GÒ KÉN PAGODA, TÂY NINH - A SPIRITUAL DESTINATION WORTH VISITING
I just returned from exploring Gò Kén Pagoda (officially named Thiền Lâm Ancient Temple) in Tây Ninh, and the feeling is truly peaceful and beautiful. This is an ancient pagoda over 100 years old, built in 1904, located in Long Thành Trung commune, Hòa Thành town.
Architecture and Landscape
This pagoda is beautifully different from ordinary pagodas. The architecture blends Buddhist style with East-West fusion elements, appearing very unique. The most striking feature is a statue of Avalokiteśvara Bodhisattva riding a dragon against the sky - I find this statue type very rare, as standing statues on lotus pedestals are more common. Additionally, there is a 9-story Relic Pagoda, a statue of Buddha Shakyamuni entering Nirvana, a set of Eighteen Arhats statues... all statues are large and beautifully detailed.
Space and Atmosphere
What I like most is that the space here is truly quiet and serene. The entrance to the pagoda has 2 rows of ancient, lush green trees standing perfectly straight and beautiful. The pagoda grounds are spacious with lots of greenery, and stepping in immediately feels light and relieved - very suitable for both visiting and spiritual contemplation. The main hall was built long ago but remains perfectly preserved.
Interesting Details
- Inside the pagoda are stone slabs engraved with sayings from Zen Master Thích Nhất Hạnh
- The pond inside the pagoda has many large fish and turtles
- The tower in the afternoon sun shines beautifully like in a movie
- The name "Gò Kén" comes from the pagoda being built on a high mound where many kén trees once grew
Important Notes
In the main hall where various Buddhas and Bodhisattvas are worshipped, photography and filming are NOT allowed. Outside the pagoda grounds, you can photograph freely.
Suggested Itinerary
Gò Kén Pagoda is truly a worthwhile destination if you visit Tây Ninh and want to combine tourism with spiritual pilgrimage. It is not the largest or most expansive pagoda by area, but its value lies in the harmonious blend of history, art, spirituality, natural scenery, and a sense of serenity.
This place is also quite close to the Tây Ninh Holy See and Bà Đen Mountain tourist area, so it is quite practical to experience both in one day!
On weekends or before Tet, many people come to light incense with deep beliefs. There are also many young people coming to take photos in traditional Vietnamese áo dài. I think this is a spiritual destination you should visit at least once in your life!
📍 Address: Gò Kén Pagoda (Thiền Lâm Tây Ninh Pagoda), Long Thành Trung, Hòa Thành, Tây Ninh, Vietnam
