Khai Doan Pagoda

Khai Doan Pagoda (Chua Sac Tu Khai Doan) is the largest Buddhist pagoda in Dak Lak Province, located in central Buon Ma Thuot City. Built in 1951, it was the last pagoda commissioned under the Nguyen Dynasty. Notable for its architecture blending Hue imperial style with Central Highlands long-house elements, it features wooden structures, curved tile roofs, and extensive grounds with gardens and statues.

Visitors can expect a large, tranquil temple complex in the city center with a main hall, bell tower, drum tower, and landscaped gardens. The architecture combines traditional Hue royal style with Ede long-house influences, featuring dark wooden pillars, ornate roofs, and Buddha statues. Areas to explore include the main prayer hall, courtyard, lotus pond, and garden with Buddhist sculptures. The site is active for worship and offers a quiet, respectful atmosphere for sightseeing and photography.

Construction began in 1951 on the initiative of Empress Dowager Do Thi Hoang (Empress Dowager Tu Cung), mother of Emperor Bao Dai, and was completed in 1953. It was the last pagoda to be granted the 'Sac Tu' royal title by the Nguyen Dynasty. The name Khai Doan combines Khai from Khai Tu and Doan from Doan Huy, the given names of Emperor Khai Dinh and Empress Dowager Tu Cung. The pagoda has served as the central Buddhist center for Dak Lak Province since its establishment.

The pagoda is the headquarters of the Buddhist Sangha of Dak Lak Province and an important center for Buddhist practice in the Central Highlands. It reflects the cultural integration of Hue Buddhist traditions with Central Highlands architectural elements and serves as a place for major Buddhist festivals, ceremonies and community gatherings.