Returning to the Truc Temple Festival: Tradition and Cultural Beauty of Ha Nam

Every spring, from the 1st day of the Lunar New Year to the 10th day of the second lunar month, the Truc Temple Festival bursts with vibrancy, drawing thousands of visitors. This event not only commemorates the great contributions of General Ly Thuong Kiet but also offers a lively cultural space that showcases the communal spirit and traditional charm of Ha Nam.

What Makes Truc Temple Special?

A Cultural and Spiritual Gem
 

Located within the Truc Temple - Ngu Dong Thi Son tourist area, in Quyen Son Hamlet, Thi Son Commune, Kim Bang District, the temple is situated just over 7 kilometers from Phu Ly City along National Highway 21A.

The temple is deeply associated with legendary stories, most notably about General Ly Thuong Kiet. In 1089, during his southern expedition, his fleet encountered a strong wind near Quyen Son Hamlet, which broke a mast and blew the flag to the top of Cam Mountain. Seeing this as an omen, Ly Thuong Kiet conducted a sacrificial ritual to heaven and earth, praying for the safety and success of his troops.

Following a resounding victory, he returned to the site to offer thanksgiving and allowed a month-long festival to celebrate the triumph. During his stay, he also taught the locals silk farming and weaving - a cultural tradition that endures to this day. To honor his contributions, the locals built Truc Temple, nestled serenely among a lush bamboo forest.

Unique Architecture of Truc Temple

Truc Temple was constructed in the shape of the Chinese character "Dinh" (丁), with three main sections:

Temple Gate: Featuring four imposing pillars, two main ones over 6 meters high, flanked by smaller side pillars.
 

Front Hall: A spacious area with five compartments, used for rituals and ceremonies.

Sanctuary: A three-compartment rear hall meticulously designed for the main worship altar.

The architecture of the temple reflects the traditional style of the 17th-19th centuries, adorned with intricate carvings of the four sacred animals (dragon, unicorn, turtle, phoenix) and the four noble plants (pine, chrysanthemum, bamboo, apricot). These elements highlight the exceptional craftsmanship of ancient artisans.

The Ancient Bamboo Forest
 

Surrounding the temple is a centuries-old bamboo forest that adds to its uniqueness. This serene sanctuary offers fresh, cool air and a tranquil setting, where towering bamboo trees form a natural canopy, providing shade and a peaceful atmosphere for visitors to immerse themselves in nature's purity.

Highlights of the Truc Temple Festival

Dramatic Dances and Songs: A Tribute Through Art
 

Traditional Dam Singing and Dancing, said to have been created by Ly Thuong Kiet, is an integral part of the festival. Starting from the 1st day of the second lunar month, villagers perform ceremonies to bring the general's spirit tablet to the communal house, followed by singing and dancing rituals. These performances, which continue for six days of the festival and three additional days of "seating rituals," are both a form of worship and a vibrant cultural display.
 

The dance troupe comprises young girls aged 13 to 15, showcasing graceful movements that mimic rowing boats. The troupe leader, known as the “Cụ Trùm,” dressed in striking attire, directs the performances with exceptional skill. These rituals, deeply rooted in history, evoke pride and reverence for the homeland.

Boat Racing: Echoes of Victory

On the 6th day of the second lunar month, the festival reaches its peak with a thrilling boat race on the Day River. Decorated with dragon heads, the racing boats span 8 meters in length and compete along a 3-kilometer stretch from the temple's entrance to Que Bridge.

This race re-enacts the journey of Ly Thuong Kiet's fleet during his southern campaign. It’s more than a sport; it’s a spiritual act, praying for favorable weather and abundant harvests. Cheers and applause echo across the area, reviving the victorious spirit of history.

Cultural Highlights of the Festival
 

In addition to Dam Singing and boat racing, the festival is enriched by the vibrant atmosphere of traditional village games such as tug-of-war, wrestling, cockfighting, and chess. In the evenings, young men and women gather around the temple to sing courtship songs under the moonlight, painting a lively and spirited picture of Vietnamese rural life.

The Truc Temple Festival not only preserves the values of folk culture but also serves as an opportunity for people to express gratitude to a national hero. Activities such as Dam Singing and boat racing bring the triumphant moments of history to life, making Truc Temple an unmissable destination during the spring season.

Located in the heart of Phu Ly City, just a 15-minute drive from Truc Temple, Tien Loc Palace Hotel offers an ideal place for visitors to relax and explore Ha Nam's rich culture and festivals. With 3-star facilities, the hotel provides a complete range of services, from comfortable accommodations and local culinary experiences to leisure activities, ensuring every need is met. Plan your visit today and choose Tien Loc Palace Hotel as your perfect retreat for a meaningful journey into Ha Nam’s cultural heritage!
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