Top 10 Largest Temples in Vietnam

Truc Lam Zen Monastery is nestled atop Mount Phung Hoang, surrounded by lush pine forests with a peaceful view of Tuyền Lâm Lake. This tranquil sanctuary on the hills of Da Lat, located on Truc Lam Yen Tu Street in Ward 3, Da Lat City, spans an area of 30 hectares and was established in 1994. It is one of Vietnam's three largest Zen monasteries, following the Truc Lam Yen Tu sect.

The monastery consists of four main sections: the abbot’s area, the monks' quarters, the nuns' quarters, and the outer area. Its architecture reflects strong Buddhist influences. To enter, visitors must climb over 140 stone steps and pass through three ceremonial gates: the First Gate, the Second Gate, and the Last Gate, which symbolize the three key truths of Buddhism: Impermanence, Selflessness, and Suffering, representing obstacles that must be overcome by true practitioners. The main hall spans 192m², with a statue of the Buddha Sakyamuni in the center, approximately 2 meters tall, holding a lotus branch in his right hand. Flanking the Buddha are depictions of the Bodhisattva Manjusri riding a lion and the Bodhisattva Samantabhadra riding a six-tusked white elephant. Above the hall is a bas-relief illustrating the eight manifestations of the Buddha, along with intricately carved wooden altars and panels. The interior design of the main hall is exquisitely detailed.

Surrounded by endless pine forests, verdant hills, and the serene lake, the monastery’s atmosphere offers a sense of tranquility. The sound of the temple bells harmonizes with the natural surroundings, creating a peaceful retreat. In addition to being a spiritual destination, Truc Lam Zen Monastery is a popular tourist attraction in Da Lat, accessible via a cable car from the foot of Prenn Pass. Visitors can also explore its flower garden featuring a variety of unique blooms. For those seeking inner peace, the monastery welcomes guests who wish to stay for several days to meditate and reflect, offering accommodations and meals similar to those of the monks and nuns. It’s a great opportunity to disconnect from the stress of city life and reconnect with oneself.

At the Truc Lam Zen Monastery, guests can also enjoy vegetarian cuisine, which is not only delicious but also promotes a sense of purity and calmness. Traditional dishes such as vegetarian spring rolls, stir-fried noodles, and delectable desserts are available. In addition to exploring Buddhist teachings and meditation, visitors can attend meditation courses and learn from experienced teachers and monks, delving deeper into spiritual practices and cultivating kindness and inner peace.

Ba Vang Pagoda, also known as Bao Quang Temple, is situated on the middle slope of Thanh Dang Mountain, in Quang Trung Ward, Uong Bi City, Quang Ninh Province. The pagoda occupies a stunning location at an altitude of 340 meters, covering an area of 21.8 hectares with a picturesque landscape: in front lies a river, behind is a mountain range, and to the side is a lush pine forest. The majestic mountainous scenery surrounding the pagoda resembles a winding dragon and a crouching tiger. As such, Ba Vang Pagoda, alongside Long Tien Pagoda, is considered a spiritual symbol of the mining land.

This pagoda was built in 1706 during the reign of King Le Du Tong. After enduring the ravages of time and war, it suffered significant damage. In 1988, it underwent substantial restoration, mostly using wooden materials. By 1993, Quang Ninh decided to rebuild the entire pagoda grounds, leaving only a stone incense burner, a memorial tablet for a Zen master, and a few stone pillars, which have survived as relics of the pagoda's history. In January 2011, to meet the needs of the monks and followers for meditation and to promote Buddhist teachings, the pagoda was rebuilt on a grand scale, becoming one of the most famous spiritual tourist destinations.

Ba Vang Pagoda is known for its unique architecture, including the largest wooden statue of Amitabha Buddha, which is regarded as the most impressive statue in the northern pagodas. There are also several grand statues over 2 meters tall, such as the statues of the Three Worlds and Avalokiteshvara. The largest statue of Avalokiteshvara stands at 10.8 meters tall, atop a lotus pedestal 2.8 meters high, weighing 80 tons. This statue is carved from solid granite and intricately detailed by skilled artisans.

Another fascinating feature is the giant well, which is said to never run dry: local legends claim that drinking from this well can cure all ailments, ensuring a long and healthy life. The Bell Tower and Drum Tower are adorned with delicate carvings. The tranquil atmosphere of this place is perfect for visitors to lose themselves in the peaceful surroundings. While the pagoda has undergone multiple restorations, it maintains its deep spiritual ambiance, even with a more modern design.

In addition, the pagoda is famous for having the largest religious hall on a mountain in Indochina, a sacred well, a spiritual spring garden, and a fountain. After worshiping Buddha, visitors should not miss the chance to admire the pristine natural beauty around. It promises excellent opportunities for memorable photographs. Serving as both a religious center and a popular tourist attraction, Ba Vang Pagoda also welcomes pilgrims from afar to practice and teach Buddhist wisdom, offering life lessons to the monks and followers.

Linh Ung Bai But Pagoda is a renowned temple located at the summit of Son Tra Mountain in Da Nang City. With its prime location, the pagoda offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding nature. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Da Nang City, the beautiful My Khe Beach, and the vast ocean. The pagoda, which was built in 2004, spans an area of 20 hectares and blends traditional and modern architectural styles. Situated on a hill shaped like a turtle facing the sea, with its back resting against the pristine forest of the Son Tra Nature Reserve, this is the largest pagoda in the city in terms of both scale and artistic value.

The architecture of the pagoda is finely crafted, with the main hall featuring a dragon-shaped curved roof, surrounded by sturdy, large columns. Three statues stand prominently: the statue of Shakyamuni Buddha in the center, Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva on the right, and Kshitigarbha Bodhisattva on the left. These statues, along with the Four Guardian Dragons and 18 Arhats, are intricately carved, exuding life-like beauty. The most distinctive feature of the Linh Ung Bai But Pagoda is the towering statue of Avalokiteshvara, the tallest in Southeast Asia (recognized by UNESCO), standing at 67 meters high with a lotus base diameter of 35 meters. Inside the statue, there are 12 floors, each with a shrine displaying Buddhist statues. The statue stands with its back to the mountain and faces the sea, its gentle eyes radiating compassion and mercy for all beings.

The pagoda’s ideal location, surrounded by a peaceful atmosphere with the sea and forest, captivates visitors. As soon as you enter the gate, the cool shade of trees welcomes you, and as you approach the temple, the air becomes more serene and respectful. Not only is it a scenic spot for tourists, but it is also considered one of Da Nang's most captivating spiritual destinations, a place where the energies of the earth and the heavens converge. It is also a place of worship, learning, and practice for the monks and Buddhist followers.

Nôm Pagoda, also known as Linh Thong Ancient Pagoda, is located in the Nôm village, Dai Hong commune. To the west, it borders Gia Lam district, Hanoi; to the south, it adjoins Hai Duong province, and to the north, it meets Bac Ninh province, making it very accessible. Nôm Pagoda covers an area of around 15 hectares, with the main complex spanning 8 hectares, housing many unique architectural features such as an ancient tower garden and the Quan Am Pavilion. The pagoda, as part of the Nôm village complex, carries a rustic charm reminiscent of traditional Vietnamese villages. Notably, its architecture remains deeply influenced by 18th-century Buddhist styles. In February 1994, Nôm Pagoda in Hung Yen was officially recognized by the Ministry of Culture and Information as a "Historical and Cultural Monument".

The pagoda still preserves many of the oldest statues in Vietnam, including a notable bronze statue of the Buddha, and intricately crafted statues such as the Cuu Long Buddha. It is estimated that the pagoda contains around 122 ancient statues made of clay, several centuries old, including representations of A Di Da, the Goddess of Mercy, the Three Worlds, the Eight Immortals, and the Eighteen Arhats.

Like many other pagodas in Vietnam, Nôm Pagoda has a main altar dedicated to the Buddha, but it also features altars to other deities such as the Holy Father and the Holy Mother. During major festivals like Buddha's Birthday or Vu Lan, the pagoda often hosts meaningful activities for worshippers, such as fish releases and Dharma talks, helping people better understand the profound values of Buddhism.

Ho Quoc Pagoda, Phu Quoc is located in Suoi Lon Hamlet, Duong To commune, Phu Quoc district, Kien Giang province, covering an area of 12 hectares. Visiting Ho Quoc Pagoda will leave you with a peaceful and relaxing feeling, where all your daily worries fade away thanks to the fresh air and breathtaking surroundings. Moreover, the blend of the ocean waves and the temple bells creates a sound that brings tranquility and reverence.

Construction of Ho Quoc Pagoda began on October 14, 2011, as part of the Truc Lam Zen Monastery complex. The architecture follows the design style of the Ly and Tran dynasties, with a strong influence from the Truc Lam Yen Tu Zen sect founded by King Phat Hoang Tran Nhan Tong in the 13th century. To enter the temple, visitors must pass through the Tam Quan Gate, which consists of three parts: the main gate (Cua Dia Giac), the left gate (Cua Bat Nhi), and the right gate (Cua Giai Thoat).

Upon entering, you will immediately see the magnificent statue of the Buddha made of jade, standing nearly 3 meters tall, under the shade of a Bodhi tree in the Heavenly Courtyard. The facial features of the statue are exquisitely carved with remarkable detail and soul. Moving inside, you will find a large open square, where a stunning relief of a dragon and blooming golden lotus flowers captures your attention. These carvings are finely and meticulously crafted, located between two stairways on either side. The corridor leading up is decorated with a winding dragon, symbolizing the supreme era of the Tran dynasty. As you reach the final step, take a moment to turn around and admire the view of Phu Quoc's coastline. The sensation of standing before the vast sea is unforgettable.

The overall architecture of the pagoda is constructed from lim wood and natural stone, carefully selected for their durability, with the wood lasting up to 1000 years. Designed in the style of the Ly and Tran periods, the pagoda complex includes: the Tam Quan Gate, the Heavenly Courtyard, the stairway, the bell tower, the drum tower, and the main hall. Inside the main hall, there are statues of the 18 Arhats, Bodhisattva of Wisdom, and the Bodhisattva of Universal Virtue. Visiting this pagoda not only provides a chance to pray for peace and serenity in life, but you can also enjoy the open, spacious atmosphere combined with the refreshing ocean breeze—a truly serene and unforgettable experience.

Truc Lam Tay Thien Zen Monastery is situated near the Tay Thien Ancient Temple site in Dai Dinh Commune, Tam Dao District, Vinh Phuc Province. Not only is it a revered destination for pilgrims, but it is also an ideal location to enjoy stunning scenic views. Covering about 4.5 hectares and surrounded by 50 hectares of forest, the monastery sits 300 meters above sea level.

The Truc Lam Zen Monastery system in Tay Thien comprises both male and female monastic temples. The complex includes various structures such as a main hall, exhibition hall, guest house, ceremonial gates, and bell tower. Inside the monastery, there are meditation halls, living quarters for monks, dining areas, and individual meditation cells. The intricate design and Eastern architectural style are highly praised for their craftsmanship and precision. Carvings and sculptures in the bell tower and sanctum offer glimpses into the past, attracting many visitors. Additionally, a unique octagonal-shaped library sits atop a hill, accompanied by a 35-meter-tall Buddha statue.

Notable structures around the monastery:

• Truc Lam An Tam Zen Monastery: constructed between 2009 and 2012 under the direction of Nun Thuần Giác, this monastery consists of a main hall for Buddha Sakyamuni, a guest house, an ancestral hall, and a dining hall. Meditation and nunnery rooms are also available for spiritual practice.
• Mandala Great Stupa: built in the Vajrayana architectural style, this 29-meter-high stupa spans over 1,500 square meters. It features three levels, each representing the six fundamental elements of the universe and life, collectively known as the “continent.” Many visitors come here to pray, reflect, and admire its grand design.
• Thong Temple: This temple serves as the entrance to the Truc Lam Tay Thien Zen Monastery. Its harmonious integration with nature provides a peaceful retreat. A standout feature is the ancient, centuries-old Banyan tree known as the “Chín Cội” that stands prominently in the courtyard.
• Upper Temple: Dedicated to the goddess of Tay Thien, this temple honors the deity who is revered as the protector of the region. According to legend, she assisted the king in driving away invaders, expanding the kingdom's borders, and teaching people the art of rice cultivation.

Buu Long Pagoda is located approximately 20 km from downtown Ho Chi Minh City, perched on a hilltop to the west of the Dong Nai River in District 9. Originally constructed in 1942, the pagoda underwent extensive restoration in 2007. Today, the pagoda spans about 11 hectares and is considered one of the largest, most beautiful, and famous pagodas in Saigon.

The architecture of Buu Long Pagoda is a remarkable blend of Thai and Indian cultural influences, combined with design elements from the Nguyen Dynasty, giving the pagoda its unique style. In 2019, National Geographic named it one of the ten most beautiful temples in the world. Many architectural features of the pagoda have been preserved in their original form, such as the grounds, the main hall, monk’s quarters, dining hall, and private meditation rooms.

Situated by the river, with stairways adorned with dragon carvings, the pagoda is reflected in a tranquil turquoise pond, with its pristine white structure and golden Gotama Cetiya Stupa shining brightly in the sun. This stupa houses many precious Buddhist relics, including the remains of past abbots, pearls, and small crystals. The pagoda’s large central pond adds to its serenity, with intricately carved designs around the edges, creating a majestic and solemn atmosphere.

Despite its proximity to the city center, Buu Long Pagoda is surrounded by lush greenery, providing a peaceful, open environment. Its serene setting makes it a popular destination for pilgrims seeking refuge from the bustling city life, offering a place for meditation and spiritual cleansing. A distinguishing feature of Buu Long Pagoda is its tranquil atmosphere. Unlike traditional temples where incense fills the air, Buu Long Pagoda is free from the smoke of incense, offering visitors a pure and peaceful space to worship without the need for incense or offerings. This unique aspect enhances the peaceful, meditative ambiance, allowing visitors to leave behind the stresses and worries of everyday life.

Tam Chuc Pagoda is situated in Ba Sao town, Kim Bang district, Ha Nam province, and is renowned as one of the largest temples in the world. Covering an expansive area of 144 hectares out of the total 5,100 hectares of the Tam Chuc National Tourism Area, it boasts a grand scale that blends spirituality, nature, and leisure, offering a range of services across six functional zones. These include a central welcome area, the Tam Chuc cultural and spiritual site, the Quen Vong nature reserve and Tam Chuc lake, a wellness resort, a community tourism zone, the Kim Bang golf course and Ba Hang lake, and a logistics service center for tourism operations in Ba Sao town.

Tam Chuc Pagoda is dedicated to prominent Buddhist figures such as Masters Da Ma, Nguyen Minh Khong, Khuong Viet, Thich Thanh Tu, and Do Phap Thuang, all of whom are renowned for their significant contributions to the development of Buddhism in Vietnam. In front of the Tam The Hall, there is a 2,125-year-old Bodhi tree, gifted by the Speaker of the Parliament of Sri Lanka, which has become a national treasure of the country.

The original Tam Chuc Pagoda, built during the Dinh Dynasty, is tied to the legend "Tien Luc Nhac - Hau That Tinh". It is located on a range of 99 mountains to the southwest, near Tam Chuc village, where seven mountains face the Perfume Pagoda. The newly constructed Tam Chuc Pagoda features several key structures such as the Tam Quan gate, Sutra Pillar Garden, Avalokitesvara Hall, Dharma Lord Hall, Tam The Hall, and the Jade Stupa. Positioned to the west, it overlooks the vast Tam Chuc Lake, and its scenic beauty is complemented by the majestic limestone mountain backdrop. The surrounding natural forest creates a tranquil atmosphere for meditation, offering visitors a peaceful retreat from the stresses of daily life.

Visitors to Tam Chuc Pagoda can engage in various activities like praying for peace, enjoying boat rides around the lake, and exploring the surrounding area. As a popular tourist destination, Tam Chuc in Ha Nam offers several fascinating attractions, such as the Tam Quan gate, the Thuy Dinh guest house, Sutra Pillar Garden, Lang Giang Temple, Phuc Long Cave, Ngoc Mountain, and Ba Danh Pagoda.

Bai Dinh Pagoda is located on Bai Dinh Mountain in Gia Sinh commune, Gia Vien district, Ninh Binh, and holds the title of the largest pagoda in Vietnam. The total area of Bai Dinh Pagoda reaches 539 hectares, with the new pagoda area covering 80 hectares and the old pagoda area spanning 27 hectares, along with other structures. The architectural design of Bai Dinh Pagoda today is regarded as a standard for traditional pagoda architecture in Vietnam.

Situated within the Trang An scenic complex, Bai Dinh Pagoda rests peacefully on the slopes of Bai Dinh Mountain, surrounded by vast valleys, tranquil lakes, and serene limestone mountain ranges. With a history of over 1,000 years, the pagoda is deeply intertwined with the three major feudal dynasties of Vietnam, including the Dinh, Early Le, and Ly Dynasties. The pagoda was founded in 1136 by Zen master Nguyen Minh Khong. Surrounding the pagoda are many significant architectural works and spiritual sites such as the Ngoc Well, the Ancestor Worship Cave, the Buddha Cave, the Mother Worship Cave, and the Cao Son Deity altar.

The new Bai Dinh Pagoda features a larger scale with many famous architectural structures, including the Tam Quan gate, the Bell Tower, the Quan Am Hall, the Dharma Lord Hall, the Tam The Hall, the Stupa, and the Arhat Corridor. Additionally, Bai Dinh Pagoda holds several records, including: the largest gold-plated bronze Buddha statue in Asia, the largest bronze Maitreya Buddha statue in Southeast Asia, the largest bronze bell in Vietnam, the tallest Stupa in Asia, and the longest Arhat Corridor in Asia.

Bai Dinh Pagoda is one of the most beloved spiritual sites in Ninh Binh. Not only is it linked to ancient stories of the early days of Buddhism in Vietnam, but it also boasts numerous meaningful structures and majestic, poetic landscapes. If you visit Ninh Binh during the Lunar New Year, don't miss the opportunity to explore Bai Dinh Pagoda and its surroundings.

Huong Pagoda is located within the vast Huong Son scenic complex, in Huong Son commune, My Duc district, Hanoi. The entire Huong Son complex spans nearly 4,000 hectares, with the pagoda itself occupying a smaller portion of this area. The pagoda was originally constructed at the end of the 17th century, but due to the impact of the French resistance, it was nearly destroyed. The current structure was rebuilt and restored under the guidance of the late Venerable Thich Thanh Chan in 1988.

Surrounded by the Yên Stream valley, the Huong Pagoda complex consists of both the Outside Pagoda (Chùa Ngoài) and the Inside Pagoda (Chùa Trong). The Outside Pagoda, also known as the Chùa Trò, features a grand entrance gate and a bell tower at the third courtyard. While the Outside Pagoda has been renovated by human hands, the Inside Pagoda, located inside the Hương Tích cave, is a stunning natural masterpiece, with awe-inspiring ancient caves that captivate visitors. To reach the Hương Tích cave, visitors must navigate steep stone steps, embodying the belief that only through hardship can one reach purity. Despite the challenging terrain, the difficulty has never deterred pilgrims from making the journey. Historically, the cave was a favorite retreat for emperors, and in 1770, King Trinh Sam left an inscription here that read “Nam Thiên Đệ Nhất Động” (The First Cave in the South), a title that has since been passed down.

Huong Pagoda attracts many visitors during the spring season, with peak crowds in the 2nd and 3rd lunar months, when the scenery and weather are at their best for sightseeing. The Huong Pagoda Festival begins on the 6th day of the first lunar month and ends in late March. The festival features various cultural activities, including chèo singing and traditional folk performances, alongside sports competitions such as mountain climbing and boat races. Historically, the festival was held to celebrate the opening of the mountains and forests, but today it symbolizes the opening of the pagoda to allow people to pray for prosperity, wealth, and family peace.

Huong Pagoda is truly a tranquil sanctuary that every Buddhist disciple seeks to visit. As tourism in Vietnam continues to expand and connect with the world, Huong Pagoda has become a prominent destination for international visitors, offering an opportunity to explore the cultural heritage and enjoy the serene beauty of the temple.