A pagoda in the clouds, a sunset for the soul

May 27, 2017 - 09:00

Located on top of Đại Bình Mountain, some 25km north of Bảo Lộc City in Lâm Đồng Province, Linh Quy Pháp Ấn Pagoda appears to be out of this world. At dawn, the pagoda emerges from a sea of clouds under the day’s first light. And, after a 1000-metre climb, the view from top of the mountain is nothing short of spectacular.

Into the mystic: The courtyard submerged in misty cloud early in the morning. — VNA/VNS Photos Nguyễn Dũng
Viet Nam News

Located on top of Đại Bình Mountain, some 25km north of Bảo Lộc City in Lâm Đồng Province, Linh Quy Pháp Ấn Pagoda appears to be out of this world. At dawn, the pagoda emerges from a sea of clouds under the day’s first light. And, after a 1000-metre climb, the view from top of the mountain is nothing short of spectacular.

The pagoda’s architectural style is a mix of old Vietnamese and Japanese, with Japanese-style wooden gates erected to guard the holy site. It also features a Japanese-style rock garden where monks gather at various times during the day to contemplate and discuss the teaching of Buddha.

Linh Quy Pháp Ấn Pagoda consists of three major structures: a contemplation hall, a library and a sanctuary. Visitors to the temple are welcomed to join the monks in their contemplation sessions and even to a meal. It is advisable to clean up after yourself and respect the monks’ privacy.

The pagoda became a popular destination among youngsters after a Vietnamese pop music video was shot here last year, featuring breathtaking views from the mountaintop and a Shangri-La-like atmosphere. — VNS

Sacred ritual: Visitors join the monks to chant the teaching of Buddha. VNA/VNS Photos Nguyễn Dũng
Quiet brilliance: Everyone is welcome to sit down and join the monks in their contemplation sessions. VNA/VNS Photos Nguyễn Dũng
Hall of thought: A view below from the steps of the contemplation hall. — VNA/VNS Photos Nguyễn Dũng
Peace and love: A couple take pre-wedding pictures in the courtyard. While it’s not forbidden, visitors must do their best to not disturb the monks and clean up after themselves. VNA/VNS Photos Nguyễn Dũng
Gorgeous glow: Sunset view from inside contemplation hall. VNA/VNS Photos Nguyễn Dũng

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