Vinh Long is one of a province in the Mekong Delta with many Khmer ethnic people living there. Coming here, visitors will easily come across many pagodas with the cultural identity of the Khmer people. Each pagoda is a unique architectural work of art. Among them, Nodol Pagoda is a name that cannot be ignored.
Overview about Nodol Pagoda
Located 40km south of Tra Vinh ward, in Cay Da hamlet, Dai An commune, Nodol Pagoda, also known as Giong Lon Pagoda, Co (Stork) Pagoda is an ancient pagoda built more than 300 years ago. According to records, Nodol Pagoda was first built in 1677 and was later restored many times. After hundreds of years of history, Nodol Pagoda still retains its special ancient architectural beauty.
Nodol Pagoda has an architectural style imbued with Khmer culture.
According to local people, the special name Co Pagoda has existed for a long time, originating from the fact that the pagoda grounds have become a shelter for thousands of birds, storks… to live here. Thanks to the quiet space of the pagoda and the bamboo hedges, rows of star trees and oil trees growing densely, they have become ideal resting places for them. From white storks, ibises, yellow-billed storks, black-billed storks, cormorants, etc., all gather here. The most populous of these are the stork family with many species: white storks, ibises, red-headed storks, yellow-headed storks, yellow-billed storks, black-billed storks, etc.
For the people of Cay Da hamlet, Nodol Pagoda is not only an important religious site but also a cultural tourist attraction that attracts visitors. From the pagoda gate to each construction inside, every detail bears the mark of Khmer Theravada Buddhist culture. It can be said that Nodol Pagoda also plays an important role in maintaining and developing the traditional culture of the Khmer people in Vinh Long.
Every year, during traditional festivals, Nodol Pagoda is also a gathering place for a large community of people to participate in unique religious and cultural activities. On these occasions, visitors come here not only to admire the architectural beauty and sacred space of the pagoda, but also have the opportunity to learn about the culture, history and immerse themselves in the life of the Khmer people in Vinh Long.
Unique architecture of Nodol Pagoda in Vinh Long
Stepping in from the outside, visitors are immediately attracted by the majestic and imposing three-door gate with its characteristic three prominent towers. The pagoda gate is decorated with many unique and outstanding decorative patterns, attracting the eye from the first visit.
The entrance of Nodol Pagoda
The pagoda grounds are surrounded by rows of green trees running along the long wall with eye-catching carved and curved patterns. Entering the grounds are a series of structures such as the sanctum, the stupa, the monk’s house, the meeting house… built in harmony but no less majestic and splendid.
The sanctum is lavishly decorated with many sophisticated patterns.
The central structure is the main hall with a curved roof designed in the shape of a dragon’s tail, above which are pointed towers in the shape of Khmer pagodas. The pillars and corridors of the main hall are decorated with familiar Khmer images such as the four-faced god Mohabrom, Divine Bird Kayno, the god Riehu, Mahaknot…
Four-faced god – a familiar symbol of the Khmer people.
The outside of the main hall is painted in gold and decorated with sophisticated patterns. The space inside the main hall is also very solemnly decorated with a very large statue of Buddha Shakyamuni in the middle along with small statues on the sides. The walls and ceiling are decorated with many splendid and colorful paintings, depicting Buddhist themes.
Inside the sanctum.
From the architectural features to the cultural activities, Nodol Pagoda is a symbol of the connection between beliefs and culture in the Khmer community. Coming to Nodol Pagoda, visitors feel their souls relaxed, calm and want to blend in and immerse themselves in wild nature.
Useful information about Nodol Pagoda
- Best for: solo, family, student, pilgrims.
- Entrance: Free
- Tourist spots nearby: Museum of Khmer Ethnic Culture, Ba Om Pond, Ang Pagoda, Vam Ray Pagoda…
Source: collected by An
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