Vietnam Spiritual Journey: Pilgrimage of Temples & Tranquility 12 days

Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, you will be warmly greeted by our representative. From the moment you step outside, the vibrant energy of Hanoi begins to reveal itself - a mix of traditional charm and modern buzz that sets the tone for your journey. You’ll be comfortably transferred through the lively streets to your hotel, where you can unwind and settle in after your flight.

In the evening, enjoy a special welcome dinner at a local restaurant featuring vegetarian Vietnamese cuisine. The meal highlights the country’s culinary artistry with fragrant herbs, colorful vegetables.

Morning

At 08:00, your guide greets you in the hotel lobby, and together you set out for a day devoted to the spiritual treasures of Hanoi. The bustle of the city fades quickly as the path leads you into places where incense smoke curls skyward and ancient bells echo with solemn rhythm.

By 08:30, you arrive at Quan Su Pagoda, the headquarters of the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha. Built in the 15th century, it has long been a center for Buddhist teaching and ceremonies. The simple yet dignified architecture and the quiet devotion of monks moving through its halls set a contemplative tone for the day.

At 09:30, your journey continues to Tran Quoc Pagoda, a temple that has stood for more than 1,500 years. Resting on a tiny island in West Lake, it gleams in red and gold against the water’s edge.

A sacred Bodhi tree, grown from a cutting brought from India, shades the courtyard - a living link to the Buddha’s enlightenment. Here, the tranquil beauty of the lake and the elegance of the stupa towers invite both meditation and photography.

By 11:00, you reach One Pillar Pagoda, one of Vietnam’s most distinctive structures. Perched on a single stone pillar above a small lotus pond, the temple resembles a lotus blossom rising from the water, symbolizing purity. Originally built in 1049 by Emperor Ly Thai Tong after a visionary dream, it remains a beloved emblem of Hanoi’s spiritual identity.

Around 12:00, you pause for a vegetarian lunch at a Buddhist-inspired restaurant. Seasonal ingredients are prepared with care, the flavors light yet deeply satisfying, offering a mindful pause in the middle of your pilgrimage.

Afternoon

At 13:30, you leave the city behind and travel to Thay Pagoda, tucked at the foot of Sai Son Mountain. This is not just a temple but a complex of ancient halls, mountain caves, stone bridges, and a lotus-filled pond. It is closely tied to Zen master Tu Dao Hanh, a revered monk of the 11th century whose teachings shaped Vietnamese Buddhism.

By 16:30, you return to Hanoi, the evening light casting a golden glow on the streets as the day’s impressions settle into memory. The sacred calm lingers long after you arrive back at your hotel around 17:30.

Morning

At 08:00, your guide and driver will greet you at the hotel and take you on a scenic drive to Ninh Binh, often called “Halong Bay on land” for its breathtaking limestone karst landscapes.

Your spiritual exploration begins at Bai Dinh Complex, Southeast Asia’s largest Buddhist center. This grand sanctuary is renowned for its immense scale and numerous records, from the largest bronze Buddha statue in Vietnam to the longest corridor of Arhat statues in Asia.

As you wander through its vast courtyards and ornate halls, you’ll feel both awe and serenity. For convenience and to see the highlights, an electric car ride is recommended, though a trek to the mountain’s peak rewards you with sweeping panoramas and inspiring tales from local Buddhist traditions.

After this enriching visit, you will enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, sampling authentic northern Vietnamese dishes that balance freshness and flavor.

Afternoon

The afternoon takes you into the enchanting landscapes of Trang An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its pristine karst towers and mysterious cave system. A traditional sampan boat will carry you gently along jade-green waterways, weaving through limestone cliffs and emerald valleys.

As you glide into the caves, marvel at the dazzling stalactites hanging in surreal formations, each corner revealing nature’s artistry carved over millennia. Local legends and intriguing stories about the cave names add a cultural depth to the natural beauty, making the journey both mystical and memorable.

When the boat adventure concludes, you will return to Hanoi, carrying with you the tranquility of the landscapes and the spiritual resonance of the day.

Dinner awaits at a local restaurant, where the flavors of Vietnam will once again delight your senses before you settle back at your hotel.

Morning

The journey begins early in the morning with a transfer to the sacred Yen Tu Mountain, where the spiritual legacy of King Tran Nhan Tong still echoes through the forests and peaks.

At 08:30, the first stop is Yen Tu Village, nestled peacefully along the Giai Oan Stream. This recreated ancient hamlet recalls the 13th century, when concubines of the Tran Dynasty followed Emperor Tran Nhan Tong here but remained at the foot of the mountain when he ascended for spiritual practice.

Today, the village embodies the essence of a traditional Northern settlement, offering boutique stays, authentic cuisine, and cultural experiences such as craft workshops and festive village nights.

At 08:45, the ascent begins with the Hoang Long Cable Car, a French-made system meeting European aviation standards. Its 360-degree cabins glide smoothly above emerald forests, wildflowers, and seasonal foliage, granting a breathtaking aerial perspective of the Yen Tu range.

By 09:15, you arrive at the Hue Quang Stupa Garden, the spiritual heart of Yen Tu. Here stand memorial stupas of Zen masters from the Tran, Le, and Nguyen dynasties, with the Golden Stupa of King-Monk Tran Nhan Tong at the center.

Built in 1309 by King Anh Tong, this stupa enshrines a relic and statue of the great monk, with its base dating from the Tran era and its restored structure from the Le dynasty. Inside rests a bronze statue now recognized as a National Treasure of Vietnam.

From 10:15 to 10:30, you reach Hoa Yen Pagoda, located at 535 meters above sea level. First constructed in the Ly Dynasty, this main pagoda of the Yen Tu complex became the practice site of many Zen masters, including Tran Nhan Tong, the First Patriarch of the Truc Lam Zen School. Originally called Van Yen, it was later renamed Hoa Yen by King Le Thanh Tong for its lush beauty.

Between 10:30 and 10:45, the journey continues to Mot Mai Pagoda, or One-Roof Pagoda, a unique sanctuary that clings to the mountainside with only half of its roof. Originally a cave named Thanh Long, it became a meditative retreat where King Tran Nhan Tong studied and wrote scriptures. Within the pagoda are sacred relics such as a marble altar and a stone incense burner carved in 1853 with Buddhist mantras and the words “Phat, Phap, Tang” (Buddha, Dharma, Sangha).

At 10:45, a second aerial tram, the Bach Long Cable Car, carries you for 900 meters closer to the Dong Pagoda. Floating through drifting clouds above Yen Tu National Forest, the ride offers an ethereal sense of approaching heaven’s gate.

By 11:00, you pause at the An Ky Sinh, a natural formation tied to the legend of a Taoist sage who came here in the 3rd century BC to seek immortality. Believed to have transformed into stone while praying toward the Western Paradise, this site blends myth with awe-inspiring landscape.

At 11:15, the pilgrimage reaches its culmination at the Bronze Statue of Tran Nhan Tong, modeled after the national treasure at Hue Quang Stupa. Cast in a single piece using traditional Vietnamese techniques, this monumental statue was inaugurated in 2013 to mark the 705th anniversary of his Nirvana, honoring his profound role in shaping Vietnamese Buddhism and spiritual heritage.

Afternoon

From 12:00 to 13:30, you descend the mountain to enjoy lunch at Com Que - Lang Nuong Yen Tu, a rustic restaurant serving regional flavors. The afternoon is then free for relaxation at your own pace.

Evening

Finally, between 16:00 and 18:00, you’ll join the Six Sense Repentance Ceremony at Truc Lam Zen Monastery. This solemn Buddhist ritual, performed in the tranquil setting of the monastery, invites reflection, purification, and mindfulness, bringing the spiritual journey at Yen Tu to a deeply meaningful close.

Morning

After breakfast, at 10:00, your driver will meet you and begin the transfer from Yen Tu to Halong Bay, a journey that gradually shifts from tranquil mountains to the sparkling coastline. The drive itself offers a soothing transition, preparing you for the serene beauty awaiting on the water.

At noon, you arrive at the Halong Bay Cruise Port, where the friendly cruise staff will welcome you with a refreshing drink and assist with the check-in procedure. After a short introduction to the cruise facilities and safety guidelines, you step aboard ready for an unforgettable voyage.

As the cruise begins to glide across the emerald waters, a delectable lunch on board is served, featuring fresh local flavors that taste even better against the backdrop of limestone karsts and scattered islets. Each passing moment reveals another secluded corner of the bay, a natural wonderland unfolding before your eyes.

Afternoon

In the afternoon, the adventure deepens with a choice of exhilarating activities. You can swim in the jade-green waters, feeling the cool embrace of the sea, or kayak into hidden caves, where mysterious chambers echo with centuries of natural formation. These experiences immerse you in the untouched beauty of Halong Bay, leaving you refreshed, exhilarated, and inspired.

NOTE: The cruise route may differ based on your selected cruise.

Morning

In the early morning, you may join a serene Tai Chi session on the sundeck, where slow, deliberate movements blend with the rhythm of your breath and the first rays of sunlight shimmer over the bay.

For those who prefer a leisurely start, you can simply sleep in until breakfast is served, enjoying the calmness of the sea from the comfort of your cabin.

After breakfast, the cruise will set out for a short excursion in Halong Bay, guiding you to another famous attraction that reveals the bay’s timeless charm. As you glide through limestone pillars and hidden grottoes, you will feel once again immersed in the mystical beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

At around 10:00, the ship returns to the harbor, giving you time to pack your belongings and complete the checkout procedure. With a final farewell to the crew, you disembark, carrying with you unforgettable memories of Halong’s emerald waters and majestic cliffs.

Afternoon

From here, you will be transferred directly to Hanoi airport for your onward flight to Da Nang. Upon arrival in the vibrant coastal city, a delicious dinner at a local restaurant awaits, offering you a warm introduction to the flavors of Central Vietnam before you check in at your hotel.

Morning

At 08:00, your driver will pick you up from the hotel to begin a day of spiritual exploration. The journey starts with a visit to Linh Ung Pagoda on Son Tra Peninsula, home to Vietnam’s tallest Lady Buddha statue standing 67 meters high.

From the peaceful courtyard, you can gaze at sweeping ocean views while learning about the pagoda’s blend of modern Buddhist architecture and timeless serenity.

By 10:00, you will reach the mystical Tam Thai Pagoda on the Marble Mountains, an ancient temple built in the 17th century on Thuy Son, the largest peak of the range. As you wander through its halls, you’ll discover its deep significance in Vietnamese Mahayana Buddhism.

For those seeking an extra spiritual touch, a short climb leads to Huyen Khong Cave, where Buddhist altars glow softly within a natural cavern filled with shafts of sunlight.

At 12:00, enjoy a wholesome vegetarian lunch at a local restaurant in either Da Nang or Hoi An, savoring the gentle flavors that reflect Buddhist culinary tradition.

Afternoon

The journey continues at 13:30 with a visit to Phap Bao Pagoda in Hoi An Ancient Town, one of the city’s oldest temples. Known for its tranquil atmosphere and close ties to the local community, it invites you to join a short mindfulness walk around the temple grounds.

At 15:00, explore Chuc Thanh Pagoda, the oldest pagoda in Hoi An, founded in the 17th century by a Chinese monk. Its historic halls preserve Zen traditions that have guided generations of practitioners in central Vietnam.

By 16:30, the pace slows as you enjoy free time in Hoi An Ancient Town. You may choose to sip tea at a quiet teahouse, take a gentle stroll along the Hoai River, or browse for small Buddhist-inspired souvenirs such as prayer beads or books, rounding off a day filled with peace and reflection.

Morning

At 09:00, your private driver and English-speaking guide will greet you at the hotel for a seamless transfer to Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam. Along the journey, you will pass through scenic coastal roads, taking in sweeping sea views and glimpses of rural life, setting the tone for a day filled with both natural beauty and cultural depth.

Upon arrival in Hue around midday, you will enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, sampling authentic central Vietnamese flavors before checking into your hotel for a short rest.

Afternoon

At 14:00, the spiritual journey begins at Tu Hieu Pagoda, a tranquil Zen monastery nestled in a fragrant pine forest. This sacred site holds deep connections with Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh, one of the world’s most influential Buddhist leaders, who spent his monastic years here and has now returned to rest eternally.

The serene grounds, simple meditation halls, and the rustling pines create an atmosphere of reflection, offering visitors a profound sense of peace and timeless wisdom.

By 15:30, you will continue to Tu Dam Pagoda, one of Hue’s most respected Buddhist temples. Celebrated for its graceful architecture and spacious courtyard, Tu Dam has been a pivotal site in the modern history of Vietnamese Buddhism.

The towering Bodhi tree, brought from India, shades the temple grounds while the elegant shrine halls invite moments of stillness, making this a place of both cultural heritage and spiritual inspiration.

At 17:00, you will be dropped off at your hotel in Hue, where you can relax after a meaningful day of exploration. 

Evening

In the evening, savor dinner at a local restaurant, enjoying the refined flavors of Hue’s imperial cuisine.

Morning

Begin your morning with a peaceful visit to Thien Mu Pagoda, one of the oldest and most iconic pagodas in Vietnam, originally built in 1601. Perched on a hill overlooking the poetic Perfume River, this sacred site is instantly recognizable by its 7-story Phuoc Duyen Tower.

As you wander through bonsai gardens and serene monastery grounds, you will feel the harmony of history, nature, and spirituality blending into a space ideal for quiet reflection and learning about Vietnamese Buddhism.

Continue your exploration with a journey into Vietnam’s royal legacy at the Hue Imperial City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that once served as the political, cultural, and spiritual heart of the Nguyen Dynasty.

Passing through towering ancient gates, you’ll step into grand courtyards, palaces, and ancestral temples where emperors performed important rituals. The imperial architecture, symbolic altars, and fusion of Confucian and Buddhist traditions reveal a fascinating chapter of Vietnam’s history, deeply rooted in spirituality and heritage.

After a morning rich in discovery, enjoy a satisfying lunch at a local restaurant in Hue, savoring the delicate balance of flavors that the city’s cuisine is known for.

Afternoon

In the early afternoon, your guide will accompany you to Hue airport for a short domestic flight to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s vibrant southern metropolis. Upon arrival, you will be greeted by your driver and transferred to your hotel for check-in.

Evening 

The evening is yours to relax and explore at your own pace. To complete the day, sit down for dinner at a local restaurant, where you can begin tasting the dynamic flavors of southern Vietnam’s culinary scene.

Morning

Begin your spiritual morning at Vinh Nghiem Pagoda, the largest Mahayana Buddhist temple in Ho Chi Minh City. Completed in 1971, this pagoda harmoniously blends modern construction techniques with traditional Japanese-influenced architecture.

Its 7-story stone tower rises proudly above tranquil courtyards, creating a sacred atmosphere where daily worshippers and large Buddhist ceremonies bring the temple to life.

Continue to Giac Lam Pagoda, the oldest Buddhist temple in the city, founded in 1744. Nestled among ancient Bodhi trees, this sacred sanctuary carries the weight of centuries of devotion.

Inside, rare wooden statues and a striking multi-tiered stupa reveal the artistry and spiritual depth of Southern Vietnamese Zen traditions, offering visitors a glimpse into a living history of Buddhism in Vietnam.

Next, explore Xa Loi Pagoda, the first temple in Vietnam constructed in a modern architectural style. Established in 1956, the pagoda is deeply revered for enshrining a sacred relic of the Buddha and remembered for its pivotal role in the Buddhist movement of the 1960s.

Afternoon

After a morning of exploration, enjoy a flavorful lunch at a local restaurant before departing on a 2-hour scenic transfer through lush countryside to Cu Chi Tunnels. Along the way, you can admire serene rural landscapes, where rice paddies and riverside villages offer a gentle rhythm of southern life.

Upon arrival, step into history at the legendary Cu Chi Tunnels, an intricate network of underground passages once used as homes, supply depots, and bases for revolutionary fighters during the Vietnam War.

Before entering, you will watch a short documentary that vividly illustrates the harsh conditions and ingenious survival strategies of those who lived here. As you crawl through the narrow tunnels, you’ll gain firsthand insight into the resilience and determination of the Vietnamese people.

After the tour, take a moment to unwind by sampling boiled tapioca and hot tea, the simple yet sustaining meal that once fueled local soldiers. For those seeking a more adventurous experience, you can also try shooting an AK-47, M16, or other machine guns at the nearby shooting range (optional, at your own expense).

At 06:30, meet your guide and set off on a private transfer toward Tay Ninh Province, home to the legendary Nui Ba Den, or Black Virgin Mountain, the highest peak in Southern Vietnam at 986 meters. The 2.5 to 3-hour drive takes you through tranquil rural landscapes, where rice paddies shimmer in the morning light and villages along the roadside offer glimpses of everyday southern life.

Upon arrival, board the modern Nui Ba Den cable car, one of the longest and most scenic in Vietnam. As the cabins glide gracefully above lush valleys, you will be treated to breathtaking aerial views of rolling greenery, rugged cliffs, and the expansive southern plains stretching to the horizon - a majestic prelude to the sacred journey ahead.

At the summit, visit Linh Son Thien Thach Pagoda, a serene temple nestled among ancient trees and perched high on the mountain slopes. This sacred site is dedicated to Ba Den, the Black Lady, a revered local deity who symbolizes resilience and spiritual protection.

Continue exploring the mountaintop complex to marvel at the colossal Seated Bronze Buddha, one of the largest statues of its kind in Southeast Asia. Rising powerfully against the mountain backdrop, the statue radiates a sense of peace and strength, embodying the spiritual energy that has drawn pilgrims here for centuries.

Take your time to wander through manicured gardens, photograph the sweeping views, or simply let the crisp mountain air and meditative setting renew your spirit. The harmony between the towering mountain, the vast sky, and the sacred landmarks creates an unforgettable experience of inner peace and connection.

At 15:30, begin your journey back toward Ho Chi Minh City. You will arrive at your hotel around 18:00, carrying with you the serenity and spiritual clarity inspired by this sacred mountain retreat.

On your final day in Vietnam, savor some leisure moments before your journey home. You may take a last stroll through the nearby streets, enjoy a quiet coffee, or simply reflect on the many sacred sites and cultural wonders you have experienced during your travels.

When the time comes, your driver will escort you to the airport. As you pass through its modern halls, you’ll carry with you the memories of spiritual journeys, tranquil landscapes, and heartfelt encounters that have made this trip unforgettable.