1. Overview of Bach Ma Temple, Vietnam
1.1. Location
Bach Ma Temple is one of the four historically significant temples in the Nghe An - Ha Tinh region. It has stood for centuries in Ha Luong Village, Kim Bang Commune, Nghe An Province (formerly Tan Ha Village, Vo Liet Commune, Thanh Chuong District). Conveniently positioned along National Road 46C, the temple lies about 40 kilometers away from Vinh.
Occupying 5,000 square meters, Bach Ma Temple is dedicated to Phan Da, Hoa Luong Van Dao, and Thiet Cuong Anh Qua. In 1994, it was recognized as a National Historic and Architectural Site.
1.2. Legend & historical events
According to historical records, Bach Ma Temple was built during the Le Dynasty to honor Phan Da, a talented general who made significant contributions in the 15th-century resistance against the Ming invaders during King Le Loi’s Lam Son uprising. Known for his bravery and strategy, Phan Da would charge into battle clad in white armor and riding a white horse. Legend has it that after his heroic death, Phan Da’s spirit continued to aid the people, protecting them from natural disasters and epidemics and even assisting royal forces in military victories. In 1465, King Le Thanh Tong stopped at the temple during his campaign, held a ceremony there, and subsequently won a resounding victory.
The temple also holds a place in modern history. During the Nghe Tinh Soviet movement (1930 - 1931), it was a site for protest activities by the people of Thanh Chuong. It also served as a gathering point for numerous resistance movements against both French and American forces. In 1945, for example, the locals from Vo Liet Commune assembled at the temple to demand land reform.
2. Inside Bach Ma Temple (Nghe An Province)
2.1. Architecture
Despite the passage of time, Bach Ma Temple retains its solemn atmosphere, with impressive architecture set in a peaceful space. The complex includes a triple-arch gate (Tam Quan), a main gate (Nghi Mon), a lower hall (Ha Dien), a middle hall (Trung Dien), an upper hall (Thuong Dien), and side buildings.
The triple-arch gate stands tall, flanked by decorative pillars and embossed walls featuring animals like tigers, elephants, horses, lions, and dragons. The main gate also features three arched doorways. The middle doorway, 3 meters wide, is flanked by carved reliefs of scholarly and military figures in dignified poses. The side doorways connect to the middle doorway through perimeter walls, which are topped with ridge tiles forming a protective overhang.
The lower hall has four pillars and a main room with two side rooms. It features an eight-roof layered design supported by four square columns, with upward-curved eaves. The wooden frame is painted red and adorned with striking dragon-and-cloud motifs.
Both the middle hall and upper hall have three chambers and four wooden trusses. Intricate carvings of dragons, phoenixes, clouds, and water scenes decorate the beams. Particularly striking are the finely detailed carvings on the eaves, featuring classic motifs such as the Eight Trigrams, dragons and phoenixes holding scrolls, fish transforming into dragons, turtles bearing lotus flowers, and dragon-horses.
>>> Discover: Con Temple: A spiritual retreat by the river in Nghe An
2.2. Artifacts
Bach Ma Temple preserves a rich collection of valuable artifacts that enhance its spiritual significance. These include 28 bronze bells, 2 elephant statues, 1 dragon throne, 4 sets of the "Eight Treasures" (Bat Buu), 1 dragon palanquin, 31 candle holders, 2 miniature gold and silver houses, 1 ceremonial cap, 10 incense burners, and numerous royal decrees.
>>> More on: Hong Son Temple, Nghe An: A tranquil stop for cultural lovers
3. Things to know about the Bach Ma Temple Festival
If you can, time your visit with the Bach Ma Temple Festival, one of the oldest festivals in the region. Originating around 500 years ago, this festival follows formal traditions. Held annually on the 9th and 10th days of the 2nd lunar month, it is a grand event divided into two parts: ceremonial and festive.
The ceremonial part includes ancient rites such as clearing at the temple, offering at Phan Da Tomb, offering at Ngoai Palace, palanquin procession, royal proclamation, etc. The festive part includes vibrant cultural activities and folk games such as men’s volleyball, women’s tug-of-war, pot-breaking, stilt-walking, shuttlecock throwing, wrestling, cockfighting, poetry recitation, music performances, and more.
The highlight of the Bach Ma Temple Festival is the unique 'cu' wrestling, which showcases skills, teamwork, and martial spirit amid the cheers and drumbeats of spectators.
>>> More on: Top 11 things to do in Nghe An for an unforgettable trip
4. Tips for visitors to Bach Ma Temple
4.1. Directions
The distance from the center of Vinh to Bach Ma Temple is about 40 kilometers, equivalent to an hour-long drive. Just follow National Road 46A west for about 35 kilometers and turn left onto Ro Bridge right after passing by a gas station. After Ro Bridge is National Road 46C, which will take you to the temple.
4.2. Best time to visit
The ideal time to explore Bach Ma Temple, Vietnam is during spring (February-April) and autumn (October-December), when the weather is pleasant. For a more immersive experience, time your visit with the temple festival (the 9th and 10th days of the 2nd lunar month).
>>> Discover: Hong Son Temple, Nghe An: A tranquil stop for cultural lovers
4.3. Nearby attractions
After visiting Bach Ma Temple, take your time to explore these nearby attractions:
- Ngoc Son Communal House (6.1 kilometers away): A tranquil heritage site nestled among mountains and rivers, featuring fine wood carvings, majestic ironwood pillars, and traditional yin-yang tiled roofs.
- Tham Hinh Temple (9.6 kilometers away): An ancient temple honoring Phan Nhan Tuong, who served under four kings of the Le Dynasty. It faces a fragrant lotus lake and houses 13 imperial edicts.
- Thanh Chuong Tea Island (11.2 kilometers away): A cluster of dozens of small tea hills surrounded by water. Visitors can enjoy kayaking, picking tea with the locals, or sipping fresh tea on site.
4.5. Notes
For the best experience at Bach Ma Temple, Vietnam, remember to:
- Check the weather forecast to avoid stormy days.
- Dress modestly as this is a sacred site.
- Protect your belongings.
- Avoid littering.
- Book accommodations at least two weeks in advance for availability.
- Carry IDs for flight check-ins, hotel check-ins, and vehicle rentals.
Bach Ma Temple is more than just a spiritual site - it is a symbol of history, culture, and communal spirit in Nghe An. With its rich legends, striking architecture, and lively festivals, the temple offers visitors a memorable experience that beautifully blends spirituality with tradition.
While in Nghe An, you can opt to stay at Vinpearl Cua Hoi Resort, Affiliated by Meliá, a luxury retreat nestled along the peaceful Cua Lo Beach. Beyond its elegant architecture, this resort offers an all-inclusive experience, featuring a spa, fine dining restaurants, cafés, swimming pools, and more.
