Beyond its stunning beaches and vibrant attractions, Phu Quoc boasts captivating spiritual sites like Truc Lam Pagoda and Dinh Cau Temple. As the largest religious structure in Southwest Vietnam, Truc Lam Pagoda, nestled amidst the island’s natural beauty, attracts locals and tourists alike for worship and scenic serenity.
About Truc Lam Pagoda Phu Quoc
Truc Lam Pagoda is located in Suoi Lon Hamlet, Duong To Commune, Phu Quoc District, Kien Giang Province. The pagoda is 20km from Duong Dong Town and about 10km from Phu Quoc International Airport. The easily accessible route makes it convenient for visitors to explore and pay their respects. Facing the sea and backed by mountains, the pagoda enjoys a prime location, basking in the island’s sunshine and gentle breezes. Truc Lam Pagoda overlooking the ocean in Phu Quoc. Truc Lam Pagoda, also known as Ho Quoc Pagoda, showcases the distinctive architectural style of the Truc Lam Zen school. Two other notable Truc Lam Zen monasteries in Vietnam are located in Da Lat, Lam Dong and Yen Tu, Quang Ninh. Ho Quoc Pagoda stands as the largest Buddhist temple on Phu Quoc Island.
Getting to Truc Lam Pagoda
You can reach the pagoda by motorbike from Duong Dong Town. Head towards Phu Quoc Prison, and about 1km before Bai Sao Beach, turn left onto a small road. Look for the sign indicating Suoi Lon residential area and find the turn on the opposite side. The 6m-wide concrete road leading to the pagoda, though winding, is relatively easy to navigate. After a 4km journey, you’ll arrive at the pagoda. You’ll encounter a left turn along the way, but avoid it as it leads to the pagoda’s internal area. Alternatively, you can travel by car or hire a taxi.
Exploring the Architecture of Truc Lam Pagoda – Ho Quoc Pagoda Kien Giang
Admiring the Architectural Style
Reviews of Ho Quoc Pagoda often highlight its unique Ly – Tran Dynasty architectural style. This distinctiveness stems from the materials used in its construction. Ho Quoc Pagoda is built with meticulously selected lim wood pillars, known for their longevity and durability of up to 1000 years. Intricate details of the wooden architecture at Truc Lam Pagoda.
Diverse and Unique Pagoda Complex
- Tam Quan Gate: The entrance to Ho Quoc Pagoda is through the Tam Quan Gate, comprising three sections: the main Địa Giác Gate, the left Bất Nhị Gate, and the right Giải Thoát Gate.
- Courtyard: Beyond the gate lies a spacious courtyard adorned with lush greenery. At its centre stands a jade Buddha statue, nearly 3 metres tall, crafted from exquisite jadeite and featuring intricate carvings.
- Main Hall: A 70-step staircase, flanked by four stone dragons in Tran Dynasty style, leads from the Buddha statue to the Main Hall. Eighteen Arhat stone statues surround the main area. Inside, admire beautiful historical bas-reliefs.
- Ancestor Hall: This hall is dedicated to the Three Patriarchs of the Truc Lam Zen school (Nhan Tong, Phap Loa, and Huyen Quang).
Panoramic view of Truc Lam Pagoda in Phu Quoc.
Visiting Truc Lam Ho Quoc Pagoda: Things to Note
Truc Lam Pagoda welcomes hundreds of visitors daily. For a fulfilling and respectful visit, keep the following in mind:
- The pagoda is open to the public for worship and sightseeing. Maintain order and respect the sanctity of the site and fellow visitors.
- Dress modestly.
- Refrain from playful behaviour, especially in the Main Hall.
- Visit early morning or late afternoon for optimal sightseeing and photography opportunities. Consider bringing a camera or binoculars.
- Bring an umbrella, hat, sunscreen if visiting during midday.
- On-site car parking is available.
- Dispose of rubbish responsibly.
Nearby Attractions
Combine your Truc Lam Pagoda visit with exploring other nearby attractions:
Phu Quoc Prison
Phu Quoc Prison, also known as “Coconut Tree Prison”, is located in Cay Dua Hamlet, An Thoi Commune. Situated at 350 Nguyen Van Cu Street, it’s about 2km from Khem Beach and 28km from Duong Dong Town. A visit here offers a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by Vietnamese soldiers, fostering a deeper appreciation for peace and freedom. Phu Quoc Prison – A historical site on Phu Quoc Island.
Ham Ninh Fishing Village
Ham Ninh Fishing Village, 15km from Duong Dong Town, is a picturesque village with golden sand beaches and shallow, seaweed-rich waters. Locals primarily rely on fishing and pearl diving for their livelihood. Taxi to Ham Ninh Fishing Village in Phu Quoc.
Phu Quoc’s Largest Pepper Farm
Phu Quoc is renowned for its beaches and its fragrant pepper, known for its intense flavour and aroma. This is attributed to the century-old pepper plants and the minimal use of chemical fertilisers.
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