Tam Thai Pagoda: A timeless spiritual haven on the Marble Mountains

Contents

1. Overview of Tam Thai Pagoda Da Nang

Tam Thai Pagoda is a renowned temple in Da Nang, offering visitors a contemplative space imbued with Buddhist spirituality. It is built on one of the few flat areas of Thuy Son Mountain – the highest and largest of the peaks that form the Marble Mountains in Ngu Hanh Son Ward. Rising to about 160 meters in height and spanning roughly 15 hectares, Thuy Son Mountain is famed for its majestic natural scenery and numerous notable caves such as Huyen Khong and Van Thong.

Tam Thai Pagoda is located atop the Marble Mountains (Source: Collected)

2. The history of Tam Thai Pagoda, Da Nang

A stone stele at Tam Thai Pagoda records that the temple was originally built in 1630. Over its near-400-year history, it has witnessed many significant historical events. Tam Thai Pagoda was destroyed during the Tay Son dynasty. In 1825, King Minh Mang ordered its reconstruction, which featured architectural elements typical of the Nguyen Dynasty. Further restorations were carried out in 1907 under Venerable An Lang, and again in 1995 under Venerable Thich Tri Giac.

Best-selling products

-12%

[Hoi An Passport] VinWonders Ticket + Buggy + Hoi An Coconut Forest Boat

28 USD32 USD

-36%

[VinWonders Nam Hoi An] – Standard Admission Ticket

15 USD23 USD

-24%

[Buy 2 Get 1] – Combo of 2 Entrance Tickets & Buggy + FREE Kids Combo

27 USD35 USD

-9%

[-10%] – VIP River Safari Ticket*

6 USD

-15%

[Nam Hoi An Signature] Admission Ticket + Buggy + F&B Voucher (300.000 VND) | FREE Capybara Cap

39 USD47 USD

-2%

[Nam Hoi An Signature] VinWonders Ticket + VIP Safari Package | FREE Merchandise Gift

29 USD

[VinWonders Nam Hoi An] – Standard Admission Ticket

23 USD

-5%

[VinWonders Nam Hoi An] Direct admission & Buggy Ticket Combo

27 USD28 USD

[VinWonders Nam Hoi An] – Standard Admission Ticket

23 USD

3. Highlights of Tam Thai Pagoda

3.1. Stunning architecture

Visitors to Tam Thai Pagoda can admire its elegant, spiritually rich architecture. Built in the traditional Nguyen Dynasty style, the temple features dual-layer yin-yang tiled roofs. The roof is adorned with carvings of two dragons flanking a moon emblem. Dragon and phoenix motifs decorate the entrance columns, while bas-reliefs of guardian deities grace the facade. The main hall venerates Amitabha Buddha, Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva, and Mahasthamaprapta Bodhisattva.

A key architectural feature is the Tam Quan Gate, an ancient bell tower with a solemn tiled roof. Going through this gate leads to a temple courtyard shaded by old trees. At the center stands a large sandstone statue of Maitreya Buddha, majestic and serene. On either side of the courtyard are royal rest houses built by King Minh Mang for his visits.

Tam Thai Pagoda photos highlight its traditional architecture (Source: Collected)

Another notable structure in Tam Thai Pagoda is the Vong Giang Pavilion on the southwestern slope of Thuy Son Mountain. This 7-meter-wide platform holds a 2-meter-tall stone stele inscribed in Han characters. From here, you can enjoy sweeping views of the Cam Le River and Co Co River. The narrow path leading up offers a tranquil vista of the entire Marble Mountains.

3.2. Invaluable artifacts

Beyond its architecture, Tam Thai Pagoda preserves several relics. One is a heart-shaped bronze plaque inscribed with imperial script from King Minh Mang. According to legend, King Gia Long once fled to a remote island while evading Tay Son troops. In desperation, he prayed to Buddha for fresh water and was miraculously saved. After returning to the mainland and hiding in the Marble Mountains, he vowed to rebuild a temple if he ever reclaimed the throne. Fulfilling this oath, King Minh Mang later had the plaque built and helped restore the pagoda.

Other relics here include a wooden plaque bearing the temple’s name and another bronze plaque extolling the boundless compassion of the Buddha.

Many invaluable artifacts are preserved at Tam Thai Pagoda (Source: Collected)

3.3. Heritage trees

The lush natural surroundings also add to the charm of Tam Thai Pagoda in Da Nang. Here, there are two tropical almond trees at the entrance – one about 350 years old and the other around 240. The locals believe one tree is “male” and the other “female,” symbolizing yin and yang. Couples often come here to seek blessings for love, pressing their cheeks to the trees and praying. Afterward, they proceed to Huyen Khong Cave to make vows before the deities of love and marriage. Behind the temple stands an over-200-year-old gold apple tree, adding to the pagoda’s serene ambiance.

4. Useful tips for your first visit to Tam Thai Pagoda

4.1. Transport

Visitors have several transport options to get to the temple, including buses, taxis, and private vehicles (cars or motorbikes). For those unfamiliar with the route, the electric taxis of Xanh SM are recommended for their eco-friendliness, comfort, safety, customer service, and reasonable fares.

From the Dragon Bridge, it takes about 20 minutes to reach the Marble Mountains via the streets of Tran Hung Dao – Chuong Duong – Minh Mang – Le Van Hien – Huyen Tran Cong Chua – Hon Thuy Son. To get to Tam Thai Pagoda, you will need to climb 156 stone steps up Thuy Son Mountain.

4.2. Things to note

Here are some useful tips for your visit to Tam Thai Pagoda:

• Dress respectfully to maintain the sanctity of the space.
• Photography is allowed only in outdoor areas; avoid taking pictures inside indoor areas.
• The climb up can be narrow and steep, so wear flat shoes for safety.
• Snacks and drinks are permitted, but please dispose of trash properly.
• Entrance fee to the Marble Mountains: 40,000 VND/person.
• Elevator fee: 15,000 VND/ride.
• Opening hours of the temple: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily.

Remember to dress modestly when visiting sacred spiritual sites (Source: Collected)

4.3. Nearby attractions

After visiting Tam Thai Pagoda, consider exploring these nearby attractions on Thuy Son Mountain:

• Non Nuoc Pagoda: A centuries-old temple surrounded by lush landscapes, famous for its tranquil atmosphere, large Buddha statue, steles, bells, and the Xa Loi Tower.
• Tu Tam Pagoda: This serene temple features traditional Le Dynasty architecture and vibrant gardens filled with old trees and blooming flowers.
• Huyen Khong Cave: An open-roof cave with spiritual importance, where sunlight filters through the circular dome. It houses statues, altars, and stalagmites.
• Van Thong Cave: A tunnel-like cave with a narrow pathway and a Buddha statue. The light shining from above creates a radiant, ethereal glow here.
• Am Phu Cave: One of the largest caves in the Marble Mountains. Divided into two sections, it symbolizes Buddhist teachings on life and death.
• Non Nuoc Stone Carving Village: A near-400-year-old village, where skilled artisans craft intricate stone sculptures, jewelry, and religious artifacts.

Tam Thai Pagoda is not only a sacred spiritual site; it’s also a historical treasure of Da Nang. With its ancient architecture, tranquil surroundings, and rich heritage, this temple offers visitors a peaceful escape and a deeper appreciation of Vietnam’s Buddhist traditions. It is a must-see attraction for those exploring the Marble Mountains.

Once you have finished exploring the vibrant city of Da Nang, come to the charming town of Hoi An – which is just an easy trip of 30 kilometers away. There, you will find VinWonders Nam Hoi An, a dynamic amusement park packed with entertainment for everyone, including thrilling games, mesmerizing shows, water slides, a river safari, and more.

VinWonders Nam Hoi An – a unique destination in Hoi An for endless fun

Book VinWonders Nam Hoi An ticket now

For tourists looking to unwind in style, Vinpearl Resort & Golf Nam Hoi An offers a refined getaway with scenic surroundings and high-end amenities.

Enjoy a truly indulgent stay at Vinpearl Resort & Golf Nam Hoi An

Book rooms in Vinpearl Resort & Golf Nam Hoi An

Best-selling products

-36%

[VinWonders Nam Hoi An] – Standard Admission Ticket

15 USD23 USD

-9%

[-10%] – VIP River Safari Ticket*

6 USD

-15%

[Nam Hoi An Signature] Admission Ticket + Buggy + F&B Voucher (300.000 VND) | FREE Capybara Cap

39 USD47 USD

[VinWonders Nam Hoi An] – Standard Admission Ticket

23 USD