THE HANOI TIMES — The Ba Tam Pagoda Festival, held annually in Duong Xa Commune, offers a unique cultural experience for locals and tourists alike. This year’s festival, which ran from March 15-20, attracted a large crowd eager to immerse themselves in the rich history and traditions of one of Vietnam’s oldest spiritual sites.
To Huu Vinh, Chairman of Duong Xa Commune, addresses the audience at the opening ceremony. Photo: Hoang Quyet/ The Hanoi Times
The event commenced with an insightful speech by To Huu Vinh, Chairman of the Duong Xa Commune People’s Committee. He praised Empress-Regent Y Lan for her exemplary leadership and her pivotal role in shaping the Ly Dynasty, one of Vietnam’s most glorious historical periods.
Empress Regent Y Lan, born Le Thi Khiet (1044-1117), was a remarkable woman known for her beauty, wisdom, and compassion. She served as concubine to King Ly Thanh Tong and later became the mother of King Ly Nhan Tong. Y Lan’s family had a rich heritage in mulberry cultivation, silkworm breeding, and silk weaving, which were important industries at the time. She steered the country through challenging times with her twice-held regency, contributing to the Ly Dynasty’s stability and prosperity.
As a devout Buddhist, Empress Y Lan left a lasting legacy of religious and cultural significance. She commissioned the construction of numerous pagodas across Vietnam during her reign. After her passing, she was deified as “Ba Tam,” akin to the revered figure of Guan Yin, embodying virtues of tolerance, compassion, and benevolence. The Ba Tam Temple and Pagoda in Duong Xa Commune became a sacred site for worshippers, honoring her enduring memory.
Local dignitaries pay their respects to Empress-Regent Y Lan with an incense offering ceremony.
Located just 16 kilometers from the heart of Hanoi, Ba Tam Pagoda stands as one of Vietnam’s oldest pagodas, boasting a history of over 1,000 years. Despite undergoing several restorations, the pagoda retains its original architectural grandeur, reflecting the cultural and artistic heritage of the Ly Dynasty. It is recognized as a rare and invaluable national treasure, rich in historical significance.
Within the temple complex lie two artifacts deemed “national treasures” in 2019: a pair of 12th-century lion statues and a 16th-century gilded wooden altar. These pieces hold immense cultural, historical, and artistic value, further emphasizing the impact of Empress-Regent Y Lan’s legacy.
The festival coincided with Duong Xa Tourism Week, offering a diverse range of cultural and recreational activities. These included an incense offering ceremony honoring Empress Y Lan, folk games, sports competitions, and exhibitions of local products under the One Commune One Product (OCOP) initiative. The event provided a vibrant and immersive experience, celebrating the cultural richness of Hanoi and Vietnam as a whole.
The lion dance, a traditional performance to inaugurate the festival.
The festival buzzes with energy and excitement, attracting visitors from near and far.
The ancient Ba Tam Pagoda stands as a testament to Vietnam’s rich historical and cultural heritage.
Unveiling Vietnam and Iran: A Journey of Untapped Tourism Potential
Iran is renowned for its majestic natural landscapes, a captivating tapestry of rugged mountains and vast deserts. Similarly, Vietnam enchants visitors with its breathtaking scenery, showcasing the unique beauty of the East. The warmth and hospitality of the people in both countries are an added allure. As stated by Iranian Ambassador to Vietnam, Ali Akbar Nazari, during the “Iran – Southeast Asia Tourism Roadshow 2024,” there lies untapped potential and opportunities for bilateral tourism development through knowledge exchange and collaboration. This inaugural tourism promotion conference in Vietnam shone a spotlight on the prospects for mutual growth in the tourism sector between Iran and Vietnam.
The Captivating Capitals: Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City Rank Among Asia’s Top 10 Affordable Urban Destinations
Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City have been recognized by the prestigious travel magazine, Travel + Leisure, as two of the most affordable Asian cities to visit at the moment. This recognition solidifies these Vietnamese cities as must-visit destinations, offering incredible value for money and a host of attractions for travelers seeking authentic and budget-friendly experiences. With their unique blend of rich cultural heritage, vibrant atmospheres, and diverse culinary scenes, Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City promise memorable journeys that won’t break the bank.
Mu Cang Chai – Captivating Northern Vietnam’s Secrets
International media outlets have raved about the ethereal beauty of Mu Cang Chai.
The Ultimate Guide to Vietnam’s 8 Breathtaking Destinations
Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Hoi An, and Ho Chi Minh City are among the top destinations in Vietnam that offer tourists unique and memorable experiences. Each of these locations boasts a distinct character and a wealth of attractions that have earned them recognition and acclaim from renowned publications like the Times of India. From the vibrant city life of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to the breathtaking natural beauty of Ha Long Bay and the charming historic streets of Hoi An, visitors are promised an array of unforgettable moments and discoveries that showcase the very best of what Vietnam has to offer.
TripAdvisor: Ninh Binh Named Among the Top 10 Most Captivating Travel Destinations for 2024
TripAdvisor, the trusted travel platform, has announced the winners of its prestigious “Best of the Best Things to Do” awards for 2024, based on the votes of tourists. Among the captivating destinations, Ninh Binh stood out, securing a spot in the “Top 10 Most Attractive Experiences” for the year. This recognition highlights the unique allure of Ninh Binh, captivating the hearts of travelers worldwide.
