Giac Lam Pagoda

Giac Lam Pagoda is the oldest Buddhist temple in Ho Chi Minh City, located at 118 Lac Long Quan in Tan Binh District. Originally built in 1744 as Cam Son Pagoda and renamed in 1774, it is recognized as a national historical relic. The pagoda is notable for its traditional southern Vietnamese architecture, ancient Bodhi tree, 118-year-old bronze bell, and extensive collection of Buddha statues and wood carvings.

Visitors can expect a tranquil Buddhist temple complex set among gardens and old trees in an urban area of Tan Binh. The site includes a three-entrance gate, main ceremonial hall, stupa, and courtyards with statues, incense burners, and a large Bodhi tree. Inside, visitors see gilded Buddha statues, wooden altars, calligraphy, and historic artifacts. The atmosphere is quiet and devotional, with monks, worshippers, and areas for prayer and photography in the outer grounds.

Built in spring 1744 by Ly Thuy Long, a native of Minh Huong, under the Nguyen Lords, originally named Cam Son Pagoda. In 1774, Zen Master Vien Quang of the Lam Te Zen sect took charge and renamed it Giac Lam Pagoda. It is considered the oldest pagoda in Ho Chi Minh City and was recognized as a National Historical and Cultural Relic on November 16, 1988.

An important Buddhist religious site of the Lam Te Zen lineage and a center of Buddhist practice in southern Vietnam. The pagoda preserves traditional Vietnamese Buddhist architecture, wood carving, and statuary, and houses sacred relics, ancient scriptures, and a Bodhi tree. It serves as a place of worship, festivals, and cultural education for the local Buddhist community.