Nestled in the heart of the bustling city, Giac Lam Pagoda, now over 300 years old, has endured countless ups and downs throughout its history and is one of the oldest temples in Ho Chi Minh City. Since its establishment in 1744, the pagoda has served not only as a place of worship but also as a symbol of the vibrant spirit of Vietnamese Buddhism.
In addition to its rich historical background, Giac Lam Pagoda impresses and attracts many tourists with unique features that can only be found here. Today, we will explore the historical stories of Giac Lam Pagoda, walk through its architecture, and discover the distinctive elements that contribute to the ancient beauty of this historic temple.
Where is Giac Lam Pagoda?
Giac Lam Pagoda, known as Chùa Giac Lam or To Dinh Giac Lam in Vietnamese, is located in Ho Chi Minh City, specifically in the Tan Binh District, at 565 Lạc Long Quân Street. This historic pagoda is one of the oldest in the city and serves as a popular destination for both locals and tourists seeking to explore its cultural and spiritual significance.
Despite its location on a busy street, Giac Lam Pagoda maintains a serene atmosphere and is somewhat tucked away from the hustle and bustle, so you’ll need to pay attention not to miss it. There are plenty of eateries nearby, so if you’re hungry, you can grab a bite to eat before entering the pagoda, as the grounds are quite expansive and offer many interesting things to explore.
As you step through the gates of the pagoda, a sense of peace envelops you instantly, as if all the noise from the outside world has been shut out. The lush ancient trees, combined with the fragrant incense and flowers, create a tranquil atmosphere that soothes the soul.
- Location: 565 Lac Long Quan Street, Tan Binh District, Ho Chi Minh City
- Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Lunchtime break from 11:30 PM to 1:30 PM)
- Entrance fee: Free of charge
Turn Back the Historical Pages of Giac Lam Pagoda
Everything began in the early 17th century when the Vietnamese expanded our territory to the Dong Nai and Gia Dinh regions. Giac Lam Pagoda was established and became the most influential temple of its time. To date, Giac Lam has undergone three renovations and has been cared for under 11 generations of abbots. More specifically, Giac Lam has experienced the following phases:
In the spring of 1774, during the reign of Emperor Nguyen Phuc Khang, the singer Ly Thuy Long organized donations to build Giac Lam Pagoda. Initially, the pagoda was named Son Can, but because it was situated on Cam Son hill, it gradually came to be called Cam Son. After some time, it was also referred to as Cam Đem, relating to the singer’s name and his profession of making cushions.
After establishing the pagoda, Ly Thuy Long entrusted it to a Zen master named Phat Y, who was the abbot of Tu An Pagoda at that time. However, in the first 30 years, the pagoda did not experience significant growth and lacked any missionary meaning, serving primarily as a spiritual refuge for settlers.
Therefore, shortly after, Zen master Phat Y handed the pagoda over to his disciple, Zen master Vien Quang, to be the abbot. Upon taking charge, Zen master Vien Quang renamed the pagoda Giac Lam, and under his leadership, he transformed it into a center for classical training for monks in Gia Dinh and the southern region.
By 1844, when Zen master Tien Giac – Hai Tinh succeeded him, he continuously promoted education for the monks by establishing schools to teach the scriptures, laws, and treatises. This created a lively and enthusiastic atmosphere in the pagoda, turning it into a popular destination for Buddhist followers.
In 1873, Zen master Hong Hung – Thanh Đao renovated Giac Lam Pagoda and made several architectural changes, enhancing the space. The pagoda added a Phap To area, a stupa for relics, a lecture hall, and an ancient tomb stupa. During the resistance period from 1939 to 1945, the pagoda was not only a place of worship but also a support point for many revolutionary activists, providing assistance and refuge for those involved in the anti-French revolutionary activities.
After the country achieved peace, Giac Lam Pagoda received a Bodhi tree and a relic from Sri Lankan Buddhists. In 1988, Giac Lam Pagoda was officially recognized by the government as a national historical and cultural monument. This marked an important milestone affirming the pagoda’s status within the Vietnamese Buddhist community. Throughout its various phases, Giac Lam has become a source of spiritual comfort for many people and symbolizes the spirit of unity and endurance over time, representing a temple that has stood for 300 years.
Visiting Map of Giac Lam Pagoda
This is the Nhi Quan Gate leading to the main hall. The two lion statues at the gate reflect Indian cultural influences, while the distinctive Naga serpent heads symbolize Khmer Buddhism. The gate features Chinese inscriptions referencing the legend of Crown Prince Ô Quan from the Tang Dynasty. Due to the belief that spirits and demons travel in straight lines, there is no gate directly aligned with the main hall.
As you near the end of the path, look to your left, and you’ll see the gate leading to the main hall. Giac Lam Pagoda has two entrances to the main hall. One is through the Nhi Quan Gate, where you turn right to enter the main hall. The other is the usual entrance, where the gate to the main hall will be on your left.
9 Remarkable Signatures of Giac Lam Pagoda’s 300-Year Legacy
Giac Lam Pagoda is the Oldest Temple in Saigon
For a long time, Giac Lam Pagoda has been referred to as the oldest temple in Saigon. With the rich history I’ve shared, it’s clear why Giac Lam remains on the list of must-visit temples in Ho Chi Minh City. Compared to the oldest Phu Chau floating temple, Giac Lam possesses a unique beauty and value, not only due to its age but also because of its cultural and spiritual depth.
While Phu Chau Temple stands out with its unique location on the Saigon River, Giac Lam captures the hearts of locals and tourists alike with its ancient charm, grandeur, and the rare tranquility it offers amidst the bustling urban landscape.
The Distinctive Beauty of Giac Lam Pagoda’s Architecture
Upon arriving at the pagoda, you will first encounter the Tam Quan gate, or the Giac Lam gate, which faces south. The gate features carved pillars adorned with couplets in Chinese characters, symbolizing a warm welcome for those seeking guidance. As you venture a bit further and glance to your left, you will see the Nhị Quan gate, flanked by two lions at its corners, reflecting Indian cultural influences, along with the Naga serpent heads characteristic of Khmer Theravada Buddhism. This area is where you can light incense and offer prayers.
Continuing inward, you will find the main hall, featuring a unique architectural design shaped like the character “tam.” This design not only serves an aesthetic purpose but also embodies a profound philosophy in Buddhism, symbolizing the Three Jewels: Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha. This is a distinctive feature of Southern Vietnamese temple architecture, and Giac Lam Pagoda stands as a representative example of this style. Giac Lam Pagoda showcases the typical “tam” architecture, consisting of three interconnected horizontal buildings arranged in a rectangular layout, which includes the main hall, lecture hall, and dining area. From an aerial view, this layout is clearly evident.
On the roof of the pagoda, you will notice the bánh ít architectural design, featuring the dual dragons vying for the pearl—a common architectural motif found in most ancient temples and pagodas in Vietnam. The symbol of the two dragons vying for the pearl represents balance and harmony in the universe, reflecting the philosophy of yin and yang. Additionally, the dual dragons are considered protective deities that bring blessings, with the image of the dragon holding particular significance in ancient Vietnamese culture.
Dragons are regarded as the foremost among the four sacred creatures: Long (Dragon), Lan (Unicorn), Quy (Tortoise), and Phung (Phoenix). They are seen as deities that bless the fate of a nation. Therefore, the combination of the pearl and the dragon serves as a monument to prosperity and completeness, capable of balancing the forces of yin and yang, thus safeguarding spiritual places such as pagodas, shrines, and temples.
Unlike other pagodas where the main hall can be accessed directly from the front, Giac Lam Pagoda has two entrances to the main hall. You can either go to the right if you are standing at the front entrance of the main hall, or you can walk straight and then turn left to enter the main hall if you are in the middle of the courtyard.
Note that the main hall closes for lunch at 11:30 AM and reopens at 1:00 PM, so if you arrive during that time, you may have to wait quite a while for it to open. Aside from this area, all other sections of the pagoda are accessible during lunch hours.
The Bodhi Tree at Giac Lam Pagoda is from Buddha’s Meditation Tree
As you step through the Nhị Quan gate, you will encounter a tall Bodhi tree planted in the center, flanked by statues of the Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara and the Laughing Buddha. If you walk behind the Bodhi tree, you will discover a stone tablet inscribed with the words “Cây bồ đề này ở Tích Lan,” meaning that this Bodhi tree was brought to Giac Lam Pagoda from the distant land of Sri Lanka—the homeland of the Buddha—on June 24, 1953.
What makes this tree particularly special is that its roots were taken from the original Bodhi tree under which the Buddha meditated to attain enlightenment. This Bodhi tree is not just an ordinary tree; it serves as an invisible link between Giac Lam Pagoda and the sacred Buddha in Sri Lanka. Its lush canopy and deep roots symbolize steadfastness and permanence, reminding us of the origins and wisdom of Buddhist teachings, while also providing a tranquil space for devotees to reflect and find peace.
In front of the Bodhi tree stands the statue of Avalokiteshvara, with a compassionate and gentle expression, always ready to protect sentient beings. Behind the Bodhi tree is the statue of the Laughing Buddha, whose radiant smile brings feelings of happiness and tranquility.
Under the shade of the Bodhi tree, you can hear the rustling leaves in the wind, harmonizing with the resonant sound of the temple bells. This serene atmosphere serves as a reminder that amidst the hustle and bustle of life, there are still places of stillness where one can reconnect with oneself and experience enlightenment from the simplest things.
Home to 113 Ancient Gold-Gilded Statues
Giac Lam Pagoda is renowned for its incredible collection of 113 ancient gold-gilded statues, making it a treasure trove of Buddhist art and heritage. Each statue is a masterpiece, meticulously crafted by skilled artisans and coated in delicate layers of gold leaf, exuding an aura of sacredness and reverence.
These statues span a wide range of sizes and depict various Buddhist figures, from serene representations of the Buddha to compassionate Bodhisattvas like Avalokiteshvara (Quan Âm). Many of them bear symbolic gestures (mudras) and expressions that convey profound teachings of the Buddha, such as wisdom, compassion, and enlightenment.
Among these statues, the most notable ones include the majestic Amitabha Buddha, seated in meditation posture, radiating tranquility and divine light. Another remarkable piece is the standing statue of Quan Âm Bồ Tát, known for her role as the Goddess of Mercy, holding a willow branch and vase, symbolizing healing and blessings.
Walking through the Main hall where many of these statues are housed, you can feel an overwhelming sense of peace and awe. The gentle glow of gold, illuminated by natural light, creates a sacred atmosphere that invites meditation and contemplation. Additionally, if you visit around early afternoon, specifically around 2 PM, you may have the opportunity to witness the resident monks conducting rituals and chanting sutras.
Outstanding with the 7-story Relic Stupa at Giac Lam Pagoda
As you step through the gates of Giac Lam Pagoda, the first thing that catches your eye is the majestic 7-story Relic Stupa, a symbol of spiritual devotion and architectural beauty. Towering majestically within the temple grounds, bạn có thể dễ dàng chiêm ngưỡng và thắp hương cầu nguyện ở 7-story relic stupa. One of the most fascinating stories about the 7-story Relic Stupa at Giac Lam Pagoda is its connection to a precious relic gem. Initially, this sacred gem was temporarily housed at Long Van Pagoda in Dong Nai, where it was placed in a small golden stupa to ensure its safekeeping. It remained there until the magnificent 7-story Relic Stupa at Giac Lam Pagoda was completed.
Today, the relic gem is enshrined at the heart of the stupa, making it a must-visit spot for anyone exploring the pagoda. As you stand near the stupa, you’ll notice its intricate carvings and symbolic decorations. Each level is adorned with lotus motifs, representing purity and spiritual awakening, while the golden spire at the top symbolizes the connection between earth and the heavens. If you’re curious, you can even climb the stupa to enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding temple grounds. The ascent offers not just a visual treat but also a serene moment to reflect on the profound spiritual heritage that this site represents.
Giac Lam Pagoda is a National Historical and Cultural Heritage in Vietnam
In 1988, Giac Lam Pagoda was officially recognized by the government as a national cultural heritage site due to its contributions during the struggle for national liberation. Over its 300 years of formation and development, Giac Lam has not only served as a refuge for Vietnamese soldiers but also witnessed the monks at the pagoda shedding their robes to don military uniforms, ready to sacrifice for their homeland.
This rich history underscores the temple’s dual role as a spiritual sanctuary and a place of resistance, reflecting the deep commitment of its community to both their faith and their country. Their unwavering devotion to both Buddhism and their homeland made them heroic figures, embodying the spirit of unity and patriotism.
So, Its recognition as a National Cultural Heritage reinforces the enduring legacy of the pagoda as both a beacon of faith and a testament to the sacrifices made for the country’s independence. You to the pagoda can feel the reverence and gratitude for those who fought and sacrificed for the nation’s freedom, and experience firsthand the blend of history, culture, and spirituality that makes Giac Lam Pagoda truly unique.
Giac Lam Pagoda Owns the Most Decorative Plates in Vietnam
With 7,000 decorative plates, Giac Lam Pagoda boasts another signature feature beyond being the oldest temple in Ho Chi Minh City. These plates are displayed inside the main hall and the ancestor tower, each intricately designed and fired in kilns in Thái Liêu (Binh Duong), with some originating from China and Japan. They were all affixed in the first half of the 20th century, showcasing the skilled craftsmanship of artisans while reflecting the cultural and spiritual beliefs of the Vietnamese people across different eras.
The presence of these 7,000 plates creates a unique atmosphere, offering visitors a chance to admire the colorful and rich artistic beauty. When sunlight filters through, the plates seem to come alive, producing a dazzling and enchanting tableau that captivates the attention of all who visit.
Giac Lam Pagoda Has Two Ancient Burial Grounds
Perhaps the next surprise for you when visiting Giac Lam Pagoda is that you will witness two ancient burial grounds. These burial grounds, located within the temple’s serene grounds, are the final resting places for notable figures in Vietnamese Buddhism and local history.
The first burial ground is the final resting place of local heroes—individuals who made great sacrifices for Vietnam, especially during times of war. These graves honor the bravery and patriotism of those who fought for the country’s freedom. Visiting this area gives you a glimpse into the strong connection between the Buddhist community and the nation’s history, where spirituality and national pride converge.
One of the notable graves of soldiers is that of Ngô Nhân Tịnh, a righteous official from the Nguyễn dynasty, who carries a significant burden of injustice. The phrase “One death, three burials” describes the arduous journey of his burial. During his lifetime, he was highly esteemed by Emperor Gia Long for his integrity and dedication to the welfare of the people.
However, during a diplomatic meeting with Siam, he became the target of jealousy and was falsely accused of embezzlement and bribery. Though the emperor quickly dismissed these accusations due to his trust in Ngô Nhân Tịnh, the trust was shaken, leading to his gradual sidelining and eventual retreat into obscurity.
Living with deep sorrow and lingering anguish for an extended period, he passed away under a cloud of injustice. To this day, the lingering sense of loss and regret regarding his wrongful treatment remains a poignant memory for the people, unable to be resolved.
The second burial ground is dedicated to the monks and abbots of Giac Lam pagoda. Many of these individuals played crucial roles in the temple’s development and in spreading the teachings of Buddhism throughout the region. Their graves are marked with simple, respectful tombstones, reflecting the Buddhist values of humility and devotion. As you visit this serene space, you’ll be reminded of the monks’ lifelong commitment to their faith and the peaceful legacy they left behind.
Walking through these sacred spaces, you’ll feel a deeper understanding of the temple’s role in preserving Vietnam’s culture, history, and spiritual traditions.
Giac Lam Pagoda is Home to Many Adorable Red-nosed Dogs
As you stroll around Giac Lam Pagoda, you will easily spot the adorable red-nosed dogs lounging in the shade or leisurely wandering around the temple grounds. They often appear quite lazy and relaxed, much like you, enjoying the peaceful moments in the serene atmosphere of the pagoda.
Though they tend to be somewhat introverted, if you approach or try to pet them, they might shy away and run off, seemingly guarding their personal space. However, this does not diminish their charm and appeal, they embody a laid-back vibe that makes them feel like the “chill dogs”.
Suggest Vegetarian Restaurants Near Giac Lam Pagoda
After exploring Giac Lam Pagoda, you’ll likely want to indulge in some delicious vegetarian food. Fortunately, there are several excellent vegetarian restaurants nearby that offer tasty dishes at affordable prices.
These eateries often feature a variety of traditional vegetarian Vietnamese dishes, such as cơm chay (vegetarian rice), phở chay (vegetarian noodle soup), and an array of fresh spring rolls. Each restaurant has its unique flavors and ambiance, making it a delightful experience to enjoy a meal after your visit to the temple. Whether you’re a vegetarian or just looking to try something new, you’re in for a treat!
Zen House Vegetarian Restaurant
- Location: 60/2 Van Coi Street, Ward 7, Tan Binh District, Ho Chi Minh City
- Distance: About 1.7 km from Giac Lam Pagoda
- Description: Known for its fusion Vietnamese vegetarian dishes and use of fresh, organic ingredients.
Chay Garden
- Location: 52 Vo Van Tan, Ward 6, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City
- Distance: About 6 km from Giac Lam Pagoda
- Description: Offers a wide variety of traditional and modern vegetarian dishes with a focus on mock meats and plant-based options.
Chay Giac Ngo Restaurant
- Location: 213A Hung Vuong Street, Ward 9, District 5, Ho Chi Minh City
- Distance: About 4.4 km from Giac Lam Pagoda
- Description: This cozy eatery offers a variety of Vietnamese vegetarian dishes, including fresh spring rolls, noodle soups, stir-fried vegetables, and mock meats—all made with fresh, healthy ingredients. Its tranquil atmosphere makes it the perfect spot to relax and enjoy authentic plant-based cuisine after your visit.
Giac Ngo Vegetarian Restaurant
- Location: 214A Hung Vuong Street, Ward 9, District 5, Ho Chi Minh City
- Distance: About 4.7 km from Giac Lam Pagoda
- Description: A quiet, vegetarian restaurant known for its delicious vegan Vietnamese meals, especially their tofu dishes and spring rolls. With its simple yet cozy ambiance, it’s an ideal spot to unwind and enjoy a nutritious meal after your temple visit.
Let’s Discover Giac Lam Pagoda with Jackfruit Adventure!
If you are someone who enjoys exploring ancient and mysterious temples in Ho Chi Minh City or delving into Religion in Vietnam, don’t miss Giac Lam Pagoda and other impressive temples like Buu Long Pagoda, Thien Hau Pagoda, or the Jade Emperor Pagoda while cycling with Jackfruit Cycling Tours.
With Saigon Off the Beaten Path, we will take you through one story after another, not just about the temples but also about old apartment buildings, fresh markets, enjoy Vietnamese drinks, wonderful fruits and the everyday lives of the locals in the city. And don’t worry about whether you can go to Vietnam without speaking Vietnamese because we will help you navigate that. Sounds interesting, right? So why wait? Start your journey today!
