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Khmer Temples in the Mekong Delta region hold a unique significance. Each temple erected represents the collective effort of generations living in this land, as temples serve as strongholds for the people, where they practice their most sacred beliefs.
During several visits to Soc Trang with friends, we explored Som Rong Pagoda, the most famous Khmer Mahayana temple in Soc Trang today.
Insight into Som Rong Pagoda in Soc Trang
Sóc Trăng, a vibrant land where the Khmer community thrives, boasts majestic Khmer pagodas and intricate Buddhist structures that resonate with centuries of history. Amongst the plethora of Khmer pagodas in the city, Som Rong Pagoda stands out as the most remarkable, renowned among tourists and locals alike for its grandeur and cultural significance.
Som Rong Pagoda, known in full as Wat Pătum Wôngsa Som Rông in Khmer, holds tales of ancient origins when it was but a humble thatched-roof sanctuary, passed down through generations.
During the reign of Supreme Patriarch Lý Đức, the pagoda underwent a grand reconstruction, expanding on vast grounds. In the year 2000, construction commenced for a new main hall, followed by the assembly hall in 2013, alongside the construction of a majestic stupa and the largest reclining Buddha statue in Vietnam.
Exploring the corners of Som Rong Pagoda.
With over two decades of construction, Som Rong Pagoda has now become the epitome of spiritual pride for the locals. For tourists visiting Sóc Trăng, this pagoda stands as a proud symbol, showcasing the essence of Southern Khmer pagodas and the beauty of Vietnamese pagodas to the world through its outstanding architectural achievements.
The Most Remarkable Structures of Som Rong Pagoda
A stroll through Som Rong Pagoda reveals its immense scale and meticulous attention to detail in every architectural aspect, along with a striking fusion of vibrant colors.
The Stupa of Serenity
Located at the entrance, the Stupa captivates with its four-faced structure, each side adorned with ascending pathways, striking in its grayish-white hue. Rising gradually over seven tiers, the central focal point of the Stupa features a seated image of Lord Buddha surrounded by lotus blossoms.
The impressive Stupa enthralls visitors with its intricate carvings, bringing every detail to life with stylized lotus flowers, intertwining vines along the edges, decorative flames, and celestial beings. Beyond its remarkable carvings, the Stupa is further adorned with colorful flags on significant ceremonial days.
The Main Hall
Facing the Stupa and positioned to the left of the entrance, the Main Hall exudes solemnity with its deep reddish-brown hues and glistening golden accents. Stretching 5 meters wide and over 20 meters long, the Main Hall commands attention.
The exterior of the Main Hall leaves a lasting impression with its vibrant decorative motifs, winding pathways, and columns adorned with classical patterns, depicting murals of the Buddha and scenes from daily life. At the forefront of the Main Hall sits an image of Lord Buddha's Birth, stepping upon a lotus pedestal.
Viewing the Main Hall from the Stupa
Ascending to the Main Hall
Ascending to the Main Hall
The right corner of the Main Hall offers a cool spot to rest and snap some hidden check-in photos.
On either side of the Main Hall are two corridors. The corridor on the right provides a view of the Stupa, Sala Hall, and the towering Buddha statue in reclining posture; it's a picturesque spot often overlooked by many. Upcoming renovations will revitalize the Main Hall and the temple's library.
Sala Hall
The Sala Hall, an impressive structure completed over a span of more than four years (2013-2017), is expansive and serves as a venue for traditional temple activities, lectures, and community gatherings.
The architecture of the Sala Hall impresses visitors with its grandeur, scale, and vibrant colors. However, few are aware that this structure is entirely based on traditional architecture, seamlessly blending modern structural elements to create a functional interior space.
Sala Hall
The apex of the Sala Hall roof
The Sala Hall boasts two floors, multiple layers of roofing, and a striking combination of colors to create a distinctive appearance. Leveraging traditional Khmer temple decoration techniques, the Sala Hall is adorned with intricate details.
Entering through the staircase, visitors are greeted by divine dragon decorations, with the first-tier roof adorned with Naga serpent figures. The second-tier roof features floating Apsara dancers, while along the edge of the tiled roof are depictions of divine dragons and birds. Each roof ridge is sculpted into sharp mountain peaks.
At the peak of the temple roof are five parallel stupas: two in front, three behind, each with five tiers. In the center sits the blessed statue of Lord Buddha Thích Ca Mâu Ni, riding atop a nine-headed serpent.
The Largest Giant Buddha Statue in Vietnam
The reclining Buddha statue at Som Rong Pagoda is its most distinctive feature. Standing at 63 meters long and 18 meters tall, it's considered the largest reclining Buddha statue in Vietnam. This remarkable structure has garnered attention from tourists far and wide, attracting not only travelers but also professional photographers seeking captivating moments.
Captivating Photography Spots on the Path to the Buddha Statue at Som Rong Pagoda
Intricate Bas-reliefs and Decorative Motifs at Som Rong Pagoda
The Religious Activity Space at Som Rong Pagoda
For the Khmer people, religious rituals hold the utmost sanctity in their lives. All significant ceremonies are conducted at the pagoda, making it central to their existence. They contribute tirelessly to its construction and maintenance, united by an invisible bond of faith. Every year, the Khmer community observes numerous important religious festivals at the pagoda, including:
Among all the festivals at Southern Khmer pagodas, the Ok Om Bok Festival attracts visitors from all over to experience the festivities, indulge in culinary delights, and enjoy the celebrations in Soc Trang.
Best Time to Visit Som Rong Pagoda
Soc Trang is renowned for scorching heat, so choosing the right time to visit is crucial. For daytime visits, it's best to come between 7 to 9 in the morning or 3:30 to 5:30 in the afternoon to avoid the intense heat.
Summer here lasts from March to July and is extremely hot. From August to the end of the year, sporadic rains help alleviate the heat. When visiting Som Rong Pagoda or other attractions in Soc Trang, be prepared for the intense heat.
Location of Som Rong Pagoda
Som Rong Pagoda is situated at 367 Ton Duc Thang Street, Ward 5, Soc Trang City. Finding the pagoda is easy with its precise location on Google Maps under the same name!
When visiting the pagoda, drive in and you'll see beverage stalls where you can park your vehicle and explore. Upon leaving, consider supporting the vendors by purchasing a drink.
Guidelines for Visiting Som Rong Pagoda
Som Rong Pagoda (Wat Pătum Wôngsa Som Rông) is an intriguing stop on the Soc Trang tourism journey, with ancient, sacred temples and unique architecture. When in Soc Trang, don't forget to visit this place!
Author: Tran Thanh Dien
*Article participating in the Mytour Golocal program
Mytour Golocal is a blog writing program introducing beautiful destinations across Vietnam, as part of the Mytour Go & Share program. This is a great opportunity to promote local tourism to everyone. For each qualifying article, you will receive 800,000 VND and the chance to become a collaborator with Mytour. For more details about the program, see: https://trv.lk/golocal
