Bao Lam Pagoda Phu Yen - Where the Soul of the Land Meets the Sea.

Bao Lam Pagoda in Phu Yen, also known as Buu Lam Pagoda, is situated in Lien Tri Village, Binh Kien Commune, Tuy Hoa City, Phu Yen Province, approximately 3km away from the city center. Founded during the reign of King Minh Mang (1820-1841) by the Lam Te sect's founder, Bao Lam Pagoda has a diverse history. In 1974, the pagoda was relocated and renamed Bao Lam Pagoda, signifying the protection of the mountains and forests.

Bao Lam Pagoda is a special place that attracts local residents and tourists with its serene and peaceful scenery. It also houses the Lieu Quan Phu Yen Buddhist College, which provides a 4-year education for Buddhist monks.

Introduction to Bao Lam Pagoda

Geographical Location

Bao Lam Pagoda is situated in Lien Tri Village, Binh Kien Commune, Tuy Hoa City, Phu Yen Province, approximately 3km away from the city center, belonging to the Northern Buddhist tradition.

Historical Formation of Bao Lam Pagoda in Phu Yen

Bao Lam Pagoda was founded during the reign of King Minh Mang (1820-1841) by the founder of the Lam Te sect. The pagoda was initially built near Bau Sen, hence it was also known as Buu Lien Pagoda (named after the precious lotus flower). Overcoming various challenges, in 1974, the pagoda was relocated to its current location, approximately 500m from its original site, and was renamed Bao Lam Pagoda, symbolizing the protection of the mountains and forests.

In 1996, the Provincial Buddhist Association of Phu Yen established the Lieu Quan Phu Yen Buddhist College at this location. The college provides training for 25 to 30 novice monks in each class, with a 4-year curriculum. This place serves not only as a center for spiritual practice but also as a school closely connected to the childhood memories of the monks, who grow up, receive higher education, and achieve success here.

• In 1999, the pagoda constructed a statue of Thich Ca Buddha, which stands at a height of 18 meters.
• In 2004, a bell tower was added, reaching a height of 12 meters, and a large bronze bell weighing 1,500 kilograms was cast.
• By 2006, the main hall underwent significant restoration. Covering an area of 240 square meters and standing at a height of 17 meters, the main hall is dedicated to worshiping Lord Buddha Thich Ca Mau Ni, with altars on both sides for worshiping Quan Yin and Dia Tang. Behind the main hall is the temple of Master Lieu Quan (1667-1742).
• In 2010, the pagoda constructed a triple gate and the A Di Da Hall, further enhancing the architectural beauty of the site.

The mystical beauty of Bao Lam Pagoda in Phu Yen is truly captivating. The pagoda is built on a land area of over 5 hectares, strategically positioned to harness the energies of the earth and water. It nestles against the mountain's back, with gently sloping high mountain ridges on either side that converge in front towards Nguyen Tat Thanh Avenue. Within its precincts, a small stream meanders serenely, and a stone well is nestled in the mountainside, providing a continuous source of cool and refreshing water throughout the year.

Bao Lam Pagoda is sheltered by Chua Mountain, facing the northwest to block the sun and wind, while welcoming the southeast winds. This geographical positioning ensures that the pagoda remains warm during the winter and cool during the summer, with temperatures inside the pagoda area differing from the outside environment by about 1-20 degrees Celsius. The land here epitomizes a Vietnamese proverb: "Behind planting beans, in front cultivating peanuts, both hands hold hoes close together!" This reflects the happiness bestowed by nature upon this location.

Since Bao Lam Pagoda erected the statue of Thich Ca Buddha Tower until now, the economy of this region has seen significant growth, and the villages have become vibrant. Particularly, the younger generations have excelled in their education, and the local people take pride in this achievement.

What makes this place even more special is the presence of the Lâm Tỳ Ni Flower Garden, a replica of the place where Queen Maha Maya gave birth to Lord Buddha, where Lord Buddha meditated for 49 days under the Bodhi tree, and where he attained enlightenment according to Buddhist teachings. Additionally, there is the Lâm Viên Thập Bát La Hán, a common theme in Buddhist art that has a profound impact on people's lives.

Overall, this place has preserved its original state, creating unique staircases and modestly-sized structures that blend harmoniously with the natural surroundings. Thoughtful consideration has been given to factors like the view, wind direction, stone terrain, and slopes, resulting in a unified and integral architectural composition that is closely connected to the mountains and forests.

When visiting Bao Lam Pagoda, tourists often spend more than two hours capturing the scenic beauty. The area's geographical characteristics of "Royal Land - Village Pagoda - Scenic Paradise" often attract local residents for lunch breaks during summer. It's also a popular spot for students taking pre-wedding photos and a rendezvous point for young people returning from afar.

What's more, when you visit Bao Lam Pagoda, you'll learn about the place where Lawyer Nguyen Huu Tho achieved liberation on October 29, 1961, near the tomb of Mrs. Du Ky.

Here are some important reminders when visiting Bao Lam Pagoda:

• Limit the use of mobile phones in the main temple area or at places of worship.
• Avoid wearing revealing or offensive clothing.
• Refrain from taking photos when tourists have their backs turned towards the Buddha statue.
• Walk lightly and avoid disrupting the peace and tranquility of the temple.
• Do not eat or litter within the temple grounds.
• Do not burn incense or scatter money recklessly.

In conclusion, Bao Lam Pagoda offers a serene and tranquil space, nestled at the foot of Chua Mountain. It's a beloved destination for the people of Phu Yen and a stopping point for travelers coming to Tuy Hoa City. People visit here to find peace, relaxation, engage in temple rituals, and pray for the continued peace and prosperity of their homeland.