5 Beautiful Pagodas Near Hanoi Ideal for a Spring Trip to Pray for Peace

These five beautiful pagodas near Hanoi offer serene, ancient atmospheres—perfect for sightseeing and praying for peace at the start of the new year (the Year of the Horse, 2026).

Spring excursions have long been a cherished cultural tradition for the Vietnamese people. Many choose to visit pagodas to pray for peace, admire the scenery, or capture photos of family reunions. These trips hold not only spiritual significance but also contribute to the fresh, vibrant atmosphere of the spring season.

At the start of the new year, many people seek out quiet, meditative spaces—places where the mind can relax and the heart finds tranquility. If you are planning a spring trip to Hanoi or its surrounding areas, the list below will help you choose the perfect destination. The sacred, ancient ambiance of these five beautiful pagodas near Hanoi offers a relaxing experience, making them ideal for a spring journey dedicated to seeking peace.

Finding peace and serenity at the start of the new year

1. Dia Tang Phi Lai Pagoda – A meditative sanctuary amidst the mountains and forests
Address: Thanh Binh Commune, Ninh Binh Province (formerly Thanh Liem District, Ha Nam Province). Located approximately 70 km from Hanoi.

Nestled against a mountain and surrounded by lush greenery, Dia Tang Phi Lai Pagoda offers a sense of seclusion from the hustle and bustle of urban life. A unique highlight here is the opportunity for visitors to walk barefoot around the pagoda courtyard, fostering a deep sense of inner calm.

The white gravel courtyard, designed to evoke a meditative spirit, serves as the pagoda’s distinctive feature. Furthermore, the temple grounds feature a harmonious blend of greenery, water features, and Buddhist architecture, evoking a sense of serenity the moment one arrives.

2. Bo Da Pagoda – A unique ancient temple in the Kinh Bac region
Address: Located on Phuong Hoang Mountain (Mount Bo Da), north of the Cau River, in Van Ha Ward, Bac Ninh Province. It is approximately 60 km from Hanoi.

Bo Da Pagoda sits atop Phuong Hoang Mountain and dates back to the 11th century, having undergone numerous major renovations over the years. The temple impresses visitors with its traditional ancient Vietnamese architecture, comprising nearly 100 interconnected buildings constructed from indigenous materials such as fired brick, roof tiles, terracotta, and rammed earth.

Bo Da Pagoda also houses Vietnam’s most precious and extensive collection of ancient Buddhist woodblocks, featuring nearly 2,000 carved blocks dating from the 18th to the early 20th century.

3. Dau Pagoda – Vietnam’s oldest Buddhist center
Address: Tri Qua Ward, Bac Ninh Province. It is approximately 32 km from Hanoi.

Dau Pagoda is considered the first Buddhist center in Vietnam. It is also the birthplace of the “Tu Phap” (Four Dharmas) worship—a belief system centered on four goddesses that embodies a unique fusion of Indian Buddhism and indigenous folk beliefs. With its long history and ancient architecture, the pagoda is a popular choice for travelers seeking a peaceful spring excursion near Hanoi.

A standout feature of Dau Pagoda is the 17-meter-tall Hoa Phong Tower, situated in the center of the courtyard and constructed from handmade fired bricks. The temple complex follows the “noi cong ngoai quoc” (inner sanctuary enclosed by outer halls) architectural layout, a characteristic style of ancient pagodas in Northern Vietnam. It evokes a sense of solemnity yet remains welcoming.

4. Keo Pagoda – A 17th-century Buddhist architectural masterpiece
Address: Vu Tien Commune, Hung Yen Province (formerly Vu Thu District, Thai Binh Province). Located 110 km from Hanoi—about a 1-hour and 45-minute drive.

Keo Pagoda is one of Northern Vietnam’s most exemplary Buddhist architectural sites, dating back to the 17th century. The complex comprises over 100 structures, including the three-entrance gate (*tam quan*), worship halls, the main Buddha sanctuary, a bell tower, corridors, and monks’ quarters.

The pagoda’s most iconic feature is its three-tiered bell tower, built upon a square brick foundation. This structure epitomizes the quintessence of traditional Vietnamese wooden architecture.

5. Mia Pagoda – A Buddhist artistic heritage site of the Xu Doai region
Address: Son Tay Ward, Hanoi (situated within the ancient village of Duong Lam). Located approximately 45 km from central Hanoi.

Mia Pagoda is one of the few ancient pagodas in the Xu Doai region that has preserved its original architecture over the centuries. Built in the 17th century atop a laterite hill, the pagoda is associated with the charitable contributions of Lady Mia (*Bà Chúa Mía*). It exudes a serene and sacred atmosphere, making it a must-visit destination near Hanoi for those seeking a profound cultural and spiritual experience.

Mia Pagoda currently houses 287 precious Buddha statues, including renowned sculptures such as the Snow Mountain Buddha (*Tuyết Sơn*), Guanyin (*Quan Âm*), and the Eight Vajra Guardians (*Bát Bộ Kim Cương*), all of which embody significant artistic and spiritual value.