1. Introduction to Dung Pagoda Ninh Binh
Nestled peacefully under the pine forest canopy, Dung Pagoda (currently known as Dia Tang Phi Lai Tu Pagoda) is considered the spiritual gem of Ninh Binh. Many tourists are still confused about the pagoda's location, but just one visit is enough to impress everyone with its ancient beauty and unique sacred atmosphere.
1.1. Location and outstanding features of Dung Pagoda
Dung Pagoda is located in Ninh Trung village, Thanh Binh commune, Ninh Binh province, about 70 km south of Hanoi center. Its convenient location allows tourists to easily access it by bus or private car. Built on a small hill, backed by an ancient pine forest, and flanked by mountain ranges, it creates a feng shui posture of "tả Thanh Long and hữu Bạch Hổ".
Scenery of Dung Pagoda Ninh Binh serene amidst lush green mountains. (Source: Collected)
The space at Dung Pagoda always exudes a solemn, sacred atmosphere amidst the vast mountains and forests. Around the pagoda are trees casting shade, the air is fresh, tranquil, completely separate from the rhythm of urban life. The pagoda grounds are spacious, flat, very suitable for practices, worship, and finding inner peace.
Regarding cultural value, Dung Pagoda Ninh Binh plays the role of a historical relic of Thanh Binh commune, once a place where kings came to pray and reside. The pagoda also preserves many architectural, artistic, and traditional religious values throughout many dynasties of the Vietnamese people.
1.2. Origin of the name and legend of Dung Pagoda
The old name " Dung Pagoda " originates from the name of Dong village – which once possessed a large pagoda scale of 100 to 120 bays in the 10th-11th century. The name "Phi Lai" carries an interesting meaning: it is said that when King Tu Duc came to the pagoda to pray for a child, upon leaving, he said "Phi Lai", as a reminder that he might return or might never return to this place. In 2015, when Venerable Thich Minh Quang became the abbot, the pagoda's name was changed to "Dia Tang Phi Lai Tu", reflecting the meaning that Bodhisattva Ksitigarbha is always present here.
Chua Dung is associated with sacred historical stories. (Source: Collected)
Many folk legends are associated with Chua Dung Ninh Binh. One of the stories mentioned is about King Tran Nghe Tong, who chose the pagoda as a place of retreat. On the peak of Phi Lai mountain, there is still Pho Dong tower – which houses over 40 patriarchs with architecture from the Ly and Tran dynasties. After the battle with Chiem Thanh, prisoners of war were also brought to the pagoda to build towers, so the architecture here bears many Cham influences.
The Buddhist cultural value at Chua Dung is also clearly demonstrated through the preservation of many valuable artifacts, ceramics, stones, and steles. These relics reflect the history of the development of Buddhist art in Vietnam, while also honoring the role of Buddhism in accompanying and protecting the country through different periods.
1.3. Why this place has become a prominent tourist destination attracting a large number of visitors
Chua Dung Ninh Binh is a place many people visit to pray for luck and peace. The pagoda's tranquil atmosphere is suitable for meditation, worship, as well as participating in meaningful festivals and spiritual events. Many visitors share a sense of peace when strolling through the pagoda's lush green campus.
A notable aspect of Chua Dung is the preserved artistic and architectural values from the Ly and Tran dynasties. Traces of stone altars, pedestals, tower architecture, and ancient Buddha statues are the clearest evidence of the ancient people's sculpting and construction skills. Carvings of lotuses, pedestals, stone towers, and steles help researchers determine the historical and cultural value of this place.
2. Guide to traveling to Chua Dung Ninh Binh
Getting to Chua Dung Ninh Binh is very convenient with various means of transport. If traveling by private vehicle, you can choose the route along the Cau Gie – Ninh Binh expressway, exit at the Phu Ly – Ha Nam interchange, continue on National Highway 1A, and then follow the Thanh Phong, Thanh Luu, Liem Son routes. From Hanoi, the travel time is about 1 hour for a distance of 70 km.
For those who choose intercity buses, you can catch a bus at Giap Bat or My Dinh stations on the Hanoi – Ninh Binh route, stop at Ha Nam ward, and then continue by local bus. The route to Chua Dung is clear, easy to travel, suitable for both groups of friends and individuals. For convenience, you should note the specific address: Ninh Trung village, Thanh Binh commune, Ninh Binh province.
3. Ideal time to visit Chua Dung
The period from the 2nd to the 4th lunar month or from the 6th to the 7th lunar month is when Chua Dung Ninh Binh is most vibrant with a mild climate and fresh scenery. This is the ideal time for visitors to go on spring trips, worship, attend festivals, and fully experience the peaceful spiritual space. The fresh atmosphere will bring an unforgettable experience to every journey.
Spring is the ideal time to visit Dung Pagoda. (Source: Collected)
The Dung Pagoda festival is usually held at the beginning of the year with many activities for good luck and peace, attracting a large number of Buddhists and visitors from all directions. During this time, the atmosphere at the pagoda becomes more vibrant with traditional rituals, creating a special solemnity and sacredness. To fully participate in the activities, visitors should consider arriving early.
4. Outstanding experiences at Dung Pagoda Ninh Binh
4.1. Admire the ancient spiritual architecture
The architecture of Duong Pagoda Ninh Binh carries the strong imprint of traditional Vietnamese style. (Source: Collected)
The architecture of Duong Pagoda Ninh Binh makes a strong impression with its main hall, three-gate entrance, worship areas, and ancient Buddha statues. The bell tower, ancestral house, and tea room displaying antiques create a harmonious architectural complex. Each structure bears the strong imprint of time and the dedication of the generations of monks who once practiced here.
Sculpture art at Dung Pagoda shows exquisite craftsmanship and spirituality. (Source: Collected)
The sculpture art at Dung Pagoda is distinctive with wood and stone carving details inspired by ancient art. Pedestals and lotus petals on stone are exquisite sculptural traces from the Ly - Tran dynasties, demonstrating the high craftsmanship of ancient people. Visitors can spend time admiring and learning about each of these unique artistic details.
The pagoda's artifact preservation area preserves many stone steles, ancient glazed pottery, sacred animals, and artifacts from various dynasties, displayed for research and visits. These artifacts not only have historical value but also are evidence of the development of Vietnamese Buddhist art through the ages.
4.2. Discover the peaceful natural space
The natural space inside Dung Ninh Binh Pagoda blends pine forests, Zen gardens, and ancient stone paths, creating a pure, green atmosphere. The sounds of the pine forest and cicadas blend together, creating a sense of relaxation for everyone's soul. Ancient stone paths lead deep into each area of the pagoda, giving the feeling of stepping into a different, tranquil space.
The natural space around Duong Pagoda is peaceful and serene. (Source: Collection)
Many tourists also visit beautiful photo spots at the tam quan gate, the stone steps leading to the pagoda, the pine forest, or the Zen garden to capture memorable moments. Especially, the early morning scenery with sunbeams piercing through the pine forest makes the entire pagoda complex even more poetic, suitable for experiencing complete peace.
4.3. Experience spiritual cultural activities
New Year's peace-seeking activities and festivals at Duong Pagoda Ninh Binh are opportunities for tourists to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of prayer ceremonies, chanting, releasing animals, and participating in meaningful volunteer activities. Each ritual carries profound spiritual value, helping everyone understand more about the ancient Buddhist culture.
Visitors experience deep spiritual culture at Dung Pagoda. (Source: Collected)
On regular days, you can fully worship Buddha statues, visit the bell tower, offer prayers to Buddha, listen to Buddhist scriptures, and enjoy tea. Although these are simple activities, they all bring a sense of lightness and purify the mind. Many visitors to this place empathize with the peaceful and relaxed feeling that the pagoda's atmosphere provides.
The quiet and serene atmosphere of Dung Pagoda also attracts those who wish to find a peaceful place. The echoes of scriptures, temple bells, and the sounds of the pine forest create a natural harmony, leading people's hearts to deep tranquility.
5. Experience and notes when visiting Dung Pagoda
When visiting Dung Ninh Binh Pagoda, visitors should choose polite and modest attire to suit the sacred space of the pagoda. Avoid sleeveless tops, shorts, and overly short clothing to show respect for the sacred place. Choosing appropriate attire also contributes to the solemn atmosphere of the entire pagoda area.
Within the pagoda grounds, everyone should pay attention to maintaining cleanliness, not littering, and keeping order, avoiding loud conversations or excessive laughter. Moving gently and avoiding disturbing the general tranquility is necessary for each person to fully appreciate the spiritual value of this place.
When you want to take photos, you should ask the monks for permission if you wish to capture images in worship areas or sensitive locations. It is advisable to visit the pagoda in the early morning or late afternoon to enjoy the quiet atmosphere and avoid the harsh sun. This is also the appropriate time to best feel the peacefulness of Dung Pagoda.
6. Suggested itinerary combining nearby tourist attractions
After visiting Dung Ninh Binh Pagoda, you can combine it with a visit to Sun World Ha Nam – a modern entertainment complex with many quality services. This area is less than 1 hour's travel from the pagoda, making it easy to visit on the same day.
Sun World Ha Nam is a vibrant entertainment destination in the heart of the North. (Source: Collected)
Additionally, Tam Coc Bich Dong, a famous scenic spot in Ninh Binh with its poetic river and mountain scenery, is compared to the "Ha Long Bay on land", and is also very suitable for a combined visit. Visitors can experience sitting on a boat through natural cave systems, admiring the majestic beauty of nature. Furthermore, the Trang An scenic complex with its cave systems, ancient pagodas, and unique scenery is also an ideal stop for an exploration journey.
Tam Coc Bich Dong possesses a picturesque and charming beauty of rivers and mountains. (Source: Collected)
Combining a visit to Chua Dung Ninh Binh with nearby attractions makes the journey diverse, allowing you to experience the cultural, historical, and natural beauty of the Northern region. From tranquil spiritual spaces to magnificent natural landscapes, each destination leaves visitors with unforgettable impressions.
Chua Dung Ninh Binh is both a spiritual destination and a place that preserves the cultural and historical values of the nation. Plan your trip to feel the peace and discover fascinating ancient stories!
