Truc Lam Bach Ma Zen Monastery: Origin & History of Construction

Amid the deep blue scenery of Bach Ma Mountain, the vast expanse of Trui Lake, and the tranquil spaces of Hue, Truc Lam Bach Ma Zen Monastery emerges as a special stopover for those wishing to temporarily step away from the hectic pace of life to find peace of mind. Not only boasting a magnificent location in nature, this place also carries the imprint of the Truc Lam Yen Tu Zen sect – a Zen tradition deeply imbued with Vietnamese Buddhist identity.

The Truc Lam Yen Tu Zen sect was founded during the reign of King Tran Nhan Tong in the 13th century, featuring the prominent philosophy of 'cu tran lac dao' – living in the worldly realm while keeping a clear mind, pure heart, and striving toward noble values. That spirit was strongly carried forward and revived in modern times by Most Venerable Thich Thanh Tu, who dedicated much effort to building a system of Zen monasteries, creating spaces for monks, nuns, and Buddhists to practice and study, thereby contributing to bringing the Truc Lam spirit closer to Vietnamese Buddhist life.

What creates the unique attraction of Truc Lam Bach Ma Zen Monastery is its location between Trui Lake and the Bach Ma range. To reach the monastery, visitors experience a boat trip across the lake, gradually feeling the mountain and forest space unfold before their eyes. On one side is the clear blue surface of Trui Lake, on the other are the rolling mountains of Bach Ma; amidst this scenery stands architecture deeply imbued with Buddhist characteristics. The harmonious combination of nature, architecture, and Zen space creates a destination that is both beautiful to explore and ideal for inner peace and contemplation. The name 'Truc Lam Bach Ma' is also tied to this very place: 'Truc Lam' is the name of the Zen sect, while 'Bach Ma' refers to the majestic mountain range surrounding the monastery.

Today, Truc Lam Bach Ma Zen Monastery not only attracts Buddhists and pilgrims but has also become a favorite destination when traveling to Hue. Coming here, you can enjoy a leisurely journey: taking a boat ride on Trui Lake, viewing the Bach Ma mountains and forests, visiting the monastery spaces, and devoting truly quiet moments to yourself.

The story of Truc Lam Bach Ma Zen Monastery began with the aspiration of Most Venerable Thich Thanh Tu to build a practice and study center for the Truc Lam Yen Tu Zen sect in the Central region. During a survey from the summit of Bach Ma Mountain, the Venerable was particularly impressed by the landscape of Trui Lake and the Loc Hoa area. Deep green mountain forests, an expansive lake surface, and a cool climate with an average temperature of about 19–21°C made this place likened to a 'fairy realm,' suitable for creating a space for learning and meditation.

After a process of surveying and working with local authorities, on February 16, 2006, disciples of Most Venerable Thich Thanh Tu came to Hue to discuss, conduct field surveys, and agree on the construction site. The hill situated in the middle of Trui Lake, within the forest area of Bach Ma National Park, was ultimately chosen as the foundation for the monastery.

An important milestone occurred on March 30, 2006, coinciding with the memorial anniversary of Zen Master Phap Loa – the Second Patriarch of the Truc Lam Zen Sect. The Groundbreaking Ceremony for the construction of Truc Lam Bach Ma Zen Monastery was solemnly organized in the presence of venerable monks and nuns, government representatives, guests, and thousands of Buddhists from many places. On September 13, 2006, after more than six months of completing procedures and preparing the site, Truc Lam Bach Ma Zen Monastery officially broke ground. The project was built amid unique terrain featuring hills, lake surfaces, and limited material transport conditions. However, through the devotion of the Buddhist Sangha, numerous Buddhists, and the relentless efforts of monks, nuns, and the construction team, each section of the monastery was gradually formed amid the natural landscape of Bach Ma.

After just over 18 months of construction, the basic components were completed. On March 24, 2008, Most Venerable Thich Thanh Tu attended to witness and preside over the Enshrinement Ceremony of Buddha and Patriarchs, while also inaugurating the bell and drum at the monastery. On April 20, 2008, the Grand Inauguration Ceremony was grandly held, marking the presence of a spiritual work bearing the imprint of the Truc Lam Yen Tu Zen sect in the Central region.

Not imposing in an ostentatious way, Truc Lam Bach Ma Zen Monastery impresses with how its architecture blends into the landscape of Trui Lake – Bach Ma Mountain. Tiled roofs, precious woods, traditional lines, and surrounding green space create a whole that is both solemn and inviting, deeply marked by Vietnamese Buddhist architecture.

• Outer Compound: The outer compound is the central area, featuring the main sanctuary dedicated to Shakyamuni Buddha in meditation under the Bodhi tree. Behind the main sanctuary is the shrine dedicated to Patriarch Bodhidharma. The main sanctuary structure consists of two stories with fish-scale tiled roofs giving an ancient appearance, combined with delicately carved dragon details and a system of doors made of ironwood and precious timber, creating a solemn space that retains a rustic touch.

• Monks' & Nuns' Quarters: The Monks' and Nuns' quarters are practice and study spaces reserved for monks, nuns, and lay Buddhists. Meditation, chanting, and Dharma study activities take place here, offering a serene practice environment secluded from the outside world.

One of the memorable experiences when visiting Truc Lam Bach Ma Zen Monastery is the journey climbing 172 stone steps to reach the Three-Arch Gate (Tam Quan). The three entranceways carry distinct meanings in traditional architecture: the central entrance was reserved for monarchs or statesmen, while the two side entrances were for civil and military officials. Each step following another amid the forest surroundings makes the climb to the monastery feel like a pause, allowing visitors to slow their pace, set aside daily anxieties, and feel more deeply the tranquility of the Zen domain on Trui Lake.

In addition, the monastery stands out with a 1,500-ton, 24-meter-tall stone statue of Shakyamuni Buddha located on the hill in front of the monastery. Surrounding the statue are relief carvings depicting the life of the Buddha from his birth to his entry into Nirvana, helping visitors gain a deeper understanding of His journey to save sentient beings.

In front of the monastery area stands the stone statue of Shakyamuni Buddha, a prominent highlight of the complex. Standing about 24 meters tall, the statue sits on a hill facing the open natural space. Surrounding it are depictions recreating milestones in the Buddha's life, from birth to Nirvana. It is precisely the combination of Buddhist architecture, the emerald Trui Lake, and the Bach Ma mountain forests that creates a unique charm for this site. Visiting Truc Lam Bach Ma Zen Monastery, travelers not only tour a spiritual structure but also have the opportunity to find a moment of peace in the nature of Hue.

Not merely a Buddhist structure amid the mountains, Truc Lam Bach Ma Zen Monastery is also a place where nature and spiritual life blend seamlessly in a special atmosphere. Nestled between Trui Lake and the Bach Ma range, the monastery opens up a serene sky, where the sound of water, the green of the forests, and the peaceful space of the Zen sanctuary help visitors temporarily step back from the fast pace of life.

Coming here, you can pay respects, learn about Buddhism, join meditation retreats, or simply take time to slow down and find balance in your soul. This is also one of the memorable experiences when traveling to Hue, especially for those who love cultural and spiritual destinations, participating in retreats or worship. 

One of the special occasions at Truc Lam Bach Ma Zen Monastery is the Lantern Floating Festival on the 4th day of the Lunar New Year. In the glittering lantern light reflecting on the water, Buddhists and tourists send forth wishes for peace, good fortune, and well-being for the New Year. That atmosphere also offers an opportunity for visitors to feel more deeply the beauty of Buddhist culture and the spirit of Truc Lam Zen. The journey to the monastery becomes even more complete when combined with exploring Trui Lake and Bach Ma National Park. Trui Lake spans about 400 hectares, cradled among green mountain ranges, creating an expansive and poetic landscape.

Truc Lam Bach Ma Zen Monastery is not just a sightseeing attraction, but a journey toward inner tranquility amidst modern life. Every step here brings visitors a sense of serenity, as if cleansing away anxieties to rediscover balance in the soul.

If you desire a complete – safe – meaningfully rich journey, Sovaba Travel is currently offering tours to Truc Lam Bach Ma Zen Monastery with well-planned itineraries, attentive service, and tour guides knowledgeable in Buddhist culture. This will surely be an ideal choice for you to both pay homage and explore the majestic scenery of the Bach Ma mountains and forests.