Among the many famous destinations in Da Nang, Linh Ung Pagoda is a familiar name to tourists. Among the three pagodas with the same name, Linh Ung Bai But Pagoda, located on the summit of Son Tra, is the most attractive. So what makes this pagoda special? Let's explore!
Linh Ung Bai But Pagoda is located on a 20-hectare land on Son Tra Mountain, at an altitude of 693 meters above sea level, in Son Tra District, Da Nang. It is 10 km northeast of Da Nang city, facing the East Sea, with its back leaning against the mountain. In the distance, you can see Hai Van Pass on the left and Cu Lao Cham on the right. This pagoda is not only a masterpiece of architecture but also a place where the spiritual energy of heaven and earth converges.
The construction of Linh Ung Bai But Pagoda began on June 19, 2004, according to the lunar calendar. After 6 years of construction, the pagoda was officially inaugurated on July 30, 2010.
According to local residents, during the reign of King Minh Mang (late 19th century), a Buddha statue appeared mysteriously on a sandy beach. The locals considered it an auspicious sign and built a temple. Since then, the sea has been calm, and people have prospered in their livelihoods. This sandy beach was named Bai But, meaning the realm of Buddha in the human world. This is the place where Linh Ung Son Tra Pagoda stands today.
According to the experience of visiting Da Nang, it is advisable to visit Linh Ung Bai But Pagoda from March to September. During this time, the weather is dry, not rainy, with clear skies, providing favorable conditions for travel and exploration. If you visit from September to December, you may encounter some difficulties due to the often heavy rain and storms, making the roads slippery and the scenery gloomy.
To reach Linh Ung Bai But Pagoda, you can choose various means of transportation such as cars or motorcycles. Here are two suggested routes:
Route 1: Start from the central bus station, turn left onto National Highway 1A, go straight to To Hieu Street, then turn left. Continue along Phuc Hung Street, turn left, and enter Nguyen Tat Thanh Street. From this point, move towards Thuan Phuoc Bridge, cross the bridge, go straight on Le Duc Tho Street, and when you reach the intersection with Hoang Sa Street, turn left. After a short distance, you will arrive at the pagoda.
Route 2: Start from Dragon Bridge, go straight towards the head of the bridge, then turn into Vo Van Kiet Street. After a while, when you see Vo Nguyen Giap Street, turn left, continue straight on Hoang Sa Street, and you will reach Linh Ung Son Tra Pagoda.
Linh Ung Bai But Pagoda is built in a combination of traditional Vietnamese Buddhist architecture and modern style. The pagoda consists of various structures, including the Ancestral House, Main Hall, garden of statues of Arhats, library, dining hall, etc. The Main Hall has a curved dragon-shaped roof, and the columns also feature winding dragon carvings. The hall is spacious and can accommodate a large number of people. This is the most solemn and serene place in the pagoda.
In the center of the pagoda is a statue of Shakyamuni Buddha, with Quan The Am Bodhisattva on the right and Di Lac Bodhisattva on the left. All sculptures are meticulously crafted from bronze. The most impressive highlight of Linh Ung Bai But Pagoda is the statue of Goddess of Mercy (Quan Am) situated on a 100-meter-high hill, facing directly towards Marble Mountains. The statue is 67 meters tall, with a lotus tower diameter of 35 meters and an inner diameter of 17 meters. The statue gazes out to the sea, one hand holding a jade jar pouring blessings down to the mortal world. The combination of the serene Main Hall and the majestic statue creates a tranquil and spiritual atmosphere.
Linh Ung Bai But Pagoda boasts majestic and unique architecture, surrounded by a lush, green environment and fresh air. The moment you step through the pagoda gate, you will feel the refreshing atmosphere with abundant greenery. It seems that every corner of the pagoda grounds is shaded by trees, providing a perfect place to relax and enjoy the surroundings.
Linh Ung Bai But Pagoda is not only a place for sightseeing but also a highly appealing spiritual tourism destination in Da Nang. It serves as a place for activities, learning, and worship for many monks and Buddhists. According to local beliefs, if you seek career success and prosperity, you should visit Linh Ung Son Tra Pagoda. With its affirmed sanctity over the past decade, the pagoda has attracted millions of pilgrims and prayer visitors.
Dress modestly: Linh Ung Bai But Pagoda is a solemn place, so choose appropriate attire. Avoid wearing revealing clothes, short skirts, shorts, sleeveless tops, or tight-fitting clothes.
Offering preparation: When visiting the pagoda, you can prepare fruits or pastries for offering. However, remember not to bring gold or valuables.
Footwear choice: Avoid wearing high heels as they may cause discomfort when climbing stairs and walking. It's best to choose sneakers or flat shoes.
Sun protection: Bring a wide-brimmed hat, a sunshade, and a jacket if visiting during the summer.
After many years, Linh Ung Bai But Pagoda remains a captivating tourist destination, offering a sense of tranquility and peace to all who visit. Come and experience the serenity in your soul and admire the majestic natural scenery that is unparalleled anywhere else.
