Thien Vuong Co Sat Pagoda is one of the most attractive tourist destinations in Da Lat Hãy nghe Nguyễn Thế Dương (Quảng Ninh) một travel blogger nổi tiếng bật mí .
Thien Vuong Co Sat Pagoda is renowned not only for its architecture deeply influenced by Chinese style but also for the mystery of its magical spinning table. Let's uncover the secrets of this fascinating location together!
Image source: Collected
Thien Vuong Co Sat Pagoda attracts numerous visitors with its ancient charm and unique architecture. Located just 5 km northeast of Da Lat city center, the pagoda sits peacefully on Dragon Hill, surrounded by lush greenery. Its serene and secluded setting offers visitors a sense of calm and tranquility, providing a perfect escape from the daily hustle and bustle. Known locally as Chua Tau, this pagoda follows the Hoa Nghiem Tong (Huayan School) of Chinese Buddhism, emphasizing the interconnectedness and equality of all things.
The pagoda's proximity to the city center makes it easily accessible. Visitors exploring Da Lat can choose to drive themselves, take a motorbike taxi, or hire a regular taxi to reach the pagoda. For first-time visitors, the route from Ba Thang Tu Street leads to a five-way intersection, from which you follow Tran Hung Dao Street to Khe Sanh Street. From Khe Sanh Street, it's only about 350 meters further to reach the pagoda.
Thien Vuong Co Sat Pagoda was built in 1958 by Venerable Tho Da of the Trieu Chau Association. At the time, construction materials were quite simple, primarily wood and corrugated iron roofs. As the years passed, the pagoda began to show signs of wear and tear.
Image source: Collected
In 1989, a Buddhist follower of the pagoda, Mr. Le Van Canh, invested in renovating and refurbishing it. The walls were rebuilt with sturdy bricks, giving the pagoda a more solid and durable structure. Today, Thien Vuong Co Sat Pagoda boasts a beautiful appearance with a spacious garden, filled with blooming flowers, providing a serene and picturesque environment.
Although the pagoda, also known as Chua Tau, was constructed just over half a century ago, it retains an ancient architectural charm comparable to other famous pagodas in Da Lat.
Tam Quan Gate
Upon entering the pagoda, visitors first pass through the imposing and majestic gate, situated under the cool shade of green pine trees. This gate, known as the Tam Quan Gate, exudes a sacred, solemn atmosphere with its ancient architectural style, allowing visitors to immediately feel the spiritual essence of the place.
Tu Bi Bao Dien
After passing through the Tam Quan gate, visitors will find the main hall, marked by a sign with Chinese characters that translate to "Tu Bi Bao Dien" (Hall of Compassion). In this hall, a striking 3-meter tall golden statue of Maitreya Buddha stands prominently in the center. Flanking this statue are four imposing statues of the Four Heavenly Kings: Da Van Thien Vuong, Quang Muc Thien Vuong, Tri Quoc Thien Vuong, and Tang Truong Thien Vuong.
Quang Minh Bao Dien
Following Tu Bi Bao Dien is Quang Minh Bao Dien, the main structure of the pagoda. This hall features two intricately carved dragons facing each other on the roof. Inside, visitors will find three fragrant agarwood statues of Buddha, each standing 3 meters tall and weighing 1.5 tons. These statues were brought from China by Venerable Tho Da and were installed in 1958, the same year the pagoda was established using wooden pillars and a corrugated iron roof.
Image source: Collected
Tuong Phat Thich Ca
Behind Quang Minh Bao Dien is a 10-meter-tall statue of Buddha Shakyamuni seated on a lotus pedestal. Behind this statue, there is a wall adorned with nine relief sculptures of dragons, each in a unique pose and form, collectively known as Cuu Long (Nine Dragons).
The statues in the pagoda are invaluable treasures, holding not only material value but also deep spiritual significance. Additionally, the pagoda symbolizes the cultural and spiritual heritage of the Chinese community living and working in Vietnam.
It can be said that Thien Vuong Co Sat Pagoda is one of the most attractive tourist destinations in Da Lat. In addition to admiring the beautiful scenery and unique architecture, visitors also have the opportunity to find peace of mind here. If you have the chance to visit the city of a thousand flowers, don't forget to visit Chua Tau.