Vietnam Pagodas

Thiên Vương Cổ Sát

Lâm Đồng

Thiên Vương Cổ Sát

Overview & history

Thiên Vương Cổ Sát (Chinese characters: 天王古剎), also known as Phật Trầm Pagoda or Tàu Pagoda, is a pagoda situated on Rồng Hill, at 385 Khe Sanh Street, Xuân Hương Ward – Đà Lạt, about 5 km northeast of Đà Lạt city centre.

History

The pagoda was built in 1958 by Venerable Thọ Dã of the Triều Châu Assembly Hall, consisting of three wooden halls roofed with corrugated iron. In 1989, Mr. Lê Văn Cảnh undertook its renovation and reconstruction. At this time, the central building was dismantled to create an open space for the two remaining halls. Thiên Vương Cổ Sát Pagoda belongs to the Hoa Nghiêm school (China).

Description

From the main gate, after climbing the rather high triple-tiered steps of the pagoda—almost impossible for vehicles to ascend—visitors walk up to the Tam Quan Gate (three-entrance gate). Entering the Tam Quan Gate leads to the Từ Bi Bảo Điện (Hall of Compassion), and right at the centre stands a 3-metre-tall statue of Maitreya Buddha, lacquered and gilded. On either side are four extremely large statues of the Four Heavenly Kings and the imposing statues of the Good and Evil Deities. To the left of the Từ Bi Bảo Điện is the miraculous spinning table, which attracts visitors from all directions due to its marvel.

Behind three cement incense burners is the Quang Minh Bảo Điện (Hall of Radiant Light), the main architectural structure of this pagoda. The Quang Minh Bảo Điện is quadrilateral in shape, with sides of 15 metres and a height of 12 metres. Inside are worshipped the Western Trinity (Tây Phương Tam Thánh) made of agarwood, including the central statue of Amitābha, Avalokiteśvara Bodhisattva on the left, and Mahāsthāmaprāpta Bodhisattva on the right. Each statue is 4 metres high, weighs 1,500 kg, and was brought from Hong Kong by Venerable Thọ Dã in 1958. Atop the roof are two dragons arranged in the 'returning dragon' posture. The ends of the eaves on both the upper and lower roofs are adorned with pairs of dragons extending their heads outward. In addition, the inner walls of the Quang Minh Bảo Điện feature paintings inspired by Buddhist stories. There are also two statues of Manjushri and Samantabhadra on either side of the hall walls.

Behind the pagoda, beyond the Quang Minh Bảo Điện—formerly the hermitage of the monk Thọ Giã—is a massive statue of Shakyamuni Buddha, over 10 metres tall, meditating on a lotus pedestal. The lower floor serves as a resting place for pilgrims visiting the pagoda. Currently, only Ms. Diệu Anh is in charge of flowers, lamps, and chanting at the pagoda.

Value

The pagoda strongly reflects the architectural values and style of Chinese pagodas and assembly halls. Currently, all monks, nuns, and Buddhist followers at the pagoda speak Cantonese. This is an extremely attractive tourist destination in Lâm Đồng and Đà Lạt city. The pagoda has a unique style, being located in a very spacious, airy area, on a high hill, separated from the bustling city of Đà Lạt.

Visiting

The pagoda is about a 30-minute bus ride from Đà Lạt city centre, passing through pine hills.

You can combine your visit with trips to Minh Tâm Flower Garden and Vạn Hạnh Zen Monastery (Thiền viện Vạn Hạnh).

Visits should be made before 5 p.m., as the pagoda closes after this time.

There is a horse-riding service up to the pagoda as an alternative to walking.

Photos

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Visiting tips

  • Dress modestly; remove hats and keep quiet inside the main hall.
  • Incense, flowers and offerings are usually sold right outside the gate; light an odd number of sticks (1 or 3).
  • Most pagodas open from early morning to evening and are free to enter (some major sites charge a small scenic fee).
  • Full-moon days, the 1st of the lunar month and Tet are very crowded; visit on weekday mornings for a quiet experience.
  • Ask permission before photographing inside shrines; do not touch statues or altar objects.

Read more & references

Useful links to learn more before your visit:

Location

Coordinates: 11.93071, 108.45953

🧭 Directions on Google Maps

References

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