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Munir Ansay Temple stands out as the largest and oldest Khmer Temple in Can Tho city. Can Tho is renowned not only for its floating markets and lush gardens but also for its enchanting, ancient, and profoundly sacred Temples. With the ancient features and vibrant, distinctive colors, Munir Ansay Temple draws a significant number of tourists from around the world each year. Travelers visiting Can Tho are highly recommended to explore Munir Ansay Temple, a prominent Khmer temple that boasts the most unique and ancient architecture in the city. As a result, it has become an essential destination for those returning to Tay Do, offering a valuable opportunity for tourists to gain a deeper understanding of the rich culture of the Khmer ethnic community.
Established in 1948 along a bustling street in Can Tho city, Munir Ansay Temple initially utilized modest materials like bamboo and bamboo leaves. Through various phases of restoration and expansion, the Temple evolved into its current grandeur.
The temple gate, fashioned in 1954, adopts a three-jewel tower style inspired by Angkor Wat. Three towers, standing in parallel between heaven and earth, imbue the surroundings with solemnity, a striking presence against the backdrop of the blue sky.
While the Temple's construction began in 1948, the main hall was only completed in 1964, and its official inauguration took place in 1988. Over time, Munir Ansay Temple has transformed into a renowned symbol of the Tay Do land, characterized by its magnificent and splendid beauty.
Architecture of Munir Ansay Temple
The gate of Munir Ansay Temple
Upon entering the grounds of the ancient Munir Ansay temple, constructed in the architectural style of Cambodian Angkor Wat, visitors are greeted by a stupa positioned at the forefront of the main hall. Surrounding the stupa are numerous distinctive sculptures representing sacred Khmer entities, including fairies like Keynor, four-faced Buddha statues, and the divine bird Krud.
The main hall of the temple
The main hall area of Munir Ansay Pagoda is elevated approximately 1 meter from the ground, serving as a sacred space for the worship of numerous Buddha statues. The exterior of the main hall is adorned with meticulous decorations, featuring round, carved, and embossed statues of Reahu, Yeak, fairies, and more. This intricate detailing creates a splendid and solemn aesthetic, rightfully earning Munir Ansay Pagoda the title of the most beautiful pagoda in Tay Do.
Participate in traditional Khmer festivals
The festival at Munir Ansay Temple
In addition to the significant Buddha-related holidays, Munir Ansay Pagoda hosts major Khmer festivals, such as Ok-om-Bok (water-giving ceremony), Cholchonam Thomay (New Year's Day), Donta (ceremony to worship grandparents), and the Clothing Offering ceremony of Khmer people. Attending these ceremonies, if fortunate, provides a valuable opportunity to gain insights into the rich culture and life of the Khmer people in the Southwest region.
Admire the statue of Shakyamuni Buddha
Buddha statues in many different positions
In contrast to many temples that venerate numerous Buddhas and Bodhisattvas, Munir Ansay Pagoda focuses its worship solely on the revered Buddha Shakyamuni. This singular devotion is reflected in the main hall's simple interior adorned with an altar dedicated to Buddha Shakyamuni. The intricately carved Buddha statue, presented in various positions, conveys the profound cultural significance and majestic essence of the Buddha within Khmer tradition.
Munir Ansay Temple, an ancient and revered Khmer Temple, extends a warm welcome to visitors throughout the year. Moreover, the Temple hosts lively festivals annually, featuring a variety of folk games. Therefore, it's highly recommended not to miss the chance to visit during these festive occasions, providing a profound opportunity to immerse oneself in the distinctive culture of the Khmer community.
Opening time: 8a.m - 6p.m daily.
Ticket price: Free.
Located in the heart of the dynamic and bustling city, Munir Ansay Temple is a peaceful destination, soothing anyone's soul. To get to Munir Ansay Temple and enjoy the feeling of peace amidst the beauty of Angkor Wat, you can choose one of the following two routes:
From Can Tho Airport:
From Bus Station 91B:
