1. Introduction to Ninh Tao Pagoda
When mentioning the serene pagodas of the North, Ninh Tao Pagoda cannot be overlooked, a destination sought by many Buddhists and visitors from all directions to find a moment of peace amidst a busy life. The pagoda lies quietly amidst vast rice fields, where the ringing of the bell harmonizes with the sound of the field wind, creating a remarkably serene and peaceful atmosphere.
1.1. Where is Ninh Tao Pagoda?
Ninh Tao Pagoda is located in Tan Thanh commune, Ninh Binh province, a land deeply imbued with the long-standing cultural traditions of the North. From the center of Hanoi, visitors only need about two hours to travel by bus or personal vehicle, to reach this serene Buddhist sanctuary, very convenient for day trips or pilgrimages.
Nestled amidst lush green plains, Ninh Tao Pagoda appears peacefully beside fragrant rice fields and shady trees. This special location not only enhances the harmony between nature and ancient architecture, but also makes this place an important cultural and spiritual highlight of the region. In the fresh air, with a faint scent of incense, the echoing temple bells make one's heart calm down, clearly feeling the purity and peace that the pagoda brings.
A peaceful, serene space at Ninh Tao Pagoda. (Source: Vietnam Airlines)
1.2. History of the formation and development of Ninh Tao Pagoda
Ninh Tao Pagoda has a long history, closely associated with the spiritual cultural life of the local people. Previously, the pagoda was just a simple small hermitage located in the middle of a field, serving as a place for people in the surrounding area to worship Buddha and pray for peace. However, over time and due to the devastation of war, the pagoda gradually deteriorated, with many sections severely damaged, no longer retaining its original state.
In 2009, a major turning point occurred when Ninh Tao Pagoda was restored thanks to the contribution of the local government and the joint effort of Buddhists from near and far. The reconstruction of the pagoda was carried out with a spirit of returning to tradition and the determination to recreate the ancient Buddhist characteristics.
By 2011, under the auspices of Venerable Thich Dao Duyet, Ninh Tao Pagoda had completed a spacious and magnificent pagoda complex. This place inherits the sacred values of the old pagoda while also being supplemented with many modern structures such as a large main hall, bell tower, drum tower, and Quan Am lake, creating a majestic architectural ensemble that remains close and harmonious with the surrounding landscape.
2. Directions to Ninh Tao Pagoda
Arranging a trip to Ninh Tao Pagoda is quite easy and convenient thanks to the smooth and convenient transportation network. Visitors can easily choose a mode of transport suitable for their personal needs without encountering any difficulties.
2.1. How to get from Hanoi to Ninh Tao Pagoda
If traveling from Hanoi, tourists can take a bus at major stations like Giap Bat or My Dinh, with the stop being Phu Ly. The travel time for this route is about 1 hour 30 minutes, with ticket prices ranging from 100,000 to 360,000 VND. From Phu Ly, travelers can continue by inter-provincial bus or easily take a taxi to reach Ninh Tao Pagoda.
Traveling to Ninh Tao Pagoda by bus is a popular option. (Source: Collected)
Those who prefer to be independent can choose personal vehicles. The route mainly follows National Highway 1A southwards. Upon reaching Phu Ly, turn onto Provincial Road 494, and continue along tree-lined village roads. The journey takes about 2 hours, with fuel costs ranging from 150,000 to 200,000 VND for motorbikes and 300,000 to 400,000 VND for cars.
Additionally, some travel companies offer pilgrimage tours combined with various spiritual sites in the region, especially during major festivals. The cost for group tours is approximately 150,000 to 400,000 VND per person, including transportation and a tour guide.
2.2. Traveling within the old Ha Nam province to the pagoda
Once you reach the center of Phu Ly, the journey to Ninh Tao Pagoda continues along National Highway 1A, then turns onto Provincial Road 494 for about 8 km. The road has been widened and paved smoothly, ensuring safe travel for both large groups and individual visitors.
Along the road leading to Ninh Tao Pagoda, visitors will easily find clear signposts, making navigation convenient. From a distance, the majestic and imposing Tam Quan gate appears amidst the peaceful countryside, like a welcome sign for all pilgrims.
The village roads around the pagoda have been widened and paved smoothly, suitable for various vehicles including cars, motorbikes, and electric carts. Especially during crowded festivals, choosing local taxis or service cars will help visitors travel safely, arrive at the pagoda on time, and avoid worrying about parking or navigating through the bustling crowds.
3. Outstanding Architecture of Ninh Tao Pagoda
As soon as you step into the grounds of Ninh Tao Pagoda, visitors can easily feel the exquisite harmony between tradition and modernity in every architectural detail. Each curved roof, each frame, or each statue embodies the essence of traditional art, yet possesses a graceful form that harmonizes with the new era. This is the result of the creativity and dedication of artisans and designers, crystallizing traditional cultural values with contemporary relevance.
3.1. Overall Architecture: Combining Modernity and Tradition
Ninh Tao Pagoda is built on an area of approximately 10,000 m², with a balanced layout of architectural structures and natural greenery, offering a spacious and harmonious environment for pilgrims. The overall architecture is a sophisticated blend of traditional Northern Vietnamese style and modern elements, creating a beauty that is both ancient and new.
The graceful curved roofs and meticulously carved dragon and phoenix patterns clearly reflect the Buddhist artistic spirit of Northern Vietnam. Notably, the exquisite stone carvings, sturdy large wooden columns, and the spacious courtyard connecting the buildings create a harmonious and welcoming overall structure. All these elements contribute to making Ninh Tao Pagoda a space that is both solemn and intimate, where every visitor can find peace and tranquility in their soul.
3.2. Special Structures within the Pagoda Grounds
The Tam Bao area is the most sacred center of Ninh Tao Pagoda, housing three large Buddha statues: Amitabha, Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva, and Mahasthamaprapta Bodhisattva. The space here is arranged harmoniously with soft curved tiled roofs, intricately carved wooden interiors, and gentle natural light filtering through the windows, creating a pure and serene atmosphere.
Behind it are the Patriarch's Hall and the lecture hall, two important structures in the pagoda's Buddhist affairs. This is where activities such as chanting, dharma talks, meditation retreats, and major festivals take place throughout the year. The architecture of these two areas is designed to be simple yet solemn, ensuring functionality while harmonizing with the pagoda's ancient overall structure.
On either side of the Tam Bao are the bell tower and drum tower, arranged symmetrically, contributing to a harmonious feng shui. The Great Bell, made of solid bronze and inscribed with ancient Chinese characters, is used during ceremonies to resonate a sacred sound, reminding people of Buddhist truths. Opposite is the drum tower, housing a large drum made of precious wood and buffalo hide, which emits a majestic sound during major ceremonies.
The Drum Tower houses a drum made from precious wood and buffalo hide. (Source: Collected)
A special highlight is Quan Am Lake, located in the center of the premises, where a majestic statue of Quan The Am Bodhisattva stands, holding a pure vase, with eyes looking down at sentient beings, symbolizing compassion to save suffering and rescue from hardship. The tranquil, poetic scenery creates a Zen painting full of poetry, making it an ideal place for visitors to capture memories and fully experience the pure beauty of Ninh Tao Pagoda in 2025.
4. Festival Activities and Buddhist Life at Ninh Tao Pagoda
Not only a sacred place of worship, Ninh Tao Pagoda is also a vibrant center of Buddhist activities in the region, where many meaningful activities take place. Festivals, meditation retreats, dharma talks, and volunteer programs here not only meet religious needs but also become opportunities for Buddhists and locals to meet, share, and spread beautiful humanistic values.
4.1. Major Festivals: Buddhist Festival Day 2025
Major Buddhist festival occasions at Ninh Tao Pagoda are always organized on a large and solemn scale. Notable events include Vesak (Buddha's Birthday), Vu Lan (Parents' Day), prayer for peace ceremonies, as well as the ceremony of taking refuge in the Three Jewels, all of which attract many Buddhists and pilgrims from all over.
Grand Vu Lan filial piety ceremony at Ninh Tao Pagoda. (Source: Dan Tri Newspaper)
The ceremony at Ninh Tao Pagoda was carefully prepared with the participation of many monks, nuns, and Buddhists. The sound of bells and drums mixed with chanting created a solemn and moving atmosphere for everyone.
Additionally, the pagoda is a gathering place for many young people, students, and pupils from various places to engage in Buddhist activities and participate in courses on Buddhist ethics and lifestyle. These activities not only hold spiritual significance but also contribute to spreading good values in life, helping participants find peace and purity in their souls.
4.2. Community activities, events for visitors
Ninh Tao Pagoda is not only a solemn spiritual site but also a spiritual refuge for local people, a place to sow seeds of compassion and spread good values in life. Over the years, the pagoda has maintained many meaningful charitable activities, contributing to community bonding and helping those facing difficulties.
Charity gift-giving programs, provision of essential goods, and healthcare for the poor and children in remote areas are regularly organized, bringing joy and warmth to many families. From the compassionate hearts of monks, nuns, and Buddhists, the spirit of "good leaves cover torn leaves" is strongly spread, becoming a distinctive beauty of this pagoda.
Alongside charitable work, Ninh Tao Pagoda is also a place for Buddhist practice and learning for all ages. Regular meditation retreats are organized, providing opportunities for Buddhists and those who love Buddhism to practice meditation, listen to dharma talks, share spiritual experiences, and delve deeper into the philosophy of peaceful living. In the serene atmosphere, participants learn to return to themselves, slow down, feel compassion, and find tranquility amidst a busy life.
Besides, community activities at the pagoda are also rich and engaging, from ceremonies praying for family peace, for couples to find love, to blessings for businesses or prayers for national peace and prosperity. Each ritual is performed in a solemn atmosphere, under the dedicated guidance of the monks and nuns.
With its persistent contributions to spiritual and social life, Ninh Tao Pagoda is not just an ancient pagoda in a peaceful countryside, but also a place that nurtures kindness, builds faith, and inspires virtuous living for countless generations. This is truly a sacred destination, where everyone can pause to listen to their inner voice and find deep peace within their souls.
5. Experience and notes when visiting and traveling to Ninh Tao Pagoda
When visiting Ninh Tao Pagoda, choosing appropriate attire is a way to show respect for the sacred place. Visitors should prioritize wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, or modest clothing, avoiding short outfits, sleeveless tops, or overly bright colors. Gentle, simple colors will help the overall appearance be harmonious and suitable for the solemn space of the pagoda.
Dress modestly and politely when visiting Ninh Tảo Pagoda. (Source: Bach Lien)
Throughout the visit and worship, guests should maintain a moderate attitude, speak softly, and avoid playing within the premises. When offering incense and worshipping Buddha, it should be done with sincerity and gentleness. Do not place offerings on the altar without permission; instead, consult the monks or the person in charge of the pagoda.
Some points to note are not to climb on Buddha statues, not to touch sacred objects, and not to take photos in the area of the great bell or during chanting. If you wish to capture memories, visitors can take photos in the courtyard in front of the main hall, Quan Am Lake, the Bodhisattva's reincarnation garden, or the Tam Quan gate, places where it is permitted and which offer many elegant and poetic scenic spots.
To make your visit to Ninh Tảo Pagoda complete, you should prepare a pair of soft-soled shoes, a small umbrella, and a personal water bottle for convenient movement within the spacious grounds. If you intend to participate in rituals, bring a small prayer book and some small change for offerings.
Spring is the most ideal time to visit the pagoda, especially during the New Year festival or the great ceremonies of Buddha's Birthday and Vu Lan in the 4th and 7th lunar months. Visiting in the early morning or late afternoon allows visitors to fully experience the cool and pleasant atmosphere of the pagoda.
Additionally, when visiting during crowded festival seasons, you should wear a personal mask and prepare a small trash bag to help maintain the cleanliness of the surroundings. If you inquire about the pagoda's schedule in advance, visitors can have the opportunity to participate in morning meditation sessions or listen to dharma talks in the afternoon, making the trip not just a sightseeing journey but also an experience of nurturing the soul and inner peace.
Ninh Tảo Pagoda is not only a serene spiritual destination but also a place that preserves the unique cultural and artistic values of the Northern region. Amidst the spacious surroundings, the resonant temple bells bring people back to peace and tranquility. After paying respects, visitors can combine their trip with a visit to Sun World Ha Nam or nearby attractions to continue exploring this land that is both ancient and modern. Whether coming for pilgrimage, seeking peace, or simply relaxing amidst nature, Ninh Tảo Pagoda always remains a destination that offers a warm feeling and an unforgettable resonance.
