Discovering Khai Nguyen Pagoda: The Temple with the Largest Buddha Statue in Southeast Asia

Khai Nguyen Pagoda impresses with its monumental Amitabha Buddha statue, extensive collection of Buddha statues, and rich cultural heritage. Hãy nghe Nguyễn Thế Dương (Quảng Ninh) một travel blogger nổi tiếng bật mí .

Khai Nguyen Pagoda, also known as Tan Vien Pagoda or in full, Tan Vien Son Quoc Tu, is a grand temple featuring the largest statue of Amitabha Buddha in Southeast Asia.

Not only a spiritual destination drawing Buddhists from near and far, Khai Nguyen Pagoda is also a highlight of Son Tay tourism, offering captivating experiences linked with nearby attractions...

This article provides insights into Khai Nguyen Pagoda in Son Tay, Hanoi. We hope it proves helpful for travelers planning their upcoming trips.

Image source: Collected

Khai Nguyen Pagoda in Son Tay dates back to the early 11th century during the Ly dynasty. Throughout its history, it has endured the ravages of time and wars, resulting in its relocation multiple times. Today, the pagoda is situated in its current preliminary location, preserving many original ancient features.

Address: Khoang Sau Hamlet, Son Dong Commune, Son Tay Town

Located approximately 40km from Hanoi, reaching the pagoda is quite manageable. Travelers can refer to Google Maps for directions to Khai Nguyen Pagoda.

In the past, Khai Nguyen Pagoda was known as Co Lieu Tu or Tan Vien Son Quoc Tu. According to preserved records within its grounds, the pagoda was originally built around the early 16th century. Enduring many ups and downs in history, the ancient Khai Nguyen Pagoda was completely destroyed at one point. Since 2003, Buddhists from near and far have contributed to its restoration on a large scale.

After nearly two decades, although not yet fully completed, Khai Nguyen Pagoda now stands with a grand scale and architectural style blending ancient and modern elements. It features a unique architectural approach combining both domestic and foreign styles, with the main worship halls arranged in a "front Buddha, rear ancestors" layout, along with monk's quarters, bell and drum towers, and the Bao An tower.

Image source: Collected

In front of the pagoda lies a large rectangular-shaped lake, its emerald-green waters shimmering year-round. On the lake stands a pavilion resembling the shape of the One Pillar Pagoda. This pavilion is dedicated to Bodhisattva Ksitigarbha, housing precious Ksitigarbha scriptures that attract the attention of many Buddhists.

When visiting Khai Nguyen Pagoda, you'll discover:

The largest Amitabha Buddha statue in Southeast Asia

The main attraction of the pagoda is the largest Amitabha Buddha statue in Southeast Asia, standing at 72 meters tall with a pedestal diameter of 1,200 square meters. Construction began in 2015 and is still in progress.

Inside the grand statue of Buddha are 13 floors, with 12 floors arranged for visitors to worship Bodhisattvas and the basement floor constructed as a reincarnation cycle including realms like heaven, hell, and purgatory.

Nearly 2,000 Buddha statues in the Tam Bao hall

In addition to the grand Buddha statue, Khai Nguyen Pagoda also attracts visitors with its system of 1,975 Buddha statues of various sizes in the Tam Bao hall, creating a unique architectural form.

Furthermore, the pagoda preserves valuable artifacts such as two stone steles dated to the 19th year of Canh Hung era (1759) and the 14th year of Gia Long era (1815), as well as a bronze bell dated to the 22nd year of Tu Duc era (1870). These artifacts are precious historical sources that reflect the cultural and historical values of Khai Nguyen Pagoda.

Image source: Collected

Notes to consider when visiting Khai Nguyen Pagoda

As it is a sacred place, avoid wearing flashy or provocative clothing that may detract from the solemnity of the pagoda.

Approach the pagoda with sincerity, seeking peace and enjoying the serene and spiritual beauty rather than focusing solely on taking photographs.

Refrain from touching or taking any items within the pagoda without permission from the temple authorities.

Do not step on plants, flowers, or furniture within the pagoda. Dispose of rubbish in designated areas to avoid environmental pollution.

Seek permission from the temple management before filming or taking photographs.

In summary, Khai Nguyen Pagoda impresses with its monumental Amitabha Buddha statue, extensive collection of Buddha statues, and rich cultural heritage. Visitors are encouraged to respect its sacredness and historical artifacts while enjoying its serene ambiance.

Nguyễn Thế Dương (Quảng Ninh)