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Hidden in the magnificent mountains and poetic natural scenery, Perfume Pagoda is a famous spiritual tourist destination and a cultural relic in Vietnam. Each year, millions of visitors from all around the world come here to worship, pray for peace, and admire the sacred space. Let's discover the mysterious beauty of the pagoda and the interesting activities that should not be missed with Asia King Travel!
Beautiful view of Perfume Pagoda complex from above. Source: Wecheckin
This attraction is located in Huong Son Commune, My Duc District, Hanoi, and it is about 60 km southwest of the capital center. This is a complex of pagodas, temples, and beautiful caves deep inside the limestone mountains, creating a natural landscape that is both breathtaking and peaceful. There are many ways to get to this destination.
Perfume Pagoda has a long history of formation, it is believed to have been constructed in the late 17th century under the Later Le Dynasty. According to some historical stories, this area was once a place where a high monk settled, and then gradually became one of the important centers of Vietnamese Buddhist beliefs.
The poetic beauty of Yen Stream in the water lily season. Source: Truyen hinh Ha Nam
This pagoda complex includes considerable pagodas, temples, and caves such as Thien Tru Pagoda, Huong Tich Cave, and Trinh Temple, each has its own special spiritual and architectural values.
The most popular one is Huong Tich Cave, which is the most vital highlight spot of this relic site. In addition, this cave is also named “the most magnificent cave of the south” by Lord Trinh Sam in 1770.
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The best time to visit this pagoda is from January to March when the weather is cool and there is little rain. This is the time of the Perfume Pagoda Festival – the largest Buddhist festival in northern Vietnam. At this time, you can immerse yourself in the sacred atmosphere and participate in the rituals to pray for peace and luck.
Visitors can choose to walk or take the cable car to explore the relic. Source: Xanh SM
However, if you want to chill out in a calm space and avoid crowds, you can come to this destination in autumn. During this period, the nature around the pagoda is still stunning, but there are fewer visitors.
Taking part in a trip on the Yen Stream
The journey to explore the pagoda begins at Duc Wharf, where holiday-makers get on a boat to follow Yen Stream - the legendary stream leading to the relic site. The stream is about 4 km long, winding around the limestone mountains, creating a picturesque natural scene.
Before reaching the entrance, you will sit on a boat and go along stream. Source: Xanh SM
In spring, both sides of the stream are brilliant with the red color of blooming cotton flowers in March, making the journey even more poetic. In autumn, the clear blue water of the stream reflects the yellow color of the leaves, giving tourists a sense of a romantic landscape. When sitting on the boat, you will feel the fresh air, the beauty of the mountains and rivers, and listen to mythical stories about this sacred land.
Conquering Huong Tich Cave
After arriving at the foot of the mountain, travelers can choose to hike or take the cable car to the cave. If you choose to walk, it will take you about 1 hour to climb up the stone steps leading up the mountain, through the lush green forest. On the other hand, if you choose to take the cable car, it will only take you about 10 minutes, and you will have a chance to see the panoramic view of the pagoda from above.
This is an altar of Bodhisattva Guanyin inside the Huong Tich Cave. Source: BHT Tourist
Coming to this cave, you will be overwhelmed by the majestic scenery of natural stalactites forming various shapes. Inside the cave, there is an altar of Bodhisattva Guanyin, where visitors often come to pray for peace and luck.
Admiring Thien Tru Pagoda
On the way to Huong Tich Cave, you will stop by Thien Tru Pagoda, which is also known as "heaven's kitchen". This pagoda is over 500 years old and was under construction during the reign of King Le Thanh Tong. This place has traditional architecture with light curved roofs, elaborate carvings, and a calm space.
Thien Tru Pagoda is over 500 years old. Source: PYS Travel
Inside the pagoda grounds, there is Vien Cong Bao Tower, where the relics of eminent monks are enshrined. Moreover, the pagoda yard has Thien Tru Well, the water of which is said to be very clear and magical. People often stop here to worship and pray before continuing the journey.
Engaging in the Perfume Pagoda Festival
If you visit this relic complex at the beginning of the year (from January to the end of March), you will have a great chance to experience the festival of the pagoda. This is one of the largest Buddhist festivals in northern Vietnam. Tens of thousands of pilgrims from all over the country come to participate in worship rituals, burn incense, and pray for blessings.
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Perfume Pagoda Festival has many beautiful cultural features. Source: PYS Travel
The festival also features numerous special activities such as folk singing, Cheo singing, hiking, and sailing on the river. In addition, you can taste a bunch of specialties of the Huong Son region and buy them as gifts for friends and family after the trip. This is an opportunity that should not be missed to immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere, rich in national cultural identity.
Perfume Pagoda is not only an important spiritual destination but also one of the most beautiful natural landscapes in Vietnam. The journey to this attraction not only helps you find peace but also brings memorable experiences in the middle of spectacular mountains and rivers. If you are looking for a trip that combines nature exploration and spiritual culture, this place is a perfect choice. Plan now with Asia King Travel!
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