Are you seeking a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life? Look no further than the breathtaking Truc Lam Tay Thien Zen Monastery, nestled just 85 kilometers west of Hanoi. This enchanting destination, perched high on a mountain at 300 meters above sea level, offers a sublime environment where one can meditate, unwind, and connect with nature. Join Unilever.edu.vn as we explore this heavenly retreat, providing you with all the essential information to prepare for your visit.
Journey to Truc Lam Tay Thien Zen Monastery
Getting There
By Bus: The bus ride to Truc Lam Tay Thien takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes. Start your journey by taking bus number 58. After transferring to the VP01 line at Me Linh Plaza, you’ll arrive at Vinh Yen bus station. From there, hop onto the VP07 bus, which will take you directly to the monastery.
By Motorbike: For adventure seekers, a motorbike trip offers a scenic route through Vinh Phuc. Depart from Pham Van Dong Road towards Thang Long Bridge, continue straight towards Noi Bai, and turn left at Nam Hong intersection, following the signs to Vinh Yen. You’ll reach Truc Lam Tay Thien by simply following the road through Tam Dao.
By Car or Shuttle Bus: Head towards Nhat Tan Bridge and turn right at QL2 to reach Vinh Yen. After passing through the Hanoi – Lao Cai expressway, make a U-turn and head straight to Tam Dao; you will arrive at your destination in no time.
Navigating Within the Area
For those in good physical shape, you may enjoy a scenic hike up the mountain, which is about 4 kilometers long. Along the way, you will pass through lush forests and streams, experiencing nature up close. However, the final stretch from Co Temple to Upper Temple is steep, demanding a bit more effort. Expect to spend approximately 2 to 3 hours on the hike.
Alternatively, a gondola cable car provides a more leisurely ascent to Upper Temple in just about 10 minutes. Tickets are quite affordable and can be purchased at the cable car station. Prices are as follows:
- Electric vehicle ride: 20,000 VND per person per trip
- Round-trip gondola: 240,000 VND for adults, 160,000 VND for children
- One-way gondola: 150,000 VND for adults, 100,000 VND for children
- Operating hours: 07:00 AM – 02:30 PM
(Note: Children under 1 meter in height are free of charge.)
Unique Architecture of Truc Lam Tay Thien
Truc Lam Tay Thien Zen Monastery boasts a blend of traditional Asian architecture, comprised of various structures including the Main Hall, Guest House, Bell Tower, and the Meditation Halls. Every aspect of the complex reflects meticulous craftsmanship characterized by intricate details. The monastery features historical relics that date back to ancient centuries, captivating visitors with its deep-rooted cultural significance.
Among its many attractions, a notable octagonal library stands at the top of a hill, housing a statue of Buddha that towers at an impressive height of 35 meters.
Showcasing exquisite architecture of Truc Lam Tay Thien
Exploring the Impressive Surroundings
An Tam Zen Monastery
Constructed between 2009 and 2012, An Tam Monastery was led by the venerable nun Thich Nu Thuan Giac. Its essential components include the main hall dedicated to Sakyamuni Buddha, a guest house, and a Zen hall.
Dai Bao Thap Mandala
This magnificent stupa, standing 29 meters tall and covering an area of over 1,500 m², embodies the architectural style of Vajrayana Buddhism. Many visitors come here to worship, pray, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.
Thong Temple
Serving as the gateway to Truc Lam Tay Thien, Thong Temple features an exquisite architectural harmony with nature. The ancient “Chin Co” fig tree located in the courtyard is believed to be hundreds of years old, offering a picturesque spot to relax.
Upper Temple
Dedicated to the worship of Queen Mother Tay Thien, this temple honors the divine guardian of the Tam Dao region. This legendary figure played a significant role in historical narratives, guiding the king in times of strife.
The History of Truc Lam Tay Thien Zen Monastery
One of the three largest Zen monasteries in Vietnam, Truc Lam Tay Thien is located adjacent to the ancient Tay Thien holy site. Its spiritual roots trace back to the 3rd century when the monk Khuong Tang Hoi introduced Buddhism to the region. Legend has it that during the reign of the sixth Hung King, a miraculous encounter with a talented woman occurred after he visited what is now the site of the monastery.
Established in 2004, Truc Lam Tay Thien was completed in 2005. Archaeologists were thrilled to discover remnants of ancient bricks engraved with designs from the Tran Dynasty during its construction.
Best Times to Visit Truc Lam Tay Thien
The monastery remains cool and inviting throughout the year, making it an ideal destination any time. Spring is particularly popular due to vibrant festivals where pilgrims come to seek blessings. Additionally, summer months often feature numerous Zen retreats, drawing in both tourists and practitioners.
Culinary Delights in Tay Thien
While visiting Truc Lam Tay Thien, you can savor vegetarian meals prepared in the on-site dining hall. Don’t miss out on local delicacies such as “su su” or stir-fried vegetables, roasted mountain chicken, and various dishes made from wild boar.
Prepare for your journey by packing sun protection and water if you plan on hiking. This serene sanctuary attracts both pilgrims and travelers from across Northern Vietnam, offering breathtaking views of majestic mountains and a calm respite for the soul.
Embark on an unforgettable journey to Truc Lam Tay Thien, where spirituality, nature, and rich history converge to create a truly remarkable experience. Plan your visit today to immerse yourself in this heavenly retreat!
