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Loi Am Pagoda of Dai Yen Ward, Ha Long City, Quang Ninh Province, Vietnam, is a religious and historical gem whose secret has yet to be untangled up to this point in time. Unlike popular pagodas in Vietnam that are packed with tourists, Loi Am is a quiet sanctuary away from all the commotion, a perfect place for someone who yearns to be serene and closer to nature.
Magnificent Loi Am Pagoda (Source: VDSTravel)
Loi Am Pagoda is immersed in history from the 15th century, Vietnam's rich cultural and religious heritage. The pagoda has witnessed countless historical events throughout the centuries, a testament to the unbreakable belief and strength of the Vietnamese people.
Its traditional world architecture, with swooping roofing tiles and exquisitely made pillars adorned with dragon and phoenix motifs, is characteristic of Vietnamese traditional architecture. Its terracotta brick flooring gives the warm ambiance of northern Vietnam villages, making it even more historic.
History of Loi Am Pagoda (Source: azcruise)
The most ideal time to visit Loi Am Pagoda is during the Loi Am Pagoda Festival, held annually on the 27th day of the first lunar month. Thousands of pilgrims and tourists attend the festival to offer prayers for peace and prosperity in the vibrantly colorful cultural festivals.
Visiting at this time offers a perfect opportunity to witness traditional Vietnamese customs, local Vietnamese food, and the social aspect of the Vietnamese people. However, for the tourists who desire peace, travel during the low season offers a peaceful haven in nature and spirituality.
Best time to visit (Source: vietnamtravel)
Loi Am Pagoda is an architectural work that is a manifestation of Vietnam's cultural diversity. The architecture of the pagoda is a symbol of traditional Vietnamese architecture with tiled roofs sloping inwards, wooden pillars, and dragon and phoenix motifs. Not only do these structures witness the ingenuity of former craftsmen, but they also symbolize concepts of spirit in Buddhist philosophy. Buddha statues and other deities are placed inside the middle hall, each of which is carved out intricately and buried in devotion offerings by the believers.
The walls are decorated with traditional calligraphy and murals that depict Buddhist lessons and stories. The inside of the pagoda is serene, with the scent of incense wafting through the air and the soft murmuring of prayers imparting the atmosphere with a profoundly spiritual sense. There are smaller shrines, ancient stone steles, and a secluded courtyard surrounding the pagoda where monks and visitors meditate.
Ancient architecture of the pagoda (Source: VinWonders)
For adventurers, climbing to Loi Am Pagoda is a strenuous but rewarding exercise. The trail spans approximately three kilometers and runs over seven hills, which provide amazing views over the green surroundings. During the trek, there are interactions with thick jungles, clumps of bamboo, and stone paths that provide the capacity for living close to nature. This is a well-trodden path that can be steep and narrow in some sections, and so comfortable footwear and a reasonable level of fitness are required.
During winter, the landscape gets topped with a mythological mist that creates an otherworldly, dreamlike environment. Being a hike that takes about an hour, tourists halt halfway to observe the landscape, listen to the birds' warbling, and photograph the panoramic view.
Hiking to the pagoda (Source: VinWonders)
Read more: Discovering the Top 7 Most Well-known Pagodas in Vietnam
At the foot of the mountain is Yen Lap Lake, one of the biggest artificial freshwater lakes in Quang Ninh Province. The lake has an area of over 20 square kilometers and is renowned for its clear water with many small islets covered with lush greenery. Visitors can cruise slowly around the lake by boat, offering a fresh perspective on the surrounding mountains and forests.
Kayaking and paddle boating are also allowed, so visitors can explore the secret areas of the lake freely. The tranquil atmosphere makes Yen Lap Lake a good spot to relax, meditate, or shoot photographs, casting the trees and sky into the calm water like a mirror in nature. The lake is also home to numerous flora and fauna and therefore is an ideal spot for nature lovers.
Yen Lap Lake, Quang Ninh (Source: tuoitrethudo)
It is a journey in itself to get to Loi Am Pagoda because land and water transport are merged. The journey begins with a boat trip across Yen Lap Lake, which is a peaceful trip with stunning views of hills and forests surrounding it. Once they cross the lake, the travelers take a three-kilometer hike through a rolling green landscape. The trail winds through dense cover, with twisted trees and wildflowers lining the trail, providing a nice and peaceful nature experience.
Boat trip through Yen Lap Lake (Source: CafeF)
Loi Am Pagoda represents Vietnam's rich religious and cultural heritage. Whether the ancient architecture, serene nature all around you, or spiritual presence that draws you to it, your visit to this ancient pagoda is rewarding and fulfilling. Be you walking up through the green upland or flying over it on a cable car, your approach to Loi Am Pagoda is as fulfilling as your arrival. Book a trip with Asia King Travel now to have a spiritual experience at Loi Am Pagoda!
Read more: Top Pagodas to Pray for Peace and Blessing in Vietnam
