Tung Lam Pagoda
Chùa Tùng Lâm
Tung Lam Pagoda
Chùa Tùng Lâm
An ancient spiritual center in the hills of Hanoi, preserving the traditions of Buddhist architecture and meditation.
Hanoi
Temple
Spiritual Experience
Tung Lam Pagoda is a significant religious and educational center located on a picturesque hill in the countryside on the outskirts of Hanoi. Originally founded by merchants during the Nguyen dynasty to pray for safe travels, today it is a stronghold of traditional Northern Vietnamese Buddhism, practiced by about 1,300 believers. This place is ideal for those seeking an authentic experience away from noisy tourist routes.
- Duration
2–3 hours
- Average budget
from $25
- Admission
Free
- Current
26 °C, clear
- Best months
Oct – Apr
- Local language
Vietnamese
What you need to know
The pagoda was built at the turn of the 20th century as the Ngọc Am sanctuary. Despite destruction during the wars of the 20th century, the complex was carefully restored between 2006 and 2014.
The architectural ensemble, facing southeast, includes:
- Main Hall (Tam Bảo): a majestic 700 m² building. Inside are valuable shrines, including a 3-meter statue of Shakyamuni Buddha, statues of Guanyin, and 12 bodhisattvas.
- Complex buildings: Ancestor House (Nhà Tổ), guest quarters, and a two-story educational center for youth.
The grounds offer panoramic views of the lake, Voi mountain (Ba Vi range), and the Tich River. Today, the pagoda actively conducts educational activities and holds Buddhist meditations.
Dry season with comfortable temperatures. This is the best time to visit during traditional holidays such as Buddha's Birthday or the Vu Lan festival.
On-site
- How to get there
Taxi or transfer
- Accommodation
Hanoi hotels
- Getting around
On foot
- Cash
Mandatory
- Connectivity
4G
- With kids
Ok for ages 6+