Quỳnh Lâm Temple

About

Quỳnh Lâm is a renowned temple associated with Trúc Lâm Buddhist history in Đông Triều. Today’s setting combines reconstructed buildings with stelae, bells, stupas and architectural remains from different periods.

Visitor information

Founded

Dating from the Lý dynasty, it developed into an important Buddhist centre under the Trần dynasty.

Visiting hours

Visiting hours may change with the temple’s practice schedule; please ask the temple before your visit.

Fees

No fee has been confirmed by the temple. Please check notices at the site; external services may be charged separately.

Address

Phường Bình Khê, tỉnh Quảng Ninh; khu vực xã Tràng An, Đông Triều trước đây.

Highlights

• ✓A renowned temple associated with Pháp Loa, the second Trúc Lâm patriarch.
• ✓Reconstructed shrines together with objects from different historical periods.
• ✓A traditional festival at the beginning of the second lunar month.

History and origins

The temple dates from the Lý period and expanded considerably during the Trần dynasty in association with the second patriarch Pháp Loa. During the Lê period, Zen master Chân Nguyên contributed to its revival. After major losses in the 20th century, the complex was reconstructed on the old site and inaugurated on 12 December 2020. The famous Maitreya image mentioned among the Four Great Bronze Objects of An Nam no longer survives intact at the temple and should not be confused with today’s devotional statues.

Architecture & surroundings

The new complex contains shrines dedicated to Śākyamuni, Maitreya and Lưu Ly, arranged in spacious timber-framed halls with tiled roofs. In addition to the devotional images, visitors can learn about stone stelae, old bells, column bases and funerary stupas described in heritage documentation. These objects should be distinguished from reconstructed buildings to understand the temple’s historical layers correctly.

Cultural value

Quỳnh Lâm is associated with monastic education and the development of the Trúc Lâm school under the Trần dynasty. Its festival and conservation work continue the relationship between Buddhist practice, village life and the memory of Đông Triều.

Events & festivals

The 2026 traditional festival was held from 19 to 21 March, corresponding to the first through third days of the second lunar month, with a water procession, ceremonies and folk games. Future dates may change; please consult local and temple announcements.