Địa Tạng Phi Lai Temple

About

Địa Tạng Phi Lai lies at the foot of the mountains in the Khe Non range, where worship halls and gardens blend into the greenery. Stone paths through white gravel are a recognisable feature, inviting a slower pace and a quiet atmosphere for visitors.

Visitor information

Founded

Traditionally said to date to the 11th century; restored, expanded and known as Địa Tạng Phi Lai since 2015.

Visiting hours

Visiting hours may vary with the temple's daily religious schedule. Please contact the temple before your visit.

Fees

No fee has been confirmed by the temple. Please check the information posted on arrival; outside services may be charged separately.

Address

Thôn Ninh Trung, xã Thanh Bình, tỉnh Ninh Bình; trước đây thuộc xã Liêm Sơn, huyện Thanh Liêm, Hà Nam.

Highlights

• ✓White-gravel courtyards, stepping stones and architecture integrated with greenery.
• ✓Architectural materials and objects studied by museum and archaeological institutions.
• ✓Spaces for study, voluntary service and quiet visits at the foot of the mountain.

History and origins

According to the Ninh Bình Provincial Museum, local tradition traces the temple's origins to the 11th century. Surveys in 2020 recorded architectural materials and objects dating from the 13th to the 19th century, providing evidence of the area's history. From 2015, the temple was restored, its landscape expanded and its name changed to Địa Tạng Phi Lai. Present architecture should therefore be distinguished from the ancient traces discovered and preserved at the temple.

Architecture & surroundings

The complex includes the Three Jewels hall, patriarchs' hall, shrines to Đức Ông and Đức Thánh Hiền, a lecture hall and communal areas. Trees, white-gravel courtyards, stepping stones and tiled-roof buildings follow the terrain. A stair route up the mountain behind offers higher views of the landscape, subject to opening conditions and visitors' fitness.

Cultural value

Besides serving Buddhist study and worship, the temple conserves objects that contribute to research on Buddhist history in the Thanh Liêm area. Voluntary service, Buddhist learning and care for the landscape reflect community life around the temple.

Events & festivals

Sources record summer retreats, Lunar New Year activities and other Buddhist gatherings at the temple. Dates, age limits and participation conditions are announced separately for each programme; please register and confirm beforehand to help your visit proceed smoothly.