1 An exciting journey crossing waters and climbing passes
Unlike temples where you can drive right up to the gate, the path to Loi Am Thuong Pagoda was a true experiential journey for me. From the center of Ha Long, I traveled to Yen Lap Lake. Here, I had to rent a boat (costing about 50,000 - 70,000 VND/passenger) to reach the pagoda.
The sacred and ancient Loi Am Thuong Pagoda. Illustrative photo: Vinpearl
The feeling of sitting on a small boat, gliding across the emerald-green lake often dubbed a "miniature Ha Long Bay," was truly refreshing. After getting off the boat, I began the challenge of trekking over 850m across 5 steep hills and 2 gently sloping hills along the path named "Chua Ngu." To reward the breathless climb, both sides of the path were lined with rustling pine forests and lush green pineapple valleys that rival Da Lat in beauty. This was truly an unforgettable experience during my trip to Quang Ninh.
To reach the pagoda, you will need to take a boat across Yen Lap Lake. Illustrative photo: Vov
2 A 500-year historical mark and the legend of the "Voice of Buddha"
Before this exploratory journey, I was very curious and decided to learn about the name Loi Am Thuong Pagoda. According to my research, this pagoda has an extremely long history, originally built during the reign of King Le Thanh Tong (15th century).
The pagoda gate is nestled amidst the mountains and forests, deeply secluded and ancient. Illustrative photo: Vov
Legend has it that in ancient times, this mountainous area was plagued by evil spirits harassing the local villagers. An orphaned young man journeyed far and wide to seek the Buddha for secret arts to vanquish the demons. After driving away the evil forces, the villagers built a pagoda to express their gratitude to the Buddha and named it Loi Am. This name means the "Voice of Buddha" echoing to preserve peace. Reading this, I suddenly felt even more appreciative of every step I took, as every brick and tree trunk here carries the soul of a sacred land spanning centuries.
Poet Phan Thuc Truc once wrote extremely poetic verses about Loi Am Thuong Pagoda:
"Loi Am stands upon Vulture Peak right here
A thousand leagues riding clouds to reach this place
Lush green shades of trees, a thousand peaks arise
Tides surge powerfully, thunder roars and shakes."
Yen Lap Lake is vast and peaceful; taking a boat ride on the lake is an unforgettable experience. Illustrative photo: Vov
3 Serene beauty amidst a celestial paradise
As I set foot at the pagoda gate, all my fatigue seemed to vanish. Loi Am Thuong Pagoda rests nestled in misty white clouds at an altitude of over 500m.
- Rustic architecture: The pagoda is not overly large but remarkably majestic. The roofs and pathways are intricately carved with dragons and phoenixes; though weathered by time, they still retain the grandeur of a national historical site.
The pagoda has been restored multiple times yet still retains its traditional architecture. Illustrative photo: Vov
- Hang Cau (Lau Cau): Continuing about 50m from the Mother Goddess Altar, I came across a giant natural rock slab resembling a monitor lizard. This was once a meditation spot for monks in ancient times. Looking down from here, the panoramic view of Yen Lap Lake unfolds before your eyes, ethereal like an ink wash painting.
From the pagoda, you can take in the magnificent panoramic view of nature. Illustrative photo: Vov
4 Offering rituals and useful tips for visitors
Based on my actual journey, here are a few things to keep in mind to make your visit to Loi Am Thuong Pagoda complete:
- Preparing offerings: You should only present vegetarian offerings (fruits, sweets), and strictly avoid meat offerings or burning votive paper. For fresh flowers offered to Buddha, choose lotus, tuberose, or peony for solemnity.
- Best timing: If you want to experience the vibrant festival atmosphere and watch folk games, visit on the 27th day of the 1st lunar month. If you prefer tranquility, mild sunny winter days are the best time to hunt for clouds.
The curved pagoda roofs, characteristic of Northern Vietnamese temple architecture. Illustrative photo: Vov
- Attire: Be sure to wear athletic shoes with good grip to tackle the challenging trek up to Loi Am Thuong Pagoda. Don't forget to try the local specialty grilled chicken at the foot of the mountain after descending; the mouth-watering aroma and taste will make the perfect finale to your trip.
The pagoda does not yet have a bell tower, so the bell is temporarily placed in the pagoda courtyard. Illustrative photo: Vov
For me, Loi Am Thuong Pagoda is where the "Azure Dragon on the left and White Tiger on the right" harmonize, creating a rare and serene sanctuary. If you are seeking to regain your balance, try visiting here once to hear the "Voice of Buddha" amidst the vast green forest. And your journey will be even lighter when carrying an outdoor backpack from MIA.vn. Packing lightweight belongings will make your trekking trip much more comfortable.
