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The country is renowned for its cultural, spiritual and religious significance and the temples in Hanoi Vietnam depict that quite well. Not just the historical spots, the capital city is also filled with a plethora of amazing temples, each offering a glimpse into the bygone eras. Dedicated to Buddhist and Hindu deities, each temple across Hanoi tells a story of its own. You can immerse yourself in the calmness and serenity of each of these temples and pray for happiness and prosperity in your life, or explore the unique architecture of these temples.
Top 9 Temples In Hanoi Vietnam
The temples in Hanoi, Vietnam not only offer a glimpse into the country’s cultural heritage but also offer a serene escape from the city life.
1. Temple Of Literature
The Temple of Literature, locally known as Văn Miếu is one of the most stunning yet unique temples to visit and explore in Hanoi. It served as the first national university in Vietnam that housed the education of thousands of scholars. It was founded in 1070 during the reign of Emperor Lý Thánh Tông and is thus named the oldest temple in Hanoi Vietnam. It was initially constructed to honour Confucius and later became Vietnam’s first national university. The astounding architecture of this temple features five courtyards with beautiful pavilions, serene ponds, and ancient stone steles.
Location: 58 P. Quốc Tử Giám, Văn Miếu, Đống Đa, Hà Nội, Vietnam
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fees: 70,000 VND / ₹236
2. Ngọc Sơn Temple
Photo: Alex 69200 vx / Wikimedia Commons
Located on the small island of Hoan Kiem Lake, Ngọc Sơn Temple or the Jade Mountain Temple is another one of the must-visit spots. It is more specifically located in the middle of the Hanoi Old Quarter, so you can visit it while exploring the area. The temple is dedicated to folk hero Tran Hung Dao, who is renowned for his bravery against the Mongols. It was his sacrifices that not only prevented the suppression of Vietnam but also saved the lives of many.
Location: 2VJ2+7XC, P. Đinh Tiên Hoàng, Hàng Trống, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội 100000, Vietnam
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fees: VND 30,000 / ₹101 for adults and 15,000 VND / ₹51 for students
3. One Pillar Pagoda
Among the famous temples in Hanoi Vietnam, One Pillar Pagoda locally called “Chùa Một Cột” is a must-visit spot. During the French colonial war, the majority of the temple was vandalised and destroyed. However, post-independence, the Vietnamese government restored the temple and it now stands as one of the most popular temples in the capital city. Initially, the temple was constructed under the reign of Ly Thai Tong, who was awaiting the arrival of his rightful heir. After seeing it in his dream and following the prophecy, he commissioned the construction of the original temple during that period.
Location: 2RPM+8CX, P. Chùa Một Cột, Đội Cấn, Ba Đình, Hà Nội 100000, Vietnam
Timings: 7 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fees: 25,000 VND / ₹84
4. Tran Quoc Pagoda
Photo: Hội Nguyễn / Wikimedia Commons
Another one of the must-visit pagodas in Hanoi is Tran Quoc Pagoda. It is a popular temple in Hanoi Vietnam and happens to be one of the oldest as well. Initially, the pagoda was built right beside the Red River. However, due to erosion and the ground being too weak, the pagoda had to be shifted to a much safer spot. At present, the pagoda is stationed on an island located in West Lake. Beyond that,
there is a small museum beside the pagoda where you can learn the history of the temple.
Location: 46 Đ. Thanh Niên, Yên Phụ, Tây Hồ, Hà Nội, Vietnam
Timings: 07:30 AM – 11:15 AM; 01:30 PM – 05:00 PM
Entry Fees: 5050 VND / ₹17 onwards
5. Perfume Pagoda
Photo: Jack French / Wikimedia Commons
More commonly known as Huong Pagoda, Perfume Pagoda is another one of the must-visit temples when you are visiting Hanoi. Also, the shrines are built into the limestone Hương Tích mountains, which add to the architectural significance of the place. During Vietnamese New Year, thousands of pilgrims from across the country and the world visit to offer their prayers at the temple. Since the temples are located in the Hương Tích, which is renowned for its sweet fragrance, the Pagoda is named Perfume Pagoda. While there, ensure to explore Thien Tru, Giai Oan Chu and Huong Tich Chu without fail.
Location: Hương Sơn, Mỹ Đức, Ha Noi 100000, Vietnam
Timings: 24*7
Entry Fees: 80,000 VND / ₹267
6. Bach Ma Temple
Photo: Greg Willis / Wikipedia
Dating back to 1010, Bach Ma temple is one of the most renowned Hanoi temples to visit and explore. Located in Hanoi Old Quarter, the temple dates back to the period of the Ly dynasty. Reconstructed in the 18th or 19th century. The temple was built as part of the Thang Long Citadel under King Ly Thai. He built the temple to honour the white horse that brought him to the country. As you step inside the temple now, there is a massive statue of the white horse right as you enter through the massive wooden doors of the temple.
Location: 76 P. Hàng Buồm, Hàng Buồm, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam
Timings: 9 AM – 05:30 PM
Entry Fees: N/A
7. Voi Phuc Temple
Photo: Phan Minh Tuấn / Wikimedia Commons
A popular shrine in Hanoi, Voi Phuc Temple is one of the best temples in Hanoi Vietnam. The temple is located in the southwest part of the Ancient Citadel in Thang Long and honours God Linh Lang in the form of a presiding deity. The reason why it is also known as the Temple of Elephants is because of the massive two bronze statues stationed right by the entrance. Legends depict that the stone is a sacred relic that the locals worship.
Location: 306B Kim Ma Street, Ngoc Khanh Ward, Ba Ba Dinh District, Ha Noi
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fees: N/A
8. Kim Lien Temple
Photo: Viethavvh / Wikimedia Commons
Another big temple in Hanoi, Vietnam that’s worth visiting on your next visit is the Kim Lien Temple. The temple is dedicated to Cao Son Dai Vuong and features the staple and traditional Vietnamese architecture. Beyond that, the temple itself has three main sections – Nghi Mon, Cung Cam, and Dai Bai. While the individual temples should be the first ones you explore, ensure that you also witness the 39 ancient imperial commands of the Dynasties in Vietnam to get a better look into the rich history of Vietnam’s culture and heritage.
Location: No. 33, Alley 294/2 Kim Ma Street, Ba Dinh District, Ha Noi
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fees: N/A
9. Ha Pagoda
Photo: Loifotos / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Ha Pagoda is one of the less explored temples in Hanoi. It’s one of those places that not many tourists even know of. However, while the tourists aren’t aware, it is a local favourite spot where most people gather to seek blessings for a successful love life. The combination of traditional and modern Vietnamese architecture adds to the charm of this temple. You can explore the surrounding areas, unwind in the natural beauty of the temple and even explore the different sections of the temple including the Tam Bao Palace, Mother Goddess, and the Deity of Ha Pagoda.
Location: Cau Giay, Ha Noi
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
The temples in Hanoi Vietnam offer a fascinating glimpse into Vietnam’s spiritual and cultural heritage along with the influence of other countries. Each temple, from the ancient One Pillar Pagoda to the serene Trấn Quốc Pagoda, provides a unique experience that reflects the city’s rich history and diverse religious practices. Plan a trip with TripXL and explore the essential stops on your cultural tour of Hanoi.
Cover Photo: frank mckenna / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
