Linh Phuoc Pagoda in Da Lat is one of the most renowned pagodas in Vietnam, attracting countless Indian visitors each year. The pagoda boasts many unique architectures and impressive Budda statues, which hold many records in the country.
In this article, we offer a comprehensive guide to Linh Phuoc Pagoda, covering its history, architecture, useful tips and what to expect during your visit.
Brief History of Linh Phuoc Pagoda
Linh Phuoc Pagoda was built between 1949 and 1952 using broken pieces of porcelain, glass, and pottery. Over the years, the pagoda had been managed by dedicated abbots: Thich Minh The (1951-1954), Thich An Hoa (1954-1956), Thich Quang Phat (1956-1959), Thich Minh Duc (1959-1985).
Since 1985, Thich Tam Vi has been in charge of the abbot. He has made the biggest contributions to creating the splendid architecture of the pagoda. In 1990, the abbot Thich Tam Vi started a big restoration project, using glass, pottery, and porcelain to create beautiful designs. Thanks to his work, Linh Phuoc Pagoda has become very popular and holds many records in Vietnam.
Unique Architecture
Linh Phuoc Pagoda (Ve Chai Pagoda), is situated on a spacious hill covering around 7,000 square meters. Its architecture is uniquely exquisite, following a distinct East Asian design. The pagoda earned its nickname, “Ve Chai,” meaning “scrap,” because it was built from broken vases, dishes, bowls, and other household items. Hundreds of monks, nuns, and artisans dedicated themselves to attaching each shard of pottery, porcelain, and glass to the entire structure of the pagoda.
The pagoda’s triple-arched gate stands out with its stunning beauty, featuring pillars and roofs adorned with porcelain dragons at the entrance. In the courtyard, there is an impressive 49-meter-long dragon with scales made from 12,000 beer bottles.
Inside the halls, Indian tourists can marvel at sophisticated artworks made of porcelain, depicting dragons, carp, and lotus flowers on pillars, walls, and roofs. The main hall of the pagoda worships Buddha Shakyamuni on a bronze lotus pedestal, while other halls honor Avalokiteśvara Bodhisattva and many other Buddhas.
Linh Phuoc Pagoda in Da Lat has been honored with many records in Vietnam, including:
- The pagoda is adorned with the most porcelain pieces
- The tallest bell tower with 36 meters in height
- A statue of Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara made from 650,000 strawflower, reaching a height of 17 meters
- The tallest wooden statue of Bodhidharma
- The largest golden oak statue of Khong Tuoc Vuong
- The largest sutra set
- The tallest indoor Buddha statue, standing at 12 meters
- The biggest set of golden oak tables and chairs
- The longest 18 levels of hell, extending 300 meters
- The artwork “Song Tung Bach Hac”
- The largest golden oak couch
These remarkable features make Linh Phuoc Pagoda a must-visit destination for Indian tourists seeking to experience its unique beauty and cultural significance.
Location And Opening Hours
- Opening hours: 8.00 AM – 5.00 PM daily
Linh Phuoc Pagoda is located at No.120 Tu Phuoc Street, Trai Mat Village, Ward 11, Da Lat City, Lam Dong Province, which is about 10 kilometers away from the center of Dalat City.
Best Time To Visit
For a peaceful visit to admire the intricate architecture of Linh Phuoc Pagoda, early morning or late afternoon is ideal. If you prefer a lively atmosphere and want to explore religious events, visiting on full moon days or during pagoda festivals is the best option.
For Indian tourists planning to visit nearby attractions, it’s important to be aware of Da Lat’s weather to ensure an enjoyable trip. The most convenient option is to book a private tour package through Vietnamtour.in. We offer well-organized schedules that cater to your preferences, making your visit stress-free and enjoyable.
How To Get There
Linh Phuoc Pagoda is located in Da Lat city, in the Central Highlands region of Vietnam. Our Indian tourists typically travel from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Lat by coach, a journey that takes about 6 to 8 hours. Once in Da Lat city center, there are common ways to reach Linh Phuoc Pagoda as below:
- By Motorbike/Car: You can hire a motorbike for about 120,000 VND ($5) per day or a car for about 1,000,000 VND ($40) per day. Renting and driving on your own allows you to stop at various beautiful spots along the way. However, Da Lat’s road is narrow and winding, so renting a vehicle with an experienced local driver is advisable.
- By Bus: Traveling by bus is the most economical option, costing around 30,000 VND ($1.2).
- By Train: For 170,000 VND ($6.7) for a round trip, you can take a train from Da Lat railway station to Trai Mat village, a journey of just 25 minutes. From Trai Mat, it’s an easy walk to the pagoda.
- By Taxi: Taxis are available and offer a direct route to the pagoda, although they are more expensive than other options.
- Booking a tour package at Vietnamtour.in: We will provide a well-organized schedule with convenient vehicles, ensuring a hassle-free visit.
What To Expect When Visiting Linh Phuoc Pagoda
18-Level Hell
Linh Phuoc Pagoda features a unique attraction: a 300-meter-long tunnel known as the “18-Level Hell.” This tunnel vividly illustrates the concept of karma, depicting 18 levels of hell with punishments for various evil deeds. The space is partially dark, with sounds and lights smartly set up to create realistic effects, making the experience both immersive and thought-provoking.
One fascinating aspect of this tunnel is a series of paintings that tell the story of a young man who journeys to hell to save his deceased mother. This story highlights the importance of karma and encourages visitors to show gratitude and filial piety to their parents.
Dai Hong Chung Chime
The Dai Hong Chung chime at Linh Phuoc Pagoda stands 4.3 meters tall and weighs 8,500 kilograms, with a bell mouth measuring 2.33 meters wide. Cast in 1999, it is currently the second-largest bell in Vietnam, surpassed only by the bell at Bai Dinh Pagoda in Ninh Binh.
Visitors can participate in a special ritual at the pagoda. You can write your wish on yellow paper, then attach it to the bell and tinkle the chime three times to send your message to the Buddha. This spiritual practice is believed to bring good luck and is a meaningful way to engage with the cultural and religious traditions at Linh Phuoc Pagoda.
Linh Thap
Linh Thap is a 36-meter-high tower featuring seven intricately designed floors. In 2008, it was recognized by the Vietnam Record Book Center as the tallest bell tower in Vietnam. This impressive seven-story tower houses the Dai Hong Chung chime and showcases many elaborate statues, adding to its architectural and spiritual significance.
Quan The Amphitheater
Quan The Amphitheater is an inner hall that worships 324 statues of Avalokiteśvara Bodhisattva. It especially houses the largest indoor reinforced concrete statue of Avalokiteśvara Bodhisattva in Vietnam, standing 12 meters high.
Avalokiteshvara Statue
One of the most famous artworks at Linh Phuoc Pagoda is the Avalokiteśvara statue made from strawflowers. This impressive statue stands 17 meters high, weighs 3 tons, and is crafted entirely from 650,000 strawflowers. The project was accomplished by 600 Buddhists and 30 skilled artisans and completed in just 36 days.
Every three years, the flowers on the Avalokiteśvara statue are replaced. If you visit during the flower-changing period, you’ll have the chance to witness the statue in its most brilliant and beautiful state.
Souvenir Shops
At Linh Phuoc Pagoda, souvenir shops are stalls operated by small traders selling items related to Buddhism. These shops also offer various products, ranging from trinkets to wool clothes. Indian visitors can find meaningful gifts that reflect the spiritual and cultural essence of the pagoda and the region.
Eateries
After exploring Linh Phuoc Pagoda, Indian tourists should indulge in some delicious vegan delicacies at nearby eateries. You can enjoy dishes such as rice, stir-fried vegetables, braised vegan meat, vegan noodles, tofu, and soy milk.
Attractions nearby
- Xuan Huong Lake: The most romantic lake in Da Lat
- Dalat Night Market: Market with numerous kinds of products, ranging from clothes, souvenirs, and hand-made goods to food.
- Datanla waterfall: Breathtaking scenery and thrilling activities.
- Bao Dai Palace: Summer retreat of Vietnam’s last emperor and is now a historic museum in Da Lat.
- Dalat Valley of Love: Vibrant flower gardens and stunning sunset views.
- Lam Vien Square: Hot spot where locals and tourists can enjoy delicious food and street performances.
Useful Tips
When visiting Linh Phuoc Pagoda, here are some important tips to keep in mind:
- Dress modestly and politely.
- Follow the rules in the pagoda.
- Remove your shoes before entering the main halls.
- Walk softly and speak quietly inside the pagoda.
- Respect sacred items.
- Make offerings respectfully.
- Learn and observe local customs.
- Keep public hygiene.
- Go with an experienced local guide to learn in-depth about the historical and cultural values of the pagoda.
Conclusion
Linh Phuoc Pagoda in Da Lat has a rich history, architectural beauty, and spiritual significance, making it a must-visit pagoda for Indian tourists. Note this place on your itinerary and explore other captivating destinations in Da Lat. Contact us for the best consultations for your trip to Vietnam!
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