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Nestled on the towering peak of Yen Tu mountain range, Ngoa Van pagoda in Binh Khe commune, Dong Trieu town, Quang Ninh province, is one of the most important spiritual destinations of Truc Lam Buddhism in Vietnam. Known as the "ancestral land" of Truc Lam Zen sect, where King Tran Nhan Tong became Buddha, Ngoa Van pagoda is not only a sacred place but also a beautiful harmony between majestic nature and ancient architecture, bringing visitors a sense of peace and serenity amidst green mountains and blue water.
Ngoa Van Pagoda, located in Binh Khe Commune, Dong Trieu Town, Quang Ninh Province. Source: Mia.vn
Ngoa Van Pagoda is situated at an altitude of over 600 meters above sea level, nestled on Bao Dai Mountain within the Yen Tu mountain range, at the border between Dong Trieu (Quang Ninh) and Chi Linh (Hai Duong). This is a large complex of relics, including a system of temples, towers, hermitages, and shrines scattered along a route of more than 4km leading to the top of the mountain. Of which, Ngoa Van Pagoda is the center, built in the highest area, close to heaven and earth, like a paradise amidst the clouds and mountain winds.
The name "Ngoa Van" means "lying in the clouds", which is true to the scenery here when all year round white clouds drift, covering the ancient sacred temple with a mysterious look.
Ngoa Van Pagoda is situated at an altitude of over 600 meters above sea level. Source: Ngoa Van Yen Tu
Ngoa Van Pagoda is closely associated with the spiritual journey and enlightenment of King-Monk Tran Nhan Tong - an illustrious ruler of the Tran Dynasty. He was the leader of two victorious resistance wars against the Mongol Yuan invaders, yet later renounced his throne to pursue a monastic life. He then founded the Truc Lam Zen sect, a uniquely Vietnamese school of Buddhism deeply rooted in national identity.
In 1299, after years of practicing Buddhism at Yen Tu, Tran Nhan Tong chose Bao Dai Mountain as the place to enter nirvana and attain enlightenment in 1308. Since then, Ngoa Van has been regarded as the sacred site of Truc Lam Buddhism, preserving the relics and significant traces of the King-Monk. It has become not only a revered pilgrimage destination for Buddhists but also a treasured cultural and historical landmark that embodies the independence, self-reliance, and wisdom of the Dai Viet people.
Despite enduring centuries of natural and historical changes, Ngoa Van Pagoda retains its deep spiritual significance. It stands as a testament to the golden era of Truc Lam Buddhism and the enduring legacy of King-Monk Tran Nhan Tong.
Ngoa Van Pagoda retains its deep spiritual significance. Source: Bao Quang Ninh
Ngoa Van Pagoda is an architectural complex consisting of multiple structures spread across the high mountain slopes, uniquely blending ancient architectural artistry with the natural landscape. The complex is divided into three sections: Ngoa Van Ha (Lower Ngoa Van), Ngoa Van Trung (Middle Ngoa Van), and Ngoa Van Thuong (Upper Ngoa Van).
Ngoa Van Ha consists of 15 historical relics located at the foot of Bao Dai Mountain, along the path leading to the summit. Some notable sites include:
This area serves as the starting point of the sacred journey up the mountain, symbolizing the purification of the soul and a deep connection with nature.
Da Chong. Source: Zoom Travel
Ngoa Van Trung Pagoda is located halfway up the mountain and was restored in 2014 on the foundation of the ancient pagoda from the Le Trung Hung period. The pagoda follows the "Nhi" (二) architectural layout, consisting of two main halls: Tien Duong (Front Hall) and Hau Duong (Rear Hall), creating a solemn and sacred worship space.
This site serves as the center of the Ngoa Van Spring Festival, which takes place from the 9th day of the first lunar month until the end of the third lunar month every year. Major ceremonies such as the opening festival and prayers for national peace and prosperity are held here, making it a vital spiritual and cultural landmark.
Ngoa Van Trung Pagoda is located halfway up the mountain. Source: VinWonders
Ngoa Van Thuong is the most sacred site of the Ngoa Van complex, where King-Monk Tran Nhan Tong practiced Buddhism and attained nirvana. The key historical and spiritual relics in this area include:
This area is enveloped in mist throughout the year, creating a mystical and ethereal atmosphere. As the final destination of the pilgrimage to Ngoa Van, it offers a deeply spiritual experience, marking the culmination of the sacred journey to this revered mountain.
Ngoa Van Thuong is the most sacred site of the Ngoa Van complex. Source: Vietnam Plus
Visitors can reach Ngoa Van Pagoda through multiple routes:
Mountain Trek – A Meditative Experience in Nature
The 4-kilometer mountain hike is a memorable journey. The path is shaded by lush green trees, with ancient stone steps interwoven along the trail. Some steep and challenging sections test one’s patience and determination, but the reward is a sense of spiritual purification and inner peace in the tranquil surroundings.
Ngoa Van Cable Car – A Panoramic View from Above
For those unable to hike, a modern cable car system, introduced in 2023, provides an alternative. Stretching over 2 kilometers, it ascends to 600 meters in just 10 minutes, offering breathtaking views of lush pine forests, misty valleys, and drifting clouds below.
Ngoa Van Cable Car. Source: ngoavanyentu,vn
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Every year, on the 9th day of the first lunar month, the Ngoa Van Pagoda Festival officially begins and lasts until the end of the third lunar month. This is a special occasion for visitors and Buddhist pilgrims from all over to journey to the sacred land of Truc Lam Buddhism, honoring the legacy of King-Monk Tran Nhan Tong and praying for blessings, peace, and prosperity for themselves and their families.
The festival features solemn rituals such as the incense offering ceremony, the procession of King-Monk Tran Nhan Tong’s ancestral tablet, and traditional tribute ceremonies. In addition, visitors can enjoy cultural performances such as hat chau van (ritual singing), folk art displays, and traditional games. The festival atmosphere is both sacred and festive, offering a unique and enriching experience for those visiting Ngoa Van Pagoda in the early days of spring.
Ngoa Van Pagoda Festival. Source: Bao Dan toc va Phat trien
Unmissable Experiences at Ngoa Van. Source: HomePaylater
The Ngoa Van Pagoda complex is not only a sacred spiritual destination associated with the journey and nirvana of King-Monk Tran Nhan Tong but also a place that preserves the profound cultural and historical values of the Truc Lam Zen sect. With its three-tiered relic system, stretching from the mountain’s foothills to the summit of Bao Dai, Ngoa Van offers visitors a journey of serenity and enlightenment, surrounded by majestic nature and the sacred atmosphere of Buddhist teachings.
Visit Ngoa Van – the sacred peak of Yen Tu – to reconnect with the roots of Vietnamese Buddhism, reflect on life, and embrace the peace within your soul!
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