Xiem Can Pagoda

Nestled in the middle of Bac Lieu Province, Xiem Can Pagoda is like a sparkling gem with unique and sophisticated architecture in every detail. This place is a large and beautiful pagoda of the Khmer community and a must-see for those who want to learn about Angkor-Khmer culture and architecture.

Initially, Xiem Can Pagoda's original name was Komphisako, meaning "deep sea", symbolizing the profoundness and erudition of Buddhist knowledge. After that, Chinese people of Chaozhou origin settled here and changed the name from Pret Chru to Siam Can, meaning "bordering the water," meaning the pagoda is near the sea. 

The majestic architecture of Xiem Can Pagoda always impresses visitors

The explanation for this is that in the past, Xiem Can Pagoda was only about 500 meters from the coast. However, because the coast of Bac Lieu is an alluvial sea current, the distance from the pagoda to the beach is now nearly 5 kilometers.

Let discover with Asia King Travel this spiritual tourist destination in Bac Lieu!

View of Xiem Can Pagoda (Bac Lieu Province) as seen from above

Read more: Vietnam Tour 16 Days: Vietnam Panorama

History of Xiem Can Pagoda 

Xiem Can Pagoda was built in 1887 by a well-being couple in the area (Mr. Nen and Mrs. Nghet) and more than 30 other households. The pagoda was first called Komphisako and was headed by Dharma Master Thach Mau.

The pagoda construction process faced many difficulties, including transporting materials across the river for nearly 10 kilometers. Until now, Xiem Can Pagoda has gone through 9 generations of abbots and several times of restoration and repair. 

The name Xiem Cam comes from the Chinese community

Best time to visit Xiem Can Pagoda

The weather in Bac Lieu is quite pleasant, with two distinct rainy and sunny seasons. The sunny season starts from December to April and the rainy season is from May to November. Whether rainy season or sunny season, this place has own characteristics, so when traveling to Xiem Can Pagoda, you can choose any season in the year.

Many traditional Khmer festivals take place here every year, attracting many ethnic Khmer people to attend. Festivals during the year often take place such as:

• The New Year ceremony - Chol Chnam Thmay takes place on 3 days, April 14, 15, and 16 of the solar calendar.
• The Grandparent Worship Ceremony - Sen Dolta takes place for 3 days, October 8, 9, and 10 of the solar calendar.
• Kathanhna ​​robe offering ceremony takes place from September 16 to October 15 of the lunar calendar.

If you have chance to travel to Bac Lieu or visit Xiem Can Pagoda, you can choose holidays to learn more about the traditional culture of the Khmer people.

Festival at Xiem Can Pagoda. Source: phatgiaobaclieu

Where is Xiem Can Pagoda and How to get there

Xiem Can Pagoda is in the coastal area of Vinh Trach Dong Commune, far from Bac Lieu City about 7 kilometers. From the center of Bac Lieu City, you follow Provincial Road 31 and then go straight to Xiem Can Pagoda. 

The road from Bac Lieu City to Xiem Can Pagoda can connect with many famous attractions such as Bac Lieu Bird Garden, Bac Lieu Prince's House... You can combine visiting Xiem Can Pagoda with other destinations.

The Nirvana Buddha idol is one of the pagoda's highlights

Xiem Can Pagoda’s Architecture

Xiem Can Pagoda is not only large and beautiful in scale but also captivating with its sophistication and details in architecture. This pagoda is an architectural whole with many parts, all these clearly show the traditional Angkor-Khmer style and all face East.

Three-entrance Gate

The pagoda gate has many extremely impressive embossed patterns with symbols of Khmer culture.

Xiem Can gate nameplate is designed to include pointed towers typical of Angkor architecture with a magnificent statue of Buddha sitting in the middle. Below the nameplate at the pagoda gate are two magical Krud birds and two uniquely winding five-headed divine snakes.

The pagoda gate has many extremely impressive embossed patterns with symbols of Khmer culture

Main Hall 

The magnificent main hall is the most impressive architectural item you should see when visiting Xiem Can Pagoda. In the main hall,  reliefs and frescoes create a colorful artistic space.

Looking from the outside, the main hall's architecture stands out with soaring towers, curved domes and many delicately crafted patterns. The roof structure of the main hall has many overlapping layers, creating a soaring and mysterious space. On top, additional motifs such as a Khmer dragon statue with curved claws like a burning fire.

Large murals in the Main Hall depict the Buddha's life

The space inside the main hall of Xiem Can Pagoda is quite attractive with vibrant colors. The walls, ceiling, and reliefs are dotted with sophisticated and elaborate frescoes. These murals are often associated with the life story of the Buddha from birth until attainment of enlightenment.

Sala Subdivision

Sala subdivision was built in 1997 by Buddhists’ contributions from all over Vietnam. On the Sala, a statue of Xanac leads a white horse to take Prince Siddhartha across the river to find the path to enlightenment. This work includes a lecture hall and a synagogue elaborately and meticulously decorated. 

The artwork depicts Xanac guiding the white horse to transport Prince Sidatta across the river to find enlightenment

The Tomb Tower

On the side of the main hall is a tomb tower under the cool shade of trees. These towers are ornate and sophisticated. Under the moss of time, this category becomes even more beautiful with ancient, attractive colors. 

The tomb tower is next to the Main Hall of Xiem Can Pagoda

Pillar with the image of the Naga God Snake

The symbolic pillar with the image of the Naga God Snake is opposite the main hall. Here, people light candles during holidays with the meaning that Buddhism will enlighten humanity and make people live better, like snakes who have wholeheartedly converted to goodness. 

Opposite the sanctum is the main pillar with the symbol of Naga, the snake deity, which are lit up during festival days

The Monk's Resting Place 

Inside Xiem Can Pagoda, there is a monk's resting place built with precious wood. This project is many years old but still retains attractive beauty with glossy black wood. This residence has up to 4 precious wooden columns used as traditional houses.

The splendid beauty of Xiem Can Pagoda

Conclusion

Xiem Can Pagoda is a symbol of the Mekong Delta, not only for architectural beauty but also for important role in preserving, expressing the culture and spirituality of the Khmer people. Contact Asia King Travel to explore this Vietnam spiritual trip!

Read more: South Vietnam Tour 3 days: Escape to Can Tho and Surroundings