Buzz
Thanks to its convenient location near Hanoi, Hà Nam attracts visitors with its temples, pagodas, and vibrant festivals. Here are four temples and pagodas ideal for weekend visits.
Trần Thương Temple
Located in Trần Hưng Đạo commune, Lý Nhân district, Hà Nam province, Trần Thương Temple holds significant historical, cultural, and spiritual value. It honors Hưng Đạo Đại Vương Trần Quốc Tuấn and his generals, who contributed to the resistance against the Mongol invaders. Despite centuries passing, the temple retains its original charm, making it a historical landmark and a spiritual destination for Hà Nam tourism.
Legend has it that during his campaign against the Mongol forces, Trần Hưng Đạo recognized the strategic location and established six granaries here. The current temple site was the main granary. The serene and ancient temple, built in the “Tứ thủy quy đường” architectural style, sits on sacred land. The complex includes an outer gate, an inner gate, five buildings, and 15 chambers, divided into three main sections and two side corridors, along with five wells.
Bầu Pagoda
Bầu Pagoda, also known as Thiên Bảo Temple, is located in Phủ Lý city, Hà Nam province. According to historical records, this pagoda is over a thousand years old and is part of the Bầu village and market complex. In Chinese, the word 'Bầu' originates from 'Biều,' meaning a landmass rising above water. At the center of the lake stands a majestic tower. The lake is fed by underground springs connected to the Đáy River, ensuring it remains full year-round.
Before its renovation, the pagoda was a modest three-room structure. From 2005 to 2008, it was refurbished into a more spacious and elegant site. Bầu Pagoda's architecture resembles that of Quán Sứ Pagoda in Hanoi, featuring a three-tiered gate, long and deep surrounding corridors, and stone bridges connecting its sections. The pagoda houses a grand sanctuary dedicated to Buddha and also includes an altar for the Four Dharma Protectors in folk beliefs. It preserves 28 royal decrees honoring Đức Pháp Vân Phật, dating back to 1663.
Long Đọi Sơn Pagoda
Located about 50 km from Hanoi, Long Đọi Sơn Pagoda sits in Đọi Sơn commune, Duy Tiên district, Hà Nam province. The pagoda is perched on Đọi Mountain, which rises prominently in a floodplain area. This site is a perfect destination for Hà Nam tourism, especially for spiritual and cultural trips. The pagoda is expansive, backed by Điệp Mountain and surrounded by three rivers. At the mountain's base, there are nine natural wells, locally referred to as the 'nine dragon eyes.' Visitors must climb nearly 400 stone steps to reach the pagoda.
Historical records indicate that the pagoda was initiated by King Lý Thánh Tông and Queen Ỷ Lan in 1054. In 1121, King Lý Nhân Tông added the Sùng Thiện Diên Linh stele tower. During the early 15th century, the pagoda suffered extensive damage from Ming invaders. It was restored around 1591 by locals. In the 13th year of Tự Đức's reign, the pagoda's front hall, upper sanctuary, ancestral house, and bell tower were renovated. Further restorations in 1864 included the corridors, casting of the Maitreya statue, and the creation of bronze and stone gongs.
Due to its historical and cultural significance, the pagoda complex was recognized as a Special National Heritage Site in late 2017. Long Đọi Sơn attracts many visitors during its festival on the 21st day of the third lunar month. However, many tourists also visit on weekends or weekdays to enjoy its serene scenery.
Lảnh Giang Temple
Lảnh Giang Temple, also known as the Temple of Quan Lớn Đệ Tam, is situated in Mộc Nam commune, Duy Tiên town, Hà Nam province. The temple venerates three generals from the Hùng Vương era, with the primary deity being Trấn An Tây Nam Tam Kỳ Linh ứng Đại vương (Quan Lớn Đệ Tam). It also honors Chử Đồng Tử, Princess Tiên Dung, the Three Holy Mothers, and the Four Palaces.
Spanning 3,000 square meters, the temple is surrounded by lush greenery despite the absence of hills. Built in the traditional 'nội công ngoại quốc' style, it comprises three main halls, 14 chambers, a guesthouse, and a worship tower. Inside, the temple houses valuable artifacts such as the statue of Princess Tiên Dung and a ceremonial gong. Additionally, it preserves two palanquins, an altar, and numerous inscribed panels and couplets. The Lảnh Giang Temple Festival, held from the 18th to the 25th of the sixth lunar month and in August annually, attracts many Hà Nam tourism visitors.
According to Mytour.vn
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Reference: Mytour.vn Travel Guide
Mytour.vnSeptember 16, 2024
