Discover Sacred Pagodas in Quang Binh

Located in Thuan Trach village, My Thuy commune, Le Thuy district, Hoang Phuc Pagoda is one of the oldest pagodas in Quang Binh, with a history of over 700 years. Having weathered many ups and downs of time and war, Hoang Phuc Pagoda still preserves its ancient character, strongly reflecting the architectural style of the Tran Dynasty. It is not only a sacred place of worship but also a historical witness, having served as a shelter, weapons stash, and meeting venue for revolutionary soldiers during the resistance wars.

Hoang Phuc Pagoda houses many precious ancient artifacts, notably:

• Statues of Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva (Guan Yin) and Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva, exuding solemn beauty.
• An 80kg, 1.1m-high bronze bell, cast during the reign of King Minh Mang.
• Bone relics of Shakyamuni Buddha, presented by the Myanmar Buddhist Sangha in 2016, invited from Shwedagon Pagoda – Myanmar's most sacred temple.
• The horizontal lacquered board reading “Vo Song Phuc Dia”, gifted by the Nguyen Lords, meaning "an incomparable sacred land".

Standing in the temple grounds spanning over 10,000m², visitors will feel serenity and peace. The ringing temple bell, blending with the soft scent of incense, seems to dispel all worries of daily life. Visit the temple early in the morning or late in the afternoon to enjoy the most peaceful atmosphere. Remember to dress modestly and maintain a respectful attitude while visiting.

Located in Duc Ninh Dong Ward, Dong Hoi City, Dai Giac Pagoda is one of the most prominent pagodas in Quang Binh, not only for its magnificent architecture but also for its deep spiritual significance. It is a must-visit destination for those seeking tranquility right in the heart of the vibrant coastal city.

Highlights of Dai Giac Pagoda

• Amitabha Stupa: The top floor enshrines a jade statue of Vairocana Buddha brought from Myanmar, the middle floors enshrine gilded red-lacquered Buddha statues, and the ground floor enshrines Cundi Bodhisattva with multiple arms holding ritual instruments, symbolizing compassion and divine authority.
• Amitabha Buddha Statue: Standing 9 meters tall and weighing 40 tons, made of marble, recognized as the largest marble Buddha statue in Vietnam.
• Tranquil atmosphere: Dai Giac Pagoda is surrounded by lush greenery, creating a silent space that helps visitors feel peaceful amidst the worldly realm.

Every Lunar New Year, Dai Giac Pagoda becomes a place where Quang Binh locals and tourists from afar come to offer incense, praying for peace and prosperity. Entering the main hall, you will feel solemnity and reverence, as if all troubles melt away.

Located in Hai Trach commune, Bo Trach district, Ly Hoa Pagoda, also known as Vinh Phuoc Pagoda, stands out with its unique architecture featuring pristine white paint throughout. Built during the reign of King Le Y Tong, the pagoda has suffered destruction during wars but still retains its ancient charm and sanctity.

Ly Hoa Pagoda is harmoniously designed with structures such as:

• Avalokiteshvara Shrine and Amitabha Shrine, displaying elegant beauty.
• Stele house, bell tower, and Arhat statues, creating a solemn architectural ensemble.
• The pagoda space subtly blends Buddhist philosophy with Eastern thought, bringing a sense of peace and relaxation.

The ringing bell of Ly Hoa Pagoda, together with the chanting from the main sanctuary, creates a profound spiritual ambiance, connecting the community in faith and hope. It is an ideal spot for visitors to seek tranquility and discover the unique cultural values of Quang Binh. Ly Hoa Pagoda often hosts Buddhist dharma classes organized by Monks and Nuns from the Buddhist Propagation Board of Hue. If time permits, you can join to learn more about Buddhist teachings.

Situated on a small hill in Canh Hoa commune, Quang Trach district, Ngoa Cuong Pagoda is not only a sacred pagoda but also an important revolutionary relic. Originally built from bamboo and thatch in its early days, in 1860 the pagoda was rebuilt by local villagers with solid and unique architecture.

Historical and architectural values

• Revolutionary history: During the anti-American resistance war, Ngoa Cuong Pagoda was the birthplace of a revolutionary movement; despite suffering heavy bombardments, it maintained an indomitable spirit.
• Special architecture: The pagoda features walls up to 1 meter thick and a three-door gate (Tam Quan) with curved roofs adorned with intricate dragon and phoenix reliefs. The vaulted roof is carved with beautiful motifs rich in traditional culture.

Visiting Ngoa Cuong Pagoda, tourists can not only worship but also learn about the nation's heroic history. The peaceful temple grounds, surrounded by lush nature, offer an ideal refuge to find inner peace.

Located in Thanh Khe village, Thanh Trach commune, Quang Trach district, Thanh Quang Pagoda is one of the oldest pagodas in Quang Binh, with a history spanning over 300 years. Although it was destroyed during the Trinh - Nguyen civil war, the pagoda was restored during the Nguyen Dynasty, becoming a place of practice and moral guidance for locals.

Architectural beauty

• Three-door gate (Tam Quan): Sturdily constructed with reinforced concrete and roofed with modern traditional tiles.
• Avalokiteshvara Shrine: Octagonal in shape, intricately decorated with ceramic mosaics, housing a white marble statue of Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva brought from Non Nuoc, Da Nang.
• Main hall: Features unique architecture, creating a solemn and serene environment.

Thanh Quang Pagoda is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of resilience and spiritual faith for the people of Quang Binh. Every year, the pagoda attracts numerous visitors coming to pray and explore its unique cultural and historical values.

Amidst today's fast-paced life, places like the pagodas of Quang Binh quietly preserve the peacefulness of time. The pagoda gates do not merely open up to a space of faith, but also grant each person a moment to return—returning to inner quietude and to the core identity deeply rooted in the land and people of Quang Binh. If you previously knew Quang Binh only through its magnificent limestone wonders and deep blue sea, the pagodas here will present an entirely different facet: rustic, sacred, quiet, yet brimming with inner vitality.