Ho Quoc Pagoda Phu Quoc - Famous Spiritual Landmark

Built with unique architecture and possessing a rare location, Ho Quoc Pagoda Phu Quoc is one of the most famous spiritual tourist destinations in Phu Quoc today. Let's explore what makes this pagoda stand out and attract numerous visitors from all over.

Where is Ho Quoc Pagoda Phu Quoc?

Ho Quoc Pagoda, also known as Truc Lam Zen Monastery Phu Quoc, is located in Suoi Lon hamlet, Duong To commune, Phu Quoc City, Kien Giang province. This location is only about 10 km from Phu Quoc Airport and about 20 km from the center of Duong Dong ward.

Ho Quoc Pagoda's opening hours are from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. The pagoda covers an area of 110 hectares, including pristine forest areas.

History of Ho Quoc Pagoda

The history of Ho Quoc Pagoda Phu Quoc is a question that many tourists wonder about when visiting. According to the abbot, the name "Ho Quoc" is given with the meaning of protecting Vietnam's coastline, especially the southern island region, from danger and invasion.

The history of Ho Quoc Pagoda has gone through specific milestones as follows:

• October 14, 2011: The pagoda was officially groundbreaking as part of the spiritual complex with an estimated area of about 110 hectares. The pagoda area accounts for about 12%.
• December 14, 2012: Ho Quoc Pagoda Phu Quoc was officially inaugurated after 14 months of construction.
• From 2013 to 2014: The pagoda continued to be built and completed additional items to enhance aesthetics and attract visitors.
• From 2014 until now: Ho Quoc Pagoda has been a place to preserve and promote the traditional cultural values of Vietnamese Buddhism. Additionally, it has become a famous spiritual tourism destination, attracting many visitors to visit and pray.

Ho Quoc Pagoda Architecture

From a distance, you can see the entire Truc Lam Zen Monastery complex located on a mountainous forest area along the coast. From above, you can see that the space at the pagoda is divided into 3 main areas with 8 items including Three-door Gate, Three Precious Halls, Ancestral Hall, Drum Tower, Bell Tower, Abbot's House, Monk's House, and dining hall, all arranged evenly.

Ho Quoc Pagoda is where the Three Patriarchs are worshiped at the Ancestral Hall, including Nhan Tong, Phap Loa, and Huyen Quang. They are outstanding Zen masters of the Truc Lam Yen Tu sect. The abbot of Ho Quoc Pagoda is Thich Truc Thong Kien (or Most Venerable Thich Thong Kien).

Activities at Ho Quoc Pagoda

When visiting Ho Quoc Pagoda, everyone can witness the incredibly beautiful landscape. From the pagoda area, visitors can admire the vast sea in front and the lush, spacious mountains behind. The peaceful atmosphere of Ho Quoc Pagoda will make visitors feel light and peaceful.

When visiting, besides the main purpose of offering incense, praying for peace in life, and expressing gratitude to those who have contributed to the country, visitors can also enjoy the spacious but solemn space.

Best Time to Visit Ho Quoc Pagoda Phu Quoc

Visitors can visit Ho Quoc Pagoda Phu Quoc at any time of the year. However, the pagoda usually attracts more worshippers and tourists during festivals, holidays, and monthly full moon days.

Directions to Ho Quoc Pagoda Phu Quoc

When traveling to Ho Quoc Pagoda on Phu Quoc Island, it's recommended to use private transportation. If you are traveling with a small group of friends, you can choose to travel by motorcycle to admire the majestic nature along the roads. However, if you are traveling with a large group of friends, you can choose to travel by car for safety and convenience.

• From Phu Quoc Airport: From the Phu Quoc Highway, turn right onto Nguyen Van Cu Street and continue for about 9 km. At the bend, turn around and continue for about 3 km to reach Ho Quoc Pagoda.
• From Duong Dong town: Move along Cach Mang Thang 8 Street, go about 200 meters, then turn onto Duong Dong Street or go on DT45 Street. Continue for about 2 kilometers until you reach TL47 Street. At this point, go straight for about 8 km; at the roundabout, take the 2nd exit and continue for about 11 km. After reaching the Montana resort area, continue for about 1.5 km to reach Truc Lam Zen Monastery Phu Quoc.
• From North Phu Quoc Island: If you take this route, the distance will be quite far, about 50 km. Visitors should choose to go in the direction of Cua Can Ganh Dau for about 20 km, then turn onto TL47 street. Continue for about 8 km; at the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto DT46 street; and continue for about 12.5 km until you reach Ho Quoc Pagoda Phu Quoc.

What to Keep in Mind When Visiting Ho Quoc Pagoda in Phu Quoc?

As one of the famous tourist destinations in Phu Quoc, Ho Quoc Pagoda welcomes hundreds of tourists every day. Therefore, to have a complete visit to this pagoda, you need to pay attention to the following information:

• The pagoda is freely open to serve tourists who come to admire the scenery. Therefore, you should maintain order, and avoid affecting the activities of the pagoda and the surrounding tourists.
• Within the pagoda premises, absolutely no playing or joking, especially in the Main Hall.
• It's not advisable to visit Ho Quoc Pagoda in Phu Quoc on rainy days as the paths can be quite slippery.
• If visiting during the day, it's recommended to go in the early morning or late afternoon and bring a camera or binoculars to enjoy the scenery more comfortably.
• You can prepare additional items like umbrellas, hats, and sunscreen when visiting Ho Quoc Pagoda in Phu Quoc at noon.
• The pagoda has parking for cars, so you can comfortably move around by whichever means you find most convenient.
• Do not litter, as it affects the overall landscape of Ho Quoc Pagoda in Phu Quoc.
• Ho Quoc Pagoda is open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily, free of charge at the gate, so everyone is free to visit, offer incense, pray, or meditate.
• The entrance to Truc Lam Zen Monastery Phu Quoc is quite winding, so you should drive slowly and hold the steering wheel firmly to avoid unfortunate incidents.
• As this is a solemn place, visitors should pay attention to dressing modestly, especially women should avoid wearing too short skirts or shorts when entering the pagoda.

Other Tourist Attractions Near Ho Quoc Pagoda

Here are other tourist attractions near Ho Quoc Pagoda that you should know about.

Phu Quoc Prison

Phu Quoc Prison is a nationally significant historical site where over 32,000 prisoners were once held. When visiting, you will have the opportunity to hear many meaningful historical stories and gain a better understanding of the cruelty of war. This is a great experience to explore and honor the memories of the past.

Address: Located at 350 Nguyen Van Cu street, An Thoi commune, Phu Quoc district, Kien Giang province.

Dinh Cau Phu Quoc

Dinh Cau in Phu Quoc is among the top tourist spots near Ho Quoc Pagoda that tourists can visit. Usually, tourists come here to pray for peace and career advancement.

Within the palace, people worship Tai, Quy, and Lady Ngu Nuong. This palace is located on a rocky cliff facing the sea, where visitors can easily admire the majestic beauty of nature and the ocean.

Address: Located in Ward 2, Duong Dong town, Phu Quoc, Kien Giang.

Ham Ninh Fishing Village

Ham Ninh Fishing Village in Phu Quoc is not only beautiful with its peaceful and pristine scenery but also an attractive destination due to its many exciting sea tourism activities along with delicious seafood restaurants. If you have the opportunity to visit this famous fishing village, don't miss the beautiful sight of Ham Ninh Fishing Village at dawn or dusk.

Address: Located in Ham Ninh commune, Phu Quoc district, Kien Giang.

Khem Beach

Khem Beach in Phu Quoc, also known as Bai Kem, is not only one of the most ideal tourist destinations in Kien Giang but also a gathering place for many beautiful beaches. Honored in the list of "top 50 most beautiful beaches in the world," Khem Beach has become an unmissable destination for any traveler.

Address: South of Phu Quoc City, Kien Giang Province.

The Finest Quality Salinda Resort Phu Quoc Island  

Salinda Resort Phu Quoc Island is one of the most luxurious, modern, and high-class resorts in Phu Quoc. When you step into the resort grounds, you will be immersed in a beautiful space with modern architecture, beautiful natural landscapes, and astonishing comfort.

In addition, the resort also has amenities such as swimming pools, spas, cocktail lounges, gyms, and health and beauty care services to provide a perfect relaxation experience for tourists visiting here.

Salinda Resort Phu Quoc Island is an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy luxury, class, and relaxation on their trip to Phu Quoc.

Above is a summary of the most basic information about Ho Quoc Pagoda Phu Quoc. When you come here, you will not only immerse yourself in nature to feel peace and relaxation but also find a spiritual place to worship and pray for good things. Don't miss out on this destination when planning a trip to Phu Quoc!