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Ba Chua Xu Temple

Ba Chua Xu Temple: The top spiritual landmark in An Giang

24/11/2024 1.206 views
3.3/5 - (3 votes)

The Ba Chua Xu Temple is one of Vietnam’s most significant and revered spiritual sites. Known for its rich history, cultural importance, and stunning architectural beauty, this temple attracts thousands of visitors each year, both locals and tourists, seeking blessings, peace, and good fortune.
Ba Chua Xu Temple in An Giang

Ba Chua Xu Temple is located on the sacred Sam Mountain in An Giang (Source: Collected)

1. An overview of Ba Chua Xu Temple

The Ba Chua Xu Temple is a beautiful and sacred architectural landmark located at the base of Sam Mountain in Nui Sam Ward, Chau Doc, An Giang, a part of Vietnam’s Mekong Delta. This temple is a significant historical, architectural, and spiritual site in An Giang Province and the broader southern region of Vietnam.

The temple was first constructed in 1820 and has undergone multiple renovations. By 1972, it was magnificently expanded and transformed into the impressive structure seen today. In 2023, the temple was recognized as an “Exemplary Spiritual Tourist Destination in Asia-Pacific.” Besides, the Ba Chua Xu temple festival was honored as an “Outstanding Cultural Activity in the Asia-Pacific” within the Vietnam-India Economic and Cultural Exchange Forum. 

Beyond being a renowned spiritual destination attracting millions of visitors annually for worship and pilgrimage, the Temple holds unique records and stands as a cultural and religious symbol for the people of An Giang and the entire nation.

Ba Chua Xu Temple An Giang

The Ba Chua Xu Temple was honored for its significant contributions to Vietnam’s tourism development (Source: Collected)

2. The mysterious legend of Ba Chua Xu Temple

In the early 19th century, Siamese (Thai) forces often crossed into Vietnamese land, causing unrest and looting. When they reached the top of Sam Mountain and discovered the statue of Ba Chua Xu, they tried in many ways to carry it down the mountain and take it back to their homeland, but no matter how hard they tried, they couldn’t move the statue.

One day, the locals found the statue in the forest and gathered together to bring it back and build a shrine. However, despite their efforts, the large group could not lift the statue. 

At that moment, a woman entered a trance and, identifying herself as Ba Chua Xu, instructed the locals that they would need nine purified virgin girls to carry the statue, and only then would it be movable. Following her instructions, the villagers gathered nine young maidens, and miraculously, they were able to lift the statue with ease.

As they reached the foot of the mountain, however, the statue became heavy and immovable again. Taking this as a sign that Ba Chua Xu had chosen this spot as her resting place, the locals built a temple there to honor her.

The mysterious legend of Ba Chua Xu Temple

Ba Chua Xu Temple is a remarkable architectural site in An Giang (Source: Collected)

Explore now: An Giang’s map: 15 unmissable spots on your journey

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3. Impressive records of Ba Chua Xu Temple in An Giang

The Ba Chua Xu Temple on Sam Mountain is not only a spiritual destination attracting millions of visitors each year but also a cultural and religious symbol, holding unique records cherished by the people of An Giang and across Vietnam.

3.1. The largest temple in Vietnam

The Ba Chua Xu Temple was initially constructed from bamboo and leaves around 1820 and later rebuilt with brick and mortar in 1870. In 1962, it was renovated with stone and yin-yang roof tiles. By 1972, it was transformed into a magnificent structure in a grand Eastern architectural style.

The temple features a “Quoc” character layout, lotus-shaped towers, patterned floor tiles, stone-clad walls, reinforced concrete pillars, and a three-tiered green-tiled roof. The roof corners rise elegantly like the prow of a boat, and the intricate motifs on the main hall’s upper walls reflect artistic finesse. Statues of deities are positioned above, supporting the beams, while the frames and doors are finely carved, displaying elegant couplets and plaques.

Currently, the temple is adorned with artistic night lighting, appearing like a radiant lotus bloom against the sky, leaving a strong impression on visitors. With its historical significance and majestic design, the Ba Chua Xu Temple on Sam Mountain was officially recognized by the Vietnam Records Center as the largest temple in Vietnam on May 25, 2008, with a campus covering approximately 3,000 square meters.

Ba Chua Xu Temple

Ba Chua Xu Temple is one of the largest temples in Vietnam (Source: Collected)

3.2. The oldest and largest sandstone statue of Lady

Researchers suggest that the Ba Chua Xu statue is of the Vishnu deity type, carved in a regal, contemplative seated posture. French archaeologist Malleret identified it as a deity statue carved in a resting, royal posture from sandstone, with notable artistic significance. Initial evaluations suggest the Ba Chua Xu statue is medieval artwork that has been preserved to the present day.

The statue stands 1.48 meters tall and is placed on a high pedestal within the temple, accompanied by two white cranes on either side, symbolizing Ba Chua Xu’s divine status. To the statue’s right, a stone linga is positioned on an altar, known as the “Cau Altar,” while on the left, there is an altar with a wooden yoni, called the “Co Altar.” Together with the temple, the statue was recognized by the Vietnam Records Center as the oldest and largest sandstone deity statue in Vietnam.

Lady Ba Chua Xu

The sandstone statue of Lady Ba Chua Xu is recognized as the oldest and largest sandstone statue of its kind in Vietnam (Source: Collected)

Read more: Mekong Delta tour: Detailed itineraries by day and more 

4. Information for tourists to Ba Chua Xu Temple

Here’s essential information for tourists visiting the Ba Chua Xu Temple, including its festival information, how to get there, what to expect, and what to note during your visit. 

4.1. When does the festival take place?

The Ba Chua Xu Temple Festival, held annually on Sam Mountain in Chau Doc, An Giang Province, is one of Vietnam’s most revered spiritual festivals, taking place from the 23rd to the 27th of the fourth lunar month. This traditional folk festival attracts thousands of visitors from all over the country who come to honor Ba Chua Xu, a protective deity believed to bring blessings, health, and prosperity. 

The festival opens with a grand ceremony and includes various sacred rituals, including the bathing ceremony for the statue of Ba Chua Xu, where devotees show their respect and seek her favor. The festival’s highlight is the reenactment of the legendary procession, where nine virgin girls symbolically carry the Ba Chua Xu statue from the summit of Sam Mountain to her temple. 

During the event, visitors enjoy a vibrant cultural experience with traditional performances, such as opera, martial arts, lion dancing, and five-tone music, creating a festive atmosphere. Recognized as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage, the Ba Chua Xu Temple Festival is not only a religious occasion but also a unique display of Vietnamese heritage and spirituality.

Ba Chua Xu Temple Festival

Ba Chua Xu Temple Festival is an essential spiritual event for locals (Source: Collected)

4.2. How to get there?

The Ba Chua Xu Temple is located approximately 250 kilometers from Ho Chi Minh City. For those traveling by private vehicle, visitors can take the Saigon-Can Tho Expressway and continue through Long Xuyen, heading directly to Chau Doc City. From there, drive along Tan Lo Kieu Luong Street to reach the Sam Mountain cable car station on Chau Thi Te Street.

Another popular option for tourists is to take buses from Ho Chi Minh City to Mekong Delta. Trustworthy bus operators include Phuong Trang or Kim Mai, which depart from the Western Bus Station and travel directly to Chau Doc.

In the past, many pilgrims used to travel by motorbike around the mountain to reach the temple. However, since 2021, An Giang Province has introduced a cable car system that spans 900 meters with 37 cabins, each holding eight passengers. 

The cable car runs continuously to accommodate the large number of visitors. A round-trip ticket for adults costs 150,000 VND. During the ride, passengers can enjoy a spectacular view of the Buddha statue carved into the mountainside of Sam Mountain.

*Note: The information in this article is for reference purposes only and may be subject to change over time.

 

4.3. What to keep in mind?

Here are some important tips based on the experience of visiting Ba Chua Xu Temple in Chau Doc:

  • Don’t forget to bring essential documents like your ID card, citizen identification, and driver’s license for hotel check-ins or motorbike rentals.
  • Dress modestly when visiting the temple and avoid wearing overly flashy or colorful clothes.
  • Be sure to bring a jacket and sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.
  • It’s best not to participate in the release of animals, as the birds and fish are sold at high prices.
  • Stay vigilant against pickpockets and theft while at the temple.
  • Focus on praying for good fortune and peace rather than getting caught up in taking photos.
  • Do not touch any items in the temple without prior permission from the management.
  • Be mindful of not littering or stepping on the flowers and plants within the temple grounds.
  • It is a good idea to bring snacks, water, and fruits for refreshments during your pilgrimage.
  • There are several other famous historical sites worth visiting near the temple, including the Tay An Pagoda, Thoai Ngoc Hau Tomb, and Hang Pagoda, as well as many other temples and pagodas located on the mountain. These sites are popular tourist attractions in Chau Doc and are ideal places to explore after paying respects at the Ba Chua Xu Temple.
Hang Pagoda An Giang

Tourists can combine Hang Pagoda in their An Giang Exploration (Source: Collected)

The Ba Chua Xu Temple is not just a religious landmark but a symbol of cultural pride and tradition in Vietnam. With its fascinating history, stunning architecture, and vibrant festivals, it offers visitors a unique spiritual experience while showcasing the rich heritage of An Giang. 

From An Giang, tourists can continue their journey through Southern Vietnam. And among thousands of attractions, a visit to Phu Quoc Island in Kien Giang Province is a must. This tropical paradise offers not only breathtaking beaches but also a variety of exciting attractions. 

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