Top 9 Most Beautiful Mountain Temples in Vietnam

Dai Tue Pagoda is located on the peak of Mount Dai Hue, standing 500 meters above sea level. It features an artificial lake, calligraphy couplets, and statues made of ruby and mulberry wood, which have earned it recognition in Vietnam's records. Covering an area of 6,000 square meters, Dai Tue Pagoda sits on the top of Thang Thien Cave, in the Dai Hue mountain range, Nam Anh commune, Nam Dan district, Nghệ An. The site is a famous scenic spot, with breathtaking views from its altitude of 500 meters above sea level.

In 2011, the temple's reconstruction began, comprising four parts: the Trình, Lower, Middle, and Upper pagodas. After four years of construction, the temple was completed. The entrance is marked by a three-tiered gate with stylized decorative patterns. Visitors can view the temple’s architecture from the entrance. In front of the gate and at various points in the temple's yard, large statues of the Arhats, carved from solid stone and standing over 2 meters tall, are displayed. Below these statues, inscriptions with verses encourage people to live with virtue.

A standout feature of the pagoda is the nine-story Dai Tue Stupa, standing at 32 meters, which enshrines Buddha along with national heroes. On the way up to the stupa, a stone-built tomb can be found. Legend has it that Emperor Canh Thinh (King Quang Toan, son of King Quang Trung), pursued by Nguyen forces, fled to Mount Dai Hue and became a monk at Dai Tue Pagoda. After his death, the local people buried him and erected a tomb at this site. Inside the nine-story stupa, dozens of statues of Buddha, carved from solid ruby, are on display. The main hall, the ancestral hall, and the temple dedicated to the Five Emperors house 32 statues of Buddha made from solid mulberry wood. The surrounding buildings feature an array of traditional Vietnamese calligraphy couplets. To the right of the buildings, the 350-square-meter Tien Lake contributes to the serene environment of the temple grounds.

On February 19, 2016, the Vietnam Record Organization confirmed four Vietnamese records for Dai Tue Pagoda, including: the pagoda with the most ruby statues, the pagoda with the most mulberry wood Buddha statues, the pagoda with the most traditional Vietnamese calligraphy couplets, and the pagoda with the largest artificial lake on a mountain. Visitors to the pagoda can also enjoy cloud hunting and admire the winding roads surrounding Mount Dai Hue, along with the picturesque rural scenery of Nam Dan district.

Linh Ung Bai But Pagoda is a renowned temple located on the peak of Son Tra Mountain in Da Nang city. Thanks to its prime location, the temple offers a breathtaking natural view. From its high vantage point, visitors can admire the entire city of Da Nang, the charming My Khe Beach, and the vast surrounding sea. Built in 2004, the temple spans approximately 20 hectares, blending traditional and modern architectural styles. Situated atop a hill shaped like a turtle facing the sea, the temple is backed by the pristine forest of Son Tra Nature Reserve. It is regarded as the largest and most artistically significant temple in the city.

The architectural features are intricately designed, with the main hall featuring a roof tiled with curved dragon-shaped tiles, supported by sturdy columns. The three main statues – the central one of Buddha Shakyamuni, the Guanyin Bodhisattva on the right, and the Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva on the left – are meticulously carved, full of life and vitality. Additionally, the Four Dragon-Guarding Deities and 18 Arhat statues are similarly detailed. The most striking feature of the Linh Ung Bai But Pagoda complex is the tallest Guanyin statue in Southeast Asia (recognized by UNESCO), standing at 67 meters tall with a lotus diameter of 35 meters. Inside the statue, there are 12 levels, each housing a set of Buddha statues. The statue stands with its back against the mountain, facing the sea, its compassionate gaze offering mercy to all beings.

Thanks to its ideal location, surrounded by tranquil seas and mountains, the temple has become a must-visit for travelers. From the moment you step through the gate, you’ll be enveloped by cool shade from the trees. As you approach the temple, a serene and solemn atmosphere fills the air. Not only is it a scenic destination for visitors, but it is also considered a spiritual pilgrimage site in Da Nang, where the harmony of heaven, earth, and humanity converge. Additionally, it serves as a place of worship, study, and practice for monks and Buddhists.

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. Covering a vast area of 539 hectares, the Bai Dinh complex comprises the new pagoda spanning 80 hectares and the ancient pagoda over 27 hectares, alongside other structures. The pagoda's architecture has become the benchmark for traditional Vietnamese pagoda design.

Part of the Tràng An Scenic Landscape Complex, Bai Dinh Pagoda sits at the western gateway of the ancient capital Hoa Lu. Nestled on the peaceful slopes of Bai Dinh Mountain, it is surrounded by expansive valleys, serene lakes, and limestone mountain ranges. Having stood for over a millennium, the pagoda is closely linked with three prominent dynasties of Vietnam's history: the Dinh, Pre-Le, and Ly Dynasties. Established in 1136 by the Zen master Nguyễn Minh Không, the pagoda is surrounded by a myriad of other architectural and spiritual landmarks, including the Jade Well, the Ancestral Cave, the Buddha Cave, the Mother Goddess Cave, and the Cao Sơn Saint's Altar.

The modern Bai Dinh Pagoda features even grander architecture, including famous structures like the Three-Gate Entrance, the Bell Tower, the Avalokiteshvara Hall, the Patriarch Hall, the Three-Venerables Hall, the Stupa, and the Arhat Corridor. Additionally, Bai Dinh has set numerous records, such as housing the largest gold-plated bronze Buddha statue in Asia, the largest bronze Maitreya Buddha in Southeast Asia, the largest bronze bell in Vietnam, the tallest stupa in Asia, the largest pagoda complex in Vietnam, and the longest Arhat Corridor in Asia.

Bai Dinh Pagoda is one of the most beloved spiritual landmarks in the Ninh Binh region. It not only preserves the rich historical ties to the early days of Buddhism in Vietnam but also offers an extraordinary array of meaningful architecture and stunning natural landscapes. If you happen to visit Ninh Binh during the Lunar New Year, don't miss the opportunity to experience the tranquil beauty of Bai Dinh Pagoda.

Truc Lam Zen Monastery is nestled atop the Phung Hoang Mountain, surrounded by lush pine forests with panoramic views of the tranquil Tuyen Lam Lake. Truc Lam Zen Monastery is a peaceful sanctuary perched on the hills of Da Lat. Located on Truc Lam Yen Tu Street in Ward 3, Da Lat City, the monastery spans 30 hectares and was founded in 1994. It is one of the largest Zen monasteries in Vietnam, following the Truc Lam Yen Tu lineage.

The monastery consists of four main sections: the Abbot's area, the male monks' quarters, the female monks' quarters, and the outer area. The architecture is distinctively influenced by Buddhist design principles. To enter the monastery, visitors must ascend over 140 stone steps, passing through three gates, known as the Sơ, Trùng, and Lao gates. These gates represent the three core Buddhist truths of Impermanence, Non-Self, and Suffering, symbolizing the obstacles one must overcome to attain enlightenment. The main hall, which covers an area of 192 square meters, houses a statue of Buddha Sakyamuni, approximately 2 meters tall, with his right hand raised, holding a lotus branch. This representation is inspired by the Buddha during the Linh Son Dharma Assembly. Flanking the statue are paintings of the Bodhisattva Manjusri riding a lion and the Bodhisattva Samantabhadra riding a six-tusked white elephant. Above the main hall is a relief depicting the eight manifestations of the Buddha, along with intricately crafted wooden altars. The architectural details of the main hall are beautifully carved and elegant.

Surrounded by vast pine forests, green hills, and a serene lake, the monastery offers a calm and contemplative atmosphere, enhanced by the soothing sound of temple bells. This tranquil environment allows visitors to shed their worries and experience peace and stillness. Additionally, Truc Lam Zen Monastery has become a spiritual tourism destination in Da Lat, with a cable car system connecting the foot of Prenn Pass to the monastery, as well as a garden filled with unique flowers. An interesting feature of the monastery is its openness to guests who wish to stay for a few days to meditate and reconnect with their inner selves. Visitors can stay in guesthouses on the hillside, living and dining like the monks and nuns of the temple.

In addition to exploring spirituality and meditation, visitors can also savor the vegetarian cuisine at Truc Lam Zen Monastery. The vegetarian dishes are not only delicious but also provide a sense of tranquility and refreshment for the body. Traditional dishes like vegetarian spring rolls, stir-fried noodles, and delightful desserts are available. Moreover, the monastery offers the opportunity to learn about the teachings and meditation methods of the Buddha. Visitors can participate in meditation sessions and teachings from experienced monks and instructors. This is a wonderful opportunity to deepen one's spiritual understanding and practice compassion and mindfulness.

Hang Pagoda (Phuoc Dien Tu) is situated on the slopes of Sam Mountain, and it has been recognized as a National Historical and Cultural Monument, becoming a shining example of spiritual tourism in An Giang. Hang Pagoda (Phuoc Dien Tu) enjoys a picturesque setting on the mountainside, offering stunning panoramic views. It is set against the backdrop of the mountain with a serene, solemn, and spacious atmosphere. Surrounding the pagoda is the Sam Mountain Tourist Area, with lush green forests and towering peaks, painting a perfect natural landscape that adds to the beauty of this ancient temple.

To reach the pagoda, visitors must climb a series of steep stone steps, which, though challenging, reward with a breathtaking view once you reach the temple's grounds. The pagoda opens up to a vast area with fresh air, unique architecture, and vibrant bougainvillea. What sets Hang Pagoda apart is its distinctive design. The pagoda is built with multiple levels, following a pathway that runs along steep cliffs, turning the mountain and its rocky walls into a grand natural sculpture, sheltering the temple.

Hang Pagoda features dedicated altars for Buddha Metteya, Avalokitesvara, and the Four Guardian Deities, all overlooking the foot of the mountain. Deeper within the temple grounds, two brightly colored stupas stand, their intricate carvings paying homage to the two key figures in the temple's history: Lady Dieu Thien and the monk Thich Hue Thien, both instrumental in its construction. The main hall of Hang Pagoda (Phuoc Dien Tu) is modest in size but grand in spirit, adorned with artistic reliefs. It houses a statue of Sakyamuni Buddha, along with several other deities guarding the temple. In front of the pagoda stands a 20-meter-high flagpole, flanked by white statues of various mythical creatures. Below the steps, two lifelike lion statues stand guard.

Beyond the main hall, a small shrine is nestled beside a natural cave, which is also the source of the temple's name. Inside the cave, two more altars and large statues of the Thanh Xa and Bach Xa snakes are placed, their eyes glowing eerily with the light of lamps, adding a mystical spiritual aura. In addition to the main worship areas, Hang Pagoda (Phuoc Dien Tu) now offers additional facilities where visitors can rest or even stay overnight.

Dong Yen Tu Pagoda is nestled atop a towering mountain peak and stands as a proud symbol of Vietnamese Buddhist culture. It is the very place where King Phat Hoang Tran Nhan Tong abdicated his throne to meditate and founded the unique Truc Lam Yen Tu Zen school, which remains prominent in Vietnam today. This temple is distinguished by its unique architecture, entirely made of bronze, and its position atop the highest peak in the area. As a result, this temple has earned the title of the largest bronze pagoda in Vietnam and Asia.

Dong Yen Tu Pagoda is not only a historical landmark but also a spiritual center for the Vietnamese people. It was originally constructed in the 17th century by the empress consort of Lord Trinh but was later destroyed by natural disasters and human hands. In 1930, the pagoda was rebuilt with a concrete and bronze structure, and it was not until 2005 that Quang Ninh's local government fully restored it to its original design. The pagoda is officially named Thien Truc Tu, meaning the sanctuary of the Buddha, and it is regarded as a supreme spiritual site. It is believed that Dong Yen Tu Pagoda has the power to summon the wind and rain for the country, and it is a place to draw cosmic energy for life’s prosperity.

From January to March of the lunar calendar, Dong Yen Tu Pagoda hosts a grand festival that attracts millions of pilgrims. The festival begins with solemn rituals at the base of the mountain and continues with the arduous ascent to the peak of Yen Son. This is a deeply spiritual and cultural journey that mesmerizes both local and international visitors. If you visit the Yen Tu tourist area, you can reach the pagoda by either walking or taking the cable car. Walking will require you to climb many rugged, steep stone paths, but it rewards you with the full experience of the natural beauty of the mountains and temples along the way. Alternatively, taking the cable car saves time and energy, though it sacrifices some of the pilgrimage experience. You can choose either or combine both methods to reach Dong Yen Tu Pagoda.

Upon visiting Kim Son Bao Thang Pagoda, you will be awestruck by a sacred architectural masterpiece that stands prominently amidst the green expanse of mountains. This place exudes an ethereal charm, where every visitor uncovers a profound connection to both grandeur and spirituality. The pagoda was constructed in accordance with the distinctive and ancient architectural traditions of Vietnam, drawing upon the finest cultural elements of the past. Moreover, it is situated at the summit of Fansipan, blending harmoniously with its natural surroundings. This perfect union has resulted in an awe-inspiring complex that leaves a lasting impression on all who visit.

The front of the pagoda primarily serves as a space for Buddha worship, while the rear is dedicated to honoring the Saints. Consequently, locals often refer to it as the “Buddha in the front, Saints in the back” temple. At the heart of the pagoda, you will find numerous Buddha statues, each crafted with incredible skill by artisans. The layout adheres to the traditions of the Northern sect, making it visually appealing and easy to appreciate. Kim Son Bao Thang Pagoda consists of five chambers, with a spacious courtyard that stretches nearly 30 meters. The roofs are constructed from raw wood or glazed bricks. Additionally, the path leading up to the pagoda is divided into several shorter segments, with resting spots for visitors along the way. During these rest stops, visitors can enjoy the surrounding mountain scenery and capture memorable photos.

In addition to its striking architectural design, visiting Kim Son Bao Thang Pagoda allows you to immerse yourself in the majestic environment of Northwestern Vietnam. As it sits atop Fansipan, it is often regarded as one of the most impressive destinations in Lao Cai. Especially during the early mornings, the sight of white clouds and mist enveloping the pagoda adds an aura of mysticism, tempting every traveler to return. From the summit, visitors can marvel at the sprawling mountain views that are unlike any other.

Located within the historical and cultural landmark of Ba Den Mountain in Tay Ninh Province, the Ba Den Pagoda Complex is a remarkable collection of religious architecture nestled in the 'sacred land.' Ba Den Pagoda, which traces its origins to 1745, was officially built in 1763. Over the years, it has undergone numerous restorations, the most recent being in 1997. Today, it stands as one of the oldest pagodas in Tay Ninh, showcasing the distinctive architectural style of traditional Vietnamese pagodas.

When talking about the Ba Den Pagoda Complex, one cannot overlook the Linh Son Tien Thach Pagoda, also known as the Ba Den Pagoda, which is the oldest temple in the fertile land of Tay Ninh. Built in 1763 and last renovated in 1997, it is dedicated to Linh Son Thanh Mau, also known as Ba Den – the goddess closely associated with the sacredness of the entire site.

Visiting this ancient temple offers more than just an exploration of its vast spiritual space, located at an elevation of 350 meters on the mountainside. It also provides the opportunity to admire the unique religious architecture and worship the finely crafted Buddha statues. One of the key highlights of Linh Son Tien Thach Pagoda is the Linh Son Thanh Mau shrine, which is nestled inside a magnificent cave and is flanked by two green stone pillars dating back to the Tổ Tâm Hòa period. These pillars feature intricate carvings of coiling dragons, a testament to the skill of the craftsmen. Be sure not to miss the chance to marvel at these captivating sculptures while visiting the temple.

The Linh Phong Zen Monastery is a famous temple in Vietnam, located atop Ba Na Mountain within the Ba Na Hills tourist complex. Situated at an elevation of about 1500 meters above sea level, the monastery offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, with a misty, ethereal landscape that feels like a scene from a celestial paradise.

Today, Linh Phong Zen Monastery has become one of the top attractions in Da Nang. Visitors can access the temple by taking a cable car ride. Once there, you’ll be treated to a stunning, majestic view of Ba Na Mountain, especially during the early morning when thick layers of white mist engulf the area. The highlight of this mountaintop temple in Vietnam is the towering 27-meter statue of the Buddha, Sakyamuni, seated on a 6-meter lotus pedestal. Beneath the statue are eight bas-reliefs depicting the life of Buddha, the founder of Buddhism. The statue was meticulously sculpted by skilled artisans and stands proudly atop Ba Na Mountain.

Visiting Linh Phong Zen Monastery offers a peaceful immersion into nature’s tranquil beauty, where visitors can admire the delicate architectural details of the temple. Surrounded by a vast, cool, and serene atmosphere, the sound of the temple’s bell echoing from the Bell Tower brings a sense of inner peace to all who come to pay their respects.