Introduction

Truc Lam Tay Thien Zen Monastery is part of the Truc Lam Zen lineage (a popular Buddhist sect in Vietnam). The monastery was built next to the Tay Thien Ancient Temple scenic area in Vinh Phuc Province. As one of Vietnam's three largest Zen monasteries, Truc Lam Tay Thien is a place for systematic Buddhist training and develop Vietnamese Buddhism.

Truc Lam Tay Thien Monastery lies among Vinh Phuc's mountains and forests

Truc Lam Tay Thien Monastery lies among Vinh Phuc's mountains and forests

The monastery warmly welcomes visitors every day coming to find peace and relax after the stresses of life. Majestic mountains and refreshing forests create a "fairyland" atmosphere perfect for cleansing the soul. Let’s trip to the fairyland and witness the monastery’s setting with Asia King Travel.

Where is Truc Lam Tay Thien Zen Monastery

The monastery lies on a 300-meter mountain in Dai Dinh Town, Tam Dao District, Vinh Phuc Province. Belongs to the northern midlands of Vietnam, this area enjoys a cool climate year-round. A drive approximately 80 kilometers west of Hanoi will bring you to a scenic religious site. A distance like that is perfect for a private transportation excursion if you want to.

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How to get to Truc Lam Tay Thien Zen Monastery

You can start your journey from Noi Bai International Airport. Heading along National Highway 2B toward the base of the Tam Dao mountain range, approximately 74 kilometers away. When you reach Dai Dinh town, turn left onto Provincial Road 302 to arrive at the monastery. You can choose to go straight instead of turning left in the town to visit the famous Tam Dao resort.

Cable car service is avaible for more convenient access

Cable car service is avaible for more convenient access

If you are in good health and enjoy exploring, consider walking up to the temple to appreciate the surrounding beauty. The hike to the temple is about 4 kilometers through the forest and across streams. The cable car is a quicker and less effort option. A cable car ride takes only about 10 minutes, compared to a 2- to 3-hour hike.

Best time to visit Truc Lam Tay Thien Zen Monastery

In addition to year-round visits since the mild climate, spring and summer are the ideal times to explore. In spring, you can come to enjoy a vibrant new nature life. Also, attend the pagoda festival on the 14th day of the second lunar month annually (around March). Heading up the mountain to escape the heat in the summer is a fantastic idea.

The Architecture of Truc Lam Tay Thien

Truc Lam monastery system in Tay Thien includes both monk's and nun's temples. All the structures are highly regarded for their meticulous details and impressive Eastern architectural style. 

Entrance Gate to Truc Lam Tay Thien Zen Monastery

Entrance Gate to Truc Lam Tay Thien Zen Monastery

The reliefs and sculptures on the drum tower, bell tower, and inside the main hall preserve remnants from ancient times, attracting many visitors. Additionally, an octagonal library is on the hill, featuring a 35-meter tall Buddha statue.

What to see in Truc Lam Tay Thien Zen Monastery

Thong Temple

The entrance to Truc Lam Tay Thien Monastery leads us to Thong Temple. The temple complex perfectly blends architecture with the surrounding natural beauty, where we can admire a centuries-old banyan tree right in the temple courtyard.

Banyan tree in Thong Temple

Banyan tree in Thong Temple

Temple of Mother Goddess Tay Thien

The Temple of Mother Goddess Tay Thien is the largest and most revered structure. Mother Goddess Tay Thien is the queen of the Tam Dao region. Legends celebrate her contributions in assisting the Vietnamese king defeated invaders, expanding the territory, and teaching people how to cultivate rice. The statue of the Mother Goddess is set at the center of the temple.

Outside Temple of Mother Goddess Tay Thien

Outside Temple of Mother Goddess Tay Thien

Great Mandala Stupa

Great Mandala Stupa was built in the Indian Buddhism architectural style, standing 29 meters tall and over 1,500 square meters large. Each level in three levels of the stupa represents six elements making up the universe and life. Visiting the Great Stupa of Tay Thien allows us to connect with the early Buddhist culture from the Himalayan region.

The Great Stupa got ínpsired from early Indian Buhddism

The Great Stupa got ínpsired from early Indian Buhddism

The symbols of the stupa can help people inspire love, compassion, and harmony, bringing healing to the body and mind. Alleviate spiritual and emotional suffering, while promoting love for humanity.

Truc Lam An Tam Zen Monastery

Truc Lam An Tam Zen Monastery is nestled in a beautiful mountainous area. The complex includes the main hall dedicated to Shakyamuni Buddha, a guest house, a hall for the Zen patriarch, and a dining hall. Additionally, meditation halls and nunneries for practitioners to engage in meditation.

An Tam Monastery is a mediation place for female Buddhists. Source: Truc Lam Tay Thien Facebook Fanpage

An Tam Monastery is a mediation place for female Buddhists. Source: Truc Lam Tay Thien Facebook Fanpage

Visitors can participate in a short meditation course to learn about Buddhist philosophy. Truc Lam An Tam Monastery is truly a wonderful destination to escape the hustle of urban life and find peace for the soul.

Conclusion

Truc Lam Tay Thien Monastery is a noteworthy stop in northern Vietnam if you're looking for a relaxing place. Enjoy the beautiful mountainous scenery, then light incense to pray for peace in your life. Contact Asia King Travel to plan a spiritual journey with a truly unique experience.

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