Thien Mu Pagoda is considered one of the most famous cultural treasures in Hue City. When visiting here, you can witness unique architecture and listen to numerous historical tales. It is a great chance to discover more about Vietnamese history and religion.

In this blog, Vietnamtour.in will show all the intriguing features of Thien Mu Pagoda and a comprehensive guide to this destination, as well as some useful tips to make your journey more impressive.

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Amazing Secrets Behind Legend of Heaven Fairy Lady

Thien Mu Pagoda (Legend of Heaven Fairy Lady), also called the Pagoda of the Celestial Lady, was built under Lord Nguyen Hoang Dynasty. Its name originates from a long-standing legend spread by local people.

At that time, a mysterious old woman went to the position that Thien Mu Pagoda stands in today and said that the Lord would build a temple to maintain the dragon veins. Believing this legend, while visiting Ha Khue Hill, Lord Nguyen Hoang decided to build this pagoda and named it “Linh Mu.”

In its early construction, the temple was designed with simple layouts, but as time went by, it was rebuilt and expanded with more intricate features. In 1862, King Tu Duc changed the “Linh Mu” Pagoda to “Thien Mu” — the name has been used up to now.

Location

Thien Mu Pagoda is located on Ha Khue Hill, in Huong Long Village, Thua Thien—Hue Province. From this pagoda, you can have a panoramic view of the Song Huong (Perfume River), which is 5 kilometers from the Citadel.

Opening hours

The Pagoda of the Celestial Lady is open all day. However, it’s recommended to visit around 6AM – 8AM to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this destination, as well as the surrounding scenery. You can also have a trip to Thien Mu Pagoda in the afternoon to admire the romantic sunset on the North bank of the Perfume River.

*Note: Visitors don’t need to pay the Thien Mu Pagoda entrance fee for inside discovery.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Thien Mu Pagoda is from January to February to enjoy the beautiful weather, which is sunny but a little rainy. On the other hand, you can visit the Thien Mu Pagoda from May to June to take stunning photos of red phoenix flowers blossoming.

How to get there

Here is our guide on how to get the Pagoda of the Celestial Lady from Hue City and Hanoi. In particular:

From Hue

From the Imperial City of Hue, you can travel by motorbike or taxi along Kim Long Street and go ahead Nguyen Phuc Chu Street to reach the pagoda within 15 minutes. If not, take a Dragon Boat to Thien Mu Pagoda to witness the wonderful landscapes along the Perfume River. With this option, it can take you around 30 minutes to get there.

From Hanoi

After completing a flight from Hanoi to Hue, you should go on a tour with local guides to prevent getting lost, as well as get more experiences with local culture. If so, you can contact Vietnamtour.in for detailed consultations.

What to see in Thien Mu Pagoda

Enjoy the unique architecture of the Three-door Gate

This gate is the main entrance of the Thien Mu Pagoda, including three pathways for the three following words: “The Devil,”; “The God,” and “The Human.” When visiting here, you will see 2 floors, with a grave Buddhist shrine on the upper floor. Additionally, you will be surely impressed by the distinctive patterns carved on the roof’s top.

Take amazing pictures with Phuoc Duyen tower

The Phuoc Duyen Tower, located after the Tam Quan Gate, features the soul of the pagoda. Originally, this tower was a pink octagonal tower block with seven floors. Inside this site, there is an ancient staircase leading to the top floor, where you can witness the former golden Buddha statue.

Over time, the Phuoc Duyen Tower still highlights its unique beauty, which combines surrounding works to bring an impressive complex. It is indeed worth-taking several photos leading to a visual life.

Express respect to Dai Hung palace

The palace is situated in the main hall of Thien Mu Pagoda, where local people worship Maitreya Buddha. The total parts of the Dai Hung Palace are built in solid cement, then are covered outside with wood color. The rooftop especially impresses visitors with 2 layers of ancient style and fully colorful patterns.

Experience the feeling of tranquility in Dia Tang Palace

Located right behind Dai Hung Place, Dia Tang Palace owns a large yard and green surrounding landscape. That’s why this work can bring a feeling of peace and a harmonious ambiance to each visit. If you want to find somewhere to refresh or enjoy the outstanding features of the Maitreya Foundation, Dia Tang Palace will be the best site.

Immerse the mysterious ambiance in Quan The Am Palace

This palace lies at the end of the Thien Mu Pagoda, humbly hiding the nature of full leaves and flowers. It is decorated quite simply but still brings a special atmosphere of gentle and solemn. In the main hall, you will see a Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara statue built in black bronze, together with another stone statue lying in the glass cabinet.

Attractions nearby

During your trip to Thien Mu Pagoda, you can visit other sightseeing, such as:

Witness the perfect beauty of nature in Vong Canh hill: From Vong Canh Hill, you can admire the magnificent beauty of the Perfume River and the pine forests. It is also ideal to have a long walk around the hill and enjoy the peaceful space here.
Immerse the life of locals in Dong Ba market: Dong Ba Market is one of the oldest markets in Hue, where you can find everything, from daily products to souvenirs. During your visit, don’t forget to try Bun Bo Hue, sweet soup, and royal tea – the best local cuisine in Hue.
Take a Dragon boat trip: On the Dragon Boat, you will have a chance to enjoy the beauty of nature along the Perfume River. Moreover, you can experience several ancient relics, like Hue folk songs or royal cuisine.
Explore the unique royal architecture at Hue Citadel: The Hue Citadel is recognized as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site, boasting remarkable ancient sites and the Vietnamese Dynasty’s historical values. Don’t forget to check the updated entrance fee for the best preparations.
Get fascinating stories and historical values at Minh Mang tomb: Minh Mang tomb is the next site recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. During your trip, you will witness a masterpiece of traditional Vietnamese architecture and discover interesting historical stories.

>> You can read: Top 10 Best Places to Visit in Hue for Indian Tourists

Useful tips

To help you have the best experience for your trip to Thien Mu Pagoda, we will suggest several useful tips below:
Dress in polite clothes and wear hiking shoes;
Don’t allow smoking while visiting the pagoda;
Don’t talk loudly, and be respectful of everything;
Follow the pagoda’s guidelines;
Bring some cash and an umbrella/coat in case the bad weather;
Go with the local guide for more interesting experiences (Contact Vietnamtour.in).

Besides the beauty of ancient architecture, the Thien Mu Pagoda also features other outstanding points, like historical values or a peaceful ambiance. We hope our comprehensive guide can help you have a memorable time here. Take a look at our top holiday packages to Vietnam which are customized due to your interest with the best attractions recommended by our professional travel consultants.