Thay Pagoda

A great experience, really well managed, cultural, and worth the 15k. The surrounding area is beautiful with mountains and ponds. And the pagoda cat is so cute. Chùa Thầy worships Từ Đạo Hạnh (also known as Minh Không) who was a famous monk. He was the head monk of the temple, a choreographer of traditional water puppetry, an inventor, and a healer and mystic of his village. The mystical acts associated with the monk include curing diseases by blessing them, in addition to guiding rain by burning his fingers and performing many other miracles. He showcased the unique Vietnamese water puppetry in a small lake pavilion that he built in the middle of a lake in front of the main hall. According to local beliefs, he incarnated three times: once as the Buddha in the form of Sakhyamuni, later as the son of King Lý Nhân Tông who became King Lý Thần Tông, and as the monk who saved King Thần Tông. He created his own Từ Đạo Hạnh cult brand. A perfect sanctuary within the busy capital. Ride a bike for about 40 minutes from the city center. This place is a mix of physical and spiritual essence for those who want to experience a quiet place of worship and exciting natural trails to test their physique.