Linh Phuoc Pagoda

1. Overview

Linh Phước Pagoda, also known as the “Ve Chai Pagoda” (meaning “Glass Bottle Pagoda”), is one of the most iconic and visually striking temples in Đà Lạt, Vietnam. Located about 8 kilometers from the city center, in Tự Phước village, Ward 11, this temple is famous for its intricate mosaic decorations made from broken glass, porcelain, and ceramics. It is both a sacred spiritual site and an incredible work of art.

2. Unique Characteristics

Linh Phước Pagoda is most well-known for its colorful and intricate mosaic design. Almost every surface—walls, ceilings, statues, and towers—is decorated with thousands of small pieces of porcelain, glass bottles, and ceramic shards.

Some outstanding features include:

  • A seven-story bell tower (30 meters high) – the tallest in Đà Lạt.

  • A giant 17-meter-tall statue of Avalokiteshvara (Quan Âm) made entirely of immortal flowers (dried everlasting flowers).

  • A 49-meter-long dragon sculpture, made of over 12,000 glass bottles, winding around the temple yard.

  • A large main hall with a golden statue of Shakyamuni Buddha, surrounded by mosaic murals depicting Buddhist legends.

The temple holds several national records for its architecture and religious art.

3. History and Spiritual Significance

Linh Phước Pagoda was founded in 1949 and completed in its current form in the 1990s, thanks to the vision and effort of Venerable Thích Tâm Vị and the local Buddhist community.

Its significance lies not only in its spiritual purpose but also in its:

  • Artistic representation of Buddhist teachings through murals and symbols.

  • Promotion of Vietnamese cultural craftsmanship, especially ceramic and mosaic work.

  • Role as a pilgrimage site, where many Buddhists come to offer prayers and admire the beauty of Buddhist devotion.

4. Visiting Experience

A visit to Linh Phước Pagoda is like stepping into a mosaic wonderland. Visitors can:

  • Admire the architectural details and take photos of unique mosaic patterns and sculptures.

  • Climb the seven-story bell tower, ring the large bell, and make a wish.

  • Explore underground tunnels that display scenes from Buddhist hell (a symbolic representation meant to educate about karma and morality).

  • View numerous Buddhist statues, relics, and shrines, each with symbolic meanings.

  • Reflect in quiet spaces while enjoying the artistic surroundings.

Linh Phước is both spiritual and spectacular—perfect for meditation, photography, and learning about Vietnamese Buddhism.

5. How to Get There

Linh Phước Pagoda is located in Tự Phước village, about 8 km east of Đà Lạt city center. It can be reached by:

  • Motorbike or taxi (around 15–20 minutes from central Đà Lạt).

  • Đà Lạt–Trại Mát train, a short scenic railway ride ending near the pagoda—a charming experience for tourists.

Entrance is free, but respectful behavior and modest clothing are expected.

6. Conclusion

Linh Phước Pagoda is not just a temple—it is a masterpiece of religious art and a testament to the creativity of Vietnamese Buddhist architecture. Whether you're a spiritual seeker, an art lover, or a curious traveler, this one-of-a-kind temple in Đà Lạt offers a unique and unforgettable experience.

It’s a perfect place where faith meets artistry, and tradition meets innovation.