Immerse yourself in the tranquility of Truc Lam Zen Monastery in Dalat. Discover its history, architecture, must-see sights, and visitor tips.
About Truc Lam Zen Monastery Dalat
Operating Hours: 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Entrance fee: Free
The Truc Lam Zen Monastery Dalat is a peaceful Buddhist monastery located among the scenic hills of the city of Da Lat, Vietnam. It is situated at Truc Lam Yen Tu Street, Ward 3, Dalat City, Lam Dong Province. This quiet retreat affords magnificent views of the Tuyen Lam Lake.
The monastery is conveniently located about 5 kilometers south of the center of Da Lat city. Perched up high on Phuong Hoang Mountain, the surroundings allow for a broad panoramic view of the countryside below.
If you want the experience to be a spiritual one, you can even contemplate staying in this monastery. You need only ask the presiding monks and nuns what the possibilities are.
History of Truc Lam Buddhist Monastery
Truc Lam Monastery Vietnam was built in 1994 under the guidance of the instruction of Zen Master Thich Thanh Tu. Vietnamese government undertook this project on the basis of reviving and promoting the teachings of Zen Buddism, especially the Truc Lam Yen Tu Zen School.
The architectural style of the monastery itself is eclectic, bringing together elements from several schools of Zen into a confluence with traditional Vietnamese architecture. It was built near Tuyen Lam Lake inspired by a dream of Master Thich Thanh Tu in 1986. Being set in the perfect environment of Da Lat, with its mild climate, poetic landscapes, and serene atmosphere.
Nowadays, Truc Lam Zen Monastery is considered one of the most famous Buddhist monasteries in Vietnam. Thousands of tourists visit it every year in order to learn something about Zen Buddhism and breathe in its serene surroundings.
How to get to Truc Lam Zen Monastery?
It is quite easy to get to Truc Lam Zen Monastery Dalat by car, taxi, or motorbike. From the center of Da Lat city, it covers a distance of about 5 kilometers, hence it takes about 15-20 minutes.
A visit to the monastery from Robin Hill by cable car is an unforgettable experience. From here, you can see a breathtakingly panoramic landscape and Lake Tuyen Lam. Cable cars operate from 9:00 AM through 4:00 PM and offer the option of either a return or one-way ticket.
The stunning architecture of Truc Lam Monastery Vietnam
Truc Lam Monastery Vietnam represents one of the places that are regarded as sacred because of the meditation you can practice, as well as an architectural wonder. Traditional Oriental architecture, wonderful details, and an amazing natural setting turn it into a breathtaking experience. There are two main parts in the monastery: the internal area of the monastery for the monks and nuns, and the external one, which is open to visitors.
Visitors go up 222 steps through the triple-arched gate to enter the main hall. The main hall contains a 2-meter-tall statue of Sakyamuni Buddha, together with flanking statues of two Bodhisattvas. Intricate wooden carvings and sweeping curved roofs combine to create a spiritual atmosphere.
Behind the hall is an airy courtyard with a drum tower and a bell tower. Yet, the most irresistible place of the monastery is surely the colorful flower garden. This quiet place, which adorns many sorts of precious plant species, faces the serene Tinh Tam Lake. You can have a rest here, inhale fresh air, and find peace deep in your heart with such pure natural beauty.
TOP unmissable experiences on your excursion to Truc Lam Zen Monastery
When visiting Truc Lam Monastery Vietnam, you should not miss these activities to make your visit more unforgettable:
1. Peaceful Boat Ride on Tuyen Lam Lake
Located next to Tuyen Lam Lake, the monastery provides a spot for a boat ride in serenity. Get sliding through the silent waters, majestically lined by pine forests, hills full of mists, and vibrant flower gardens. Such tranquil experiences are much needed for rejuvenation away from routine hustle and bustle.
2. Adventurous Trek in Phuong Hoang Mountain
For the adventurers, a hike up Phuong Hoang Mountain offers great views of the monastery and the landscape around it. The trail ascends in a serpentine fashion through dense forests, steep hills, and rocky outcrops, besides affording chances to catch sight of flora and fauna.
3. Mindful retreat
Get indulged in the meditation practiced at Truc Lam Zen Monastery. Participate in the retreat course to learn about a few techniques for getting inner peace and mindfulness. These courses are uniquely provided to focus on self-conceptualization or spiritual growth.
Notes for visitors to Truc Lam Buddhist Monastery
Truc Lam Zen Monastery Dalat operates as a place of worship and meditation. To ensure a respectful and peaceful visit, kindly adhere to the following:
- Dress code: This means adequately dressing up, covering the shoulders and knees. Stay away from too-revealing garments such as shorts, tank tops, or swimwear.
- Respectful behavior: Enter the monastery with quietness and respect. Loud talking is prohibited, boisterous behavior is forbidden, and mobile phones should not be used inside the prayer halls.
- Photography: Generally, photography is allowed on the grounds; however, you must consider the monks and nuns and not take pictures of them in their times of meditation or in privacy.
- Donations: The monastery is always open for donations to help with its upkeep and spiritual works.
- Guided tours: Generally, it’s advisable to join a tour group for better discovery of the history, architecture, and Buddhist practices affiliated with this monastery. At Lily’s Travel, our tour guides are not only knowledgeable about the particular Truc Lam Zen Monastery Dalat, but also the whole tour you book to ensure a smooth and comprehensive vacation.
In short, Truc Lam Zen Monastery is an oasis that offers a whole different experience from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its great architecture, serenity, and natural beauty of the surroundings, it should not be missed by any person who is looking forward to experiencing tranquility or spiritual rejuvenation. Be it the historical importance of the monastery, meditation, or even the scenic beauty, Truc Lam Zen Monastery will never disappoint visitors.
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