Da Nang, a beautiful coastal city, is not only famous for its long stretches of white sandy beaches and clear blue sea, but also a convergence of unique spiritual architectural works. Among them, Ba Na Pagoda in Da Nang, also known as Linh Ung Pagoda Ba Na, is a destination not to be missed. Perched on the majestic Chúa Mountain, at an altitude of over 1400m above sea level, this pagoda is not only a solemn religious architectural work but also a place for visitors to find peace in their souls, admire the vast natural beauty, and explore profound spiritual and cultural values. Let’s explore the special and attractive features of this unique pagoda, one of the three famous Linh Ung pagodas of Da Nang, with “Travel Around The World”.
Overview of Ba Na Pagoda in Da Nang
Da Nang is known for its unique “spiritual triangle”, including three Linh Ung pagodas located in three prime locations: Linh Ung Pagoda Ngu Hanh Son, Linh Ung Pagoda Bai But (Son Tra), and Ba Na Pagoda in Da Nang (Linh Ung Ba Na). Each pagoda has its own beauty, but they all share sacredness and are spiritual anchors for local people and visitors from all directions.
Ba Na Pagoda in Da Nang is located within the Sun World Ba Na Hills tourist area, in An Son village, Hoa Vang commune, Da Nang city. The pagoda is managed by the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha, with Venerable Thich Thien Nguyen as the abbot. With its special location on the top of Chúa Mountain, Ba Na Pagoda is not only an architectural work but also a part of the majestic natural harmony. Coming here, visitors will feel the intersection between natural beauty and the solemnity of a monastery, creating a unique and impressive “pagoda amidst a thousand clouds” scene. In particular, Ba Na Linh Ung Pagoda is also famous for having the largest Shakyamuni Buddha statue in Da Nang city, a majestic symbol between heaven and earth.
To reach Ba Na Pagoda, visitors will begin their journey from the foot of the mountain by a modern cable car system. The cable car route from Hoi An station to Marseille station is not only a means of transportation but also an interesting experience, as you can admire the panoramic view of Ba Na mountains and forests from above. This is also the longest single-wire cable car in the world, offering an impressive journey. After arriving at Marseille station, visitors can visit the famous Golden Bridge, the unique Debay Wine Cellar and other attractions in the mid-mountain area before walking about 5 minutes to reach the majestic Tam Quan gate of Ba Na Pagoda in Da Nang.
Panoramic view of Ba Na Pagoda in Da Nang, a prominent spiritual destination on Chúa Mountain
History of Ba Na Pagoda in Da Nang
The construction history of Ba Na Pagoda in Da Nang is associated with the development of the Ba Na Hills tourist area. On September 21, 1999 (ie August 12, Ky Mao year), Venerable Thich Thien Nguyen, abbot of Linh Ung Pagoda Ngu Hanh Son, presided over the groundbreaking ceremony for Ba Na Pagoda and Thich Ca Buddha Platform. This event marked an important turning point, transforming Ba Na from just a resort into a meaningful spiritual destination.
After nearly 5 years of construction with much dedication and effort, Ba Na Pagoda in Da Nang was officially inaugurated on March 6, 2004 (ie January 16, Giap Than year). The birth of Ba Na Pagoda marked the second “leg” in the system of three Linh Ung pagodas in Da Nang. Just a few months later, in July 2004, Linh Ung Pagoda Son Tra was also started, completing the solid “three-legged stand”, creating a sacred triangle, protecting the land and people of Da Nang. The formation of three Linh Ung pagodas in three strategic locations not only shows the development of Buddhism but also carries feng shui and spiritual significance, praying for peace and prosperity for the whole city.
Majestic Buddha statue at Ba Na Pagoda in Da Nang, a spiritual symbol atop Chúa Mountain
Cultural and Spiritual Values of Ba Na Pagoda in Da Nang
Ba Na Pagoda in Da Nang is a pagoda of the Northern Mahayana sect, one of the largest and most popular Buddhist sects in Vietnam. According to the Northern Mahayana tradition, the pagoda not only worships the Three Buddhas (Shakyamuni Buddha, Amitabha Buddha, Maitreya Buddha) but is also a place to worship Bodhisattvas, Arhats and Saints in folk beliefs. This shows the integration between Buddhism and indigenous culture, creating a rich and diverse spiritual space.
Entering the main hall of Ba Na Pagoda, visitors will see in the center the statue of Shakyamuni Buddha meditating under the Bodhi tree, a familiar and meaningful image in Buddhism. In front of the Shakyamuni Buddha statue is the statue of the newborn Buddha, in the posture of “one hand pointing to the sky, one hand pointing to the earth”, showing the great birth of the Buddha, bringing the light of enlightenment to the world. To the left of Shakyamuni Buddha is the statue of Bodhisattva Samantabhadra, symbolizing vows and reason, and to the right is the statue of Bodhisattva Manjushri, symbolizing wisdom and understanding. Both Bodhisattvas are excellent disciples of the Buddha, who accompanied and practiced with Him through many lifetimes.
Another special feature of Ba Na Pagoda is that to the left of the main hall is the Linh Chua Linh Tu Temple, which worships Lady Thuong Ngan. Lady Thuong Ngan is a deity in Vietnamese folk beliefs, considered the ruler of the mountains and forests and brings protection to people. The worship of Lady Thuong Ngan in the pagoda shows the intersection between Buddhist beliefs and indigenous beliefs, reflecting the rich spiritual life of Vietnamese people. Lady Thuong Ngan is also one of the three Holy Mothers, deities who specialize in governing different regions of the country. To the right of the main hall is the 27m high Shakyamuni Buddha statue, a prominent and recognizable symbol of Ba Na Pagoda in Da Nang.
In the minds of Da Nang people and visitors from all over, Ba Na Pagoda in Da Nang is rumored to be an extremely sacred place to pray for peace. Every year, millions of tourists and Buddhists visit, worship, and pray for a peaceful, happy life and all wishes to come true. Not only a tourist destination, Ba Na Pagoda is also an important spiritual and cultural center, contributing to preserving and promoting the good traditional values of the nation.
Highlights Attracting Visitors to Ba Na Pagoda in Da Nang
Ba Na Pagoda in Da Nang attracts visitors not only by its deep cultural and spiritual values but also by its unique ancient Vietnamese architecture, majestic natural scenery, and the largest Shakyamuni Buddha statue in Da Nang. These factors have created a special attraction, making Ba Na Pagoda a must-visit destination when coming to Da Nang.
Buddha Shakyamuni Statue
When setting foot in Ba Na Pagoda in Da Nang, most visitors cannot help but be amazed by the majestic and magnificent beauty of the Shakyamuni Buddha statue sitting on a lotus dais. The Buddha statue has an impressive height of up to 27m, a lotus dais diameter of 14m and is made entirely of pure white stone. The white stone material not only brings pure and elegant beauty but also shows the respect and sincerity of the creators towards the Buddha. Below the Buddha statue are 8 exquisite bas-reliefs, recreating 8 important stages in the life of the Buddha, from birth to nirvana. Each bas-relief is a story, a profound lesson about the Buddha’s life and teachings.
The image of the Buddha sitting in a lotus position, hands in meditation mudra, eyes slightly closed looking down at mankind, mouth gently smiling compassionately, harmonizing with the majestic mountain and forest landscape, creates a sacred, peaceful space between heaven and earth. The statue is not only a work of art but also a spiritual symbol, bringing visitors a feeling of peace, relaxation and inspiring good intentions.
The majestic Shakyamuni Buddha statue at Ba Na Pagoda, Da Nang, a masterpiece of white stone sculpture
Natural Scenery of Ba Na Pagoda in Da Nang
Standing on Ba Na Pagoda in Da Nang and looking into the distance, visitors will admire the panoramic view of Ba Na mountains and forests from above, a majestic and poetic natural picture. Rows of ancient oak and sandalwood trees hundreds of years old interspersed with fresh green foliage, creating a green, cool and fresh space. On beautiful days, visitors can see the entire city of Da Nang and the vast ocean in the distance.
The space in the pagoda is always peaceful and solemn, completely different from the noise and bustle of the city. Walking around the pagoda grounds, immersing yourself in the beautiful natural scenery is a great opportunity for visitors to find balance in their souls, contemplate body, mind, intellect and breathe in the fresh, dust-free air. This is also an opportunity to temporarily put aside the worries and troubles of everyday life, seeking peace and tranquility in the soul.
Visitors experiencing the serene spiritual atmosphere at Ba Na Pagoda in Da Nang
Each season of the year, the natural scenery around Ba Na Pagoda in Da Nang puts on a unique beauty:
- Spring: Ba Na Hills is brilliant with flowers blooming, the air is chilly and light spring rains, bringing a fresh, vibrant space.
- Summer: Ba Na mountains and forests are green, the sky is clear blue, the sun is light, the weather is harmonious and pleasant, ideal for sightseeing and landscape viewing activities.
- Autumn: Ba Na transforms into a romantic burnt orange color, trees begin to change leaves, morning fog covers, sunset comes earlier, creating a calm, poetic space.
- Winter: Ba Na is immersed in thick fog, the temperature drops to about 20 degrees Celsius, drizzling rains last for days, bringing a mysterious, quiet beauty.
Beautiful natural scenery inside Ba Na Pagoda in Da Nang during summer
Ancient Vietnamese Architecture
Ba Na Pagoda in Da Nang is built in the traditional Northern Mahayana Buddhist architectural style, including main areas such as the three-entrance gate, pagoda yard, main worship hall, main điện, corridors and back hall. Each area is meticulously designed, bearing the imprint of ancient Vietnamese architecture.
The three-entrance gate of Ba Na Pagoda is built of solid stone, with a large gate in the middle and two small gates on either side. There are turrets on all three gates, especially the main gate turret has statues of Kim Cang Dai Luc Si, a powerful Dharma protector deity, whose mission is to protect the pagoda and help people overcome temptations and delusions in their minds. The courtyard in front of the pagoda is paved with spacious, solemn white stone, planted with three-leaf pines, a rare plant recorded in the Vietnam Red Book, adding natural and peaceful beauty to the pagoda space.
The majestic Tam Quan gate at Ba Na Pagoda in Da Nang, a distinctive Buddhist architectural structure
Going deeper inside, visitors will admire the sophisticated ancient Vietnamese architecture of Ba Na Pagoda in Da Nang, especially the pagoda roof decorated with the image of “Two Dragons Adoring the Moon”, a familiar motif in Vietnamese communal house and pagoda architecture, symbolizing power and sacredness. In front of the pagoda door is carved the image of a three-leaf pine tree, a symbol of faith, luck, happiness and the fertility belief of local people. All architectural details in the pagoda are made by skilled and experienced artisans, showing sophistication and dedication in each line.
Intricate architectural details inside Ba Na Pagoda in Da Nang, showcasing the artistry of skilled craftsmen
Activities at Ba Na Pagoda
Coming to Ba Na Pagoda in Da Nang, visitors not only enjoy the pristine and romantic natural scenery but also have the opportunity to experience traditional Buddhist religious activities, especially during festivals and Tet holidays.
- Offering prayers for peace: It is said that Ba Na Pagoda in Da Nang is one of the most sacred places to pray for peace in the city. Therefore, every year, the pagoda welcomes many Buddhists and visitors to offer prayers for peace, wishing for a peaceful, lucky and happy life. According to folk beliefs, when entering the pagoda, visitors should enter from the right door and exit through the left door to show respect and solemnity.
- Listening to scriptures: Visiting the main hall of Ba Na Pagoda, visitors and Buddhists can listen to teachings about Buddhist doctrines through scriptures. The gentle, melodious sound of scriptures and chants will help the soul relax, find peace, and dispel the fatigue and worries of life.
Solemn shrine at Ba Na Pagoda in Da Nang, where visitors come to pray for peace and good fortune
Some Notes When Visiting Ba Na Pagoda in Da Nang
To make your pilgrimage to Ba Na Pagoda in Da Nang complete and meaningful, visitors need to keep in mind the following:
1- Getting to Ba Na Pagoda by Hoi An – Marseille cable car
To move quickly and conveniently to Ba Na Pagoda, visitors should choose the Hoi An – Marseille cable car line (cable car line 4). This is the shortest and fastest cable car line to get to the pagoda from the foot of the mountain. After getting off at Marseille station, visitors only need to walk a short distance to reach Ba Na Pagoda.
Cable car ticket prices:
| Ticket Type | Category | Adults (> 1.4m) | Children (1m – 1.4m) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entrance Ticket | Da Nang Guests | 600,000 VND | 500,000 VND |
| Out-of-province Guests | 900,000 VND | 750,000 VND | |
| 2-day Cable Car Ticket | Da Nang Guests, Out-of-province Guests | 1,200,000 VND | 900,000 VND |
Note: The operating hours of the cable car line are from 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM daily, and may change depending on the operating and maintenance schedule. Visitors should check the operating schedule before going.
Hoi An – Marseille cable car, a modern cable car system transporting visitors to Ba Na Pagoda in Da Nang
2- Notes for Buddhists when visiting Ba Na Pagoda in Da Nang
For Buddhists coming to Ba Na Pagoda to pray for peace, please note the following to ensure that going to the pagoda brings blessings and is in accordance with the Buddhist spirit:
- Do not scatter small change arbitrarily: The act of scattering small change everywhere in the pagoda, especially at altars, tree roots, wells or stuffing money into the hands of Buddha statues is not in accordance with Buddhist culture and teachings. Instead, you should put merit money into the donation box solemnly and sincerely.
- Solemn Buddhist worship rituals: The most important thing when going to a pagoda to worship Buddha is sincerity. Offerings to Buddha should be incense, flowers, lamps, tea, fruit, food (vegetarian offerings). You should offer pure, solemn offerings and comply with the pagoda’s regulations, not offering meat offerings in the pagoda.
Serene and solemn atmosphere at Ba Na Pagoda in Da Nang
3- Notes for tourists visiting Ba Na Pagoda in Da Nang
To maintain the solemnity and respect of the Buddhist sanctuary, tourists visiting Ba Na Pagoda in Da Nang need to pay attention to:
- Polite and discreet clothing: You should choose polite and discreet clothing when going to the pagoda, long pants, shirts with sleeves or skirts that are longer than the knee. Avoid wearing revealing or offensive clothing.
- Walk gently, keep quiet: When moving around the pagoda, you should walk gently, keep quiet, do not talk loudly, laugh noisily, avoid affecting the peaceful atmosphere of the monastery.
- Keep your mind pure and thoughts clear: Keep your mind pure and thoughts clear when coming to the pagoda, pray for good things for yourself, your family and everyone.
Locals and tourists sincerely praying at Ba Na Pagoda in Da Nang
Ba Na Pagoda in Da Nang is not only a famous spiritual destination but also a unique cultural, historical and architectural symbol of Da Nang. With great cultural and spiritual values and beautiful natural scenery, Ba Na Pagoda deserves to be a must-visit destination in your journey to explore Da Nang. Coming to Ba Na Pagoda, visitors not only find peace in their souls but also admire the majestic beauty of the mountains and forests, explore unique architecture and learn more about the deep spiritual and cultural values of the nation.