Introduction

Located on the banks of the Day River, Ba Danh Pagoda is known as one of the most ancient pagodas in Northern Vietnam, associated with the folk saying "as deserted as Ba Danh Pagoda". This place not only has a spiritual value, it also has a beautiful landscape, suitable for meditation and relaxation. Plan to explore this pagoda with Asia King Travel!

A view of Ba Danh Pagoda area from above. Source: Dulich.Pro.Vn

A view of Ba Danh Pagoda area from above. Source: Dulich.Pro.Vn

Location 

Ba Danh Pagoda is located in Ngoc Son Commune, Kim Bang District, Ha Nam Province, on the banks of the poetic Day River. It takes about 60km from Hanoi city center to the south and about 7km from Phu Ly city center. This place has an isolated location, suitable for tourists who want to find a calm space, away from the bustling urban life.

How to get there 

From Hanoi city center, visitors can go along National Highway 1A to the south for about 60km. The most convenient choice is to take a bus from Giap Bat bus station to Phu Ly city, then continue the trip by taxi or motorbike taxi to get to the pagoda. For those who travel by personal vehicles such as motorbikes or cars, it is quite easy to get there. Especially, travelers can enjoy the romantic countryside scenery while on the way to the pagoda.

From the center of Phu Ly City, getting to the pagoda only takes about 15 to 20 minutes. While visitors are on their way, they will see the rice fields and the green trees grow, bringing a sense of relaxation before entering the sacred place.

People visit the pagoda to pray for peace and luck. Source: Bao Lao Dong

People visit the pagoda to pray for peace and luck. Source: Bao Lao Dong

Visiting ticket prices

If you are an adult, you need to pay 10,000 VND per person to enter the pagoda. However, if you visit here in a group or go with your family and you have children, it is free for kids under 1m2 tall. 

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History 

According to some historical sources, the pagoda is more than 300 years old, possibly built in the 7th century. This place was reconstructed and expanded through many dynasties, especially under King Le Thanh Tong (1460 - 1497). Due to its isolated location, there are few visitors, the pagoda is associated with the folk saying "as deserted as Ba Danh Pagoda".

Ba Danh Pagoda worships the Four Dharmas, the gods who control the rain and wind in the folk beliefs of Northern Vietnam: Phap Van (Cloud God), Phap Vu (Rain God), Phap Loi (Thunder God) and Phap Dien (Lightning God). Belief in the Four Dharmas shows people's respect for natural phenomena, praying for good weather and bountiful crops.

The name "Ba Danh" comes from a folk legend. According to it, the pagoda worships a sacred goddess who helped the villagers fight against natural disasters and bring them a prosperous life. People here respectfully called her "Danh Village Lady", which gradually became "Ba Danh".

The Four Dharmas and Ba Danh play an important role in the spiritual life of Vietnamese people, especially Northern farmers. Worshipping these gods shows people's gratitude and respect for supernatural forces, and simultaneously prays for protection and blessings for a peaceful and happy life.

The main gate of the pagoda is often closed. Source: iVIVU.com

The main gate of the pagoda is often closed. Source: iVIVU.com

Structure of the pagoda 

Ba Danh Pagoda has a traditional architecture of Vietnamese Buddhism with a system of main hall, worshipping house, bell tower and other areas. The pagoda was built in the traditional style with curved tile roofs, delicately carved with dragons and phoenixes. Inside, the Buddha statues are arranged, ancient and sacred. 

In particular, the space of this pagoda is wide, surrounded by many green trees, creating a peaceful and serene scenery. Moreover, the wharf area nearby, where visitors can stop and see the poetic Day River, is also a highlight in the overall architecture of the pagoda.

The space inside the pagoda is calm and sacred. Source: VTC News

The space inside the pagoda is calm and sacred. Source: VTC News

Best time to visit 

The most ideal time to visit Ba Danh Pagoda is in spring (from January to March), when the weather is cool and there are many interesting festivals. Moreover, autumn (from September to November), is also a good period to come to this place and enjoy the peaceful landscape in the middle of the poetic natural beauty. 

Activities to do there 

Admiring the architecture and learning history 

The pagoda is one of the ancient pagodas in the North, associated with the Four Dharmas belief and the legend of Ba Danh. Coming here, visitors can admire the unique architecture, learn about the history of formation, and the mysterious stories related to the pagoda. In particular, learning about the Dharmars belief, a typical folk culture of Northern Vietnam, will bring you interesting experiences.

This is the worship space of the pagoda. Source: Bao Lao Dong

This is the worship space of the pagoda. Source: Bao Lao Dong

Joining the festivals

Ba Danh Pagoda Festival takes place in March annually. This is a great event for local people and visitors to join in traditional rituals, praying for peace and luck. In addition, on the first day and the middle of each month, the pagoda also opens to welcome people to visit and worship. Participating in the festival not only helps travelers better understand the spiritual culture of the local people but also allows them to immerse themselves in the bustling festival atmosphere.

Exploring the beauty of the architecture

The structure of the pagoda has a unique architecture, bearing the mark of traditional Vietnamese wood carving art. Structures such as the three-door gate, the front house, the middle hall, the upper hall... are all delicately carved, showing the talent of ancient artists. Admiring and exploring the architecture of the pagoda will help you feel the artistic and cultural value of this attraction.

The bustling atmosphere of Ba Danh Pagoda Festival. Source: Bao Tai nguyen va Moi truong

The bustling atmosphere of Ba Danh Pagoda Festival. Source: Bao Tai nguyen va Moi truong

Enjoying calm space

The pagoda is located in an isolated location, far from the hustle and bustle of urban life. The peaceful space of the pagoda is an ideal place to clear your mind. You can walk around the pagoda area, watch the rows of ancient trees, listen to the pagoda bells and feel the serenity of the space here.

Conclusion 

Ba Danh Pagoda is not only a sacred destination but also an ideal place to find peace in the middle of wild nature. If you are looking for a place to relax, far away from city life, do not miss the opportunity to visit this pagoda with Asia King Travel!

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