Mau Temple
Đền Mẫu
Mau Temple
Đền Mẫu
An ancient Buddhist temple dedicated to the deity Lieu Hanh on the Vietnam-China border.
Lao Cai
Buddhist Temple
Pilgrimage
Mau Temple (Đền Mẫu) is a significant historical and cultural monument of Vietnam, existing for over 200 years. Located at the confluence of the Red and Nam Thi rivers in Lao Cai province, it is an important pilgrimage site and a symbol of the defense of Vietnam's borders. The temple is dedicated to Princess Lieu Hanh, one of the "Four Immortals" of Vietnamese folklore.
- Visit duration
2–3 hours
- Average budget
from $25
- Admission
Free
- Current weather
26 °C, clear
- Best months
Oct – Apr
- Local language
Vietnamese, English
What you need to know
The temple was completely restored in 2020 and covers an area of nearly 2,000 square meters. The complex's architecture is built in a traditional style mimicking the Chinese character "二" (two), emphasizing yin-yang harmony. The roofs are adorned with exquisite carvings of dragons, and statues of kneeling elephants stand in the courtyard.
Of special historical value are three imperial edicts from the Nguyen dynasty (1853, 1880, 1924). Behind the temple, visitors can see the ruins of the ancient Luu Vinh Phuc city wall, which served as a fortification for trade routes. The temple is part of a unified historical route along with the neighboring Upper Temple (Đền Thượng), forming a spiritual shield for Vietnam's northwestern border.
Dry season with comfortable temperatures. Fewer tourists on weekdays.
On site
- Getting there
Bus or transfer to Lao Cai city
- Accommodation
Hotels in Lao Cai from $15
- Getting around
On foot
- Cash
Essential for donations
- Connectivity
4G, Wi-Fi in hotels
- With kids
Fine for ages 6+