Thien Mu Pagoda Hue – an iconic stunningly landmark of Hue city
Thien Mu pagoda from above

The fairy lady pagoda – Thien Mu Pagoda in Hue City is a stunningly beautiful renowned pagoda in Vietnam. Located on the banks of the Perfume River, Thien Mu Pagoda is a reminder of the rich cultural history of the Hue people and the Nguyen Dynasty. It is an impressive seven-story tall, with a large terrace and a beautiful bell-shaped roof.

Thien Mu Pagoda, also known as Linh Mu Pagoda, is one of the most sacred and iconic religious sites in Vietnam. Located on the bank of the Perfume River in Hue, this pagoda is considered one of the must-visit tourist destinations in the city.

Thien Mu pagoda on Ha Khe hills
Thien Mu pagoda on Ha Khe hills near the river bank

Legend of the Fairy Lady – appears in the Ha Khe hills

According to legend, an old woman appeared on Ha Khe Hill where Thien Mu Pagoda now stands, and prophesized that a great leader would come and build a pagoda on the site, and he will make this land become a powerful country. Soon after, Nguyen Hoang, the founder of the Nguyen dynasty, arrived and fulfilled the prophecy. The pagoda is named after the celestial lady who appeared on the hill. Thien Mu Pagoda (Thien/Linh: God/ celestial / Fairy; Mu: An old Woman). 

Nowadays, Thien Mu Pagoda become a religious significance of the Hue people and is an important religious site for Buddhists in Vietnam. The pagoda houses several Buddha statues and other religious artifacts, and it is a popular place for locals to come and pray. The pagoda is also home to many monks and nuns who live on the premises and practice Buddhism.

History of Thien Mu pagoda

Thien Mu Pagoda was built in the early 17th century during the Nguyen dynasty. The pagoda has undergone several renovations and expansions over the years, with the most significant one being in the 19th century. The pagoda has a rich history and has been a witness to many of the significant events that have taken place in Vietnam.

Phuoc Duyen Tower & the main gate

Architecture

The pagoda is known for its beautiful and unique architecture, which is a mix of Vietnamese and Chinese styles. The seven-story tower, called Thap Phuoc Duyen, is the pagoda’s most prominent structure and a symbol of Hue City. The tower is beautifully decorated with intricate carvings and statues of Buddha. The pagoda also has a bell tower, a drum tower, and other smaller buildings that are equally impressive.

How to get to Thien Mu Pagoda?

To get to Thien Mu Pagoda, you have a few different transportation options to choose from. One option is to take a taxi or rent a motorbike from Hue city center. The pagoda is located about 5 kilometers from the city center, and the ride should take around 15-20 minutes depending on traffic.

Another option is to take a boat tour along the Perfume River that stops at the pagoda. This is a great way to see the beautiful scenery of the river and the surrounding area. Boat tours usually take around 2-3 hours and include stops at other historical sites in the area as well.

No matter which transportation option you choose, you will be in for a treat when you arrive at Thien Mu Pagoda. The pagoda is one of the most beautiful and historically significant destinations in Vietnam, and the journey to get there is just as enjoyable as the destination itself.

You can consider making a tailored tour or joining a Hue group tour to visit Thien Mu or other highlights of Hue in one day

Join a boat trip on the Perfume River to Thien Mu Pagoda

What thing to see in Thien Mu Pagoda?

Visitors to Thien Mu Pagoda can see many interesting things, including the seven-story tower called Thap Phuoc Duyen, which is the pagoda’s most prominent structure, as well as the bell tower, drum tower, and other smaller buildings. The pagoda also houses several Buddha statues and other religious artifacts, and visitors can explore the beautiful grounds and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Finally, visitors can see the car that belonged to Thich Quang Duc, a Buddhist monk who famously self-immolated in protest of the South Vietnamese government’s persecution of Buddhists.

Tam Quan Gate was the same in the old days as it is now.

Why is have a car in Thien Mu?

There is a car that belonged to Thich Quang Duc, a Buddhist monk who famously self-immolated in protest of the South Vietnamese government’s persecution of Buddhists. The car is on display at the pagoda and serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought for religious freedom in Vietnam.

Car of Thich Don Hau Master

TRAVEL GUIDE:

Address: https://goo.gl/maps/GubMwyUcLujLwiXt7?coh=178573&entry=tt
Admission: Free
Parking fee: 10.000 vnd/ bike – 15.000 vnd/ motorbike – 15.000 – 40.000 vnd/ car

How to wear when visiting Thien Mu

When visiting Thien Mu Pagoda, it is recommended to dress modestly and respectfully, covering your shoulders and knees. Comfortable walking shoes are also recommended, as there are many stairs to climb and uneven surfaces to navigate. It is also a good idea to bring sun protection, such as a hat and sunscreen, as well as insect repellent.

What is the best time to visit Thien Mu Pagoda?

There is no specific best time of day to visit Thien Mu Pagoda, as it is open from morning until evening. However, visiting in the morning or late afternoon can be a good option to avoid the midday heat and crowds. Additionally, visiting during sunrise or sunset can provide beautiful views of the pagoda and the surrounding area.

Surrounding area

Thien Mu Pagoda is located in a beautiful area of Hue, surrounded by lush greenery and overlooking the Perfume River. Visitors can also explore the nearby Imperial City and An Hien Garden House, other historical sites in the city. The area around the pagoda is peaceful, and visitors can take a leisurely stroll around the grounds and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

We also offer Hue city tour 1 day with a dragon boat on the perfume river to Thien Mu pagoda and other places.
You can find more detail here: https://huracars.com/tour/hue-city-tour-1-day/

hue city tour groupOverall, Thien Mu Pagoda is a fascinating and significant destination for anyone visiting Hue. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or religion, there’s something for everyone to appreciate at this iconic pagoda. The pagoda’s rich history and beautiful architecture make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Vietnam.

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