Top 13+ sacred and must-visit spiritual tourism destinations in Northern Vietnam

Ba Chua Thac Bo Temple – Phu Tho (formerly Hoa Binh)

Ba Chua Thac Bo Temple is one of the most renowned spiritual destinations in the Northwest, located on the banks of Hoa Binh Lake near Mai Chau. This ancient temple is closely associated with the legend of Ba Chua Thac Bo, a protective deity who safeguarded locals crossing the Da River rapids, bringing peace and good fortune.

Ba Chua Thac Bo Temple – Phu Tho (formerly Hoa Binh)

What leaves a lasting impression on visitors is the sacred atmosphere harmoniously blended with the vast mountains, lakes, and endless green forests. The journey up to the temple, whether by boat or along the mountain paths, allows each visitor to feel a sense of tranquility, momentarily stepping away from the bustling pace of life to reflect, pray for peace, and send heartfelt wishes.
After a day of worship at Ba Chua Thac Bo Temple, travelers can continue exploring nearby Mai Chau, enjoying the serene mountain landscapes and discovering the culture of the Thai ethnic community. End the spiritual journey with a peaceful overnight stay at Mai Chau Hideaway Lake Resort on the shores of Hoa Binh Lake, where you can relax by the water, savor local cuisine, and recharge amidst the calm beauty of nature.

Book your stay at Mai Chau Hideaway Lake Resort

Book your stay at Mai Chau Hideaway Lake Resort to enjoy a complete spiritual tourism journey combined with a relaxing retreat.

Tam Chuc Pagoda – Ha Nam

Tam Chuc Pagoda is situated within a vast and majestic natural landscape in Kim Bang District, Ha Nam, and is known as the largest pagoda complex in Vietnam. The site impresses visitors not only as a major pilgrimage destination but also with its breathtaking scenery: clear blue lakes, surrounding limestone mountains, and expansive forests that create a tranquil and rejuvenating atmosphere.

Tam Chuc Pagoda – Ha Nam (Source: thegioi combo)

The pagoda is built with an architectural style that harmoniously blends traditional and modern elements, featuring large structures such as Ngoc Pagoda, the Great Hung Bao Hall, and Buddha statues reaching tens of meters in height. Visitors not only come to worship and pray for peace but can also stroll around the lake, explore the gardens, enjoy the scenery, and capture peaceful moments in photographs.
Tam Chuc Pagoda is also an ideal destination for a Northern Vietnam spiritual tour that combines cultural exploration, festival experiences, and relaxation, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the tranquility of the region’s majestic mountains and natural landscapes.

Bai Dinh Pagoda – Ninh Binh

Bai Dinh Pagoda is one of the largest pagoda complexes in Vietnam, situated on Bai Dinh Mountain in Ninh Binh Province. The pagoda stands out with its grand and majestic architecture, harmoniously combining traditional Vietnamese design with modern constructions, creating a space that is both sacred and awe-inspiring.

Bai Dinh Pagoda – Ninh Binh (Source: Bao Chinh Phu) 

A special feature of Bai Dinh Pagoda is its collection of giant Buddha statues, including a 10-meter-tall bronze statue of Shakyamuni Buddha, along with thousands of Arhat statues arranged throughout the complex. Visitors can both worship and marvel at the exquisite craftsmanship of these sculptures.
Beyond praying and seeking blessings, visitors can explore the vast grounds, either on foot or by electric shuttle, admire the rolling mountains, and enjoy the rare sense of tranquility. Bai Dinh Pagoda is an ideal starting point for a Northern Vietnam spiritual journey and an opportunity to discover Vietnamese Buddhist culture.

Read more: Spiritual tourism: A journey to explore Vietnam’s temples and culture

The Yen Tu Scenic Complex – Quang Ninh

The Yen Tu Scenic Complex, located on the Yen Tu Mountain range at the border of Quang Ninh and Bac Giang provinces, is considered the cradle of the Vietnamese Truc Lam Zen Buddhism. The area is renowned not only for its stunning natural scenery, featuring rolling mountains and vast ancient forests, but also for its extensive system of pagodas, temples, and stupas spread across different elevations, offering visitors a unique and sacred pilgrimage experience.

The Yen Tu Scenic Complex (Source: donganhtravel)

A highlight of Yen Tu is the pilgrimage that combines mountain trekking with worship, from the foot of the mountain up to the iconic Chua Dong (Bronze Pagoda). Visitors can stand amid the clouds, feeling serenity and peace surrounded by the mountains and forests. The complex preserves many historical relics and ancient architecture, making every step feel like an immersion into the traditional spiritual atmosphere and Vietnamese Buddhist culture.
Yen Tu is not only a destination for prayers and blessings but also a place to find tranquility, positive energy, and a chance to relax while being close to nature. It is an ideal spiritual journey for those who wish to combine cultural experiences, mountain scenery, and moments of rest after the climb.

Fansipan Spiritual Complex – Lao Cai

The Fansipan Spiritual Complex, located on the Roof of Indochina, is a prominent pilgrimage site in the Northwest region. Nestled among majestic mountains and drifting clouds, this destination offers a serene and sacred atmosphere, giving visitors the feeling of escaping the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Fansipan Spiritual Complex – Lao Cai (Source: ivivu)

The complex includes temples, pagodas, and large Buddha statues, harmoniously integrated with nature, creating a landscape that is both majestic and serene. Visitors often take the cable car up to the summit of Fansipan to worship, pray for peace, and enjoy panoramic views of the spectacular Northwest mountains.
Besides worshiping and admiring the architecture, travelers can engage in many enjoyable activities: strolling along the steps, taking panoramic photos of the misty mountains, exploring the culture of local ethnic minorities, or practicing meditation, offering incense, and savoring tea in the tranquil surroundings, helping the mind relax and find peace.
Fansipan is also an ideal base for exploring Sapa, visiting ethnic villages, and experiencing highland cuisine, providing a journey that combines spirituality, culture, and magnificent nature, leaving unforgettable memories for every visitor.

Hung Kings Temple – Phu Tho

Hung Kings Temple, located on Nghia Linh Mountain in Phu Tho province, is the center of the worship of the Hung Kings – the founders of the nation. This site is not only a symbol of Vietnamese cultural heritage but also a sacred pilgrimage destination, attracting numerous domestic and international visitors.

 Hung Kings Temple features a complex of temples scattered across the mountainsides, including the Upper Temple (Đền Thượng), Middle Temple (Đền Trung), Lower Temple (Đền Hạ), and several smaller relics, all set amidst majestic forested landscapes. Visitors can walk along the paths, enjoy the lush natural scenery, and simultaneously worship, praying for peace, health, and good fortune for their families.
Every year, the Hung Kings Festival, held on the 10th day of the 3rd lunar month, offers a special opportunity to experience traditional culture, participate in rituals, listen to Xoan singing (an intangible cultural heritage of Vietnam), and immerse oneself in a solemn, sacred atmosphere.
Hung Kings Temple provides a profound spiritual experience and also allows visitors to combine sightseeing in nature, exploring national history, and relaxing, creating a meaningful journey for family and friends alike.

Ba Vang Pagoda – Quang Ninh

Ba Vang Pagoda is located on Thanh Dang Mountain in Uong Bi City, Quang Ninh, and is one of the prominent destinations for spiritual tourism in Northern Vietnam. The pagoda is renowned for its majestic architecture, nestled amidst towering mountains, offering a serene and sacred space for visitors seeking peace and tranquility for the soul.

Ba Vang Pagoda – Quang Ninh (Source: Google map)

The pagoda offers a spacious environment with notable structures such as the Dai Hung Bao Dien (Main Hall), a statue of Buddha Shakyamuni, the Bell Tower, and areas for monastic practice. Visitors can participate in worship, light incense, and pray for peace while enjoying the mountainous scenery from the stone steps leading up to the pagoda, creating a spiritual yet relaxing experience.
Beyond worship, guests can explore the grounds on foot, learn about the history, admire the surrounding mountains, and capture serene moments in photographs. Ba Vang Pagoda is also an ideal starting point for exploring Quang Ninh, visiting nearby attractions, and combining spiritual tourism with leisure for a complete journey.

Cua Ong Temple – Quang Ninh

Located on the shore of Bai Tu Long Bay in Cam Pha City, Quang Ninh, Cua Ong Temple is a renowned site dedicated to Hung Nhuong Dai Vuong Tran Quoc Tang, a distinguished general of the Tran Dynasty. The temple holds both historical and cultural significance and serves as a sacred pilgrimage site, attracting many visitors seeking peace, prosperity, and health.

Cua Ong Temple – Quang Ninh (Source: Google map)

Cua Ong Temple boasts a stunning seaside location, combined with ancient architecture, creating a space that feels both sacred and closely connected to nature. Visitors can explore the temple, offer incense, learn about its history, and enjoy panoramic views of Bai Tu Long Bay from above, experiencing a sense of tranquility and peace.
Beyond worship, the temple area is ideal for walking along the beach, photographing sunrises or sunsets, and participating in traditional festivals held around the temple. Cua Ong Temple is also a perfect base for exploring Quang Ninh, visiting nearby attractions, and combining spiritual tourism with leisure for a complete experience.

Read more: Top spiritual destinations near Hanoi you shouldn’t miss

Ha Temple – Hanoi

Located in Cau Giay District, Hanoi, Ha Temple is one of the city’s most famous sites for praying for love and relationships, especially popular among young people at the beginning of the year. Although not large, the temple stands out for its sacred, serene atmosphere, attracting visitors who come to pray for love, happiness, and good fortune in their personal relationships.

Ha Temple – Hanoi (Source: Xanh SM)

What makes Ha Temple special is its tradition of lighting incense, offering votive papers, and writing wishes for love, allowing visitors to express their heartfelt prayers in a solemn yet intimate way. The temple grounds are well-maintained, with lush greenery providing a peaceful and comfortable atmosphere, perfect for resting, meditating, and taking memorable photos.
At the beginning of each year, Ha Temple becomes lively as thousands of young people visit to worship, explore the temple, and participate in rituals for good fortune, creating an experience that blends spirituality with contemporary life. It is an ideal destination for those who want to start the new year with faith, pray for love, and find a moment of tranquility in the heart of Hanoi.

One Pillar Pagoda – Hanoi

Located in the heart of Hanoi, One Pillar Pagoda is one of the city’s most iconic architectural and cultural landmarks. Built during the reign of King Ly Thai Tong (1010–1028), the pagoda features a unique design standing on a single stone pillar in the middle of a pond, symbolizing a lotus rising from the mud, representing purity and the essence of Buddhist philosophy.

One Pillar Pagoda – Hanoi (Source: Hoang Thanh Thang Long)

One Pillar Pagoda is compact yet exquisitely crafted, featuring curved tiled roofs, intricately carved pillars, and a simple but solemn interior. Visitors come not only to worship, pray for health, luck, and blessings, but also to admire the unique architecture from various angles and take memorable photos.
The pagoda is also associated with many historical legends, built by King Ly Thai Tong to express gratitude to the Buddha and pray for the nation’s prosperity. Although small in size, the space remains peaceful, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a quiet moment in the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, to enjoy tranquility and restore inner calm.
Moreover, its central location allows visitors to easily combine a visit to other historical and cultural sites in Hanoi within the same Northern spiritual tourism itinerary.

Tay Ho temple – Hanoi

Situated on the picturesque shore of West Lake, Tay Ho Temple is one of the capital’s most distinctive spiritual destinations. Unlike many other pagodas, Tay Ho stands out with its lakeside location, serene atmosphere, and traditional Vietnamese architecture. Visitors often come here to pray for peace, wealth, luck, and well-being for themselves and their families.

Tay Ho Temple – Hanoi (Source: Bao bao ve phap luat)

Visitors to Tay Ho Temple not only come to worship, light incense, and write prayer petitions, but they can also stroll around the lake, watch the sunrise or sunset, and experience a peaceful rhythm of life in the heart of Hanoi. They can admire the ancient architecture, participate in traditional rituals, and enjoy the fresh, tranquil atmosphere by the lake.
Tay Ho Temple is also a center for traditional festivals, especially at the beginning of the year, when the area becomes lively with rituals, dragon dances, Chau Van singing, and various folk activities. It is an ideal destination to combine spiritual tourism, explore traditional culture, and enjoy serene landscapes, creating a memorable experience for every visitor.

Thay Pagoda – Hanoi

Located in Quoc Oai District, Hanoi, Thay Pagoda is renowned for its ancient architecture harmoniously integrated with the surrounding mountains and peaceful natural scenery. The pagoda is closely associated with the legend of Tu Dao Hanh – a famous Vietnamese healer and Zen master, making it a unique and sacred destination for worship and spiritual reflection.

Thay Pagoda – Hanoi (Source: Cuc Du lich Quoc gia Viet Nam)

The Thay Pagoda complex comprises many ancient and unique structures: the main hall dedicated to Buddha, the Thay Hermitage, long corridors, and statues of Tu Dao Hanh, all harmoniously arranged along the natural terrain of rocky mountains and lakes. The architecture elegantly blends traditional Vietnamese design with the surrounding forested landscape, creating a sacred yet peaceful space, perfect for worship and meditation.
Beyond worship, visitors can join the Thay Pagoda festival in spring, enjoy Tu Dao Hanh’s traditional opera performances, stroll around the lake, and admire the mountains and forests. This offers one of the most memorable experiences when exploring spiritual tourism in Northern Vietnam, allowing travelers to rediscover peace and positive energy amid majestic nature.
Thay Pagoda is not only a place to pray for peace and blessings but also an ideal destination to combine spiritual rituals, explore local culture, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Northwest just outside Hanoi.
Northern Vietnam stands out not only for its magnificent mountains, rivers, and lakes but also for preserving unique spiritual and traditional cultural heritage. Visiting its temples, pagodas, and shrines provides an opportunity for worship, meditation, and finding inner peace amid the fast pace of life.
Each destination carries its own story, distinctive architecture, and traditional rituals, making the journey both meaningful and memorable. We hope this guide helps you explore and choose the most suitable spiritual tourism spots in Northern Vietnam for your trip.