If you’re looking for a Vietnamese experience, consider visiting Tran Quoc Pagoda in Hanoi. You will surely enjoy the architecture and feel of the history surrounding this place. It also represents one of the popular tourist attractions for tourists traveling to Vietnam on holiday.
Tran Quoc Pagoda is located in Tay Ho District Hanoi and is considered one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Vietnam. Through this blog post, we’ll recommend you interesting things and how to get there.
Contents
History of Tran Quoc Pagoda
During the rule of King Ly Nam De, the construction of Tran Quoc Pagoda began in 541 and was concluded four years late in 545. At its inauguration, this Buddhist temple was called Khai Quoc Pagoda (Khai Quoc meaning National Founder).
In 1961, due to the river’s gradual eating away at the land, the pagoda was moved to the islet of Kim Ngu (Golden Fish) at West Lake, where it remains today.
The alterations to this building were associated with the ruler’s name during the time of the royal rulers. During King Le Hy Tong’s reign (1680-1705), it was renamed Tran Quoc (National Defence).
In the early days of the Nguyen Dynasty, work was done to restore the pagoda, including shaping statues into bell styles. Then, in 1842, King Thieu Tri visited and changed its name to Tran Bac (Protector of the North). Nevertheless, it remains known as Tran Quoc in the eyes of locals.
Let’s know more about Tan Quoc Pagoda’s history, Freetouristinhanoi.com will tell you how to get there, how to get inside, and what to see.
Architecture and Structure
Besides, with a history stretching back centuries, Tran Quoc Pagoda has withstood numerous events and restorations to preserve its Buddhist architecture.
Infact, the four magnificient Toranas (Gateways) of the stupa are intricately carved with stories of the Buddha’s life, through a series of symbols – the lotus represents his birth, the tree, his enlightenment, the wheel, his sermon, the stupa, his nirvana.Source: tourism.gov.in
Viewed from the heavens, the pagoda consists of three main structures: Tiền Đường (Front house) faces west and is the principal worship area. It is flanked by the chambers of Thiên Hương on its right and Thượng Điện on its left.
Moreover, Bảo Tháp Lục Độ Đài Sen tower is the showpiece of the pagoda, built in 1998 to a height of 15m, with 11 floors and 14 steel structures. That symbolizes its historical importance while maintaining Hanoi’s renowned cultural values.
Besides that, during a trip to Tran Quoc Pagoda on March 24, 1959, the President of India gifted the Bodhi tree, which visitors can see today.
Interesting things about Tran Quoc Pagoda
- In 1962, the Ministry of Culture and Information was acknowledged as a national historical and cultural heritage.
- In 2016, the Daily Mail magazine voted Tran Quoc Pagoda as one of the world’s 16 most stunning pagodas. Besides, named it Vietnam’s most attractive ancient structure.
- Take advantage of its location by the romantic street in the heart of West Lake near two lakes, Truc Bach and West Lake. Tran Quoc Pagoda draws a great number of vacationers to this area daily. This is particularly true on the 1st and 15th days of the Lunar month.
What to explore at Tran Quoc Pagoda?
The Front Hall
Tien Duong (the Front House) faces the west, opposite the bell tower. Going into the Front House, you’ll come upon an incense burner at the center of the patio. It allows Buddhists and guests to pay homage and offer prayers conveniently.
The Stele House
One can see Nha Bia (the Stele House) on the left when exploring the Tien Duong area. This site contains 14 engravings of great significance since they date back to 1814 and 1815.
The Stupa Tower
Tran Quoc Pagoda’s usual spot is “Bao Thap”, or Precious Stupa.
However, viewers can spot the pagoda from a long way off. The Precious Stupa is 15 meters high, with 11 levels.
How to get there?
- By bus: If you’re after a direct route to the pagoda, then table Bus No 50. If that’s not convenient, get on one of the following buses (No. 31, 41, 55A, 55B, or 58) and alight at the An Duong bus stop.
- By Taxi: The ideal way to secure a cab and get to the pagoda is by reserving one through the Grab application on your phone.
- By motorbike: For convenient traveling around West Lake, one can rent a motorbike, it will take roughly 12 minutes to get to the pagoda.
Useful Tips
Dress code
– It’s recommended that men wear long trousers, not shorts. Likewise, women should wear modest clothing that does not reveal too much skin.
– While photography is allowed with permission, there are limits on what can be taken inside.
Opening hours
There is 7:30 am to 6:00 pm.
The best time to visit
The pagoda usually teems with people on the 1st and 15th days of the Lunar Calendar. Buddhist monks and travelers come to the area to venerate and tour.
In conclusion, the Tran Quoc Pagoda is a must-visit place in Hanoi. Suppose you need to spend time exploring this historical site, so Vietnamtravelers.com is the best service to help you. So don’t hesitate to book your Tran Quoc Pagoda trip now!
