1. A glance at the history of Giac Lam Pagoda
- Address: 565 Lac Long Quan Street, Bay Hien Ward, Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Ward 10, Tan Binh District)
Giac Lam Pagoda, also known as Cam Son Pagoda or Son Can Pagoda, was originally a small thatched shrine established before 1742. In 1744, a group of Minh Huong people led by Ly Thuy Long rebuilt it into a formal pagoda, marking the beginning of its long spiritual journey.
In 1774, Zen master Vien Quang became the first abbot of Giac Lam Pagoda, initiating the first major restoration (1789 - 1804). Over time, the pagoda underwent multiple renovations, notably in 1900 with Western-influenced architecture, and again from 1939 to 1945 when it also sheltered revolutionaries during wartime.
After 1946, the pagoda continued to thrive under abbots such as Zen master Nhat Dan Thien Thuan and later Venerable Hue Sanh. Today, it is guided by Venerable Thich Tu Tanh, who preserves its centuries-old traditions. Giac Lam Pagoda was recognized in 1988 as a National Historical and Cultural Heritage Site.
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2. Highlights of Giac Lam Pagoda in Ho Chi Minh City
2.1. Overall structure
Giac Lam Pagoda has a layout in the shape of the character (三). In front, there is a double gate flanked by two lion statues, a design element typical of Indian culture, along with Naga heads that bear the imprint of Khmer Theravada Buddhism. The pagoda building is separated from the courtyard by two layers of surrounding fences.
Inside the pagoda building, there is a main hall, a monks’ quarter, and a lecture hall. The roof is decorated at the top with the figures of “two dragons chasing a pearl,” which are often seen in Vietnamese pagodas. Through many renovations, the pagoda has added structures such as ancestral stupas, a Xa Loi stupa, the lecture hall, etc.
2.2. Main hall & sacred statues
The main hall of Giac Lam Pagoda features a nearly square, five-compartment layout with a traditional roof, carved dragon-head rafters, and yin-yang tiles. Its interior is decorated with gilded wooden panels, couplets, and altars honoring generations of abbots and the founders.
At the center stands the Tam Bao altar with Buddha and Bodhisattva statues, most of which are centuries-old and carved from wood. Surrounding the temple are 113 ancient statues depicting Amitabha Buddha, Shakyamuni, Avalokitesvara, Kṣitigarbha, and the Eighteen Arhats. These works, crafted in the early 19th century, are among the most valuable treasures of the pagoda.
2.3. Decorative plates
On the upper walls of the main hall, more than 6,000 decorative plates are embedded as ornaments. Nearby, the ancestral stupa of Venerable Hong Hung is adorned with over 1,000 plates, while other stupas - housing the remains of former abbots - are also decorated in this style. With a total of over 7,000 decorative plates, Giac Lam Pagoda holds the record as the pagoda with the largest number of decorative plates in Vietnam.
2.4. The 7-story Stupa & Bodhi tree
In front of Giac Lam Pagoda stands a 7-story stupa built to enshrine sacred relics. Construction of this stupa began in 1970 but was paused for decades, which only resumed in 1993. Meanwhile, the spacious courtyard is filled with lush greenery, altars, and Buddha statues. Its most remarkable feature is the ancient Bodhi tree brought from Sri Lanka in 1953, which symbolizes the deep spiritual connection between the pagoda and the wider Buddhist world.
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3. Guide for visitors to Giac Lam Pagoda in Saigon
3.1. How to get there?
To reach Giac Lam Pagoda from the former District 1, you can rent a motorbike or hail a taxi. Just follow Cach Mang Thang 8 Street northwest and turn left onto Lac Long Quan Street, where the pagoda is located at No. 565. The distance is about 7 kilometers, taking a 30-minute ride.
3.2. What to do?
Giac Lam Pagoda, Saigon offers a chance to not only admire centuries-old architecture but also immerse yourself in Vietnam’s rich Buddhist culture. The pagoda is a sacred place where the Buddhist Sangha often organizes major ceremonies. If you come during Vesak (Buddha’s Birthday), Vu Lan (Ghost Festival), the first full-moon day, or the seventh full-moon day, you can witness vibrant rituals and join the locals in offering prayers.
Those seeking deeper spiritual connection can light incense, pray, or even participate in short meditation and Dharma sessions. Some visitors join retreats to listen to Buddhist teachings and cultivate mindfulness. In addition, you can ask for calligraphy for good fortune or get date suggestions for weddings.
3.3. What to note?
For your visit to Giac Lam Pagoda, you should:
- Dress modestly, covering the shoulders and knees.
- Maintain reverence by walking slowly and speaking softly.
- Keep the pagoda grounds clean, do not litter.
- Only bring modest offerings such as flowers or incense.
- Observe local etiquette such as lighting only a single stick of incense at each altar.
- Follow the instructions of the local staff or signage.
3.4. Where to go nearby?
Near Giac Lam Pagoda, Vietnam, there are several other points of interest:
- Ba Hoa Market (2.1 km away): Known as one of the oldest markets in Saigon, Ba Hoa Market is famous for its Central Vietnamese specialties. It is a great place to sample authentic dishes, shop for local produce, and experience the daily life of the community.
- Dam Sen Cultural Park (3.3 km away): This large park features lakes, gardens, and a variety of entertainment activities. It’s ideal for both locals and tourists looking to enjoy a fun break from the bustling city streets.
- Pho Quang Pagoda (4.5 km away): A peaceful Buddhist temple surrounded by greenery, Pho Quang Pagoda offers a serene atmosphere for meditation and prayer. It is also a place to learn more about Vietnam’s Buddhist practices and admire traditional architecture.
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FAQs about Giac Lam Pagoda, Ho Chi Minh City
Is there an entrance fee to Giac Lam Pagoda?
No, entry to the pagoda is free of charge. You can, however, make donations to help with the pagoda’s upkeep.
What is the best time to visit Giac Lam Pagoda?
Morning is best for a quiet atmosphere. During the Lunar New Year and Buddhist holidays, it becomes lively with many local worshippers.
What is Giac Lam Pagoda most famous for?
The pagoda is most famous for its collection of ancient decorative plates mounted on wooden pillars and walls. These plates not only highlight the artistry of the 18th century but also serve as valuable artifacts.
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With its centuries-old history, unique architecture, and sacred statues, Giac Lam Pagoda stands as one of the most important spiritual sites in Ho Chi Minh City. A visit here not only offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s Buddhist heritage but also provides a peaceful retreat and a meaningful cultural experience.
After exploring Giac Lam Pagoda, you can balance your journey with some fun at Grand Park, a new, vibrant entertainment complex in Ho Chi Minh City.
Beyond Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam offers countless destinations waiting to be discovered: Hanoi, Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, Hoi An, and Ha Long. For a complete journey in those destinations, you can enjoy a relaxing stay at the hotels and resorts of Vinpearl, which are renowned for luxurious rooms, modern amenities, and professional services. At the same time, don’t miss the chance to explore the entertainment complexes of VinWonders, where all sorts of exhilarating experiences await.
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