Visiting temples and pagodas
Spiritual heritage among lotuses and incense
What it is and why
Temple architecture of Vietnam strikes with diversity: from majestic imperial complexes of Hue to pagodas hidden in grottos of Northern Vietnam. Visiting of temple often accompanied by walk through picturesque gardens, where sounds muffled prayer, and air filled with aromas of sandal sticks.
You will meet both crowded places, where believers bring offerings (fruits, money, artificial flowers), and quiet corners, where monks care for bonsais. Especially recommend to pay attention to temples of influence of culture of Champa — these are unique brick towers which radically differ from Buddhist traditions.
Where to do it in Vietnam
Points on the map are real places where this activity can be done. Numbers in the list match the markers.
- Perfume pagoda (Chùa Hương)Hanoi / Hatay
Complex of cave temples, reached by boat on picturesque river.
- Thien Mu pagodaHue
Symbol of city on bank of Perfume river, 7-tiered tower Phuoc Duyen.
- Cham towers Po NagarNha Trang
Ancient towers of Hindu culture of Champa with stunning view on port.
- Bai Dinh pagodaNinh Binh
Huge temple complex with thousands of statues and largest bronze statue of Buddha.
Tips
- Always cover shoulders and knees — in temples strict dress code operates.
- Remove shoes before entering altar part (orient on rows of shoes at entrance).
- Do not use flash when photographing statues of Buddha and altars.
- Donations in box with inscription 'Công đức' — good tone even for tourist.
- Come early morning (before 09:00), to catch morning chants and avoid crowds of excursion groups.
Caution
- Avoid photo sessions, standing with back to altars — this is considered disrespectful.
- During festival of Tet (lunar New year) temples are overcrowded, difficult to find peace.