Buu Long Buddhist Temple

No 81 Nguyen Xien Street, Group 1, Thai Binh 1 Village, Long Binh Ward, District 9, Ho Chi Minh City 70000 Vietnam

Now Open

Description

The Buu Long Pagoda is a temple devoted to Theravada Buddhism, a branch of Buddhism distinct from the Chinese Mahayana Buddhism that is more prevalent in Vietnam. Sri Lanka and Thailand are more closely identified with Theravada Buddhism, and the construction of the Buu Long Pagoda reflects this difference in doctrine.

The Buu Long Pagoda, which covers an area of 110 000 square meters, resembles a Thai temple in appearance. Particularly, the multi-tiered Gotama Cetiya Stupa, the primary structure at Buu Long Pagoda, recalls the Loha Prasat in Bangkok because to its tiered construction and many spires. The Gotama Cetiya Stupa is flanked by two lesser towers and a pond. The entire property is surrounded by landscaped grounds. The main hall of the Gotama Cetiya Stupa is spacious enough to seat more than a thousand worshippers.

The Buu Long Pagoda was constructed in 1942 on one of the few hills in Ho Chi Minh City’s generally flat terrain. The hill lies in close proximity to the Dong Nai River. On most days, tourists can see the lofty towers of District 1 in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City from the upper terraces of the Gotama Cetiya Stupa.

Architecture of Buu Long Pagoda

Vietnam’s Buu Long Pagoda exemplifies the wonderful combination of Thai and Indian culture with the Nguyen Dynasty’s (1802-1945) architectural style.

The temples were constructed in accordance with the ancient Buddhist culture and have been constantly renovated to the present day. The pagoda comprises the main temple, the monk house, the guest house, the temples, the meditation rooms, and other structures.

Generally speaking, the Buu Long Pagoda consists of two primary areas: the main temple and the surrounding campus. The pagoda was constructed according to abbot Thich Vien Minh’s exact specifications.

With a height of 56 meters and four surrounding auxiliary towers, the pagoda’s main stupa is the tallest structure in Vietnam. This piece was constructed in the manner of Thailand’s temples, using the colors white and dazzling yellow.

Due to its location on the outskirts of Saigon, the initial impression of the Buu Long Pagoda is its expansive size and serene mood. In the vicinity of the pagoda, there is a spot to rest as well as a vegetarian restaurant where you can sample vegan vermicelli and spring rolls for only 20,000 VND each plate.

Due to its location within a natural forest, the expansive temple is always in harmony with the surrounding trees. Numerous individuals use this location as a destination for meditation or simply to observe the tranquil environment, which helps them temporarily forget about their hectic lives.

Buu Long is known as the temple without incense because worshippers and devotees do not burn incense at the temple. At first glance, the majesty and sanctity of the main hall will captivate the spirits of those who value a tranquil existence.

The architecture of the temple resembles that of Thailand’s Golden Pagoda, hence the locals refer to it as a Thai temple. In spite of this, Vietnamese culture remains bold in every aspect, from carved motifs to regal dragon monuments.

The pagoda is constantly pristine, as shown by the wind chimes on its towers and the bubbling of water from the lake in the main temple area. Therefore, you should be mindful to speak quietly and maintain order when visiting this location.