Temples in Vietnam

Mariamman Hindu Temple is a small slice of South Indian tradition located in Ho Chi Minh, dedicated to Hindu goddess Mariamman. The temple features colouful carvings of Parvati, Ganesh, Vishnu and Brahma. The 12-m tall Rajagopuram houses the main statue of Mariammen flanked by her two protectors. Built by Tamil traders in the 19th century, the temple attracts a number of Vietnamese and is a must-visit.

The Po Nagar Cham Towers are an ancient Hindu temple complex located on the grounds of Mount Cu Lau.

The Po Nagar Cham Towers is one of the oldest monumental structures of Vietnam. This structure is considered to be built in between 8th to 11th century by the people of Cham Empire who were Hindus by religion. the primary deity here is Po Nagar, or "The Mother of the Country". There are four red brick towers in the compound, of which the tallest North Tower features a beautiful 1.2 m tall statue of Yan Po Nagar sitting cross-legged. This monument shows their exceptional skill and art levels and should be definitely visited by anyone who wishes to be a part in history.

Believed to be a sacred worshipping site from as early as the 2nd century AD, the present structure of the Po Nagar Cham Towers was constructed under the rule of Cham King Satyavarman in 784 AD. It is dedicated to the Goddess Yan Po Nagar, the 'mother of the country', who is identified with the Hindu goddesses Bhagavati and Mahishasuramardini. A cham temple in Nha Trang, it is a worshipping site for Buddhists, Chinese and Hindus. This ancient temple of Vietnam is a storehouse of information about Champa, a kingdom in South East Asia. Originally, there were 10 towers, but now only 4 stand erect. The fascinating stone and brick work amazes people and makes it one of the most iconic temples in the country.

Thap Ba, the annual religious fesival, where Cham people worship their gods here, is the best time to visit these towers.

Located in the heart of Saigon, this was set up by Indian merchants who came to Saigon for trade purposes in 19th century. Originally, there were 4 temples dedicated to Mariamman, Sri Thenday Yutthapani, Subramanian Swamy and Ganesha respectively. However, the temple of Ganesha does not exist anymore. The most fascinating feature of Subramaniam temple is the presence of navagrahas, each of them dressed in different coloured silk robes. There are pictures of Lord Shiva, Krishna, Shiva and Goddess Laxmi, Saraswati etc. The temple survived through the years of neglect and is now one of the most beautiful Hindu temples of Vietnam.

Established in 6th century, Tran Quoc Pagoda was earlier referred to as 'An Quoc' and was renamed in the 17th century. Standing erect on an islet in the West Lake of Hanoi, this buddhist temple in Vietnam witnesses mass celebrations on annual festivals such as Buddha's birthday and Tet Festival. Once popular among the royalty, hundreds of devotees gather here to pay their respects and worship. The 15 meters tall pagoda has 11 levels, and the architecture is just marvellous. There is a museum and an incense burning house surrounding the pagoda. The museum houses historical relics and ancient statues, which are intricately carved and preserved.

Thien Mu Pagoda, translating to 'heavenly lady', does not look anything less than heaven. It is located five kilometres outside from the center of Hue, on the Ha Khe Hill in Huong Long Village. According to legends, an elderly lady told locals that a lord from Nguyen Dynasty would build a pagoda on this site, thus granting this Vietnamese buddhist temple the nickname 'Pagoda of the Celestial Lady'. The pagoda also served as a home to Buddhist monk, Thich Quang Duc, who killed himself in 1963 to show resistance against the persecution of Buddhists by the South Vietnamese government

One of the largest temples in Vietnam, the Perfume Pagoda is surrounded by lush forests and freshwater streams. Located 75 kilometres south of Hanoi, in the Son Mountains, the Perfume Temple is the most famous temple in this Vietnamese temple complex. It is believed that the site where the temple complex is situated was discovered 2000 years ago by a Buddhist monk. The entrance to Perfume Pagoda resembles a dragon's open mouth and inside the complex, there are green stone statues of many gods, including one of Lord Buddha. Touching the stalactites and stalagmites in the cave are believed to bless the pilgrims with good fortune.

Located in the Gia Sinh Commune, Bai Dinh Pagoda is famous for housing 500 intricate statues of Buddha. Surrounded by mountains, it is one of the most famous Buddhist temples in Vietnam and pilgrims visit here to worship their gods. Monks here tell people their fortune. The pagoda witnesses blessing ceremonies, ritual processions and dances on the sixth day of the Lunar New Year. That is when people from all around gather together harmoniously out of faith and celebrate their religion.

Dating back to 11th century, Temple of Literature is a Confucian temple in Vietnam. It also houses the first national university of Vietnam. In fact, it is also featured on the back of the 100,000 VND note. Located in the heart of city, there are five courtyards in the temple, all of them having a unique feature. Some of them house monks and resident scholars. The architecture is from the time of Ly and Tran dynasties rule.

A Caodaist temple in Ho Chi Minh City, Cao Dai temple was constructed in 1930s and was open to public in 1955. A major feature of this temple, which distinguishes it from the rest of the temples of Vietnam is that every religion is considered equal. People from all the religions, let it be Christianity, Buddhism, Taoism, Islam etc, come here to participate in the worshipping ceremonies. The architecture is marvellous and awe-inspiring. Sky-blue ceilings and pillars hugged by dragons make it look exquisite.

Popularly known as the Pagoda of Jade Mountain located in the Hoan Kiem lake, the Ngoc Son Temple is guarded with two towering posts decorated with Chinese writing. Built in the 18th century, the pagoda houses a large broze bust and other deities. There are various altars dedicated to Tran Hing Dao, ancient artefacts like ceramics and a giant 250kg preserved turtle.

Quan Thanh temple is a Taoist temple built to honour the God of the North 'Tran Vo' who used the tortoise and snake as symbols of protection and wealth respectively. The temple houses a 4 mtere tall bronze statue of Tran Vo. The temple complex has a beautiful gate, banyan trees, a bronze bell, shrines and carved poems.

One of the most iconic temples of Vietnam, the One pillar Pagoda is one pillar built elegantly in the shape of a lotus blossom which is the Buddhist symbol of enlightment. The shrine inside the Pagoda is dedicated to the vietnamese Buddhist deity Quan Am. Built in the year around 1050 during the reign of the Ly Dynasty, this temple is said to bring blessings of fertility and health.

Located in the centre of Old Quarter, Bach Ma temple is a beautiful 11th century Buddhist temple in Hanoi. It's dedicated to Bach Ma or 'White Horse', a legendary horse that is said to have led Emperor Ly Thai to the best area to construct a temple. A red-lacquered palanquin greets you upon entrance, along with a shrine dedicated to Confucius and a Phoenix altar.

Built in 15th century during the reign of Le Dynasty, the Ambassador's Pagoda is popularly known as the Quan Su Temple. Built to recieve Buddhist ambassadors, the temple is lesser known to tourists yet. The pagoda serves as the headquaters for Vietnam Buddhist Association. The temple also houses wax figures of Buddhist monks of the past.

Phu Tay Ho is a temple dedicated to Mother Goddesses and the Jade Emperor. The pagoda has some brilliant architecture and many worship objects like the altar, statues, bronze bells, canopies and royal seat, all very beautifully decorated. The temple turns into a celebration on the 15th day of each lunar month. Tourists often come here to pray and enjoy the serene landscape of West Lake.

With a peaceful ambience, the Kim Lien Pagoda of Hanoi is an ancient temple founded in the 12th Century by the Ly Dynasty. The pagoda has a very sophisticated and elegant architecture with three pavillions constructed in a curved shape. It houses the statue of Buddha, Princess Tu hoa and Lord Trinh Giang among others.

Voi Phuc Temple, popularly known as the Kneeling Elephants Temple is dedicated to Royal Highness Linh Lang, son of King Ly Thanh Tong. The temple has a commendable architecture, beautiful carvings, two kneeling elephants in front and a scenic surrounding. Every year, locals hold a festival from February 9-11 of the Lunar calendar to commemorate the virtue of Linh Lang.

Located close to Hoan Kiem Lake, Hai Ba Trung is a 12th century temple with ornate carvings and statues of the Trung sisters. These sisters are national heroines who fought against Chinese domination in Vietnam in 1st century AD. The annual festival in January enlivens the temple with processions and cultural activities.

Phu Tay Ho is a temple dedicated to Mother Goddesses and the Jade Emperor. The pagoda has some brilliant architecture and many worship objects like the altar, statues, bronze bells, canopies and royal seat, all very beautifully decorated. The temple turns into a celebration on the 15th day of each lunar month. Tourists often come here to pray and enjoy the serene landscape of West Lake.

Located in Disrict 5, Thien Hau Pagoda is a 19th century buddhist temple dedicated to Lady of the Sea, Goddess Mazu. The temple features intricate carvings and lanterns on the outer courtyard, while inside are vibrant dioramas that depict scenes from a Chinese city. The main dais houses the three statutes of Mazu flanked by her guardians.

Gia Lam Pagoda is a beautiful religious attraction situated in Phu Tho Hoa region of Ho Chi Minh. Established in 1744, the temple is set amidst a lush garden, where a tall bodhi tree shades a statue of a bodhisattva. The main shrine is surrounded by precious wood pillars coated with gold inscriptions, and houses an imposing statue of Amitabha Buddha.

Jade Emperor Pagoda is a spectacular Taoist shrine in Ho Chi Minh City. Built in 1909 by a migrant Cantonese community, the primary deity here is the 'King of Heaven' Chua Ngoc Hoang who regulates the entry of souls in the afterlife. The grotesque fate that awaits sinners is intricately carved on the temple's walls, which is often remains shrouded behind incense smoke.

The biggest pagoda in Ho Chi Minh, Xa Loi Pagoda is as famous for it dramatic history as it is for its beautiful statues, towers and intricately carved panels. Once the centre of Buddhism, the complex was home to renowned Buddhist monk Thich Quang Duc. It was raided by Army officials in 1963 for being a site of dissent against the Roman Catholic president Ngo Dinh Diem.

Quan Am Pagoda is a beautiful 19th-century Buddhist temple dedicated to Quan Am, the Goddess of Mercy and Compassion. Situated in Cholon in District 5, the temple complex is divided into three areas, with altars dedicated to Sea Goddess Mazu, the Jade Emperor and Quan Am. A courtyard with a small pond leads into the temple, where colourful motifs and sculptures welcome visitors.

Located in District 3 of Ho Chi Minh City, Vinh Nghiem Pagoda is the largest Mahayana pagoda in the city and the first one to incorporate traditional Vietnamese elements in a concrete structure. The temple is dedicated to Gautama Buddha and two bodhisattvas, and features a large Buddha statue surrounded by wooden carvings of the sacred animals - dragon, unicorn, tortoise and phoenix.

Phung Son Pagoda is a gorgeous 19th century Buddhist temple in Ho Chi Minh. The temple features æover 40 exquisite ceramic and copper statues, and devotees come here to pray daily. Moreover, the area surrounding the temple was excavated to reveal structures belonging to the Funan period of 1st century AD.

One of the most ornamental temples in Cholon, Phuoc An Hoi Quan Pagoda is a beautiful shrine dedicated to Chinese general Quan Cong. Built in 1902, the temple is surrounded by abundant greenery and features exquisite wood carvings on all altars, walls and columns. A burst of colour greets you as you enter the temple while Quan Cong's red horse faithfully stands on one side.

Giac Vien Pagoda is a beautiful Buddhist temple located in District 11 in Ho Chi Minh. Established in 1850 by the monk Hai Tinh Giac Vien, the templeÍs main sanctuary is in worship of Buddha while a statue of the founder stands on one side. It also features 60 intricate wooden engravings and a brilliant brass incense basin adorned with dragons.

Ha Chong Hoi Quan Pagoda is a 19th century Taoist temple built in worship of the Goddess of the Sea, Thien Hau. A community of migrant Fujians constructed the temple, which features intricate bas-reliefs and stone pillars decorated with fierce dragons. The temple is best visited during the lantern festival held on the first full moon of the lunar year.

One of the most revered heroes in Vietnam, the tomb of Marshal Le Van Duyet is an important historical attraction of Ho Chi Minh city. Van Duyet was a South Vietnamese general who helped unify Vietnam and extinguish the Tay Son rebellion. æHaving undergone destruction due to political turmoil, his tomb is now an ornate, beautiful temple that throngs with pilgrims on his death anniversary.

Khanh Van Nam Vien Pagoda is known for being the only pure Taoist temple in the country. æBuilt in 1943, the pagoda features a 150cm statue of founding philosopher Lao Tzu with a mirror halo and also houses a clinic and elderly home inside. ItÍs classic Chinese architecture and Buddhist statues add to its serene beauty.

Located in Cholon in District 5, Nghia An Hoi Quan Pagoda is a Buddhist temple dedicated to the deified general Quan Cong, who belonged to the Han Dynasty of 3nd century. The temple features ornate woodwork and lively paintings, and the main statue looks down from a glass case.The statue of Ong Bon, the guardian of happiness and virtue also stands to one side.

Tam Son Hoi Quan Temple is a beautiful Taoist temple located in Cholon. Built in 19th century by the Fujian Congregation, the temple is dedicated to Me Sanh, the Goddess of Fertility.Deified general Quan Cong and Thien Hau also have their shrines here, and several paintings of nature adorn the walls inside. The temple is popular with female devotees praying for a child.

Ong Bon Pagoda in Ho Chi Minh is a Taoist temple dedicated to Ong Bon, the protector of happiness and prosperity. The Chinese-style temple features intricately carved altar, behind which is a gilded cabinet lit up by LED lights for the main deity. Murals of tigers and dragons decorate the walls, where shrines of other deities like Thien Hau and Quan Am can also be found.

Situated alongside the beach en route to the Son Tra Peninsula is a Buddhist Pagoda famous as Chua Buu Dai Son. Peppered with countless Buddhist statues sprayed with bright-colored vivid stones. The peaceful compound is marked with an enormous Marquee Budai style Buddha at the entrance and a chinese style pagoda in the center

Long Son Pagoda is a beautiful 19th-century Buddhist temple located on the foothills of Trai Thuy mountain. The entrance is decorated with dragon mosaics, while lush topiary lines the main grounds. Featuring Taoist architecture and ornate sculptures of mythical animals, the temple also functions as a monastery. However, the main attraction here is the 24-metre tall Buddha statue behind the temple.

Suoi Do Pagoda is a beautiful 50-year-old Buddhist temple located in Suoi Hiep commune in Dien Khanh district. It’s dedicated to Quan Am, the Chinese goddess of compassion and mercy.

The Suoi Do Pagoda each year sees thousands of worshippers visiting its doors and are also provided with a free vegeterian meal. This temple, surrounded by lush greenery and a natural pool, has around 200 steps leading up to it and doesn't have any wheelchair services available. Therefore in case you are suffering from any physical disability then this might be a challenge for you to visit. Once you climb up the stairs, you can enjoy the breathtaking view of Cai River Valley and banana plantations.

Tong Lam Lo Son Pagoda is a beautiful Buddhist temple located at Vinh Phuong Commune in Nha Trang. The key highlight is the tall and imposing white marble statue of Buddha, found at the end of a series of steps. Visit this gorgeous temple early in the morning before the crowds arrive.

Linh Phuoc Pagoda is a beautiful and peaceful pagoda which has a unique architecture.

At the end of Trai Mat Street lies the beautiful Linh Phuoc Pagoda. Flaunting the tallest bell tower in Vietnam, the campus is surrounded by small lakes and trees. It is a well known Pagoda among the tourist travellers, and sometimes things get quite busy here. There are many beautiful and colourful paintings inside which display the whole life of Buddha.

Find roots of Hindu culture and mythology at the Po Shanu Cham Towers of Mui Ne, which are a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Vietnam. Dating back to the 8th century, these towers lie towards the west of Mui Ne and house ancient stone tombstones. In addition to these, this site has a pagoda and a small gallery in the premises as well.

The Du Hang Pagoda is an ancient buddhist monument located around 1 km from the city center.

Du hang pagoda was built in 900 AD by the Tien Le dynasty King, Le Dai Hanh. The monks who lived here are said to have preached Buddhism. The monument has undergone a number of renovations, the most recent being the addition of gardens and a library in 1917. Du Hang Pagoda architecture includes seven room of worshiping Buddha, the third floor has ring gate with curved roof. A visit to Du Hang Pagoda will allow travellers to see many Buddha statues and many ancient graphic fine arts which are still preserved in this sacred Buddhist temple from Nguyen dynasty.

Bao Ha temple sees a lot of Spiritual tourism in the form of locals.

The Bao Ha temple has a rich history. The temple is a shrine to General Bao Hay who sacrificed himself for the nation. The temple is said to offer a sense of security to those who visit it. The temple was renovated recently and this has made it more accessible.

The Vanh Thanh Mieu Pagoda is a rare Confucian Temple with a rich history.

Located just across a river, this ancient Confucian temple is built in honour of a local hero, Phan Thanh Gian, who led an uprising against the French Colonial army in the early 1930s. When it became apparent that his side was doomed, Phan Thanh Gian chose to commit suicide rather than be captured by the colonialists. The main hall also has a large portrait of Confucius above the altar.