Tran Quoc Pagoda is the oldest pagoda in Hanoi, which is always a must-visit spot for Buddhist travelers. With over 1,500 years old, the pagoda plays a crucial role in preserving the religious and historical values of Vietnam. When coming here, you will surely impressed with its magnificent architecture.

With this blog, Vietnamtour.in will guide you to have a good preparation for your journey to Buddhist Tran Quoc Pagoda. If so, let’s start your discovery with us below!

Table of Contents

History of Tran Quoc Pagoda

The Tran Quoc Pagoda, used to be called Khai Quoc Pagoda, was built under the reign of King Ly Nam De. Originally, the pagoda was laid on the bank of the Red River (Song Hong) and then moved to the Kim Ngu Islet for reconstruction in the 17th century. The name “Tran Quoc Pagoda” appeared under the reign of King Le Kinh Tong, meaning “National Defense”.

During the Tran Dynasty, the pagoda was known as the capital of Buddhism in the North region and has become a religious symbol of Hanoi nowadays. With a long-established history, the Tran Quoc Pagoda is worth being one of the most famous pagodas in Vietnam.

Architecture of Tran Quoc Pagoda

Bao Thap (11-Storey Stupa)

Entering the Buddhist Tran Quoc Pagoda, you will have a chance to see a majestic tower standing profoundly before your sight. It is known as “Bao Thap”, designed in 11 distinct stories, with impressive decoration details. Through each doorway on the tower, visitors will also admire the beauty of the gemstone statues of Amitabha Buddha.

Tien Duong (The Front House)

Inside the Front House, travelers will see various unique-designed statues, especially the statue of Shakyamuni Buddha. It is completely made of wood but covered with glossy golden paint, with plenty of exquisite lines. That’s why this statue is recognized as the most beautiful Buddha statue in Vietnam.

Nha Thieu Huong (Incense Burning House)

Nha Thieu Huong is a bustling point in Tran Quoc Pagoda, allowing visitors to have some particular activities. Burning incense and other votives are common rituals here, which honor higher realms, as well as pray for the best wishes to come to life.

Thuong Dien (The Upper House)

The Stele House and bell post are two highlights of the Upper House, bringing the unique beauty of historical and architectural significance. When coming here, you will surely be amazed by the house’s ancient layout, together with some color-outstanding decorations.

Nha Bia (The Stele House)

In the Stele House, travelers will have a chance to admire 14 poem-engraved steles of well-known scholars in Vietnamese history. Also, these steles record all important milestones of Tran Quoc Pagoda throughout distinctive dynasties.

The Bodhi tree – a gift from India’s former President Rajendra Prasad

The Bodhi tree is known as a special present that India’s former President when during a visit to Vietnam in 1959. Especially, the tree was grown from a branch – extracted from the Great Bodh Gaya tree, which is attached to a famous story of Shakyamuni Buddha in India. Let’s drop in for at least one time to admire the tranquil ambiance here.

Location

Tran Quoc Pagoda is situated on West Lake Are, belonging to Tay Ho District, which is around 5 kilometers from the Hanoi city center. You can visit the pagoda at its entrance gate on No 46, Thanh Nien Street.

Opening Time

*Minister of External Affairs of India, Mr. Jaishankar in Tran Quoc Pagoda in October 2023*

The best time to visit the pagoda should be from the 1st and 15th day of the lunar months when you can find various religious activities here. You should move during the Tran Quoc Pagoda opening hours between 08:00 AM to 04:00 PM to have the best memories here. It is generally open to the public without an entrance fee.

Especially, don’t forget to drop in the Buddhist Tran Quoc Pagoda during the Tet Holiday to have the fullest experience of Vietnamese traditions and festivals.

How to Get There

By bus: You should get on bus number 50 to reach the entrance gate of the pagoda. Or else, let’s catch other bus routes with No. 41, 55B, 55A, 31, or 58, then stop at An Duong bus stop and walk there in 5 minutes.
By taxi: Booking a taxi to move the Tran Quoc Pagoda is the most convenient. You can select catch any taxi on the streets or book through applications.
By motorbike: Let’s rent a motorbike from the locals to freely move to this spot. If not, you can book a Grab or Be bike to go there in around 15 minutes.

Travel Tips

To discover the fullest religious value in the pagoda, let’s drop in here on annual festivals such as Tet and Buddha’s Birthday
Behave with respect at any point in the pagoda
Bring cash for unexpected activities or incidents
Have a proper Tran Quoc Pagoda dress code, with pants and long sleeves
Remember to take off hats, or shoes when visiting the worshipping shrines
Book Vietnam tour packages with local guides to have detailed instructions during the visit time (contact Vietnamtour.in)

Chetan P Shah and his family - our customer — *Chetan P Shah and his family – our customer*

Our blog has just reviewed a full guide for your trip to Tran Quoc Pagoda. Although you don’t need to pay any Tran Quoc Pagoda entrance fee, let’s bring some cash in case to join other activities. To explore other interesting destinations in Hanoi, you can refer to our Vietnam tour packages for more interesting customizable ititneraries.