Vinh Nghiem Pagoda (Duc La)
Chùa Vĩnh Nghiêm (Đức La)
Vinh Nghiem Pagoda (Duc La)
Chùa Vĩnh Nghiêm (Đức La)
An ancient center of the Truc Lam Buddhist school, included in the UNESCO World Heritage list.
Bac Ninh
Buddhist Temple
Cultural Heritage
Vinh Nghiem Pagoda (Duc La) is a revered site with a history spanning over 1,000 years. Founded during the Ly dynasty, it became the heart of Vietnam's unique Truc Lam Zen Buddhist school. Today, it is a UNESCO heritage site housing an invaluable collection of 3,050 antique wooden blocks inscribed with Buddhist sutras.
- Duration
2–3 hours
- Avg. budget
from $15
- Admission
Not specified
- Best months
Oct – Apr
- Local language
Vietnamese
What you need to know
The pagoda is situated in a scenic location where the Co Tien mountain range meets the confluence of the Luc Nam and Thuong rivers. The complex is distinguished by its strict symmetry and consists of five main structures, including the carved Tam Bao hall and a majestic two-story bell tower.
The main treasure of the pagoda is its collection of woodblock prints (17th–19th centuries), recognized as a UNESCO documentary heritage. Visitors can also see 19th-century statues of the three patriarchs of the Truc Lam school. The annual pagoda festival attracts numerous pilgrims on the 14th day of the 2nd lunar month.
The best time to visit is in the spring, when the weather is comfortable for exploring the temple complex, and the main temple festival takes place on the 14th day of the 2nd lunar month.
On site
- Getting there
Bus to Bac Trang, then taxi
- Transport
Motorcycle or car
- Cash
Required
- Connectivity
4G
- With kids
Suitable