Tien Pagoda – Tien Well – “Traces of Mother Earth” in Lang Son UNESCO Global Geopark (Vietnam)

Tien Pagoda is located within Dai Tuong Mountain (Elephant Mountain) – a mountain shaped like a crouching elephant in the south of Luong Van Tri Ward, Lang Son province, Vietnam. The pagoda was established in 1496 (the 27th year of Hong Duc reign) during the reign of King Le Thanh Tong. Tien Pagoda is a famous scenic spot in Lang Son (part of the Eight Scenic Views of Lang Son). Tien Pagoda is associated with the legend of the Immortal descending to earth to help the people. A special feature is Tien Well – where water naturally emerges the heart of the mountain, clearly demonstrating the connection between geology and water sources. For a long time, this place has been considered a sacred space, associated with the belief in reverence for nature.

Tien Pagoda worships Buddha, the Mother Goddess, and Saint Tran (worshiping Buddha in the front and the Saint Tran in the back). In addition, there is a valuable system of stone inscriptions by famous figures at the site over the ages (three stone inscriptions and one stone inscription).

The traditional festival is held annually on the 18th of the 1st lunar month with many unique traditional rituals of Lang Son province.

Photos: Tịnh Không!