Tran Quoc Pagoda, Hanoi Overview

The oldest in Hanoi, the Tran Quoc Pagoda was built in the 6th century during the reign of Ly Nam De Dynasty. With a height of 15 meters, the main pagoda is surrounded by an incense burning house, a museum, carved statues built in 1639 and lush greenery. Devotees pack the place during Tet festival and Buddha's birthday.

One of the most popular places to visit in Hanoi, the Tran Quoc Pagoda is located on a little islet on the West Lake. This beautiful pagoda is loved for its architecture and cultural history as well as for the tranquil beauty of its location with lush gardens and a beautiful view. The grounds also contain a Bodhi Tree, which is a sapling of the original Bodhi Tree under which Prince Siddharta gained enlightenment.
The Tran Quoc Pagoda continues to remain special to Vietnam and is seen as a beautiful symbol of Buddhist philosophy. People continue to throng it in large numbers, to admire its architecture, history and culture, and to celebrate important festivals.

Architecture of Tran Quoc Pagoda

The Tran Quoc Pagoda is known for its beautiful Buddhist architecture, its scenic location and lush green gardens. The temple is spread over 3,000 square metres and the main pagoda of the temple is 15 metres tall and has eleven levels. The vaulted windows and gemstones add to the charm of the building. On top of the tower, a gemstone lotus sits proudly symbolising the Buddha. There are many carved statues adding to the exotic architecture, and a museum housing an interesting collection of relics. The garden also has a famous Bodhi tree,a symbol of knowledge, which was gifted by the Indian President on his visit to Vietnam in the 1950s.

History of the Tran Quoc Pagoda

The Tran Quoc Pagoda was built in the 6th century by the Emperor Ly Nam De. It was originally known as Khai Quoc, which translates to 'founding the country'. Built by the other side of the river, near the dyke, the temple was shifted to its current location due to the river's encroachment in the 17th century. Recognising the Tran Quoc Pagoda's historical significance, the temple has always held prominent positions through the many chapters of Vietnam's history and has undergone several refurbishments. The latest one was in 2004 when its tallest pagoda was remade. The Pagoda continues to remain a shrine of Buddhist ideologies, with the monks residing within its walls generously preaching the Buddhist way of life and philosophies.

Tips for Visiting

Visitors are required to dress modestly and respect the sentiments of the locals and the monks at the pagoda.
Plan your visit to the pagoda in such a way so that you can arrive during the morning and stay till late afternoon.
There are many tour guides available, who will explain the rich history of the pagoda,as well as provide an overview of Hanoi’s culture. They also know the best places to eat!
The Tran Quoc Pagoda is open all year long, and it is especially crowded during the annual festivals like Tet, and the birthday of Buddha. During spring, the Pagoda's garden is in full bloom and a sight to behold.

How To Reach Tran Quoc Pagoda

The Tran Quoc Pagoda is located on a small islet in West Lake, off Thanh Nien Street, 15 to 20 minutes drive from Hanoi city centre. Hiring a local cab or an Uber is the best option to visit the place. It can be reached from the Quanh Thanh Street or the main dyke road from the east of Old Quarter in Hanoi. The bus line 50 goes directly to the Chua Tran Quoc Bus Stop on Thanh Nien.