Serenity at Thanh Lanh Pagoda

Hidden amidst the forests and mountains of Binh Tuyen Commune, Phu Tho Province (formerly Trung My Commune, Binh Xuyen District, Vinh Phuc Province), Thanh Lanh Pagoda greets visitors with the pure beauty of a sacred and tranquil monument. Far from the bustling city streets and commercial activity, this place preserves an atmosphere of peace, allowing every step taken within the temple to wash away the burdens of the outside world.

The pagoda is bathed in a dominant golden hue, with dark wooden columns and curved roofs shaped like dragon heads. The red tiled roofs are adorned with intricately carved eaves, curling upwards like the wings of a phoenix in flight. What makes Thanh Lanh truly unique is the balance between traditional Vietnamese architecture and modern design elements. The structure is not grandiose or ostentatious, but rather dignified enough to honor the solemnity of the Buddhist space.

The panoramic view of Thanh Lanh Pagoda, located in Binh Tuyen Commune, Phu Tho Province, as seen from the front.

As one enters the main hall, the gentle light reflecting off the gilded Buddha statues fills the space, creating an ethereal glow from within. At the center of the altar is the Three-Buddha statue – symbolizing the past, present, and future – surrounded by Bodhisattvas, each statue telling a different story of compassion. The wooden panels and couplets, painted and gilded with gold, are intricately carved with dragons, phoenixes, and lotus flowers, enhancing the atmosphere of reverence and elegance. The subtle fragrance of incense, the steady rhythm of the wooden bell, and the sound of distant chimes make it easy for worshippers to find a sense of inner peace.

If the main hall is a place for internal meditation, the outdoor garden of statues extends the message of compassion. The statue of Avalokitesvara stands on a large lotus pedestal, gazing down at the world with a compassionate expression. Surrounding it are long rows of white statues of the Arhats, arranged in a semicircle facing the center. Each statue represents a different emotional state – joy, sorrow, meditation, and smiles – serving as a reminder of the spiritual journey that humans undertake amidst the complexities of life.

Thanh Lanh Pagoda is not only a pilgrimage site for Buddhists from Phu Tho but also a cultural and spiritual space open to the community. Young people come here seeking tranquility, the elderly seek peace of mind, and young families bring their children to appreciate the beauty and learn how to smile at life. During major festivals such as Vu Lan, Buddha’s Birthday, and the Great Prayer Ceremony, Thanh Lanh Pagoda attracts thousands of visitors, yet it retains its graceful, organized, and serene atmosphere, never becoming chaotic.

Trung Dong