Hang Pagoda (Phuoc Dien Tu): A Spiritual Haven on Sam Mountain
Hang Pagoda, officially known as Phước Điền Tự, is nested halfway up the slopes of Sam Mountain (Núi Sam) in Châu Đốc City, An Giang. This sacred site earned its popular name, “Cave Pagoda,” due to its natural cave system and shrines built along the mountainside. It is recognized as a National Historical and Cultural Relic, offering visitors a unique blend of spiritual tranquility, ancient architecture, and stunning panoramic views.
History and Legend: The Virtuous Nun
The pagoda’s history dates back to the 1840s to 1850s. A respected nun named Lê Thị Thơ (Dharma name: Diệu Thiện) established the original hermitage using only bamboo and leaves. She chose this secluded spot for quiet contemplation and to practice traditional medicine to treat local people.
The temple also connects to a well-known local legend. A pair of large, gentle pythons (Thanh Xà and Bạch Xà, or Green and White Serpents) reportedly lived in the nearby mountain cave. They listened to the nun’s daily sermons, symbolizing the harmony between nature and spirituality. Local villagers later rebuilt the hermitage into a larger pagoda to honor the nun’s virtue. The name Phước Điền Tự itself means “Field of Blessings,” reflecting the land’s spiritual importance.
Architecture and Unique Structure
Hang Pagoda showcases ancient Eastern architectural styles, characterized by curved, tiled roofs and intricate carvings. Its structure conforms to the steep mountainside, creating a visually dramatic and solemn space.
The Ascent: Visitors access the main sanctuary by climbing a series of stone steps. This climb offers increasingly breathtaking views of the lush green rice fields and the vast plains of the Mekong Delta stretching to the horizon.
The Main Sanctuary: The main hall houses statues of Sakyamuni Buddha. The surrounding grounds include shrines dedicated to Maitreya Buddha and Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva.
The Caves: The highlight is the natural stone cave system behind the main hall. A narrow, winding tunnel leads deep inside the mountain, providing a cool, quiet, and mystical space for worship. Inside the caves, pilgrims find more Buddha statues, including the revered Thousand-hand Thousand-eye Buddha.
Visitor Information and Practical Tips
Hang Pagoda remains one of the most important pilgrimage sites on Sam Mountain. It attracts large crowds, especially during major Buddhist holidays.
Location: The pagoda is situated on the mountain slope, approximately 1.5 km from Tay An Pagoda.
Address: P. Núi Sam, Châu Đốc, An Giang, Vietnam.
Entrance Fee: There is no entrance fee to visit the pagoda.
Attire: Always wear modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees to respect the sacred environment.
Best Time to Visit: We suggest visiting in the late afternoon. You can enjoy the serene temple grounds, and the viewpoint provides an unforgettable spot to watch the sunset over the Mekong Delta plains.
