If you intend to visit the stunning coastal city of Quy Nhon during your Vietnam travel journey, you should not miss out on the opportunity to explore Ong Nui Temple. As one of the most beautiful landmarks in Quy Nhon, the architecture of this temple always makes a great impression on tourists’ minds. Read on to find out some interesting Ong Nui Temple facts.
1. An overview of Ong Nui Temple
1.1. Ong Nui Temple's location
Ong Nui Temple has a prime location on Chop Vung Mountain, Quy Nhon City, Binh Dinh Province. This temple is conveniently situated just approximately 30 kilometers away from the heart of Quy Nhon. Its elevated position provides visitors with a serene and rejuvenating atmosphere.
For those planning to pay a visit to this famous Central Vietnam temple, getting there is a straightforward journey. To reach this holy site, start your journey on Vo Nguyen Giap Street. Take a left turn onto National Road 198. Continue on this road until you reach Provincial Road 640 and turn right. Proceed until you arrive at Phuong Chi Village. From there, you will easily spot Ong Nui Temple.
1.2. Ong Nui Temple's history
Ong Nui Temple traces its origins back to 1702, during the reign of Lord Nguyen Phuc Chu. At that time, a monk named Le Ban sought solitude in a cave east of Ba Mountain and built a small hermitage known as Dung Tuyen Temple. The locals affectionately called him "Ong Nui" for his deep spiritual connection to the area. With the Lord's support, Dung Tuyen Temple was expanded and transformed into the grand Linh Phong Temple.
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2. The highlights of Ong Nui Temple and its surroundings
2.1. To Cave - where Ong Nui used to live
To Cave, as the legend goes, was Ong Nui's dwelling where he studied Buddhist scriptures. Today, this cave retains its wild beauty, adorned with rocks inside and offering majestic views outside. Inside the cave, you will find Ong Nui's altar. In the middle of the cave, there are impressive rock formations stacked in a unique way. Below the cave, there is a stream over 5 meters deep.
2.2. The largest sitting Buddha statue in Southeast Asia
Ong Nui Temple boasts the largest sitting Buddha statue in all of Southeast Asia. This incredible statue stands at a towering height of 108 meters, including its base. It has a wide base with a diameter of 52 meters. Perched gracefully on a lotus platform, the Buddha gazes majestically over the sea.
Visitors to the temple often make the journey up 600 steps to pay their respects to this monumental Buddha. These steps symbolize both the physical effort and the spiritual reverence that people have for this symbol of peace and enlightenment.
2.3. The beautiful and serene natural scenery
Ong Nui Temple is nestled amidst a breathtaking natural landscape. From here, you can take in the beauty of Cat Tien Beach, breathe in the fresh air, and experience a profound sense of tranquility. The surroundings are simply stunning, with the gentle breezes and the fresh air making it an ideal place for finding inner calm. If you are seeking spiritual solace, Linh Phong Temple will leave you feeling at peace.
>>> Explore the top 11 stunning places to visit in Central Vietnam!
3. When does the Ong Nui Temple Festival take place?
The Ong Nui Temple Festival takes place every year on the 24th and 25th of the first lunar month, which is also the death anniversary of Venerable Thich Trung Tinh, who made a great contribution to the development of the temple. On this occasion, thousands of people flock to the temple to participate in pilgrimage. Tourists often come here to admire the scenery, offer incense at To Cave, and pray for their family and friends.
>>> Read more: Central Vietnam itinerary: A complete guide to satisfy your wanderlust
4. Guide to having the best experience at Ong Nui Temple
For a fulfilling and respectful visit to Ong Nui Temple in Quy Nhon, consider these tips:
- Best time to visit: To savor the peaceful ambiance here and avoid the crowds, consider visiting in the early morning.
- Dress respectfully: Avoid clothing like shorts, short skirts, or anything overly revealing to honor the temple's sanctity.
- Follow temple etiquette: Maintain a quiet demeanor, refrain from making noise, and be considerate of those engaged in spiritual activities.
- Follow instructions: If you wish to offer incense, seek instructions from the temple staff.
- Keep the temple clean: Help preserve the temple's cleanliness by not littering.
- Photography: Respect the instructions regarding photography, as some areas in the temple may not permit it.
>>> Don’t forget to check Quy Nhon weather in advance!
Near Ong Nui Temple, there are numerous captivating attractions for tourists to explore, including Thien Hung Zen Monastery, Trung Luong Picnic Area, and Phuong Mai Wind Farm. The allure of Quy Nhon in Binh Dinh extends well beyond, offering a myriad of charming attractions such as Ky Co Beach, Queen's Beach, Hon Kho Beach, Bai Xep Beach, etc.
After exploring Quy Nhon, you should extend your travel journey in Vietnam by exploring other cities such as Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, Hoi An, and Ha Long. Among numerous accommodations in these splendid destinations, it is highly recommended that you stay at the hotels and resorts of Vinpearl. Vinpearl offers customers world-class accommodations and all sorts of amenities, such as outdoor swimming pools, children's playgrounds, babysitting services, restaurants, bars, gyms, and so on.
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Nui Ong Temple stands as an essential attraction in Quy Nhon thanks to its captivating natural and architectural beauty. It offers visitors a chance to retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and bask in the tranquil spiritual ambiance. If you are considering a journey to Vietnam, be sure to incorporate this place into your travel plans!
