Tourist Attractions

Doi Son Pagoda: A Spiritual Gem Amid Northern Vietnam's Scenic Hills

Update: 25/06/2025
Nestled atop Doi Mountain in Ha Nam Province, Doi Son Pagoda (Long Doi Son Tu) is one of the oldest and most revered Buddhist temples in Northern Vietnam. Built in 1031 during the Ly Dynasty, this ancient pagoda offers not only spiritual refuge but also a window into Vietnam’s rich cultural and historical past.

With its unique location—backed by green hills and overlooking vast rice fields—the pagoda embodies the ideal feng shui concept of “resting on the mountain, facing the water.” Visitors reach the summit by climbing more than 300 stone steps, winding through lush, peaceful paths that prepare the soul for the tranquility above.

Doi Son Pagoda is closely linked to Zen Master Nguyen Minh Khong, a legendary monk known as the founder of bronze casting in Vietnam and a key figure in Vietnamese Buddhism. Its architecture still reflects the elegance of the Ly Dynasty, with curved tiled roofs, finely carved stone pillars, and centuries-old Buddha statues.

One of its most significant relics is the Sung Thien Dien Linh stele, erected in 1121. Recognized as a National Treasure, the stele records the pagoda’s restoration and conveys the humanitarian and patriotic values of the Ly era.

Every year on the 21st day of the third lunar month, Doi Son Pagoda comes alive with its traditional festival, attracting thousands of pilgrims and tourists. The event features solemn Buddhist ceremonies alongside vibrant cultural activities like dragon dancing, wrestling, folk singing, and palanquin processions.

With its ancient charm, serene atmosphere, and historical legacy, Doi Son Pagoda is not just a place of worship—it’s a journey into Vietnam’s spiritual and cultural soul. A must-visit destination for those seeking peace, history, and a deeper connection with the past.

Source: Thuy Tien
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