Ho Chi Minh City, a bustling metropolis known for its dynamic blend of cultures, offers a surprising taste of Thailand right in its midst. Tucked away in District 9 is the serene Buu Long Pagoda, a hidden gem that beautifully reflects Thai architecture and spirituality.
Discover Thai Culture in the Heart of Ho Chi Minh City
A Glimpse of Thai Architecture
Buu Long Pagoda, often likened to Bangkok’s Wat Arun, showcases exquisite Thai architectural elements. The pagoda’s golden spire rises majestically against the sky, surrounded by lush greenery and tranquil lakes. The intricate carvings and detailed decorations transport visitors to the heart of Thailand, making it a perfect spot for those yearning to explore Thai culture without leaving Vietnam.
A Spiritual Haven
The pagoda is not just an architectural marvel but also a spiritual sanctuary. It offers a peaceful retreat for meditation and reflection, attracting both locals and tourists seeking solace. The serene atmosphere, combined with the gentle chimes of prayer bells, provides an immersive experience of Thai Buddhist practices.
Culinary Delights at Buu Long Pagoda
When visiting Buu Long Pagoda, indulging in the local vegetarian cuisine is a must. The tranquil environment of the pagoda makes it an ideal place to enjoy a variety of vegetarian dishes. Within the pagoda’s grounds, you can easily find food stalls offering dishes like vegetarian bún bò and vegetarian bún riêu. These dishes are known for their rich, savory flavors, with a hint of spiciness from the satay sauce and the freshness of aromatic herbs.
Tips for Visiting Buu Long Pagoda
Visiting Hours:
6 a.m. - 6 p.m., Monday to Sunday
Entrance Fee: Free
Highlight:
The main attraction is undoubtedly the grand stupa. In front of the stupa, there is a semicircular lake, clear as a mirror reflecting the surrounding scenery. In the middle of the lake, a beautiful fountain adds to the serene atmosphere.
Exploration Tips:
You can climb up to explore the stupa. Remember to leave your shoes outside; if you’re worried about losing them, you can carry them in a bag provided. Inside the stupa, there's a spacious hall for ceremonies. It's recommended to tour the stupa in a clockwise direction: enter from the left and exit from the right, ascend on the left side and descend on the right side.
Highly recommended for everyone to visit and meditate here. It is very peaceful!
Getting to Buu Long Pagoda
Location: 81 Nguyen Xien, Long Binh, Thu Duc, Ho Chi Minh City
Directions: Buu Long Pagoda is located about 20 kilometers from the city center.
To get there, you can take a car or motorbike. Head towards Thu Duc, and follow the signs to Long Binh. The pagoda is well-marked and easy to find with GPS or a map app.
What to Eat at Buu Long Pagoda?
Vegetarian bún riêu is a top choice for visitors at Buu Long Pagoda. Its unique taste and hearty ingredients make it a favorite among many.
For those looking to explore more vegetarian options, several excellent vegetarian restaurants are located near Buu Long Pagoda, such as:
Golden Lotus Restaurant: 8 Dinh Phong Phu, District 9, Ho Chi Minh City
An Lac Vegetarian Bún Riêu: 4 Kha Van Can, Thu Duc, Ho Chi Minh City
Vegetarian Bún Riêu: 63 To Ngoc Van, Thu Duc, Ho Chi Minh City
Other Nearby Attractions That You Should Visit
Besides the tranquil Buu Long Pagoda, visitors can explore several other famous attractions in Ho Chi Minh City:
Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon:
Located at 1 Công xã Paris, District 1, this iconic landmark showcases unique European architecture and is a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.
Ben Thanh Market:
Situated on Lê Lợi Street, District 1, this bustling market is a symbol of Saigon. It offers a variety of souvenirs and is a great place for vibrant photo opportunities.
Independence Palace:
Found at 135 Nam Kỳ, Bến Thành, District 1, this historical site is linked to the events of April 30th and symbolizes the peace and independence of Vietnam.
Why Visit Buu Long Pagoda?
- Authentic Thai Experience: Experience Thai culture and architecture without leaving Vietnam.
- Peaceful Retreat: Ideal for meditation and escaping the city’s hustle and bustle.
- Culinary Immersion: Enjoy delicious vegetarian dishes and explore nearby vegetarian restaurants.
- Scenic Beauty: Enjoy the picturesque landscape and serene environment.
Buu Long Pagoda is a testament to the cultural diversity and rich history embedded in Ho Chi Minh City. Whether you’re a local or a traveler, a visit to this pagoda offers a unique opportunity to explore the essence of Thai culture right in the heart of Vietnam. Don’t miss out on this captivating experience that blends spirituality, architecture, and tradition in one enchanting location.
Plan your visit to Buu Long Pagoda and immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty and cultural richness it has to offer.
Ho Chi Minh City is more than just a bustling metropolis. Its surroundings offer a diverse range of experiences, from historical tours to natural escapes. When deciding where to go from Ho Chi Minh City, plan your trips wisely and make the most of your visit to this dynamic region of Vietnam.
Plan Your Visit To Ho Chi Minh City Today!
See more:
Where To Go From Ho Chi Minh City: Top 10 Must-Visit Destinations
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