Vietnam is home to an array of stunning temples, each one uniquely beautiful and worth a visit. Whether you’re looking for a spiritual escape or simply want to explore the country’s rich history, there are plenty of temples to visit in Vietnam.
From ornate Buddhist temples to ancient Hindu shrines, this list of the top 15 best temples to visit in Vietnam is sure to have something for everyone. Read on to discover the best spots to explore in Vietnam’s spiritual landscape.
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1. Cao Dai Temple – Best Temples to Visit in Vietnam
Located in the city of Tay Ninh, the Cao Dai Temple is one of the most popular religious sites in Vietnam. It was built in 1926 by a man named Ngo Van Chieu, who founded the Cao Dai religion which combines elements of Buddhism, Confucianism, and Taoism with elements of Christianity and Islam. The temple is an elaborate structure with nine levels and a tall spire at its center. The interior of the temple is brightly decorated with colorful murals depicting scenes from the Cao Dai religion. Visitors to the temple can also take part in a traditional ceremony where they receive blessings from a monk or priest. The Cao Dai Temple is worth a visit for its unique architecture and spiritual atmosphere.
2. Emperor Jade Pagoda
Located in Ho Chi Minh City, the Emperor Jade Pagoda is one of the most revered temples in Vietnam. This temple was built in the late 19th century and is dedicated to the Quan Âm Buddha, also known as the Goddess of Mercy.
The pagoda is unique in its design and structure. The pagoda has three stories, each with a shrine dedicated to the various Buddhist gods. On the first floor, visitors will find statues of Quan Am, along with those of her two attendants, Bao An, and Dieu Khac. The second floor features a grand statue of the Buddha himself, with its beautiful red and gold decorations. On the third floor is an altar dedicated to the ancestors of the royal family of Vietnam.
The pagoda is also home to many beautiful artworks, including sculptures of animals such as dragons and phoenixes, as well as intricate carvings. Visitors can also find paintings and murals that depict the life of Buddha and other religious figures. The Emperor Jade Pagoda is a great place to visit if you want to experience traditional Vietnamese culture and spirituality.
3. The Vinh Nghiem Pagoda (Chua Vinh Nghiem) – Best Temples to Visit in Vietnam
Located in Ho Chi Minh City, the Vinh Nghiem Pagoda is one of the most beautiful and historically significant temples in Vietnam. Built in the 18th century, this temple was originally a part of the Champa culture, before it was given to the Chinese Cantonese settlers by the Vietnamese emperor. The pagoda’s architecture reflects the blend of two cultures: Chinese and Champa. Its main features include two pavilions of different sizes and a large open hall in between them.
The pagoda is home to many works of art, including exquisite sculptures of Buddhas and Bodhisattvas, stone carvings of gods and mythical figures, and paintings depicting Buddhist stories and legends. Visitors will also find a library filled with religious books and artifacts.
The Vinh Nghiem Pagoda is an ideal spot for spiritual reflection and relaxation. Inside its walls, visitors can sit in quiet contemplation and admire the beauty of its ornate decor. It is also a great place to learn about Vietnamese Buddhism, as monks at the temple are always willing to offer advice or answer questions.
4. The Buu Long Pagoda (Chua Buu Long)
The Buu Long Pagoda is one of the oldest and most revered temples in Vietnam. It is located in the city of Ho Chi Minh City and is home to some beautiful shrines, statues, and religious artifacts.
The temple was built during the late 19th century, by a wealthy Chinese merchant. The exterior of the pagoda is decorated with intricate carvings and sculptures that tell stories from Buddhist mythology. Inside, visitors will find a large central courtyard surrounded by four main hallways that lead to different chambers. Each chamber holds its unique collection of artifacts, ranging from antique statues to elaborate paintings.
The Buu Long Pagoda also has a unique feature: a meditation tower. This tower sits atop the pagoda and is used for meditation by monks and visitors alike. Visitors can climb up the steps and take in the peaceful atmosphere of the temple while they meditate.
If you are looking for a spiritual experience while in Vietnam, the Buu Long Pagoda should be on your list of places to visit. Not only is it one of the oldest temples in Vietnam, but it also has unique and beautiful architecture that you won’t find anywhere else.
5. Giac Lam Pagoda
Giac Lam Pagoda is a Buddhist temple located in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Built in the late 18th century, Giac Lam Pagoda is known for its ancient architecture and history. Its main hall houses three bronze Buddha statues, the oldest of which dates back to the 17th century. Other highlights include an impressive seven-story tower and a beautifully landscaped garden featuring a pond full of lotus flowers.
The Giac Lam Pagoda also has several shrines dedicated to venerated Buddhist figures such as the Amitabha Buddha and the Medicine Buddha. There are also many paintings and statues depicting important episodes from the Buddha’s life and famous stories from Vietnamese mythology.
The atmosphere inside the pagoda is quite peaceful, with visitors encouraged to meditate in silence and respect the sacredness of the place. During important festivals, many locals come to pay their respects and receive blessings from the monks and nuns living in the temple.
6. Bai Dinh Pagoda – Best Temples to Visit in Vietnam
Bai Dinh Pagoda
Bai Dinh Pagoda is one of the most popular temples to visit in Vietnam. Located in Ninh Binh province, this pagoda has become an important pilgrimage site for Buddhist followers across the country. The complex of Bai Dinh Pagoda covers an area of over 10,000 square meters and includes several temples, stupas, and statues. The most famous part of the complex is a giant golden Buddha statue which stands 17 meters tall and weighs around 100 tons.
This impressive structure is surrounded by many smaller statues, each of which represents different aspects of Buddhist philosophy. Other attractions within the pagoda include 500 Arhat Hall and a three-story Phap Hoa Tower. Visitors to the pagoda are also able to explore the nearby caves, and gardens, and even take a cable car ride to the top of the mountain.
No matter what time of year you choose to visit, you’ll find that Bai Dinh Pagoda is always full of activity. During October, thousands of pilgrims come here to celebrate the occasion of the Moksha Dharma Assembly. For those looking for a more peaceful experience, visiting the pagoda during the first few days of January can be an especially rewarding experience.
If you’re planning to visit Vietnam and want to experience some of the country’s spiritual heritage, make sure that you add Bai Dinh Pagoda to your itinerary!
7. The Temple of Literature – Best Temples to Visit in Vietnam
Located in Hanoi, the Temple of Literature is one of the oldest and most famous temples in Vietnam. Dedicated to Confucius, it was established in 1070 by Emperor Lý Thánh Tông and is considered a symbol of Vietnam’s education system. The temple was used as a place of worship by scholars, students, and Vietnamese who sought knowledge and success in their studies.
The temple features five courtyards filled with statues, monuments, and pavilions that tell the story of Vietnam’s history, culture, and education. It is also home to the Imperial Academy, which was the first university in Vietnam. Today, it is a popular tourist destination for those looking to learn about the country’s past and present.
Inside the temple, visitors will find a large pond in the main courtyard, along with the 82 stelae or stone tablets that commemorate the top scholars from the university. The statues of Confucius and four of his disciples are also located in the main courtyard. The other courtyards feature various pavilions, statues, and monuments that tell the story of Vietnam’s education system.
At the back of the temple is an impressive garden filled with trees and plants. This is the perfect spot to sit back and relax while taking in beautiful surroundings.
The Temple of Literature is a must-see attraction for any traveler visiting Hanoi. Not only is it a reminder of the importance of learning and education in Vietnam, but it also provides a unique insight into the country’s culture and history.
8. Tran Quoc Pagoda
Tran Quoc Pagoda is a Buddhist temple located on the shore of West Lake in Hanoi, Vietnam. It is the oldest pagoda in the city and one of the most important religious sites in the country. The pagoda was built in the 15th century by Emperor Lê Lợi during his reign. The architecture is a blend of Chinese and Vietnamese influences, and it features many fascinating details such as ornate carvings, colorful statues, and intricate statues of Buddhas and Bodhisattvas.
The main shrine of Tran Quoc Pagoda is dedicated to Amitabha Buddha, the enlightened being who symbolizes compassion and wisdom. The temple complex also contains several smaller shrines that house statues of other deities and Bodhisattvas, including Manjusri and Avalokitesvara.
Visitors to Tran Quoc Pagoda can explore the beautiful grounds, admire the architecture, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. In addition, the site offers many cultural activities, including traditional music performances, art exhibitions, and even martial arts demonstrations. As one of the most popular tourist attractions in Hanoi, Tran Quoc Pagoda is a must-see for anyone visiting the city.
9. Báo Quốc Temple
Located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, Báo Quốc Temple is a place of worship dedicated to Quan Âm Thị Kính, the Goddess of Mercy. This magnificent temple features intricate architecture, stunning sculptures, and beautiful gardens. Visitors can also find an array of shops selling items related to Buddhism as well as traditional Vietnamese snacks and desserts. Báo Quốc Temple is one of the most important religious sites in Vietnam and it has been an important part of the city’s culture since its founding in 1820. It is believed that visiting this temple will bring good luck and happiness to those who enter. So if you’re looking for a spiritual experience or just want to appreciate the beauty of Vietnamese culture, then Báo Quốc Temple should be at the top of your list when visiting Ho Chi Minh City.
10. Nhóm tháp A
Nhóm Tháp A (also known as A Tower Group) is located in the Hoa Lư district of Ninh Bình province in northern Vietnam. It is a group of eight ancient towers, each of which is dedicated to a different Buddha. The towers are built from stone and mortar, and their designs vary from one another. They range from short, square towers too tall, pointed towers. This group of temples was built by the Tran Dynasty in the 13th century and has been declared a national relic.
The tallest tower is 18 meters high and can be seen from far away. Visitors can enter the towers and explore their interiors. Inside, visitors will find murals, sculptures, and carvings that depict scenes from Buddhist stories. In the surrounding area, several other temples and pagodas can be visited.
Nhóm Tháp A is an essential cultural site in Vietnam and should not be missed when visiting the region. It offers visitors a unique look into the past and provides insight into Vietnam’s history and culture.
11. Mariamman Hindu Temple
Located in Ho Chi Minh City, Mariamman Hindu Temple is a stunning Hindu temple dedicated to the Hindu goddess Mariamman. The temple was built in 1885 by Indian traders and offers a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere. This temple is well known for its colorful sculptures of deities and intricate carvings. It also features a variety of statues depicting religious figures, some of which are believed to have spiritual powers. Visitors can explore the inside of the temple, as well as its impressive courtyards. One of the highlights of this temple is its beautiful exterior, featuring an impressive entrance with intricate carvings and statues. Inside, visitors can find multiple shrines dedicated to various Hindu gods and goddesses, as well as a stunning collection of traditional sculptures. Mariamman Hindu Temple is a great place to explore if you’re looking for a spiritual experience.
12. Guan Di Temple
Located in the center of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, the Guan Di Temple is a revered Taoist temple dedicated to Guan Yu, a legendary general who was a prominent figure in Chinese history. The temple was built in the early 19th century and is renowned for its elaborate and ornate decorations. Inside the temple are two statues of Guan Yu, which were carved from wood and colored with gold lacquer. The walls of the temple are adorned with intricate carvings of mythical dragons, tigers, and horses. Additionally, there are several altars inside the temple with statues of other gods and goddesses from Chinese folklore. Visitors to the temple can also find offerings from devotees such as incense, fruit, and flowers.
13. Non Nuoc Pagoda – Best Temples to Visit in Vietnam
Non Nuoc Pagoda is located in Da Nang and is considered to be one of the most beautiful and unique temples in Vietnam. This temple was built during the 13th century and is a great example of Vietnamese architecture. It features a stunning seven-story tower, surrounded by gardens and courtyards filled with exotic plants. The interior of the temple is decorated with intricately carved statues of Buddhas and Bodhisattvas, as well as amazing frescos. Visitors will also find an impressive collection of ancient artifacts such as coins, weapons, and pottery inside the temple. Non Nuoc Pagoda is worth a visit if you’re looking for an authentic and unique experience.
14. Phu Loc Tower
Located in Hoi An, Phu Loc Tower is a beautiful example of ancient Vietnamese architecture. Dating back to the 15th century, this tower stands out from other structures in the area due to its unique design. Built from solid brick, the tower has four levels, each with a different roofing material. The third and fourth floors feature ceramic roof tiles, while the first and second floors have metal roofing. The architecture of this tower is both ornate and intricate, featuring detailed carvings on its exterior walls. Inside, visitors can find numerous altars, as well as a pair of large bronze drums that are used during traditional festivals. Despite its age, the tower is still in excellent condition, making it one of the most popular tourist attractions in Hoi An.
15. Thu Thien Towers – Best Temples to Visit in Vietnam
The Thu Thien Towers, located in the city of Hue, is an impressive site to behold. The towers, which are made up of two distinct structures, are believed to be nearly 800 years old and were originally used as a meditation center by monks. The towers stand at an impressive height of 25 meters and contain four stories, each decorated with intricate carvings and sculptures depicting traditional Vietnamese culture. Today, the towers are open for visitors and offer spectacular views of the surrounding area. With its historical significance, this is one of the best temples to visit in Vietnam.
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So why not make your next trip to Vietnam even more memorable by checking out some of these amazing temples?
