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Ong Nui temple

Ong Nui Temple: A scenic spiritual destination in Binh Dinh

14/03/2024 1.212 views

Ong Nui Temple in Quy Nhon is famous for the enormous Buddha statue at the summit, which offers panoramic views of the sea. This location is also known as Linh Phong Temple, a well-known landmark with a long history.
Ong Nui temple

Ong Nui is one of the famous Buddhist temples in Vietnam (Source: Collected)

Visiting Binh Dinh Province, you will be enchanted by the breathtaking coastal charm of Quy Nhon City. Amidst this picturesque landscape lies Ong Nui Temple – a renowned historical and spiritual sanctuary that beckons to both culture lovers and religious believers alike. Join us as we delve deeper into the fascinating world of Ong Nui Temple and uncover intriguing facts about this revered site.

1. Where is Ong Nui Temple located? How to get there?

Ong Nui Temple, also known as Linh Phong Son Tu, is situated atop Chop Vung Peak in Phu Cat District, approximately 30 kilometers from the city of Quy Nhon. At an elevation of around 600 meters above sea level, Ong Nui Temple is one of the places that have a cool and pristine climate in Central Vietnam. 

Renowned as a cultural and spiritual landmark in Binh Dinh, Vietnam, Ong Nui Temple attracts numerous local and foreign visitors who come to marvel at its breathtaking scenery and the majestic Buddha statue perched atop the peak. To reach the entrance of Ong Nui Temple and the colossal seated Buddha statue, visitors must ascend approximately 600 steps, spanning from the foot of Ba Mountain to the summit. 

Ong Nui temple

The temple is located in Binh Dinh province, 30 kilometers from Quy Nhon city (Source: Collected)

2. History of Ong Nui Pagoda

Ong Nui Pagoda boasts a history spanning over 320 years, earning recognition as a National Cultural Heritage Site. According to ancient historical records, Ong Nui Temple traces its origins back to the year 1702 during the reign of Lord Nguyen Phuc Chu. At that time, a monk named Le Ban resided in the eastern caves of Ba Mountain for spiritual practice. Here, he established a modest hermitage named Dung Tuyen Temple. Renowned as a pioneering figure in spiritual cultivation, Master Le Ban dedicated himself to meditation atop the mountain, clad in bark garments, and specializing in herbal medicine to aid the sick. Revered by the local populace, he became affectionately known as Ong Nui (mountain old man).

In the year 1733, during the reign of Lord Nguyen Phuc Chu, the Dung Tuyen Temple was rebuilt and expanded into a larger monastery named Linh Phong Zen Monastery. In 1967, the temple fell victim to the ravages of war, obliterated by bombings. However, due to the wishes of the local people, reconstruction efforts began to restore the temple in 1990. In the year 2000, a statue of Ong Nui (Master Le Ban), standing 84cm tall and crafted from gold-plated bronze, was enshrined in the ancestral cave. 

Ong Nui Temple has a long history over three decades

Ong Nui Temple has a long history over three decades (Source: Collected)

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3. What to see on your journey to Ong Nui Pagoda?

3.1. Admire the unique spiritual architecture

While visiting Ong Nui Temple, you will be captivated by the distinctive spiritual architecture that graces the temple grounds. The ambiance remains consistently cool and refreshing, thanks to the presence of grand trees such as jackfruit trees and banyan trees, while willow trees and vibrant flowers adorn the area around the expansive and pristine water pond.

Within Ong Nui Temple, one can admire the elegantly designed pavilions with red-tiled roofs gracefully sheltered beneath the ancient trees. The main hall stands out with its curved red-tiled roof adorned with intricate dragon motifs at its peak. The supporting columns are also painted red and intricately carved with elaborate designs. 

Ong Nui temple

The temple features elegantly designed pavilions with red-tiled roofs, dragon motifs, and intricately carved columns (Source: Collected)

In front of the main hall’s entrance, a sizable incense burner stands for worshippers to light their incense sticks. Inside the hall resides a towering 2.5-meter-tall statue of the Buddha. To the west, a small bridge guides visitors towards the stupas and the ancestral cave located on the mountain behind the temple.

3.2. The tallest sitting Buddha statue in Southeast Asia

The monumental seated Buddha statue, the largest seated Buddha statue in Southeast Asia, is a must-see in Linh Phong – Ong Nui Temple. The statue stands proudly at an elevation of 129 meters above sea level. Including its pedestal and the lotus flower at its base, the structure reaches an impressive height of 108 meters. Every detail is meticulously crafted to evoke a sense of liveliness and tranquility. Set against the backdrop of Ba Mountain, facing the East Sea, the statue serves as a poignant symbol of Buddha’s eternal protection over the land and its people.

The statue of Buddha in Ong Nui Temple

The statue of Buddha in Ong Nui Temple is the largest seated Buddha statue in Southeast Asia (Source: Collected)

Sitting beneath the Buddha’s gaze, amidst the tranquil ambiance and under the expanse of the azure sky, visitors are enveloped in a profound sense of peace and reverence. At the statue’s base lies the Buddhist sermon center, the Arhat corridor, the Buddhist library, and the Buddha Relics Museum, where devotees gather for worship and contemplation. Behind the statue, a staircase ascends to the lotus flower’s base, offering visitors the highest vantage point to behold the panoramic vista below.

3.3. To Cave

To the west of the main hall of the pagoda lies a quaint bridge, guiding visitors towards the stupa and the To Cave, which are nestled amidst the mountainous terrain behind the pagoda. To Cave, positioned near the stream’s edge, is surrounded by natural rock formations on all three sides, forming a profound wall crafted by the overlapping of massive rocks. 

This sacred enclave served as the chosen abode for the Zen master Le Ban, the revered founder of Ong Nui Temple. In 2000, an 84-centimeter-high statue honoring this master was crafted and enshrined within To Cave. 

To Cave attracts tourists with its historical significance

To Cave attracts tourists with its tranquil atmosphere and historical significance (Source: Collected)

To Cave remains a testament to untouched wilderness, retaining its rugged beauty with towering cliffs from within and picturesque landscapes enveloping its exterior. Visitors are beckoned to immerse themselves in the serene ambiance and spiritual resonance of this hallowed sanctuary.

3.4. Famous nearby tourist attractions

From Ong Nui Temple, you can visit some other nearby destinations, such as: 

  • Nui Ba Relic Area: Adjacent to Ong Nui Temple, the Nui Ba Relic Area was designated as a historical relic and national landscape in 1994. Nui Ba Base Area encompasses 22 relics commemorating the revolutionary struggles and resistance against the US occupation, serving as a testament to the bravery and resilience of the soldiers and people of Binh Dinh in their fight to defend their homeland.
  • Trung Luong Camping Site: Just 2 kilometers away from Linh Phong – Ong Nui Temple, the Trung Luong Camping Site offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Popular among young people and families alike, this renowned amusement and camping spot provides a tranquil retreat amidst nature’s embrace. 
  • Thien Hung Zen Monastery: Thien Hung Zen Monastery is the temple with the most unique architecture among the temples in Binh Dinh. Coming to the Zen monastery, visitors can both visit the temple and admire the most prominent 12-story Bell Tower.

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4. Useful information about Ong Nui Pagoda Festival

Every year, thousands of people and visitors from all over come to Linh Phong – Ong Nui Temple Festival. The festival is held on the 24th and 25th of the first lunar month, attracting a large number of visitors who come to pray for a peaceful and prosperous new year.

The festival is the death anniversary of Venerable Thich Vien Minh – the abbot of the pagoda in its early days and also one of the people who made many contributions to the development of the history of Binh Dinh Buddhism. Local people and pilgrims also come here to visit the Buddha and go to the To Cave to light incense and pay reverence to the merits of Ong Nui.

Ong Nui Temple Festival

Ong Nui Temple Festival is held in a lunar calendar every year (Source: Collected)

5. Extra notes for a visit to Ong Nui Temple

To make your visit to Ong Nui Temple in Quy Nhon most complete and meaningful, you should save some of the following tips:

  • Plan your visit from early morning to before sunset to relish the tranquil ambiance and avoid crowds 
  • Dress modestly and comfortably to show respect for the sacred space. Avoid wearing attire like shorts, short skirts, or revealing clothes
  • Adhere to the temple’s rules and rituals. Refrain from making noise and show reverence to those engaged in spiritual practices
  • If you wish to offer incense, seek guidance from temple staff and demonstrate respect towards Buddha by being attentive and avoiding disturbances
  • Do not litter and follow the temple’s hygiene guidelines, preserving the sanctity of the surroundings
  • Be mindful of areas where photography is restricted

As a renowned Buddhist temple in Vietnam, Ong Nui Temple stands not only as a symbol of spiritual devotion but also as a beacon of cultural heritage in the heart of Quy Nhon. With its rich history dating back over three centuries, breathtaking architecture, and serene surroundings, Ong Nui Temple offers visitors a profound journey of introspection and reverence, allowing them to immerse themselves in the tranquility and beauty of this revered sanctuary.

On your Vietnam travel, you can also explore many other enchanting cities such as Ha Long, Hoi An, Nha Trang, and Phu Quoc, each offering unique cultural experiences and breathtaking natural landscapes. If you are planning to visit these destinations, it is essential to arrange your accommodations in advance. It is recommended that you opt for the hotel and resort system of Vinpearl, with luxurious rooms and all-inclusive services. 

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