Temples in Vietnam

Buddhism isn’t just a religion in Vietnam – it’s a living, breathing part of daily life that shapes the soul of this S-shaped country. Although Vietnam isn’t officially a Buddhist nation, the gentle wisdom and core values of Buddhism flow through the hearts of its people, influencing everything from family traditions to community celebrations. To truly experience the spirit and cultural identity of Vietnam, there’s nothing quite like exploring the Buddhist temples scattered across the country.

Discover the beauty and serenity of temples in Vietnam—must-visit destinations for culture lovers and travelers alike.

Huong Pagoda (Ha Noi)

Huong Pagoda (Perfume Pagoda) is a renowned Buddhist temple complex located in the limestone mountains of Huong Son Commune, My Duc District, Hanoi. Dating back to the 17th century, the pagoda is famous for its stunning natural scenery, with temples and shrines nestled among caves and rivers. Huong Pagoda is a major pilgrimage site, especially during the annual Huong Pagoda Festival, when thousands of visitors come to pray for luck, health, and prosperity. The site is not only significant for its spiritual value but also admired for its harmonious blend of architecture and nature.

• Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily
• Location: Huong Son Commune, My Duc District, Hanoi
• Entrance fee: 80,000 VND (includes scenic area access)
• Boat fee: 50,000 VND for main boat route (entrance to pagoda)
• Festival: 6th day of 1st lunar month to end of 3rd lunar month (main day: 15th day of 2nd lunar month)

Mot Cot Pagoda (Ha Noi)

Mot Cot Pagoda (One Pillar Pagoda) is one of the most famous Buddhist temples in Hanoi, Vietnam. Built in 1049 under the reign of Emperor Ly Thai Tong, the pagoda is renowned for its unique architecture: a small wooden temple perched on a single stone pillar, designed to resemble a blooming lotus flower. This design symbolizes purity and enlightenment in Buddhism. The pagoda is not only a significant religious site but also an important historical and cultural symbol of Hanoi.

• Location: Ba Dinh District, Hanoi, Vietnam
• Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily
• Ticket price: 25,000 VND per foreign visitor; free entry for Vietnamese citizens

Tran Quoc Pagoda (Ha Noi)

Tran Quoc Pagoda is the oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi, located on a small island in West Lake, Tay Ho District. Originally constructed in the 6th century during the reign of Emperor Ly Nam De, the pagoda is renowned for its elegant architecture, featuring an 11-story red brick stupa and beautiful lotus ponds. Tran Quoc Pagoda is not only a spiritual center but also a symbol of Vietnamese history and culture, attracting both pilgrims and tourists with its peaceful atmosphere and scenic surroundings.

• Location: Thanh Nien Road, Tay Ho District, Hanoi, Vietnam
• Opening hours: Daily from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM
• Entrance fee: Free for all visitors

Quan Su Pagoda (Ha Noi)

Quan Su Pagoda is a prominent Buddhist temple located in the heart of Hanoi. Originally built in the 15th century as a place to receive foreign envoys, the pagoda later became a significant religious center. Today, it serves as the headquarters of the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha. Quan Su Pagoda is known for its tranquil atmosphere, traditional Vietnamese architecture, and role as a focal point for major Buddhist ceremonies and events in the city.

• Location: 73 Quan Su Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi, Vietnam
• Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM daily
• Entrance fee: Free for all visitors

Tay Phuong Pagoda (Ha Noi)

Tay Phuong Pagoda is a historic Buddhist temple located on Tay Phuong Hill in Thach Xa Commune, Thach That District, Hanoi. Built in the 8th century and renovated in the 18th century, the pagoda is famous for its unique architecture with three parallel ancient wooden halls and its collection of 62 exquisite wooden statues, including many Arhat figures. Tay Phuong Pagoda is celebrated for its artistic and historical value, representing traditional Vietnamese Buddhist architecture and sculpture.

• Location: Thạch Xá Commune, Thạch Thất District, Hanoi, Vietnam
• Opening hours: Daily from 6:00 AM – 5:30 PM
• Entrance fee: 10,000 VND per person (applies to both domestic and international visitors)
• Main Festival Period: Annually 6th–10th lunar month of the 3rd lunar month, with the 6th day being the highlight.

Thay Pagoda

Thay Pagoda is an ancient Buddhist temple located at the foot of Sai Son Mountain in Quoc Oai District, Hanoi. Founded in the 11th century during the Ly dynasty, the pagoda is closely associated with Zen master Tu Dao Hanh, a revered monk and legendary figure in Vietnamese Buddhism. Thay Pagoda is famous for its picturesque setting, traditional architecture, stone bridges, and its connection to water puppet performances. It is not only a spiritual site but also a popular destination for visitors seeking tranquility and cultural heritage.

• Location: Sài Sơn Commune, Quốc Oai District, Hanoi, Vietnam
• Opening hours: Daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Entrance fee: 10,000 VND per person; free for children
• Main Festival Period: Annually from 5th to 7th day of the 3rd lunar month, with the 7th day as the core festival day.

Bai Dinh Pagoda (Ninh Binh)

Bai Dinh Pagoda is a vast Buddhist temple complex located in Gia Sinh Commune, Gia Vien District, Ninh Binh Province. Originally built over a thousand years ago, the site was expanded in the early 21st century to become the largest temple complex in Vietnam. Bai Dinh Pagoda is renowned for its impressive scale, grand architecture, and numerous records, including the largest bronze Buddha statue and the longest corridor of Arhat statues in Asia. The pagoda is a major spiritual center and an important pilgrimage site, attracting millions of visitors each year.

• Location: Gia Sinh Commune, Gia Vien District, Ninh Binh Province, Vietnam
• Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM daily
• Entrance fee: Free for all visitors
• Festival period: From the 6th day of the 1st lunar month to the end of the 3rd lunar month (main day: 6th day of 1st lunar month)

Bich Dong Pagoda

Bich Dong Pagoda is a picturesque ancient Buddhist temple located in Ninh Hai Commune, Hoa Lu District, Ninh Binh Province. Built in the early 15th century, the pagoda is uniquely set against a mountainside and consists of three separate structures: Ha Pagoda (Lower), Trung Pagoda (Middle), and Thuong Pagoda (Upper), each situated at different levels of Bich Dong Mountain. The pagoda is famous for its harmonious blend of natural scenery and traditional architecture, with caves, lush greenery, and panoramic views. Bich Dong Pagoda is an important spiritual site and a popular destination for visitors seeking tranquility and natural beauty.

• Location: Ninh Hai Commune, Hoa Lu District, Ninh Binh Province, Vietnam
• Opening hours: 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM daily
• Pagoda entrance: Free

Tam Coc – Bich Dong sightseeing fee:

• 250,000 VND per adult
• 120,000 VND for seniors and children
• Free for children under 1 meter tall

Tam Chuc Pagoda (Ha Nam)

Tam Chuc Pagoda is a magnificent Buddhist temple complex located in Ba Sao Town, Kim Bang District, Ha Nam Province. Officially inaugurated in 2019, Tam Chuc Pagoda is currently considered the largest pagoda complex in Vietnam and one of the largest in the world. The pagoda is set amidst stunning natural scenery, surrounded by lakes, limestone mountains, and lush gardens. Tam Chuc Pagoda is known for its grand architecture, impressive stone carvings, and spiritual atmosphere, making it a significant pilgrimage site and a popular destination for both worshippers and tourists.

• Location: Ba Sao Town, Kim Bang District, Ha Nam Province, Vietnam
• Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily
• Entrance fee: Free for all visitors

Keo Pagoda (Thai Binh)

Keo Pagoda is an ancient Buddhist temple located in Duy Nhat Commune, Vu Thu District, Thai Binh Province. Built in 1061 during the Ly dynasty and reconstructed in the 17th century, the pagoda is famous for its unique wooden architecture, with 17 separate structures and an impressive three-storey bell tower. Keo Pagoda is not only a spiritual and cultural center but also a symbol of traditional Vietnamese architecture. The pagoda is well-known for its annual Keo Pagoda Festival, which features traditional rituals and folk games, attracting many visitors and pilgrims.

• Location: Duy Nhat Commune, Vu Thu District, Thai Binh Province, Vietnam
• Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 6:30 PM daily
• Entrance fee: Free for all visitors
• Spring Festival: Celebrated on the 4th day of the 1st lunar month, lasting several days (e.g., Feb 1–5, 2025).
• Autumn Festival: Held from the 13th to the 15th day of the 9th lunar month, marking the main ceremonies.

Dau Pagoda (Bac Ninh)

Dau Pagoda is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Vietnam, located in Thanh Khuong Commune, Thuan Thanh District, Bac Ninh Province. Originally constructed in the 2nd century, Dau Pagoda is considered the cradle of Vietnamese Buddhism and has played a vital role in the country’s religious history. The pagoda is renowned for its ancient architecture, distinctive brick tower (Hoa Phong Tower), and valuable Buddhist relics. Dau Pagoda is a major pilgrimage site and hosts the annual Dau Pagoda Festival, attracting thousands of devotees and visitors.

• Location: Thanh Khuong Commune, Thuan Thanh District, Bac Ninh Province, Vietnam
• Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM daily
• Entrance fee: Free for all visitors
• Main Festival Day: The 8th day of the 4th lunar month – the birthday of Buddha Shakyamuni.
• Festival Duration: Usually lasts for 2 days (from the 8th to the 9th day of the 4th lunar month).

Phat Tich Pagoda (Bac Ninh)

Phat Tich Pagoda is a renowned ancient Buddhist temple located on the southern slope of Phat Tich Mountain, Tien Du District, Bac Ninh Province. Dating back to the 11th century during the Ly dynasty, the pagoda is famous for its unique architecture, ancient stone sculptures, and the giant stone Buddha statue considered one of the oldest in Vietnam. Phat Tich Pagoda is an important spiritual and cultural site, attracting visitors with its tranquil setting, historical significance, and annual festivals.

• Location: Phat Tich Commune, Tien Du District, Bac Ninh Province, Vietnam
• Opening hours: 5:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily
• Entrance fee: Free for all visitors

But Thap Pagoda (Bac Ninh)

But Thap Pagoda is a famous ancient Buddhist temple located in Dinh To Commune, Thuan Thanh District, Bac Ninh Province. Built in the 13th century and renovated in the 17th century, the pagoda is renowned for its elegant architecture and exquisite wooden sculptures. But Thap Pagoda is especially celebrated for the unique stone stupa shaped like a pen tower (“But Thap”) and the remarkable thousand-handed and thousand-eyed Guan Yin statue. The pagoda is an important cultural and religious site, attracting both pilgrims and tourists interested in Vietnamese Buddhist art and heritage.

• Location: Dinh To Commune, Thuan Thanh District, Bac Ninh Province, Vietnam
• Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily
• Entrance fee: Free for all visitors

Giac Lam Pagoda

Giac Lam Pagoda is one of the oldest and most revered Buddhist temples in Ho Chi Minh City. Founded in 1744 during the Nguyen dynasty, the pagoda boasts a rich history and is recognized as a national historical and cultural relic. Giac Lam Pagoda is renowned for its traditional southern Vietnamese architecture, ancient statues, and a peaceful garden with a towering seven-story stupa. The temple serves as a spiritual center for Buddhists and a tranquil retreat for visitors seeking serenity amidst the bustling city.

• Location: 565 Lac Long Quan Street, Tan Binh District, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
• Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM daily
• Entrance fee: Free for all visitors

Buu Long Pagoda

Buu Long Pagoda is a unique Buddhist temple located in District 9, Ho Chi Minh City, renowned for its stunning blend of Thai and Vietnamese architectural styles. Established in 1942, the pagoda features a magnificent golden stupa, intricate carvings, and serene lotus ponds, creating a tranquil and majestic atmosphere. Buu Long Pagoda stands out for its distinctive design, often compared to famous temples in Thailand, and offers a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. The temple is a popular destination for both worshippers and tourists seeking spiritual solace and architectural beauty.

• Location: 81 Nguyen Xien Street, Long Binh Ward, Thu Duc City (District 9), Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
• Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily
• Entrance fee: Free for all visitors

Note: The temple is open to visitors daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. However, if you arrive between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, you will only be able to visit the exterior areas. This is the time reserved for the monks’ ceremonies, meals, and rest.

Ngoc Hoang Pagoda

Ngoc Hoang Pagoda is a renowned Buddhist temple in Ho Chi Minh City, southern Vietnam. Construction began in the early 20th century, around 1909. This historic temple is famous for its intricate wood carvings, elaborate statues, and distinctive architecture that blends Chinese and Vietnamese styles. The pagoda is dedicated to the Jade Emperor, the supreme Taoist god, and also features altars honoring Buddhist and other deities. It is a popular spiritual destination for both worshippers and tourists, especially during important religious festivals. The Jade Emperor Pagoda stands as a testament to Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage and religious diversity.

• Address: 73 Mai Thi Luu Street, Da Kao Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
• Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily
• Entrance fee: Free for all visitors

Thanh That Cao Dai

Cao Dai Holy See (Thanh That Cao Dai) is the most important religious center of Caodaism, located in Tay Ninh Province, southern Vietnam. Construction began in 1931. This grand temple is renowned for its striking and colorful architecture, which blends elements of Buddhism, Christianity, Taoism, and Confucianism. The Holy See features ornate dragon pillars, vivid murals, and a unique dome adorned with the Divine Eye symbol. It serves as the headquarters for the Cao Dai religion and attracts thousands of followers and tourists each year, especially during major festivals and ceremonies. The Cao Dai Holy See stands as a symbol of religious harmony and spiritual diversity in Vietnam.

• Location: Long Hoa Ward, Hoa Thanh Town, Tay Ninh Province, Vietnam
• Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM daily
• Entrance fee: Free for all visitors

Ba Den Pagoda

Ba Den Pagoda is a renowned Buddhist temple situated on the slopes of Ba Den Mountain, Tay Ninh Province. Originally built in the 18th century, the pagoda is deeply associated with the legend of Linh Son Thanh Mau (the Holy Mother of the Mountain). Ba Den Pagoda is famous for its spiritual significance, scenic mountain setting, and impressive architecture. The site attracts millions of pilgrims and tourists every year, especially during the annual Ba Den Mountain Festival, making it one of the most important spiritual destinations in Southern Vietnam.

• Location: Ba Den Mountain, Tay Ninh City, Tay Ninh Province, Vietnam
• Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM daily

Entrance Fee:

• Adults & children over 1.4 m tall: 10,000 VND
• Children from 1 m to 1.4 m: 5,000 VND
• Children under 1 m: Free

Note: This is the entrance fee to the Ba Den Mountain tourist area. Cable car tickets are sold separately.

Ba Chua Xu Temple

Ba Chua Xu Temple is a famous spiritual site located at the foot of Sam Mountain, Chau Doc City, An Giang Province. Built in the early 19th century, the temple is dedicated to Ba Chua Xu, the Lady of the Realm, who is revered for her blessings of peace, health, and prosperity. Ba Chua Xu Temple is renowned for its unique architectural style, sacred atmosphere, and the annual Ba Chua Xu Festival, which attracts millions of pilgrims from across Vietnam. The temple stands as a symbol of local faith and cultural heritage in the Mekong Delta region.

• Location: Sam Mountain, Chau Doc City, An Giang Province, Vietnam
• Opening hours: 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM daily

Entrance Fee (Sam Mountain Tourist Area):

• Adults: 20,000 VND per person
• Children (6–15 years) & seniors (60+ years): 10,000 VND
• Children under 6 years: Free

Note: This fee covers entry to the entire Sam Mountain Tourist Area, including Ba Chua Xu Temple. Cable car tickets, if used, are sold separately.

Ong Pagoda

Ong Pagoda (also known as Quan De Temple) is a prominent Chinese-style temple located in the heart of Can Tho City, in southern Vietnam. Built in the late 19th century by the local Chinese community, the pagoda is dedicated to Guan Yu (Quan Cong), a revered general symbolizing loyalty, bravery, and righteousness. Ong Pagoda stands out for its vibrant architecture, intricate wood carvings, and colorful incense coils hanging from the ceiling. The temple is not only a spiritual haven for worshippers but also a cultural landmark, attracting many visitors interested in the rich heritage of the Mekong Delta’s Chinese-Vietnamese community.

• Location: 32 Hai Ba Trung Street, Tan An Ward, Ninh Kieu District, Can Tho City, Vietnam
• Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily
• Entrance fee: Free for all visitors

Thien Mu Pagoda

Thien Mu Pagoda is one of the most iconic Buddhist temples in central Vietnam, located in the city of Hue. Construction began in 1601. The pagoda is renowned for its elegant seven-story Phuoc Duyen Tower, beautiful gardens, and peaceful setting overlooking the Perfume River. Thien Mu Pagoda holds great historical and spiritual significance, serving as a symbol of Hue and a center for Buddhist worship and cultural activities. The temple attracts both pilgrims and tourists, especially during major Buddhist festivals. Thien Mu Pagoda stands as a testament to the rich religious heritage of Vietnam.

• Address: Nguyen Phuc Nguyen Street, Kim Long Ward, Hue City, Thua Thien Hue Province
• Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily
• Entrance fee: Free for all visitors

Linh Ung Temple

Linh Ung Temple is a prominent Buddhist temple located in Da Nang, central Vietnam. Construction began in 2004. The temple is famous for its modern architecture, serene atmosphere, and the impressive 67-meter-tall statue of the Lady Buddha (Guanyin), which overlooks the sea and the city. Linh Ung Temple blends traditional Vietnamese design with contemporary elements, making it a popular destination for both worshippers and tourists. The temple is also known for its picturesque gardens and panoramic views of the Son Tra Peninsula. Linh Ung Temple stands as a symbol of peace and spiritual harmony in Da Nang.

• Address: Bai But, Son Tra Peninsula, Tho Quang Ward, Son Tra District, Da Nang City
• Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM daily
• Entrance fee: Free for all visitors

Truc Lam Zen Monastery

Truc Lam Zen Monastery (Thien Vien Truc Lam) is a renowned Buddhist monastery located in Da Lat, Lam Dong Province, Vietnam. Construction began in 1993. The monastery is famous for its tranquil setting on Phuong Hoang Mountain, overlooking the picturesque Tuyen Lam Lake. Truc Lam Zen Monastery features elegant traditional Vietnamese architecture, peaceful gardens, and meditation halls, making it an ideal place for spiritual practice and relaxation. It attracts both monks and visitors seeking serenity, as well as tourists who come to enjoy the scenic beauty and calm atmosphere. Truc Lam Zen Monastery stands as a symbol of Vietnamese Zen Buddhism and spiritual tranquility.

• Address: Phung Hoang Mountain, Tuyen Lam Lake, Ward 3, Da Lat City, Lam Dong Province
• Opening hours: 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM daily
• Entrance fee: Free for all visitor

Vietnam is home to countless sacred and iconic temples scattered across the country. No matter where your journey takes you – whether to bustling cities, peaceful countryside, or mountainous landscapes – you’re likely to find a revered pagoda nearby. These spiritual landmarks not only offer a place for reflection and worship, but also provide a window into the region’s rich cultural heritage, architecture, and traditions, adding depth and meaning to every travel experience.

If you’re planning a journey to explore the captivating beauty of Vietnam, let Style Travel be your trusted companion. With a passionate and experienced team, we’re here to provide personalized support and expert guidance every step of the way. Backed by years of experience in the travel industry, Style Travel is committed to crafting unforgettable journeys filled with authentic experiences, comfort, and inspiration.