Niet Ban Tinh Xa is known as one of the most beautiful and sacred pagodas in Vung Tau. With its poetic geographical location and unique spiritual architecture, this place has become a holy site attracting tourists from all over the world to visit and worship. In addition to its ancient beauty, Niet Ban Tinh Xa Vung Tau also possesses unique Buddhist architecture. As a highlight of Vietnam shore excursions, Niet Ban Tinh Xa serves as a significant stop, offering visitors a profound spiritual experience amidst their coastal explorations.
An Overview Of Niet Ban Tinh Xa (Nirvana Pagoda)
Niet Ban Tinh Xa Pagoda is also known by many people as the Reclining Buddha Pagoda. This Vung Tau pagoda was built under the chairmanship of monk Thich Thien Hue with funds donated by Buddhist monks and nuns. Niet Ban Tinh Xa has an area of up to 10,000 square meters, including many houses facing the East Sea. The unique architectural work has high cultural value and attracts thousands of prospective tourists every year. In general, the main hall of Niet Ban Tinh Xa Pagoda is not large but it gathers many of the pagoda’s dharma objects. The main hall decorated with the statue of Buddha entering Nirvana is an outstanding architectural work and the pride of the monks, nuns and monks in the temple.
Not only does Niet Ban Tinh Xa attract tourists for its profound spiritual significance, but its physical space is also a standout feature. Ascend the bell tower to behold panoramic views of Nirvana, a unique blend of sea, land, sky, verdant trees, and the serene tolling of bells.
At the forefront of the pagoda stands a 21-meter tower with 42 steps, each step representing a page of Buddhist scriptures handed down in the 21st century. The tower, constructed from red and yellow ceramic tiles, is adorned with symbolism and craftsmanship. Nearby, a bronze Tu Linh urn provides a convenient place for visitors to offer incense and offerings.
Inside the temple, a serene and pure atmosphere pervades. Dominating the space is a striking 12-meter-long reclining Buddha statue, a marvel that draws tourists seeking to admire this impressive architectural masterpiece during their travels to Vung Tau.
Where is Niet Ban Tinh Xa?
Niet Ban Tinh Xa Pagoda resides at 66/7 Ha Long Street, Ward 1, Vung Tau City. Positioned in the heart of Bai Dua on a hillside, its distinctive geographical location entices numerous tourists. Not only admired for its sacred and unique architecture, the pagoda captivates visitors with its tranquil ambiance nestled amidst mountains and forests blending harmoniously with the sea, leaving many enthralled.
To get here, you can choose a simple route that is along the Ha Long beach road, along the mountain slopes of Front Beach and Back Beach. You just need to move along the road a little, you will see Pineapple Beach appear before your eyes, located on the side of Nho Mountain. Niet Ban Tinh Xa is located right in the center of Bai Dua, so if you find your way to Bai Dua, you will immediately encounter Niet Ban Tinh Xa.
Explore Unique Architecture At Niet Ban Tinh Xa Pagoda
The massive of architecture of Niet Ban Tinh Xa
Coming from outside, the four words “Nirvana Tinh Xa” are engraved on the temple gate, which has the highest spiritual and worship significance of Buddhism. On both sides of the gate are engraved two riddles with the meaning of saving all sentient beings, enlightening the Dharma,… Inside there are two majestic statues of Mr. Good and Mr. Evil standing guard at the door.
On the right side of the pagoda gate, there is a 4m high relief of a dragon’s head, a dragon’s horse and horse’s feet walking on water waves, above a flock of cranes dancing on the clouds.
The bas-relief was made using the technique of layering a piece of white glazed porcelain with blue painting. This technique was extremely popular in Vietnam in the 20th century when building mausoleums, pagodas and temples. Colorful motifs created from a historical period highlight the brilliance and energy of the piece.
The Solemn Main Hall Of The Pagoda
To get to the main hall of Niet Ban Tinh Xa, visitors must climb 37m2 wide steps. Entering here, visitors will feel the majesty and respect of the Buddha. The space of the main hall is not too large but displays many Buddha relics. The most eye-catching is the 12m long Reclining Buddha statue. This work symbolizes “Twelve Causes and Conditions” and has become the pride of Vung Tau monks.
Statue of Buddha entering Nirvana
Situated prominently in the main hall, this work has become the quintessential symbol and namesake of the temple itself. The Buddha statue depicting Nirvana boasts a glossy pinkish-brown hue and is meticulously carved with intricate detail. The statue lies reclined on its side, facing westward, with its right arm supporting its head and legs extended.
The statue gains further significance within a space adorned with numerous unique Buddhist artworks. Above and behind the Buddha statue, a striking natural scene unfolds, featuring two Nagarjuna trees or peacocks, alongside lions, tigers, and monkeys, standing resolutely as protectors of the temple. Each piece is intricately crafted with harmonious colors, creating a serene and dignified Zen atmosphere.
Unique Bat Nha Boat
Behind the main hall lies the back hall, dedicated to the worship of Shakyamuni Buddha and the ancestors who played pivotal roles in spreading Buddhism to Vietnam. Notably, within the back hall, there is a painting of “Master Dat Ma,” revered as the first monk to introduce Buddhist teachings to Vietnam.
Adjacent to the Bat Nha boat stands a statue of Guan Yin pouring nectar water into the world, symbolizing purification from suffering and diseases. Nearby, a square-designed bell tower adorned with a carved dragon image rises proudly. Housing a bell standing 2.8 meters tall and weighing 3.5 tons, the bell tower resonates with spiritual significance within the temple grounds.
Attractions Around Niet Ban Tinh Xa
Christ the King Statue (Jesus Statue)
Located nearby in Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province, this 32-meter-tall statue offers panoramic views of Vung Tau City and the surrounding coastline.
Back Beach
Known for its clear waters and sandy shores, Back Beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
Front Beach
Front Beach provides a glimpse into the local fishing culture with its bustling atmosphere of fishing boats and seafood restaurants.
Nghinh Phong Cape
This scenic coastal area features a lighthouse offering stunning views of the South China Sea and Vung Tau Peninsula.
Ho May Park
A hilltop park with amusement rides, a zoo, and scenic viewpoints overlooking Vung Tau City and its coastline.
Vung Tau Lighthouse
Known for its panoramic views of Vung Tau City, the lighthouse is a historic landmark offering a picturesque setting for visitors.
Things to note when going on pilgrimage at Niet Ban Tinh Xa Pagoda
- The pagoda is open from 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. for visitors to visit. Please note this time to arrange your “visiting” schedule in Vung Tau city.
- Because Chieng Pagoda is a sacred spiritual place, when coming to Niet Ban Tinh Xa Vung Tau, you should dress politely and avoid revealing anything.
- Do not joke or talk loudly in the temple, especially in the main hall area.
- Maintain general hygiene of the temple to maintain its inherent beauty
Every year, on holidays, Sundays, full moon days, and the first days of the month, tens of thousands of visitors come to Niet Ban Tinh Xa to worship and sightsee. With a special architectural style located in a beautiful location of Bai Dua, Niet Ban Tinh Xa is a famous landscape of Vung Tau that many people in all parts of the country admire and wish to visit once. sightseeing, admiring.
