Giac Lam Pagoda

Giac Lam Pagoda stands at 118 Lac Long Quan in Tan Binh District of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, northwest of the city centre. Founded in 1744, it is often cited as the oldest Buddhist pagoda in the city and has been restored several times since. The compound sits among tall trees and combines Vietnamese and Chinese architectural styles, with a gate, courtyards and a main hall built in carved wood. A seven-storey octagonal stupa, added in the 20th century, rises beside the main building and is a landmark in the grounds. Inside the main hall, more than a hundred statues and gilded figures of Buddhas, bodhisattvas and guardians stand on altars, along with carved wooden pillars inscribed with Chinese characters, lacquered panels and old furniture. In the garden, an old bodhi tree grown from a cutting taken from the tree in Sri Lanka under which the Buddha is said to have gained enlightenment draws pilgrims. Giac Lam remains a working temple and monastery, and monks and nuns conduct prayers and ceremonies through the day, so the atmosphere is calm and devotional. A visit usually takes about 45 minutes. Visitors should dress with shoulders and knees covered, remove shoes where indicated, and speak quietly. The pagoda is open from about 6:00am to 8:00pm daily, and entry is free, with donations welcome. Early morning, between 6:00 and 9:00am, offers cooler weather and a chance to hear chanting. It is about 25 minutes by Grab from Ben Thanh Market and sees fewer tourists than the central pagodas, making it a quiet stop for those interested in Buddhist heritage.