Explore Long Son Pagoda – Nha Trang’s Timeless Hilltop Gem

Nestled at the foot of Trai Thuy Mountain, Long Son Pagoda is a sacred Buddhist site and a cultural treasure that draws visitors with its serene atmosphere and iconic architecture. Beyond its spiritual charm, Long Son Pagoda serves as a perfect starting point to explore Nha Trang’s rich landscape of attractions.

1. Essential Travel Info for Visiting Long Son Pagoda

1.1. Location

Long Son Pagoda is located at 22 - 23 Thang 10 Street, Phuong Son Ward, Nha Trang City, Khanh Hoa Province. Sitting quietly beneath the foot of Trai Thuy Mountain, the pagoda is like a gentle low note in the symphony of the bustling seaside city.

The complex consists of two main parts: Long Son Tu below, with its timeworn curved roofs, and Hai Duc Pagoda above, where the majestic White Buddha Statue rests peacefully among the clouds. From this elevation, the entire city of Nha Trang unfolds like a dreamy painting, where the sea meets the mountains.

Long Son Pagoda is nestled at the foot of Trai Thuy Mountain, right in the heart of Nha Trang City (Source: Internet)

1.2. Opening Hours And Entrance Fees

Visitors are welcome to explore and offer prayers at the pagoda at any time of the year. However, to avoid crowds, it’s best to steer clear of major holidays and the 1st and 15th days of the lunar month, when many locals visit for worship.

If you seek a moment of peace, choose a weekday, especially in early spring or late autumn, when the weather is gentle and the spirit is calm. The most beautiful time to visit is in the early morning, when the sunlight is still tender and your heart is quietly open.

• Opening Hours: All day
• Entrance Fees: Free

Long Son Pagoda is open all day with free admission (Source: Internet)

1.3. Easiest Ways to Reach Long Son Pagoda

Long Son Pagoda is located right at the foot of Trai Thuy Hill, not far from the heart of Nha Trang city, making it very easy to reach with different means of transportation based on your preference and budget.

• Car: From the city center, head along Thai Nguyen Street and follow signs to Long Son Pagoda. There’s a small parking area near the entrance. The parking fee is about 30,000 VND (~ USD 1.15).
• Motorbike: You can park near the gate for around 5,000 VND (~ USD 0.19). Just avoid rush hour or rainy weather if you want a more pleasant ride.
• Taxi: Fast and convenient, a taxi ride from central Nha Trang takes only about 5 - 10 minutes. The fare ranges from 8,500 to 15,500 VND/km (~ USD 0,33 - 0,6) . It’s ideal if you prefer comfort and direct access without the hassle of parking.

Located near downtown Nha Trang, Long Son Pagoda is easily accessible by car, motorbike or taxi, depending on your preference (Source: Internet)

2. A Glimpse Into The History of Long Son Pagoda

Long Son Pagoda stands as one of Nha Trang's most significant Buddhist landmarks, embodying centuries of Vietnamese spiritual heritage and architectural evolution.

• 1886: Originally established as Dang Long Tu Pagoda on Trai Thuy Hill by monk Ngo Chi.
• 1900: Relocated to the current Trai Thuy Hill location due to natural disasters affecting the original site.
• 1930s: Underwent major reconstruction and expansion, adopting the name Long Son Pagoda.
• 1960s - 1970s: Served as an important spiritual refuge during wartime, providing sanctuary for local communities.
• 1963: Witnessed historic Buddhist protests against religious persecution under the Diem regime.
• 1975 - Present: Recognized as a National Cultural Heritage site, continuing active religious practices.

Significance: Long Son Pagoda represents the resilience of Vietnamese Buddhism, blending traditional Mahayana practices with local folk beliefs. Today, it remains an active center for Buddhist worship, cultural preservation, and spiritual education, attracting thousands of pilgrims and visitors annually while maintaining its role as Nha Trang's premier Buddhist sanctuary.

Long Son Pagoda is a long-standing cultural and spiritual symbol of Nha Trang with roots dating back to the 19th century (Source: Internet)

3. Discover The Distinctive Architecture of Long Son Pagoda

Long Son Pagoda in Nha Trang spans over 3,000 square meters and showcases a unique architectural style marked by impressive, intricate carvings rich in East Asian cultural elements.

3.1. Exquisitely and Uniquely Carved Details

As you step into Long Son Pagoda, you’ll be greeted by intricately carved stone towers, lantern pillars, and delicate bas-reliefs that blend seamlessly into the curving roofs of the pagoda’s traditional architecture. One of the most striking features is a mosaic mural crafted from glazed ceramics, portraying a dragon’s face and the sacred swastika (卍) symbol of Buddhism.

In the main hall, though modest in scale, solemnity reigns. At its heart sits a statue of the Buddha in mid-sermon. Flanking the sanctuary are two colossal ceremonial candles. Each weighs 900kg and stands 3.4 meters tall, adorned with dragons and lotus blossoms and holding a national record for their sheer size and artistry.

The roof of the pagoda is exquisitely carved with Buddhist architecture (Source: Internet)

The ceramic mosaic mural of a dragon and the swastika symbol stands out with deep Buddhist symbolism (Source: Internet)

3.2. Unique Sacred Buddha Statues

The pagoda houses several bronze Buddha statues, each nearly 2 meters tall and weighing over 700kg, crafted with reverence and skill. Pause at the 44th step of the staircase and you’ll encounter the majestic statue of the Reclining Buddha entering Nirvana, 7 meters in length and 5 meters in height. Behind him, a beautifully sculpted relief shows 49 disciples solemnly reciting prayers, their hands clasped in deep devotion, capturing a sacred moment in Buddhist history.

From Trai Thuy Hill’s summit, the whole view of Nha Trang city opens up in view (Source: Internet)

The 7-meter-long Reclining Buddha radiates peace, offering one of the most iconic scenes in Long Son pagoda photos (Source: Internet)

Reliefs of 7 monks who burned themselves to protest against Ngo Dinh Diem's government to eliminate Buddhism (Source: Internet)

The whole temple has exquisite Buddhist architecture, frequently captured in detailed Long Son pagoda photos (Source: Internet)

4. Must-Try Experiences at Long Son Pagoda

4.1. Conquer 193 Steps to Worship the Giant White Buddha

Embarking on the ascent of 193 stone steps, visitors journey through lush greenery and tranquil surroundings. Each step brings them closer to the majestic 24-meter-tall White Buddha, seated peacefully atop Trai Thuy Hill. This iconic statue is a spiritual highlight and one of the most recognizable symbols of Nha Trang.

Once at the summit, visitors are rewarded with sweeping panoramic views of the city below and the vast blue sea beyond. The climb is moderately challenging, so wearing comfortable shoes and bringing water is highly recommended to make the experience more enjoyable.

Conquering 193 stone steps leading up to the Buddha statue helps you enjoy the cool, peaceful green space and feel the sacredness (Source: Internet)

4.2. Take Unmissable Photography Moments

Long Son Pagoda's intricate architecture, from detailed dragon motifs to gracefully curved roofs, and the towering White Buddha, creates endless photographic opportunities. Positioned 50 meters above sea level, it offers spectacular panoramic views of Nha Trang. For optimal results, visit during golden hour lighting in early morning or late afternoon, while maintaining respectful etiquette by avoiding direct Buddha statue portraits and keeping cameras silent.

4.3. Attend Dharma Talks and Join Short-Term Retreats (As Temple’s Schedule)

Long Son Pagoda enhances spiritual journeys through occasional Dharma talks and meditation retreats led by resident monks, offering valuable insights into Buddhist teachings and mindfulness practices. These meaningful sessions welcome both locals and international visitors seeking inner peace and deeper connection with the temple's tranquil energy. Since schedules vary, visitors should inquire directly at the temple or check local travel boards for current offerings.

Visitors can join occasional talks and meditation retreats for a deeper spiritual connection and insight into Buddhist teachings (Source: Internet)

4.4. Pray for Peace & Join Buddhist Festivals (Vu Lan Festival, Buddha’s Birthday)

Throughout the year, Long Son Pagoda comes alive during major Buddhist festivals such as Vu Lan Festival and Buddha’s Birthday. These events are celebrated with vibrant lanterns, flower offerings, traditional rituals, and communal chanting, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in Vietnamese spiritual culture. It's a time when the temple becomes a hub of devotion, reflection, and togetherness.

As these festivals follow the lunar calendar, checking the specific dates beforehand is recommended for those wishing to attend and experience these sacred occasions (Source: Internet)

5. Top Travel Tips for a Meaningful Visit

To make the most memories of your visit to Long Son Pagoda, it's important to be mindful of some notes. Here are some useful tips to ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience:

• Hire a motorbike taxi if you prefer not to climb the stairs: The path to the Giant White Buddha includes 193 steps. For elderly visitors or those with limited mobility, motorbike taxis are available near the pagoda gate.
• Bring small change for parking and offerings: Parking costs around 5,000 VND - 30,000 VND (~USD 0.19 - 1.15). Donation boxes are located inside the main hall for those who wish to light incense or make offerings. Having small bills ready will save you time.
• Dress modestly out of respect for the sacred space: Avoid sleeveless shirts, short skirts, or tight clothing. Choose long pants and loose, breathable tops. Robes may be available at the entrance if your attire is not appropriate.
• Speak softly and maintain a peaceful atmosphere: This is a spiritual sanctuary. Refrain from speaking loudly, laughing excessively, or playing music. Avoid live streaming or making disruptive noise, especially near the prayer halls.
• Do not pick flowers or disturb plants in the temple grounds: The flowers and trees are considered sacred and are often offerings to the Buddha. Admire them with your eyes and camera, but avoid touching, picking, or damaging them.
• Choose your visiting time according to your purpose: For a quiet, meditative experience, visit on weekdays, especially in the early morning when the atmosphere is cool and tranquil. If you wish to witness local customs and lively worship scenes, visit on the 1st or 15th day of the lunar month when the pagoda fills with pilgrims and offerings.

Visitors to Long Son Pagoda should pay attention to small notes to make the journey more complete and respectful (Source: Internet)

6. Other Destinations Near Long Son Pagoda

Beyond the peaceful grounds of Long Son Pagoda, there are several nearby attractions worth exploring. Whether you're interested in culture, history, or simply enjoying the local vibe, these destinations offer a deeper glimpse into the charm of Nha Trang.

Nha Trang Institute of Oceanography

Address: No. 1, Cau Da, Tran Phu Street, Nha Trang City, Khanh Hoa Province

Located about 7 kilometers from Long Son Pagoda, the Institute of Oceanography is one of Vietnam’s most comprehensive marine research and exhibition centers. A must-see highlight is the enormous whale skeleton, stretching 28 meters long and standing 3 meters tall, reconstructed with 48 vertebrae.

This museum preserves and showcases more than 20,000 specimens representing over 4,000 marine species (Source: Internet)

Tram Huong Tower

Address: Tran Phu Street, Nha Trang City, Khanh Hoa Province

Roughly 5.3 kilometers from Long Son Pagoda, Tram Huong Tower sits at the center of Nha Trang City on Tran Phu Street. This six-story structure is shaped like a five-petal flower and is considered an architectural and cultural icon of the city.

Surrounding the tower’s base are five sculptures symbolizing Nha Trang’s sea waves (Source: Internet)

Ponagar Temple

Address: Hai Thang Tu Street, Vinh Phuoc Ward, Nha Trang City, Khanh Hoa Province

Approximately 4.4 kilometers away from Long Son Pagoda, Ponagar Temple stands proudly on a hill more than 50 meters above sea level. Every tower has four distinct levels and inside, visitors can find finely carved granite statues of goddesses seated in lotus positions, exuding an aura of power and grace.

Ponagar Temple is one of the most iconic Cham architectural complexes in Central Vietnam (Source: Internet)

Nha Trang Cathedral

Address: 1 Thai Nguyen Street, Phuoc Tan Ward, Nha Trang City, Khanh Hoa Province

Located just 2,1 kilometers from Long Son Pagoda, Nha Trang Cathedral is commonly known as the Stone Church or Mountain Church. It was constructed in the 1920s and features striking Gothic-style design, tall bell towers, and vivid stained-glass windows. This historical and cultural landmark is a popular site for sightseeing, prayer, and photography, especially among couples and architecture enthusiasts.

Nha Trang Cathedral is a functioning Catholic church with French colonial architecture (Source: Internet)

Whether you're a history enthusiast, a culture lover or a spiritual seeker, the vicinity of Long Son Pagoda offers a well-rounded travel experience in the heart of Nha Trang. As part of the SkyTeam alliance, we link Vietnam to over 1,000 destinations around the world. Start your next journey in comfort and style, Book now and discover the spirit of Vietnam in every flight.