Pho Minh Pagoda
Chùa Phổ Minh
Pho Minh Pagoda
Chùa Phổ Minh
An ancient Tran dynasty jewel with an 800-year history and special national heritage status.
Nam Dinh
Buddhist Temple
Excursions
Pho Minh Pagoda is a specially protected national monument of Vietnam, its history inextricably linked with the prosperous era of the Tran dynasty. The site is famous for its unique brick and stone tower depicted on the 100-dong banknote, ancient artifacts, and the special spiritual atmosphere created by 300-year-old muom trees.
- Duration
2–3 hours
- Average budget
from $25
- Admission
40,000 ₫
- Best months
Oct – Apr
- Local language
Vietnamese, English
What you need to know
The pagoda was founded during the Ly dynasty and significantly expanded in 1262. The main architectural highlight is the 13-tier tower, 19.51 meters high, built in 1305. Its base is made of blue stone, and the upper part crowns the structure in the shape of an unopened lotus.
Inside the sanctuary, organized in the shape of the Chinese character "Cong", unique artifacts are kept: bronze Buddha statues, ancient gongs, bells, and a rare set of 17th-century wooden statuettes in red lacquer. Special attention should be paid to the central doors with intricate carving — the originals of several of them are carefully preserved in the Vietnam National Museum of History.
Dry season with comfortable temperatures. Fewer tourists on weekdays.
On site
- How to get there
Bus or transfer (90 km from Hanoi)
- Accommodation
Hotels from $15
- On site
Walking tours
- Cash
Essential for donations
- Connectivity
4G, Wi-Fi in hotels
- With children
Ok for ages 6+