duong cemetery.

4.9 Clay Pagoda

In addition to Chua Chen Kieu and Chua Doi, Clay Pagoda is a famous pilgrimage site in the Western region, renowned for its spiritual significance throughout the area. 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. 

The Clay Pagoda is not very large, and visitors can see the structure built in the Khmer style with beautiful dragon and tiger motifs adorning the temple. Visitors can admire the 'Three Religions Harmonized' (Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism) with a system of Buddha figures: Amitabha Buddha, Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva, Confucius, Laozi, Jade Emperor, Maitreya Buddha...

4.10 Visit An Son Temple, also known as Lady Phi Yen Temple 

After paying respects to the heroic martyr Vo Thi Sau, travelers on the Western pilgrimage tour to Con Dao cannot miss Lady Phi Yen Temple. Lady Phi Yen was a concubine of Lord Nguyen Anh. During their time in Con Dao, Lady Phi Yen and Prince Cai helped the local people a lot, earning their gratitude, and thus a temple was built in their honor.

Lady Phi Yen Temple is one of the famous landmarks in Con Dao. 

Visitors come here not only to admire the temple scenery but also to pray for peace for their loved ones, families, and friends. If you've come to pay homage to Lady Phi Yen, you can also learn about her story, related to the famous folk song 'The Wind Carries Mustard Greens to the Sky - Coriander Stays Behind to Endure Life's Bitterness and Spice.'

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 the secrets to make the trip complete. Besides paying attention to the appropriate time to start, there are many other things to consider when going on a pilgrimage in the Southwest. Here are some things to keep in mind when traveling on a pilgrimage, especially in the West:

5.1 Stay vigilant in all situations

Famous pilgrimage sites are often crowded, leading travelers to face potential risks of theft and robbery during their pilgrimage tours. Those wearing expensive jewelry or carrying valuable items are easy targets for criminals. Therefore, when visiting crowded places like pilgrimage sites, travelers should avoid wearing expensive items, limit wearing jewelry, and remain vigilant of their surroundings in all situations.

5.2 Plan meticulously

Although embarking on a pilgrimage, it's beneficial for travelers to plan meticulously when going on a Western pilgrimage tour. A detailed plan should include estimated travel time, meal arrangements, rest breaks for long-distance journeys to pilgrimage sites, and budget considerations. Moreover, travelers should carefully plan their pilgrimage trips as there are specific times of the day that are ideal for visiting certain pilgrimage sites in the West.

For instance, those who have previously visited the tomb of Vo Thi Sau on Con Dao always advise visiting her tomb in the evening, around 10 p.m., as prayers are more likely to come true at that time.

Additionally, every trip requires a specific itinerary to ensure that all processes proceed on schedule. Travelers may encounter difficulties if they deviate from the schedule.

5.3 Choose appropriate attire

When embarking 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 airplanes, trains, buses, or cars, travelers will expend a significant amount of energy. Furthermore, travelers will undoubtedly have to walk from the entrance to the pilgrimage area. Walking is not just about reaching the pilgrimage site; it is also an act of sincerity towards the Buddha or the saints.

Therefore, travelers need to choose clothing suitable for the journey. Opt for lightweight, breathable clothes that absorb sweat well to avoid health issues after completing the 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 to the divine. Travelers should avoid dressing immodestly as it may be perceived as disrespectful to deities, Buddhas, etc. Some pilgrimage sites have very clear and strict regulations regarding this matter.

Furthermore, 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 Buddhas or saints.

Travelers can wear ao dai when going on a Western pilgrimage tour. 

A small suggestion 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 are always among the hottest tours in the Southern tourism market, especially in the early months of the year or on full moon days of each month. Depending on the purpose, religion, and suitability, travelers can choose the 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 advice.