Dia Tang Phi Lai Tu Pagoda - A Peaceful Sanctuary in the Heart of Ha Nam

Renowned as a spiritual destination attracting visitors from all over, Dia Tang Phi Lai Temple not only embodies serene beauty but also possesses unique features that captivate all who visit.

1. Overview of Dia Tang Phi Lai Tu Pagoda

Information:
Address: Ninh Trung Hamlet, Liem Son Commune, Thanh Liem, Ha Nam
Opening hours: 6:30 AM - 6:30 PM all week
Ticket price: Free

Hidden in the serene setting of Ninh Trung Hamlet, Liem Son Commune, Thanh Liem, Ha Nam, Dia Tang Phi Lai Tu Pagoda (also known as Phi Lai Dia Tang Pagoda or Dung Pagoda) is like a precious gem, attracting visitors from all directions with its tranquil and sacred beauty.

Dung Pagoda was built in the 11th century with over 100 compartments. It was once the place where King Tran Nghe Tong lived in seclusion and where King Tu Duc prayed. However, after a long period without renovation, the pagoda gradually fell into disrepair. Until December 2015, Venerable Thich Minh Quang took over and restored it. The picturesque scenery of the newly renovated pagoda has gradually attracted Buddhists due to its poetic beauty.

Situated on a small hill, with two mountain ranges resembling the Left Green Dragon and Right White Tiger, Phi Lai Tu Pagoda bears the imprint of over 1,000 years of history. This place is not only a spiritual destination but also a site that marks the unique cultural and historical values of the Ha Nam region.

2. Getting to Dia Tang Phi Lai Tu Pagoda

Dia Tang Phi Lai Tu Pagoda is located about 70 km from Hanoi, a resting place for those seeking tranquility and inner peace.

If departing from Hanoi, there are two travel options for visitors:

By private vehicle:

  • Take the Cau Gie - Ninh Binh expressway, exit at Phu Ly - Ha Nam (National Highway 1A).
  • Continue along the route Thanh Phong => Thanh Luu => Liem Son.
  • Total travel time is estimated to be 1.5 to 2 hours.

By public transportation:

  • Buy a ticket at Giap Bat or My Dinh bus station for the Hanoi - Ninh Binh route (old National Highway 1A).
  • After arriving in Ha Nam, continue along the route Thanh Phong => Thanh Luu => Liem Son.
  • Total travel time is estimated to be around 1 hour. 

​3.Unique Features of Dia Tang Phi Lai Tu Pagoda

Known as a spiritual destination that attracts visitors from all over, Dia Tang Phi Lai Tu Pagoda possesses unique features that captivate visitors.

Upon entering the pagoda grounds, visitors feel as if they have stepped into a completely different world, separated from the hustle and bustle of daily life. This place brings a sense of peace and serenity to visitors, with its picturesque landscape surrounded by mountains and a small lotus pond within the premises.

Notably, the pagoda's most impressive feature is the 12 circles drawn on a white pebble ground, symbolizing the 12 causes of human existence. Next to these small circles is a sign that reads "Kho Hai (Sea of Suffering), because it is the sea, please step onto the shore," a gentle reminder not to step on the pebbles but to walk on the slabs.

The pure white pebbles are spread throughout the pagoda's courtyard. These pebbles not only lend a rustic and simple beauty but also carry a profound meaning of Zen meditation. When gazing upon the pebble floors, visitors feel as if they are cleansed of worldly impurities, finding tranquility and peace in their hearts.

The statue of Buddha Dia Tang is the most important spiritual highlight of the pagoda. The dominant colors of the Buddha Dia Tang statue are brown, yellow, and white, symbolizing simplicity, elegance, and wisdom. The statue is placed on a lotus pedestal, surrounded by blooming lotuses, creating a scenery of utmost tranquility and sacredness.

In the pagoda's premises, fruit gardens, vegetable gardens, and herbal gardens are well-tended by the monks and locals. Additionally, the pagoda has constructed a 20-square-meter mushroom-growing facility to provide fresh ingredients for hotpot or fermented dishes.

4. Some Tips Before Visiting the Pagoda

Attire: Wear modest, respectful clothing such as long pants, shirts, or traditional Vietnamese ao dai.
Vegetarian meals: Visitors can request vegetarian meals at the pagoda, but it is advisable to inform the pagoda in advance about the number of people and the time of the visit.
Mountains behind the pagoda: Visit the mountains behind the pagoda to fully appreciate the scenery of Dia Tang Phi Lai Tu. There are many different paths, each with clear signage. Choose the path that suits your preferences.

When visiting Ha Nam, visitors can combine a visit to Dia Tang Phi Lai Tu Pagoda with other attractions in Ha Nam, such as Tam Chuc Pagoda, Nui Cam - Ngu Dong Thi Son Mountain, and more. If you plan to visit Ha Nam and need a place to stay with full amenities, convenient for participating in local festivals, Tien Loc Palace Hotel is an excellent choice.

With this article sharing information about Dia Tang Phi Lai Tu Pagoda, Tien Loc Palace Hotel hopes to provide you with valuable insights and experiences for your upcoming trip. We wish you a pleasant journey and the most wonderful experiences.

If you have any questions about the festivals or would like to learn more about Tien Loc Palace Hotel, please feel free to contact us:

Tien Loc Palace Hotel
Address: TS Khu 4, Thanh Chau Ward, Phu Ly City, Ha Nam Province
Phone: 02263 82 5555
Fax: 02263 82 5555
HOTLINE 0986 074 989 - 0334.025.666
Email: tienlocpalace@tienlocgroup.com
Website: http://tienlocpalace.com/

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