Attractive scenic complex of Tien Pagoda - Dam Da

Located at the foot of Tung Xe Mountain, Tien Pagoda - Dam Da Tourist Area in Lac Thuy Commune is a famous complex of pagodas and caves. Thanks to the beauty of the mysterious spiritual space and the convergence of long-standing cultural and historical values, this destination attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors and worshippers every year.

Tien Pagoda tourist destination has impressive architecture and profound spiritual elements.

The people in the commune are always proud of the history of the pagoda dating back hundreds of years. In 2007, Tien Pagoda was rebuilt with impressive architecture, combining ancient and modern features with curved red tile roofs, creating a solemn and sacred space. In 1989, Tien Pagoda was recognized as a historical and cultural relic as a milestone affirming the cultural and spiritual values ​​of the destination.

With the pilgrims visiting the scenic spot of Tien Pagoda and the spiritual tourism complex of Tien Pagoda - Dam Da, we felt the solemnity, spaciousness, sophistication, and bold style of the pagoda. Mr. Do Danh Ngoc - representative of the Management Board of Lac Thuy relic sites introduced: Each construction in the pagoda has its own characteristics, a perfect combination of traditional architectural art and spiritual elements.

The main hall of the pagoda is where Mother Au Co is worshiped, one of the important deities in Vietnamese folk beliefs. The main hall is built in the shape of the letter "Cong" (including three rooms and two wings), with a curved roof and covered with traditional red tiles. The special highlight is the horizontal lacquered boards, parallel sentences and decorative paintings imbued with folk cultural values, expressing the majesty and sacredness of the place of worship. Along with that, the altar of Mother Au Co is placed solemnly, delicately carved with worship symbols, emphasizing the sacred relationship between the country and the people. The two walls are decorated with paintings and wooden statues, depicting gods, ancestors and legends of the Vietnamese people.

In addition to the main hall, the Tien Pagoda campus also has many auxiliary structures serving worship rituals and religious activities. One of the notable points is the temple's bell tower built on high ground, with its resounding bell sound, bringing a sense of peace and tranquility. The bell sound is not only a signal of a sacred space but also an invitation for pilgrims to return to this holy place. In addition, the pagoda has a spacious garden for visitors to walk, sightsee and enjoy the peaceful space. The gardens are cleverly arranged with many types of flowers and ornamental plants, creating a harmonious natural picture.

The complex also has a fascinating cave system with stalactites of various shapes and sizes.

On the journey to explore the spiritual tourism complex of Tien Pagoda - Dam Da, visitors can also visit many caves and offer incense at other temples, such as: Ong Hoang Bay Temple, Co Chin Temple, Thanh Tan Vien Temple. Each temple has its own separate space, decorated with statues of gods, paintings and typical worship items. Ong Hoang Bay Temple is located in a high position, from here visitors can admire the entire surrounding area with green fields and mountains. These temples are not only places to pray for blessings, but also places to preserve and protect the beliefs of local people.

Notably, in the tourist area there are 2 prominent tourist attractions: Mau Au Co Cave and Tam Hoa Cave. In which, Mau Au Co Cave is the place to worship Mau Au Co - the mother who gave birth to Lac Hong's descendants, according to folk legend. Tam Hoa Cave is associated with the story of three gods worshiped by local people. Mau Au Co Cave is located right at the foot of the mountain, where there is an airy, cool space. From afar, the cave has the shape of a giant incense burner, creating a mysterious and sacred scene. Near Tien Pagoda area, there are also Suoi Vang and Suoi Bac Caves, 2 wonderful places for visitors to explore. The cool, clear stream winding around the caves with the sound of flowing water brings a feeling of relaxation, making visitors feel like they are lost in a fairy world in the heart of nature.

Every year, the tourist area holds an opening ceremony with a palanquin procession, lion and dragon dances, and performances of unique folk songs.

Every year at the beginning of Spring, visitors from all over the country flock to Tien Pagoda to attend the festival, to offer incense in memory of the gods, especially Mother Au Co, the mother of the Hung Kings, a legendary figure with special significance in Vietnamese folklore. This is also an occasion for people to send their wishes for blessings and peace for their families, for the people to be strong and the country to prosper.

Lasting from the 4th day of the Lunar New Year until the end of the 3rd lunar month, the Tien Pagoda festival season is also the time when the tourist area attracts the most visitors of the year. At the same time, the local organizing committee organizes many sacred traditional rituals, such as: offering incense and praying for peace at the main hall of Tien Pagoda - where the gods, especially Mother Au Co, are worshiped; setting up 3 palanquin processions from Trinh Temple, Mau Temple and Trung Temple to gather at Tien Pagoda yard. Many exciting folk cultural activities take place, creating a joyful atmosphere, connecting the community: singing Cheo at the communal house; lion - lion - dragon dance; folk games of pushing sticks, throwing balls, tug of war, volleyball competitions...

Bui Minh

Source: https://baophutho.vn/hap-dan-quan-the-danh-thang-chua-tien--dam-da-240116.htm