Nestled on a hill surrounded by lush greenery, Buu Long Pagoda, also known as the Buu Long Monastery (Thu Duc City, Ho Chi Minh City), stands out for its unique and captivating architectural style.

According to the pagoda's records, in 1942, after receiving Buddhist ordination and guidance from Zen Master Ho Tong, lay practitioner Vo Ha Thuat, a former member of the Bien Hoa Provincial Council, purchased the forested land to establish a monastery.

In 1958, after the establishment of the Vietnamese Theravada Buddhist Sangha, he offered the monastery to Zen Master Ho Tong, who founded the Buu Long Monastery. Over the years, the pagoda has undergone multiple renovations and expansions.

The design uniquely blends architectural influences from India, Myanmar, Thailand, and Vietnam. It incorporates ancient Buddhist cultural elements alongside styles reminiscent of the Nguyen Dynasty.

One of the pagoda’s most striking features is the Gotama Cetiya stupa, constructed in 2007 in the style of Funan culture to enshrine relics of the Buddha and revered monks.

Spanning 2,000 square meters and standing about 70 meters above sea level, the stupa can accommodate up to 2,000 people. It is the largest stupa in Vietnam and is considered an architectural marvel of Buu Long Pagoda.

Entirely painted in pristine white, the stupa features five large and small towers, with the central tower rising seven stories high. The tower’s golden dome, adorned with wind chimes, adds a radiant elegance to the structure.

Unlike many other temples, Buu Long Pagoda does not use incense or candles, as it follows the Theravada Buddhist tradition. Only a statue of Buddha Shakyamuni is present for worship. Visitors need not bring incense or candles but are encouraged to offer their sincere respect and admiration.

The pagoda’s grounds, covering 11 hectares, are lush with ancient trees, vibrant greenery, and serene landscapes, creating a tranquil atmosphere that enhances its peaceful and spiritual appeal.

In 2019, Buu Long Pagoda was recognized by the world-renowned travel platform National Geographic as one of the 10 most beautiful Buddhist temples in the world.

Over the years, the pagoda has become a popular pilgrimage and sightseeing destination for Buddhists and tourists, both local and international.

The temple welcomes visitors in the mornings until 11:00 AM and reopens its stupa in the afternoons around 2:00 PM for guests to view the sacred relics of the Buddha and the Arahants.

From the highest level of the stupa, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the temple’s grounds and the surrounding area.

Located away from the bustling city, amidst a hill of verdant trees, Buu Long Pagoda exudes serenity and simplicity. As a result, it is often crowded with visitors, especially on weekends, seeking peace, photographs, or spiritual fulfillment.