Nestled amidst the
mountains and forests of Cao Ky commune, Cho Moi district, Bac Kan province,
Thach Long Pagoda was once a secluded place of worship, little known to the
public. -
Northwest Vietnam travel
This place was originally a natural rock cave, its exterior resembling a
dragon's head with its mouth open. The interior of the cave is divided into two
parts: the Thien Temple and the Am Temple.
The Thien Pagoda section is located at the highest point, with a statue of
Buddha Shakyamuni and a portrait of President Ho Chi Minh placed on the altar.
Thien Pagoda has many crevices that extend deep into the rock, creating a
mysterious and sacred atmosphere. Am Pagoda, on the other hand, is located lower
down and can only be reached by winding around the mountainside.
The cave of Am Pagoda is narrower but contains many natural stalactites with
fantastical shapes, showcasing the majestic beauty of nature.
Besides being a place of spiritual worship, Thach Long Pagoda also holds a
significant place in the history of the resistance war.
During the French and American wars, this place was used as a weapons depot for
thre army.
The Thach Long Pagoda festival is held annually on the 7th day of the first
lunar month, attracting many visitors from all over who come to offer incense
and pray for good fortune and happiness for their families.
In recent months, the temple has become well-known not only for its history and
scenery, but also thanks to the TikTok live streams of Venerable Thich Khai
Quang.
In videos filmed inside the simple, rustic temple, Venerable Quang engages in
friendly conversations with viewers, introducing local specialties such as dried
vermicelli and shiitake mushrooms.
The monk's witty, humorous, and youthful way of interacting delighted the online
community.
Teacher Quang said that, in addition to selling goods to help increase the
temple's income for living expenses and facility repairs, he also takes
advantage of his free time to work as a construction laborer in the afternoons,
earning 150,000 VND a day.
Livestreaming is not only a way to make a living but also a way to connect with
and spread the image of the ancient stone temple and local culture in a simple
and intimate way.
According to the local leader, Venerable Quynh's Buddhist name is Thich Khai
Quang, and he has been practicing Buddhism and overseeing Thach Long Pagoda for
about 8 years now.
Thach Long Pagoda is not only a place preserving cultural values and a spiritual
destination, but it has also become a new symbol as a young monk diligently
preserves and promotes the traditions of this ancient pagoda nestled in a cave
in Bac Kan.
Source:
Ancient cave temple of Thach Long pagoda
