1. General introduction to Ba Vang Pagoda Quang Ninh
Ba Vang Pagoda Quang Ninh is an attractive spiritual tourist destination. (Source: Collected)
Located on the slope of Thanh Dang mountain, in Quang Trung ward, Uong Bi city, Ba Vang Pagoda Quang Ninh is likened to a shining gem amidst a serene natural landscape. With an altitude of 340 m above sea level, from the pagoda courtyard, visitors can gaze at the distant Do Son sea, lush green pine forests, and the majestic panorama of mountains and rivers. The combination of natural scenery and ancient architecture creates a feeling of both sacredness and relaxation, making it an unmissable stop when traveling to Quang Ninh.
Not only is it a major Buddhist center of the North, Ba Vang Pagoda also plays an important role in the spiritual and religious life of Vietnamese people. Each year, tens of thousands of Buddhists and tourists make pilgrimages here to worship, pray for peace, and attend summer retreats, lantern festivals, and the Vu Lan Grand Ceremony. Associated with the Truc Lam Yen Tu Zen sect, the pagoda bears the strong imprint of traditional Northern Vietnamese architecture with its graceful curved roofs, majestic Buddha statues, and tranquil meditation space.
In 2025, Ba Vang Pagoda Quang Ninh continues to affirm its position as a leading spiritual tourist destination in the Northeast region, where visitors can immerse themselves in a serene monastic setting and admire the unique cultural and spiritual beauty of the Vietnamese people.
2. History of Formation and Development of Ba Vang Pagoda Quang Ninh
Ba Vang Pagoda Quang Ninh is a famous cultural - spiritual center. (Source: Collected)
Ba Vang Pagoda Quang Ninh bears the imprint of Vietnamese Buddhism history, originating from the Tran Dynasty with the Truc Lam Yen Tu Zen sect. Through many renovations and expansions, the pagoda today is not only a place of practice but also a cultural – spiritual center, spreading the values of compassion, wisdom, and Buddhist teachings to numerous Buddhists and visitors.
2.1. The origin phase – Tran Dynasty and the imprint of Truc Lam Yen Tu
The history of Ba Vang Pagoda Quang Ninh is associated with the 13th century, the period when King Buddha Tran Nhan Tong founded the Truc Lam Yen Tu Zen sect. The pagoda was born as a spiritual symbol of the Northeast region, a place preserving the essence of pure Vietnamese Buddhism. From its early days, Ba Vang Pagoda became a center for practice and propagation by monks, contributing to spreading the teachings of compassion – wisdom and strengthening the spirit of Truc Lam Zen in people's lives.
2.2. Important renovations and restorations throughout history
According to historical records, in 1706 under the Le Du Tong dynasty, Ba Vang Pagoda Quang Ninh was rebuilt on a large scale, marking a new development in architecture and belief. Through historical upheavals, natural disasters, and wars, the pagoda was destroyed many times but was persistently restored by the people and Buddhists. Notably, in 1988 the pagoda was rebuilt with wood, then further renovated in 1993.
The period 2011–2014 marked a strong transformation, when a comprehensive major renovation project was initiated, creating the modern and grand appearance it has today. The inauguration ceremony on March 9, 2014, became an important milestone, making Ba Vang Pagoda Quang Ninh one of the largest pagodas in Vietnam, gathering all facilities for practice, activities, and organizing national-scale Buddhist ceremonies.
2.3. The significance and influence of Ba Vang Pagoda in the development of Vietnamese Buddhism
Today, Ba Vang Pagoda Quang Ninh is not only a place of practice but also a center for spreading Buddhist studies and Truc Lam culture within the community. Regularly organizing meditation retreats, dharma talks, lantern festivals, and the Vu Lan Grand Ceremony, the pagoda contributes to nurturing the spiritual lives of millions of Buddhists each year.
With the mission of preserving and promoting the spirit of the Truc Lam Zen sect, Ba Vang Pagoda plays an important role in preserving the identity of Vietnamese Buddhism, while spreading the message of compassion, wisdom, and goodness to all social strata.
3. Architecture and impressive features at Ba Vang Pagoda Quang Ninh
Ba Vang Pagoda Quang Ninh has impressive architecture. (Source: Collected)
Ba Vang Pagoda Quang Ninh makes a strong impression with its harmonious overall architecture, subtly combining spiritual structures and the surrounding natural landscape. From the Tam Quan gate to the Dai Hung Bao Dien, along with gilded Buddha statues, the bell tower, the half-moon lake, and the surrounding pine forests, every detail offers visitors an experience that is both sacred and relaxing.
3.1. Overall Campus
The entire architecture of Ba Vang Pagoda Quang Ninh is meticulously planned, harmonizing spiritual structures and the natural landscape. The ancient inner Tam Quan gate opens into the central area, highlighted by the majestic two-story, eight-roofed Dai Hung Bao Dien amidst a serene atmosphere. Additionally, a miniature One Pillar Pagoda model reflected in the half-moon lake creates a gentle focal point, evoking a sense of peace and sanctity.
The bell tower and drum tower are symmetrically arranged, combined with the Ancestor Worship Hall, lecture rooms, and library, forming a complete religious architectural complex. Within the premises, there is also a museum housing many precious artifacts and a refectory serving Buddhist followers from all directions who come to study. The surrounding flower gardens and meditation forest help visitors easily find peace, immerse themselves in nature, and feel inner tranquility.
3.2. Outstanding Structures and Unique Buddhist Symbols
In the main hall of Ba Vang Pagoda, the statue of Sakyamuni Buddha is splendidly gilded, flanked by the statue of Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva and 18 Arhats with solemn appearances, symbolizing the spirit of enlightenment. Another prominent highlight is the largest wooden statue of Amitabha Buddha in the North, showcasing the exquisite carving skills of Vietnamese artisans.
Furthermore, the sacred well and the half-moon lake carry profound spiritual significance, while the replica of the One Pillar Pagoda stands as a unique architectural symbol. The Great Bell, weighing over 3 tons and located in the bell tower, is believed by Buddhists to bring peace and blessings. Notably, the largest single-log drum in Vietnam, made from a solid piece of red wood, attests to the craftsmanship and creative spirit of ancient artisans.
3.3. Natural Landscape
Located on the slope of Thanh Dang Mountain, Ba Vang Pagoda Quang Ninh is blessed by nature with a cool atmosphere year-round. The pagoda faces the sea in front and leans against the mountain behind, with lush green pine forests covering both sides, creating a picturesque landscape of mountains and water. The blend of forest, mountains, and sea not only creates a majestic beauty but also offers an ideal space for those seeking meditation and inner peace.
4. Unmissable Experiences When Visiting Ba Vang Pagoda 2025
Participate in a meditation retreat at Ba Vang Pagoda, Quang Ninh. (Source: Collected)
Ba Vang Pagoda, Quang Ninh is not only a famous spiritual destination but also offers unique cultural experiences, Buddhist teachings, and Buddhist life. Visitors here have the opportunity to participate in festivals, meditation retreats, meditation sessions, and explore sacred artifacts, creating a journey that is both meaningful and peaceful for the soul.
4.1. Participating in Meditation Retreats, Grand Ceremonies, and Major Cultural-Spiritual Events
Each year, Ba Vang Pagoda, Quang Ninh organizes many special cultural-spiritual programs, attracting a large number of Buddhists and visitors from all directions. Summer retreats and Buddhist seven-day retreats are opportunities for participants to train their minds and bodies, learn Buddhist teachings, and cultivate moral living. In a solemn atmosphere, the Flower Lantern Ceremony to worship Buddha is solemnly held, with thousands of fresh flowers offered to the Buddhas as prayers for peace and happiness for humanity.
Particularly, the Ba Vang Pagoda festival held on the 8th day of the first lunar month is one of the major events kicking off the new year, bringing a sacred and joyful atmosphere. Additionally, the Vu Lan filial piety ceremony (7th lunar month), the Chrysanthemum festival (9th lunar month), or the Medicine Buddha ritual at the beginning of the year all carry the meaning of praying for peace, honoring ancestors, and pursuing good deeds in the spiritual life of Vietnamese people.
4.2. Experiencing Buddhist Life and a Tranquil Space
Visiting Ba Vang Pagoda, Quang Ninh, visitors can experience moments of tranquility through meditation sessions, helping the mind relax and find peace. Participating in dharma talks and learning Buddhist teachings here not only brings deep understanding of Buddhism but also helps cultivate compassion and good deeds in life.
Strolling through pine forests, admiring blooming flower gardens, or listening to the resonant temple bells are unforgettable experiences. Visitors can also chat with monks and interact with Buddhists from everywhere to further understand the philosophy of peaceful living. In the pure space of the pagoda, everyday worries seem to disappear, making way for a feeling of peace and tranquility in the soul.
4.3. Exploring the Museum, Buddha Relics, and Sacred Artifacts
The museum area of Ba Vang Pagoda, Quang Ninh is where many precious artifacts are preserved, reflecting the formation and development of Truc Lam Buddhism. Here, visitors can pay homage to the solemnly enshrined Buddha relics – a sacred symbol of reverence and faith in Buddhist law. Alongside are hundreds of ritual objects and ancient artifacts of long-standing age, carrying deep historical and spiritual value.
Visiting this exhibition space helps visitors understand more about the flow of Vietnamese Buddhism through different periods, and at the same time, clearly feel the cultural and spiritual essence of the nation preserved and spread at Ba Vang Pagoda, Quang Ninh.
5. The Meaning of the Name "Ba Vang" and Symbolic Stories
The name “Ba Vang” originates from three golden mountains surrounding the pagoda. (Source: Collected)
The name “Ba Vang” originates from three golden mountains surrounding the pagoda, carrying profound symbolic meaning in Buddhist philosophy. These three mountains symbolize three precious qualities of humans: clear wisdom to perceive the truth, upright morality in life, and compassion and benevolence towards all beings.
With its unique feng shui position, Ba Vang Pagoda Quang Ninh is considered a convergence point of spiritual energy, a place where heaven and earth harmonize, creating favorable conditions for spreading Buddhist teachings. The pagoda's image is like a bright lamp, spreading the spirit of Buddhism, preserving traditional cultural values, and cultivating morality, contributing to nurturing the souls of Buddhists and visitors from near and far.
6. Directions to Ba Vang Pagoda Quang Ninh
Enjoying at Sun World Ha Long when traveling to Quang Ninh. (Source: Collected)
Ba Vang Pagoda Quang Ninh is located within a convenient transportation network, making it easy for visitors from Hanoi, the South, or nearby provinces to plan a day trip. With various transportation options such as cars, coaches, planes combined with taxis or tour vehicles, the journey to the pagoda becomes flexible, suitable for both family groups and those on tours.
6.1. Traveling from Hanoi to Ba Vang Pagoda
The distance from Hanoi to Ba Vang Pagoda Quang Ninh ranges from about 120–130 km, with travel time taking 2 to 2.5 hours depending on the vehicle. Visitors can choose coaches departing from My Dinh or Gia Lam bus stations to Uong Bi, then continue a short distance to the pagoda.
Alternatively, traveling by private car or tour vehicle is also very convenient, especially via the Hanoi – Hai Phong – Ha Long expressway or National Highway 18. The modern transportation system makes the trip easy, suitable for groups of friends and families who want to control their own sightseeing itinerary.
6.2. From Ho Chi Minh City and Southern Provinces
For visitors from the South, flights to Cat Bi Airport (Hai Phong), Van Don Airport, or Noi Bai Airport are the optimal choice to save time. From the airport, traveling by taxi, coach, or tour vehicle to Uong Bi and Ba Vang Pagoda Quang Ninh is quite convenient.
Many visitors combine their journey with famous attractions such as Ha Long Bay, Yen Tu, or Sun World Ha Long to optimize time and cost. Additionally, all-inclusive tours to Quang Ninh often include Ba Vang Pagoda in the itinerary, offering a seamless and convenient experience.
6.3. Intra-provincial Travel and Visiting Nearby Attractions
In Uong Bi city, bus, taxi, and electric vehicle systems serve travel needs conveniently. From Ba Vang Pagoda Quang Ninh , it's only about 10 km to Yen Tu, convenient for combining visits to two prominent spiritual sites in one day.
Additionally, visitors can easily travel to Sun World Ha Long, Yen Trung Lake, and many other tourist destinations in Quang Ninh. Renting a motorbike or bicycle is also an ideal option for those who want to experience the peaceful countryside atmosphere around the pagoda.
7. Festivals and Notable Events at Ba Vang Pagoda in 2025
There are many attractive festivals at Ba Vang Pagoda Quang Ninh. (Source: Collected)
In 2025, Ba Vang Pagoda Quang Ninh continues to be a prominent spiritual destination with many special festivals and events, attracting both tourists and Buddhists from everywhere. Participating in traditional ceremonies, lantern release ceremonies, or charity programs, visitors will feel the sacred atmosphere while experiencing profound cultural and humanistic values.
7.1. Ba Vang Pagoda Festival (8th day of the first lunar month)
The Year of the Snake Spring Festival 2025 at Ba Vang Pagoda Quang Ninh officially opens on February 5, 2025, becoming one of the prominent spiritual events of the year. The festival includes peace-praying rituals, chanting sutras for blessings, praying for national peace and prosperity, and good fortune for the new year. The highlight of the program is the shimmering lantern release ceremony on the lake, creating a magical scene, leaving a deep impression on visitors.
The timing of the festival holds special significance, as everyone turns towards good wishes at the beginning of the year. By participating in the festival, visitors can not only experience traditional Buddhist rituals but also feel the sacred and peaceful atmosphere of spring in Quang Ninh.
7.2. Large-scale events and community impact
Ba Vang Pagoda Quang Ninh regularly implements charity programs and community care initiatives, including support for disadvantaged people, organizing free health check-ups, and maintaining traditional cultural events. These activities receive widespread attention from tourists and Buddhists everywhere.
Additionally, free Buddhist dharma classes, major religious ceremonies, and regularly organized charity programs also attract a large number of participants. Through these efforts, Ba Vang Pagoda not only spreads humanitarian spirit but also contributes to building a civilized, sustainable society rich in moral values.
8. Important notes when visiting Ba Vang Pagoda
Maintain a solemn attitude when visiting Ba Vang Pagoda Quang Ninh. (Source: Collected)
When visiting Ba Vang Pagoda Quang Ninh, adhering to rules of conduct and dressing politely is important to respect the sacred space. Besides that, visitors can also enjoy beautiful check-in spots such as the crescent moon lake, the three-gate pagoda entrance, or the large Buddha statue, capturing memorable moments during the journey of exploring the pagoda.
When visiting Ba Vang Pagoda Quang Ninh, visitors should choose polite, neat attire, prioritizing long pants, sleeved shirts, or long skirts, avoiding short, tight, or sleeveless clothing when entering the main hall and ancestral worship area to show respect for the sacred space.
During the visit, one should maintain a solemn attitude, limit loud conversations, avoid jostling or inappropriate behavior in the spiritual environment. Maintaining cleanliness, not littering, contributes to keeping the common space clean, beautiful, and serene.
The ideal time to visit the pagoda is during major holidays, the beginning of the year, full moon, the first day of the lunar month, the January festival, or the Vu Lan festival, as well as national holidays. Beautiful check-in spots such as the crescent moon lake, the three-gate pagoda entrance, the pine forest, and the large Buddha statue will help visitors capture memorable moments during their exploration of Ba Vang Pagoda Quang Ninh.
With its majestic architecture, serene spiritual space, and magnificent natural landscape, Ba Vang Pagoda Quang Ninh is not only a sacred pilgrimage site but also a prominent cultural-spiritual symbol of the mining region. Visitors coming here not only find peace of mind but also admire the monumental Buddhist structure, bearing the strong imprint of Vietnamese architecture. In 2025, Ba Vang Pagoda Quang Ninh continues to affirm its position as a legendary Buddhist work, attracting tens of thousands of Buddhists and visitors from all directions for worship and sightseeing.
