Guide To the Temples and Pagodas of Vietnam: #5 Thai Vi Temple

The incredible Tam Coc area in Ninh Binh is often called Halong Bay on land. It is here you will find Thai Vi Temple. The area bears more than a passing resemblance to Vietnam’s famous 600 square mile UNESCO World Heritage Site, Halong Bay. The same type of limestone karst formations tower above everything, only here the water is the river rather than miles and miles of sea.

The Wonderful Thai Vi Temple
Also here in Tam Coc that you will find many famous attractions of the area, in addition to the Thai Vi Temple, there is the incredibly beautiful Bich Dong Pagoda and the Mua Cave for example. Thai Vi Temple is to be found in Van Lam Hamlet, in a large valley; this is in the Ninh Hai Commune.

Transport to the temple is by rowing boat but don't worry you don't have to do the work. A team of superset old ladies row tourists round the three hour trip. This really is one of the most beautiful areas I have ever seen.

Your transport awaits
The temple was constructed in honour of Queen Thuan Thien and also four ancient kings from the Tran Dynasty. The architectural style is what is known as Noi Cong Ngoai Quoc, which means Internal attack with outside support. It contains three sections and all made of ironwood with huge blue stone pillars carved to a high standard.

Some of the religious icons insode the temple
Each year on the 14th day of the 3rd lunar month, The Thai Vi Temple Festival takes place. Various activities are held including: a palanquin procession, human chess, a sacrifice ceremony, dragon dancing, boat races and wrestling.

Previously Published:

1: Giac Lam Pagoda https://steemit.com/travel/@inseasia/the-stunning-giac-lam-pagoda

2: Vinh Nghiem Pagoda https://steemit.com/travel/@inseasia/saigon-attractions-vinh-nghiem-pagoda

3: The Ong Temple https://steemit.com/travel/@inseasia/guide-to-the-temples-and-pagodas-of-vietnam-3-the-ong-pagoda

4: The One Pillar Pagoda https://steemit.com/travel/@inseasia/guide-to-the-temples-and-pagodas-of-vietnam-4-the-one-pillar-pagoda

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