Minh Duc Pagoda

Situated on Thien Ma Mountain in Tinh Khe Commune, Quang Ngai Province, Minh Duc Pagoda is a prominent local spiritual tourism destination. The pagoda is part of the Thien Ma Cultural Complex, located on high ground near the lower reaches of the Tra Khuc River. This location offers expansive views of Co Luy Bridge, the river estuary, the plains, and the distant sea, creating a harmonious blend of Buddhist architecture and the natural landscape.

Overview of Minh Duc Pagoda 

The Minh Duc Pagoda and Thien Ma Cultural Complex spans more than 90 hectares and is divided into areas for religious activities, cultural events, and sightseeing. According to Quang Ngai provincial authorities, the complex comprises Minh Duc Pagoda, a Buddha statue area, a plaza, a Buddhist museum, a stupa, Long Hoa Garden, a meditation hall, and other spaces.

Notably, the main sanctuary alone covers  ​​approximately 10,800 m² and stands 37 meters tall, underscoring the project’s impressive scale.

The complex’s most striking highlight is the colossal 125-meter-tall statue of Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva (Guanyin). Standing upon a lotus pedestal and holding a vase of sacred nectar, the statue faces the sea. It is the tallest Avalokiteshvara statue in Vietnam, surpassing the 72-meter statue at Ba Den Mountain (Tay Ninh) and the 71-meter statue at Linh An Pagoda (Lam Dong).

Furthermore, it holds the record for the tallest Avalokiteshvara statue in Southeast Asia and ranks among the tallest in the world. Due to its immense size and elevated location, the statue is visible from many surrounding areas and has become a distinctive landmark for Minh Duc Pagoda.

Beyond its spiritual significance, the landscape is one of the destination’s most appealing features. From the pagoda grounds, visitors can gaze at the Tra Khuc River as it winds across the plains before flowing into the sea.

The Co Luy Bridge stands out amidst the riverine scenery, while the horizon of the Central Coast stretches out in the distance. It is an ideal spot for sightseeing, photography, and enjoying the tranquil mountain atmosphere.

Minh Duc Pagoda attracts large crowds during Buddhist festivals, the beginning of the year, and the Lunar New Year (Tet). Locals and tourists alike visit to pay their respects, pray for peace, and explore the complex.

Minh Duc Pagoda

• Location: located atop Thien Ma Mountain in Tinh Khe Commune.
• Nearby tourist spots: Thien An Pagoda, My Khe Beach, Son My Memorial Site…