Co Thach Pagoda Hang Pagoda
An ornate 19th-century temple complex built into coastal boulders, offering serene sea views and a unique spiritual experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful sunrise views
Co Thach Pagoda Hang Pagoda
Best Time
Peaceful sunrise views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An ornate 19th-century temple complex built into coastal boulders, offering serene sea views and a unique spiritual experience.
"A truly unique spiritual site built into and around massive boulders, offering stunning sea views."
🌅 Catch the Sunrise
Start your day with a peaceful sunrise over the ocean for a magical experience.
🚫 Leave Stones Behind
Respect the natural beauty; avoid taking stones from Bai Da Bay Mau beach.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Boulder Pagoda Complex
Coastal granite hill
A unique spiritual site built into and around massive boulders, offering stunning sea views.
Bai Da Bay Mau Beach
Foot of the mountain
A picturesque beach known for its colorful stones that change hues at sunset.
Ornate Sculptures and Naga Snakes
Temple grounds
Discover intricate 19th-century carvings and vibrant animal sculptures adorning the temple.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Serenity (and the Sun!)
Respectful Exploration is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Catch the Sunrise
Start your day with a peaceful sunrise over the ocean for a magical experience.
🚫 Leave Stones Behind
Respect the natural beauty; avoid taking stones from Bai Da Bay Mau beach.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the rocky terrain and temple grounds.
💧 Stay Hydrated
The area can be hot and dry; carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Catch the Sunrise
Start your day with a peaceful sunrise over the ocean for a magical experience.
🚫 Leave Stones Behind
Respect the natural beauty; avoid taking stones from Bai Da Bay Mau beach.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear sturdy shoes for exploring the rocky terrain and temple grounds.
💧 Stay Hydrated
The area can be hot and dry; carry plenty of water, especially during warmer months.
🙏 Be Respectful
While commercialization exists, maintain a respectful attitude towards the spiritual site.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Co Thach Pagoda is praised for its unique boulder architecture and the picturesque Bai Da Bay Mau beach, especially during sunrise and sunset. Visitors appreciate the spiritual tranquility and stunning ocean views. However, some find the site has become commercialized with numerous vendors and litter, which can detract from the experience.
"Visited on a normal Friday. There was literally nobody at the temple. Car Parking was free. Not much activity was going on at the temple besides the vendors and beggars on the way to the temple.
The temple has pretty interesting designs and unique location. Very breezy and nice up there. Got an amazing view of the ocean.
There's still some construction going on."
Tung Pham
"Co Thach pagoda (Chùa Cổ Thạch)
I was born in a city in the north of Vietnam, and as the others, my religion is Buddhism (đạo Phật) & I visited many pagodas in the north such as Thầy pagoda, Hương pagoda, Yên Tử pagoda…. but these temples & agodas have been commercialized & I am tired of visiting them in big festivals.
2 weeks ago, I visited a pagoda named the Old Stone Pagoda (chùa Cổ Thạch).
It's not a big or magnificent pagoda but it's really beautiful and peaceful. It is also not concentrated in one place but spreads across the mountainside. At the foot of the mountain is the beautiful Da Bay Mau beach.
If you go to Mui Ne, Hon Rom in Binh Thuan, try visiting this pagoda. Only about 40 km from Hon Rom, you can visit Co Thach Pagoda and swim at Bai Da Bay Mau, a peaceful beach with stones that change color under the sunset."
hoang pham ngoc
"The first Vietnamese pagoda I didn't even go into. They've trashed and ruined it so much that going there would be disrespectful.
Traders, beggars, beggars/traders, garbage everywhere. They’re sitting surrounded by trash and garbage and asking for money, if only they’d better clean up..."
Nikolai Bersh
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Co Thach Pagoda is about 40 km from Hon Rom, near Mui Ne. You can hire a motorbike, take a taxi, or join a local tour. The journey offers scenic coastal views.
Yes, car parking is available and was noted as free by visitors.
Exploring on foot is best to appreciate the unique boulder formations and the beach. Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain can be uneven.
Absolutely! It's a popular day trip destination from Phan Thiet, often combined with Bai Da Bay Mau beach.
While direct public transport might be limited, local buses can get you to nearby towns, from where you can arrange local transport like motorbikes or taxis.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the pagoda itself is generally free, though donations are appreciated. Be aware of vendors and beggars on the path leading to the temple.
The pagoda is typically open from early morning until late afternoon, allowing visitors to experience sunrise and sunset. It's best to check locally for any specific hours.
Bai Da Bay Mau beach is usually accessible without a separate entrance fee, but be mindful of local regulations and vendors.
While possible, visiting during major festivals might mean larger crowds and a more commercialized atmosphere, which some visitors prefer to avoid.
Generally, the site is accessible during daylight hours. It's advisable to avoid visiting too late in the evening for safety and respect.
📸 📸 Photography
The boulder formations against the sea, the colorful stones on Bai Da Bay Mau beach, and the intricate temple carvings offer fantastic photo opportunities. Sunrise and sunset are particularly magical. +1
Yes, photography of the sculptures and temple architecture is generally permitted. Be respectful of worshippers.
Early morning for soft light and fewer people, and late afternoon for the golden hour and sunset colors on the beach stones. +1
While not explicitly stated, always be mindful of privacy and avoid intrusive photography, especially of individuals.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check with local authorities or the pagoda administration before flying a drone to avoid any issues.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, you'll find vendors and small eateries selling local snacks and drinks along the path to the pagoda and near Bai Da Bay Mau beach.
Expect typical Vietnamese street food, seafood snacks, and refreshing drinks. Perfect for a quick bite while exploring.
Many visitors enjoy the local snacks. It's always a good idea to choose stalls that appear clean and busy.
Yes, bringing your own water and snacks is a good idea, especially if you plan to spend a lot of time exploring the beach area.
Vegetarian options might be limited to simple snacks like fruit or some noodle dishes. It's best to inquire locally.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
It's a unique spiritual site built among boulders with a peaceful, serene atmosphere, especially outside of peak times. The adjacent beach adds to its charm. +1
The terrain can be challenging due to boulders and uneven paths. Visitors with mobility issues might find it difficult to explore the entire complex.
Dress modestly out of respect for the religious site. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for navigating the rocky areas.
Some visitors have noted the presence of vendors and beggars on the way to the temple, which can detract from the experience for some. +1
Allow at least 2-3 hours to explore the pagoda complex and the nearby Bai Da Bay Mau beach, especially if you want to enjoy the sunset.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a good idea to pack plenty of water and snacks, as dining options might be limited to small stalls. Emphasize the importance of not taking stones from the beach to teach children about respecting nature. The early morning or late afternoon visits are ideal to avoid the harshest sun and potential crowds.
🚶 Solo Travelers & Backpackers
Embrace the opportunity to connect with the local culture and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, especially if visiting during off-peak hours. Be prepared for the sun and bring essentials like water and sunscreen. The beach area provides a great spot to relax and reflect.
📸 Photographers
Experiment with different angles to capture the scale of the boulders and the intricate details of the temple carvings. The changing light throughout the day offers a dynamic range of photographic possibilities. Remember to be respectful of the spiritual nature of the site while capturing its beauty.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Architecture of Co Thach Pagoda
Visitors often describe it as a 'Boulder Pagoda' due to the sheer abundance of these natural formations. The skilled integration of Buddhist elements into the rocky hillside showcases a distinct approach to temple construction. While some cement sculptures might be considered less refined by art critics, they are seen by others as a genuine expression of devotion from common people.
The pagoda's location is also noteworthy, perched on a low coastal granite hill overlooking the sea. This elevated position provides breathtaking panoramic views, especially during sunrise and sunset, making it a popular spot for both spiritual reflection and photography.
Exploring Bai Da Bay Mau Beach
Visitors are encouraged to admire the beauty of these colorful stones but are strongly advised against removing them. This practice helps preserve the natural charm of the beach for future visitors. The combination of the unique rock formations and the colorful stones makes Bai Da Bay Mau a photographer's delight and a peaceful spot for relaxation.
While the beach offers a serene escape, some visitors have noted the presence of vendors and litter, which can detract from the natural beauty. However, during quieter times, it remains a tranquil place to enjoy the coastal scenery and the unique geological features.
Spiritual Significance and Visitor Experience
However, the visitor experience can be mixed. While many appreciate the peaceful and beautiful setting, some reviews mention a sense of commercialization, with an increase in vendors and beggars, particularly on the path leading to the temple. This can sometimes overshadow the spiritual tranquility for some visitors.
Despite these concerns, the pagoda's unique setting and spiritual ambiance continue to draw visitors seeking a different kind of temple experience. The quiet and serene atmosphere, especially during the off-season or early mornings, is often highlighted as a major draw.
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