Hanoi restores centuries-old pagodas

Hanoi has built a project to revitalize iconic historical and cultural landmarks which is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2026.

The VND267 billion (US$10.5 million) project aims to restore the revered pagodas and build a new memorial to President Ho Chi Minh.

The cave within the Tram Pagoda complex, known as Long Tien Cave (or Tram Cave), adds a mystical and serene dimension to this sacred site. Photo: Thanh Hai/The Hanoi Times

The National Relic Complex, consisting of the Tram Pagoda and Tram Gian Pagoda, is one of the four oldest architectural treasures in Vietnam. Nestled in the serene Tram Mountain, near the beautiful Day River in Chuong My District, Tram Pagoda dates back to the 16th century. Located just 20 kilometers from the bustling center of Hanoi, the area is known not only for its serene surroundings, but also for its wealth of historical sites, including ancient pagodas that evoke a sense of spiritual significance.

Visitors to Tram Pagoda are greeted by towering, ancient trees that provide shade and refreshing coolness throughout the year, adding to the sacred atmosphere of the temple. A short walk to the right of the pagoda leads to Long Tien Cave (also known as Tram Cave), where a Buddha altar surrounded by a collection of Buddha statues awaits.

Traces of Tram Pagoda in Tram Mountain.

The pagoda is also a site of historical significance, having witnessed key moments during the war against the French. On December 19, 1946, shortly after the beginning of the National War of Resistance, the Radio Voice of Vietnam broadcast President Ho Chi Minh's call for resistance from this very place. These powerful historical connections, combined with the pagoda's unique architecture, earned the site recognition as a national historical and cultural relic in 1962.

Today, hundreds of Buddhists and tourists flock to the complex every weekend, drawn by its spiritual charm and rich cultural heritage. It has become a must-visit destination for both domestic and international travelers seeking to explore Vietnam's past and present.

The peaceful space of Tram Gian Pagoda.

Not far away, in the village of Tien Lu, is the ancient Tram Gian Pagoda. The name "Tram Gian", which means "one hundred compartments", comes from an old measuring method where every four columns form a "compartment". This pagoda has 104 compartments and houses 153 statues, the most precious of which are the wooden statues of Buddha and Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva.

The pagoda also features a remarkable red terracotta base, reminiscent of the style of the Tran Dynasty. Intricate animal and floral designs, along with garuda birds at each corner, adorn the pedestal, adding to the site's stunning artistic appeal. Recognized as a National Historical Monument, Tram Gian Pagoda is another jewel in Hanoi's rich cultural landscape.