Tucked away in the lush landscapes of Vinh Long, Phu Ly Pagoda isn't just another temple—it's a journey through time and culture. Imagine stepping into a realm where vibrant Khmer traditions meld seamlessly with the tranquility of ancient trees and serene ponds. This hidden gem, often overshadowed by more well-known destinations, invites you to discover its unique blend of history, art, and spirituality. Ready to uncover the secrets of Phu Ly Pagoda?
Join us on an exploration of this enchanting sanctuary that promises a profound and unforgettable experience.
Phu Ly Pagoda - A Stunning Khmer Temple in Vinh Long
Surrounded by ancient sao trees and lush toddy palms, Phu Ly Pagoda 1 offers a serene landscape, making it a remarkable tourist destination in Vinh Long that visitors should not miss.
Location of Phu Ly Pagoda
Phu Ly Pagoda 1 is situated in Dong Thanh commune, Binh Minh town, Vinh Long province. Starting from the center of Binh Minh town, visitors can follow National Highway 54 towards Tra On district for about 10 minutes to reach the Phu Ly hamlet's welcome gate. From the gate, travel another 2 km to find Phu Ly Pagoda 1 on the left. Although located deep within Phu Ly hamlet, Phu Ly Pagoda 1 is a spiritual site that attracts many Buddhists and tourists from the Mekong Delta region.
History of Phu Ly Pagoda
In 1653, Khmer people settled in Phu Ly hamlet, and in 1672, Phu Ly Pagoda was built on an area of over 2 hectares. According to Venerable Son Thang, the deputy abbot of the pagoda, this area used to be very wild, inhabited by tigers, snakes, and other dangerous animals. People going to the pagoda had to travel in large groups and carry weapons for protection. The monks then performed a three-day ritual to drive away the wild animals. Over time, the pagoda has been reconstructed and expanded to its current grand and majestic form.
Architecture of Phu Ly Pagoda
Phu Ly Pagoda 1 is one of the temples built in a refined and meticulous architectural style that reflects the cultures of India, Thailand, and Cambodia, deeply connected to the Khmer culture of Southern Vietnam.
Pagoda Gate
The pagoda consists of various structures: the main gate, main hall, sala, monks' quarters, stupa, flagpole ensemble, reclining Buddha statue, Buddhist scenes, crematorium, and more. Surrounding the pagoda are century-old sao, oil, and toddy palm trees that provide shade year-round and create a solemn, ancient atmosphere.
The most prominent and important part of Phu Ly Pagoda 1 is the main hall. The main hall symbolizes Mount Meru, a sacred mountain and the residence of Brahman gods. Surrounding the main hall are lower stupas, representing smaller mountains encircling the sacred Mount Meru.
Main Hall
The main hall of Phu Ly Pagoda 1 is built on an elevated platform, covered in bright yellow, shining in the morning sunlight. The roof features a central tower, adorned with numerous dragon sculptures with heads raised towards both sides. The dragon bodies are decorated like racing boats amidst the vast water, with tails curling skyward. Below the roof, many statues of the goddess Kâynâr are depicted with gentle, kind faces, wings spread wide, standing upright with chests thrust forward, and arms raised to support the eaves, connecting the columns to the roof gracefully, showcasing the Khmer architectural art.
Covered in Bright Yellow
When visiting Phu Ly Pagoda 1, Buddhists and tourists will also notice the depiction of the Garuda (Krut) bird god, crafted similarly to the goddess Kâynâr. However, the Garuda is represented with a human body and a bird's head, prominently decorating the top of the four corner columns of the main hall, supporting the roof. Additionally, hundreds of bas-relief Garuda figures adorn the walls along the base of the main hall. Surrounding the main hall is a row of columns featuring bas-reliefs of the Four-Faced God (Kabil Maha Brum), gilded in gold. Each face of the god faces one of the four cardinal directions—East, West, South, and North—symbolizing the Buddhist virtues of loving-kindness, compassion, empathetic joy, and equanimity.
Exquisite Architecture
Inside the main hall, visitors will find a large statue of Buddha Shakyamuni seated on a lotus throne in the teaching posture, enshrined at the center. The murals decorating the ceiling, doors, columns, and verandas feature intricate motifs of dragons, serpents, flowers, leaves, and birds, narrating the stories of Buddha Shakyamuni from his birth, enlightenment, to his entry into Nirvana.
Inside the Main Hall
A highlight of Phu Ly Pagoda 1's architectural art is the flagpole ensemble. This ensemble is located in the center of the pagoda's courtyard on a spacious area, surrounded by numerous statues of lions, goddesses, dragons, and Naga serpents, primarily in yellow. The architectural ensemble is constructed on three levels of steps. The lowest level has the largest area, featuring eight lion statues positioned in four directions.
Flagpole Ensemble
Beyond the main hall, there are five buildings within the overall structure of the pagoda. These buildings serve as living quarters, rest areas, and workspaces for the monks and the head monk.
Other Structures Reflecting Khmer Culture
The additional structures in the pagoda complex are also built with a strong emphasis on Khmer culture.
Daily classes are held in the pagoda for young monks to learn Khmer and Vietnamese languages, as well as social sciences, natural sciences, and Buddhist teachings. There are also rooms for children to come and study.
Annually, Phu Ly Pagoda 1 hosts many traditional cultural festivals of the Khmer community, such as Chol Chnam Thmay (New Year Festival), Sel Dolta (Ancestor Worship), Ok Om Bok (Moon Worship), and Katina (Robe Offering Ceremony).
As your journey through Ho Chi Minh City comes to an end, why not extend your adventure with a two-day tour to the Mekong Delta in Vinh Long? Phu Ly Pagoda, with its rich history and stunning Khmer architecture, awaits your discovery. Immerse yourself in the serenity and cultural beauty of this hidden gem. Don't miss the chance to experience the tranquil charm of Phu Ly Pagoda—book your tour to the Mekong Delta today and create memories that will last a lifetime.
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