Ever wanted to explore the religious and architectural side of Temples in Vietnam? These temples reflect the religious past of the country that spans over a millennium centuries and with a major external influence, these temples reflect Vietnam's cultural, architectural and religious traditions of its long history. The tourists can find the most fascinating temples in Vietnam, such as ornate Buddhist pagodas and rare Hindu temples built by the Cham civilisation, while exploring Hanoi, wandering the streets of Ho Chi Minh City or finding their way through ancient towns like Hoi An and Hue. Besides amazing architecture, these temples, which are also the homes of the faithful, allow tourists to get involved in the rites, morals, and stories of everyday life in Vietnam. This guide will help travellers choose the best Vietnam Tour Package and explore these famous temples like never before such that the trip becomes an unforgettable one
10 Best Temples in Vietnam
The selected list of important temples in Vietnam shows you the religious heritage, architecture and cultural importance that the places to visit in Vietnam hold. Keep reading to know more.
1. Tran Quoc Pagoda, Hanoi
Tran Quoc Pagoda is one of the oldest temples in Vietnam and dates back more than 1,450 years. Located on the calm banks of the West Lake, this old temple of Vietnam is quite famous for its red Buddhist tower, detailed carvings and a peaceful environment. Travellers come here to see a traditional Vietnamese Buddhist ceremony and to have a look at the statues representing the different stages of life, and relax with the beautiful view of the lake.
Location: Thanh Nien Road, Hanoi
Timings: 07:30 AM- 06:00 PM
2. One Pillar Pagoda, Hanoi
One Pillar Pagoda is known as one of the most iconic Vietnam temples, and for its unique structure, built in the shape of a lotus. When this pagoda was built, the whole structure rested on a single wooden pillar which represented purity and enlightenment in Buddhism. The pagoda is also one of the most famous temples in Vietnam because of its unique structure. This Hanoi temple is one of the most famous Buddhist temples in Vietnam and is almost always visited along with the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum complex.
Location: Ba Dinh District, Hanoi
Timings: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
3. Bai Dinh Pagoda, Ninh Binh
The pagoda is the largest temple in Vietnam with an expansive complex that features bronze statues, impressive stonework, and a giant Buddha image. Besides, the pagoda holds a number of national records, including that of having the largest bronze Buddha statue in Asia, which attracts millions of tourists every year. Exploring this giant temple complex is something you shouldn't miss out on among the things to do in Vietnam
Location: Gia Vien District, Ninh Binh
Timings: 07:00 AM - 06:00 PM
4. Perfume Pagoda, Hanoi
The Perfume Pagoda is a stunning buddhist temple in Vietnam built inside a limestone cave in Vietnam. Visitors reach the pagoda through a boat ride along the Yen River, and then they hike up to the holy cave complex. The pagoda is very much visited during the Perfume Pagoda Festival, which is one of the biggest Buddhist celebrations in the country.
Location: My Duc District, Hanoi
Timings: 06:00 AM - 05:00 PM
5. Cao Dai Temple, Tay Ninh
The Cao Dai Temple is one of Vietnam’s most colourful religious constructions. This temple is a representation of a single Vietnamese faith: Caodaism. The faith was a combination of elements from Buddhism, Christianity, Taoism, and Confucianism. The temple interior is equally as colourful as the exterior, with dragon pillars and symbolic murals.
Location: Tay Ninh Province
Timings: 06:00 AM - 09:00 PM
6. Po Nagar Cham Towers, Nha Trang
Po Nagar Cham Towers, constructed between the 7th and 12th centuries, are the foremost among the Hindu temples in Vietnam. The ancient towers devoted to Yan Po Nagar, the earth goddess, present Cham architecture with the help of sandstone carvings and brick towers. It continues to be a place where people come to worship and is considered the biggest Hindu temple in Vietnam in terms of cultural importance and the number of tourists visiting.
Location: Nha Trang, Khanh Hoa
Timings: 06:00 AM - 06:00 PM
7. My Son Sanctuary, Quang Nam
My Son Sanctuary is a Hindu temple ruins in Vietnam dedicated to Lord Shiva and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is one of the most significant archaeological sites of the Cham civilisation and has features such as brick structures, sacred altars, and inscriptions. Besides, many tourists come here to see the rare Shiva temple in Vietnam and to know more about the Cham civilisation.
Location: Near Hoi An, Quang Nam
Timings: 06:00 AM - 05:00 PM
8. Giac Lam Pagoda, Ho Chi Minh City
Giac Lam Pagoda is one of the oldest temples in Ho Chi Minh City and features wooden architecture with ancient statues and a peaceful courtyard. This makes it a significant spiritual centre for southern Vietnamese practising Buddhists. The Pagoda showcases the unique southern Vietnamese Buddhist designs in its architecture. It is also considered the symbol of faith and peace.
Location: Tan Binh District
Timings: 05:00 AM - 08:00 PM
9. Jade Emperor Pagoda, Ho Chi Minh City
The Jade Emperor Pagoda is an extremely popular temple in Ho Chi Minh and gets most of its fame from the Taoist statues, ornate carvings and the halls full of incense. The temple was brought into the limelight to the international audience when the former US President Barack Obama paid a visit to the place in 2016. Visitors usually spend time admiring the detailed woodwork and the peaceful inner courtyard. The atmosphere feels calm despite the crowds, making it a quiet escape inside the city. Many travellers also enjoy watching locals come here for daily prayers. Location: District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Timings: 07:00 AM - 06:00 PM
10. Linh Phuoc Pagoda, Da Lat
Linh Phuoc Pagoda is the most mesmerising pagoda. It is a richly decorated Buddhist temple that was decorated with millions of ceramic pieces. The famous dragon mosaic and its 37-metre-high bell tower have together turned it into one of the most renowned Buddhist temples in Vietnam. The entire complex feels like an art museum, with every corner showcasing colourful craftsmanship. Visitors love climbing the tower for a serene view of Da Lat. The peaceful ambience and unique design make it a standout stop for culture lovers.
Location: Da Lat City
Timings: 08:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Travel Tips for Visiting Temples in Vietnam
If you are wondering about what to keep in mind before visiting Vietnam temple, most Vietnamese temples highly emphasise the need for dressing modestly. It is suggested that shoulders and knees should be covered and tight, revealing clothes should be avoided. It is also advised that hats and sunglasses should be taken off by an individual before entering the holy place.
Put on tops that have sleeves.
Do not wear shorts that are higher than the knee.
Carry a light scarf for additional cover
Avoid loud conversations and keep phones on silent mode
Ask before taking photos, especially where locals are praying
Carry small change for donations and incense offerings
Take off your shoes before coming into the prayer halls
Stay away from loud or flashy clothes
Keep walkways clear and do not touch statues or sacred objects
Conclusion
Vietnam’s temples are living symbols of the country’s spiritual depth, cultural resilience along with centuries-old traditions. Be it the serene Buddhist pagodas of Hanoi or the spiritual complexes of Ho Chi Minh City, the temples in Vietnam offer a unique window into Vietnam’s history, beliefs and way of life. If you’re a traveller who is in search of peace, a culture enthusiast who wants to explore heritage, or is simply curious about the stories carved into ancient stone, Vietnam’s temples promise an experience that is very enriching overall. Pack your bags and get ready to feel the divine blessings at these temples such that your trip to Vietnam becomes an unforgettable one.
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