Last Updated on August 21, 2020 by admin
Visitors flock to Vietnam every year to view the beautiful landscapes, experience the culture, educate themselves about its history, and, of course, witness the stunning architecture of its temples. Temples in Vietnam are special and there are tourists who travel just to visit them.
If you’re interested in visiting Vietnam, it‘s best to go between April and November, as those are the driest months. Take advantage of the glorious weather, and make sure to see its beautiful temples in the best conditions you possibly can. Listed here are some of the temples in Vietnam that are must-visit:
Table of Contents
The Jade Emperor Pagoda
This vibrant and colourful temple is one of the most famous and culturally important in the whole of Vietnam. It was originally built by a community of Cantonese Toaists back in the 20th century. It holds historic carvings of Kim Hua, with scenes of women and their children – an ode to the goddess of fertility. You’ll also find an altar dedicated to Kuan Yin, the goddess of mercy.
Visit the Jade Emperor Pagoda (sometimes also referred to as the Tortoise Pagoda) in Ho Chi Minh City. Wondering more about Ho Chi Minh city? Here are 10 reasons to visit Ho Chi Minh city.
Visiting hours: The temple is open to the public between 7am to 6pm
Tip: Consider taking a tour guide along to learn as much as possible
The Temple of Literature
The Temple of Literature is a popular Vietnamese temple in Vietnam, situated in the capital city of Hanoi. It was originally built as a university dedicated to Confucius, all the way back in 1070.
It was built to attract wealthy scholars – as education was once only accessible to the wealthy and royal. Because of this, it now stands as one of the most beautiful and picturesque temples in the whole of Vietnam. Its traditional Vietnamese architecture is surrounded by tranquil courtyards – featuring the names of successful students of the past, carved into stone turtles.
Visiting hours: 8am to 6pm
The Van Thuy Tu Temple
The Van Thuy Tu Temple is known as the whale temple – and just as the name suggests, it is dedicated to the most impressive mammal – whale. In Vietnamese culture, whale is considered as a holy animal, worshiped in a multitude of different ways. It is estimated that there are over 100 whale temples in Vietnam, and Van Thuy Tu Temple is the oldest and largest and is located in Phan Thiet.
Visitors can see a range of historical artifacts – from whale skeletons, fishing boats and Nguyen Dynasty relics – as it was built way back in 1762. It was erected to commemorate the ancient story of the Lord Whale, who earned his title by saving a team of fishermen from bad weather.
Visiting hours: 7am to 5pm
The Tran Quoc Pagoda
The Tran Quoc Pagoda is one of Hanoi’s most popular historical landmarks. It is said to have been built in the 6th century as ‘An Quoc’, but it was renamed ‘Tran Quoc’ following renovations in the 17th century which were largely overseen by Emperor Le Huy Tong.
It is one of the liveliest temples to visit as a tourist. Apart from its museum of historical artifacts, the main pagoda is often used to hold special events for devotees, such as the celebration of Buddha’s birthday, and the famous Tet Festival.
Visiting hours: 7.30am to 6pm
The Giac Lam Pagoda
This beautiful Buddhist temple was built in 1744, and in 1988 gained status as an important historical site according to the Vietnamese Department of Culture. This temple is truly breathtaking and tranquil, with gorgeous gardens to lose yourself in. Of all the temples on this list, this is the perfect choice if you’re looking for a peaceful experience. Its ceremonial hall is a huge attraction, thanks to its famous statue of Amitabha Buddha.
Just like the Emperor Jade Pagoda, Giac Lam Pagoda is situated in Ho Chi Minh City. It is open from early morning, allowing you to experience its beautiful scenery in the morning, noon and night.
Visiting hours: 5am to 8pm
Sustainable tips for visiting temples in Vietnam
- Most of these temples in Vietnam are ancient heritage sites of historical importance. Visitors must respect the structures by not sitting on them.
- Do not harm the temple structure by carving or writing on it.
- Wear respectable clothes while visiting the temples in Vietnam. Cover your shoulders and knees. You may not be allowed to enter otherwise.
- Do not litter temple premises and maintain its sanctity by keeping it clean.
Disclaimer: This is contributed blog post and may contain affiliate and commercial links.
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16 comments
On this list I would love to check out The Tran Quoc Pagoda – it sure looks tall and got some interesting history behind it. As a photographer who loves to photo buildings, towers etc, this one appeals to me the most. HAven’t got to Vietnam yet but cant wait to see the amazing temples and landscape out there.
How beautiful! I would love to see these temples in person one day, especially The Temple of Literature! I love its pink color, so vibrant and unexpected.
The best part is, unlike in India the way temples are always busy with people, Vietnamese temples are quiet and have only few local visitors, which is such a respite.
I love Chinese pagodas most especially!
Wow, the whale temple would be so fascinating. I had no idea there were so many temples for the great animals. The Jade Emperor Pergoda is just beautiful, I’d like to visit it one day.
Vietnam is so amazing and so are the temples!
I have read several posts on the beautiful temples in Vietnam, but I’ve never heard of the Whale temple. It’s so interesting that they dedicate an entire temple to this massive mammal. Also, great tip on wearing appropriate attire 🙂
Thank you 🙂
I loved seeing the variety of colours and sizes. My favourite was the Jade Emperor Pergoda, the brightness of the colours is incredible. I also loved that you shared the tips when visiting, that way you are respectful of the customs.
It is extremely important not to hurt religious feelings especially in temples and a lot of people are not aware.
I didn’t realise that the Vietnamese people consider the whale to be a holy animal. The Jade Emperor Pagoda is beautiful and the Temple of Literature is interesting too. I would love to visit some of these. Great advice on being respectful when visiting temples. So important.
I was intrigued too about the whale and an entire temple being dedicated for it.
There are some really interesting temples in Vietnam, have you heard of Cao Dai? It’s not far from Saigon and a very intriguing take on religion!
No I haven’t heard. I probably missed out but thanks for letting me know.
Although I’m not religious (or maybe because I’m not religious), I enjoy exploring churches, cathedrals, temples, and other religious sites when I travel. These temples look way more exotic than anything I’ve ever had the chance to explore.
Same here Sage. I do not visit religious places for praying but I enjoy knowing about its history and appreciating it’s architecture.