Long Son Pagoda Nha Trang
Iconic Buddhist pagoda in Nha Trang, home to a massive White Buddha statue offering panoramic city views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat & crowds
Long Son Pagoda Nha Trang
Best Time
Beat the heat & crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic Buddhist pagoda in Nha Trang, home to a massive White Buddha statue offering panoramic city views.
"The climb is worth it for the breathtaking views and the awe-inspiring Giant White Buddha."
🎯 Dress Respectfully
Cover shoulders & knees. Essential for temple visits.
👟 Climb Smart
Wear comfortable shoes for the ~200 steps. Take your time!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Giant White Buddha
Summit of the hill
An enormous, iconic white Buddha statue offering panoramic views of Nha Trang city and the coast.

Reclining Buddha
Midway up the hill
A serene reclining Buddha carved into the hillside, surrounded by intricate monk figures.
Panoramic City Views
Summit of the hill
Breathtaking 360-degree views of Nha Trang, the mountains, and the South China Sea.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Dress Code & Respect
Timing Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Dress Respectfully
Cover shoulders & knees. Essential for temple visits.
👟 Climb Smart
Wear comfortable shoes for the ~200 steps. Take your time!
📸 Capture the Views
The summit offers stunning panoramic city and sea vistas.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring water, especially if visiting during warmer hours.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Dress Respectfully
Cover shoulders & knees. Essential for temple visits.
👟 Climb Smart
Wear comfortable shoes for the ~200 steps. Take your time!
📸 Capture the Views
The summit offers stunning panoramic city and sea vistas.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring water, especially if visiting during warmer hours.
💰 Free Entry
No admission fee, but donations are welcome.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Long Son Pagoda for its breathtaking views from the summit and the impressive scale of the Giant White Buddha. The peaceful atmosphere and well-maintained grounds are also frequently highlighted, making it a worthwhile cultural and spiritual experience. Some note the climb can be tiring, and advise on respectful attire.
"Beautiful temple and Buddha on the top of the mountain. Meet to climb up a bit. Beautiful view from the top. On the way you can buy different souvenirs, cool drinks. I went around lunch time, not that busy. On the way back from the village."
Baktybala Torgautova
"We visited Long Son Pagoda on a weekend and were surprised to find it relatively quiet, which made the experience peaceful and enjoyable. The complex is beautifully maintained, with ornate temple architecture, bonsai-lined walkways, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Be prepared for a bit of a climb — there are quite a few steps to reach the giant seated Buddha statue at the top, but it’s well worth the effort. The views over Nha Trang from up there are incredible, offering a panoramic perspective of the city skyline, mountains, and coast.
About halfway up, you’ll find a serene reclining Buddha statue, carved into the hillside, surrounded by carved monk figures. It’s a calm spot to take a break before continuing making your way down.
There is also a bell tower as well to see."
John Winter
"The giant Buddha was breathtaking. There’s also a reclining Buddha with carvings that were so intricate in detail. It was beautiful. There’s also a golden Buddha and a lovely garden. There was no cost to enter. Being that it is a temple, it is advised to dress respectfully."
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What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Long Son Pagoda is easily accessible from Nha Trang city center. You can take a taxi or a Grab (ride-sharing app) which is a convenient and affordable option. Many visitors also choose to rent a motorbike for more flexibility. The pagoda is located on the western side of the city, about a 10-15 minute ride from the main tourist areas.
Long Son Pagoda is located inland from the main Nha Trang beaches. It's a short drive, typically around 10-15 minutes by taxi or motorbike, making it a feasible addition to a beach day or a separate excursion.
While possible, walking to Long Son Pagoda from the main tourist areas of Nha Trang might take around 30-45 minutes, depending on your starting point and the heat. It's generally more comfortable to use transport like a taxi, Grab, or motorbike.
Yes, there are parking facilities available at Long Son Pagoda for motorbikes and cars. You'll typically find designated areas near the entrance.
Absolutely! Many visitors include Long Son Pagoda as part of a larger itinerary, perhaps on their way back from visiting the countryside or other inland attractions. Its central location within Nha Trang makes it a convenient stop.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Long Son Pagoda has free entrance. You can explore the grounds and admire the statues without any admission cost. Donations are appreciated but not mandatory.
Long Son Pagoda is generally open daily from early morning until late evening, allowing visitors ample time to explore. It's advisable to check for any specific holiday hours, though it's typically accessible throughout the day.
Since there is no entrance fee, you do not need to book tickets in advance for Long Son Pagoda. You can visit anytime during its operating hours.
The main restriction is related to dress code. Visitors are advised to dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees, especially when entering the main temple buildings.
Yes, visiting during festivals like Vesak can be a unique experience, with the pagoda often adorned with lanterns and a festive atmosphere. However, expect larger crowds during these times.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit near the Giant White Buddha offers incredible panoramic views of Nha Trang, perfect for landscape shots. The reclining Buddha and the intricate details of the temple architecture also make for beautiful photographs. Drone shots from above can capture the scale of the pagoda and its surroundings.
Photography is generally allowed on the grounds of Long Son Pagoda. However, it's always respectful to be mindful of worshippers and avoid intrusive photography inside the main temple halls.
Early morning or late afternoon provides the best lighting for photography, with softer light and fewer harsh shadows. These times also tend to be less crowded, allowing for more unobstructed shots.
Don't miss the chance to photograph the sheer scale of the Giant White Buddha from various angles. The intricate carvings around the reclining Buddha and the colorful lanterns (especially during festivals) are also highly photogenic.
Drone photography is possible and can offer stunning aerial views of the pagoda and Nha Trang. However, always check local regulations regarding drone usage in public spaces and near religious sites to ensure compliance.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
A typical visit to Long Son Pagoda takes about 1 to 2 hours. This allows time to explore the grounds, climb to the Giant White Buddha, admire the reclining Buddha, and take in the views.
The climb involves approximately 200 steps. While it requires some physical effort, it's generally considered manageable for most visitors. Taking breaks and going at your own pace is recommended, especially in the heat.
Besides the Giant White Buddha and the Reclining Buddha, you can explore the main temple buildings with their ornate architecture, beautiful gardens, and a bell tower. The complex is well-maintained and offers a peaceful atmosphere.
Restrooms are usually available within the pagoda complex. You might also find vendors selling souvenirs, drinks, and incense on the way up to the main Buddha statue.
Crowd levels can vary. Weekends and holidays might be busier, while weekdays and early mornings/late afternoons tend to be more peaceful. Visiting during off-peak hours is recommended to avoid crowds.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
While there aren't formal restaurants within the pagoda itself, you'll often find small stalls selling drinks, snacks, and souvenirs on the pathways leading up to the main Buddha statue. For a wider selection of dining options, head back to the city center.
Souvenir stalls typically offer religious items like incense, small Buddha statues, prayer beads, and local handicrafts. You can also find refreshing drinks and snacks.
Souvenir prices are generally reasonable, and purchasing items can support local vendors. However, it's always good to compare prices if you plan to buy multiple items.
For authentic Vietnamese cuisine, it's best to explore the local eateries and restaurants in Nha Trang city center, which is a short drive away. You'll find a wide variety of local dishes there.
While the pagoda itself is more about the spiritual experience, consider trying local Nha Trang specialties like 'Bun Cha Ca' (fish cake noodle soup) or fresh seafood at restaurants in the city after your visit.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to dress respectfully, ensuring children wear outfits that cover their shoulders and knees. Bringing plenty of water is crucial, especially for younger ones, to stay hydrated during the climb. The panoramic views from the top can also be a fun way to point out landmarks and engage kids with their surroundings.
🚶 Solo Travelers & Backpackers
Solo visitors can take their time exploring the grounds at their own pace, soaking in the spiritual atmosphere without feeling rushed. It's also a great spot for photography, allowing you to capture memorable shots of the iconic Buddha and the cityscape. Be mindful of the dress code and enjoy the peaceful ambiance.
🧘 Spiritual Seekers & Culture Enthusiasts
The Giant White Buddha and the Reclining Buddha are not just impressive statues but also symbols of peace and enlightenment. Visitors can find a quiet corner for meditation or simply absorb the serene energy of the place. Engaging with the spiritual aspects of the pagoda can be a deeply enriching experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Significance of Long Son Pagoda
The most striking feature is the Giant White Buddha statue, a monumental 24-meter-tall figure seated atop the hill. This iconic landmark is visible from many parts of Nha Trang and serves as a powerful symbol of peace and enlightenment. The climb to reach it, though involving around 200 steps, rewards visitors with breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the surrounding coastline.
Beyond the main Buddha, the pagoda grounds feature a beautiful Reclining Buddha carved into the hillside, surrounded by detailed monk figures, offering a tranquil spot for reflection. The complex also includes a bell tower and various smaller shrines, each contributing to the pagoda's spiritual ambiance. Visiting Long Son Pagoda offers a glimpse into Vietnamese Buddhism and a moment of peace amidst the bustling city.
Experiencing the Views and Atmosphere
Upon reaching the top, the panoramic views of Nha Trang are truly awe-inspiring. You can see the city stretching out, the mountains in the distance, and the sparkling South China Sea. It's a perfect spot for photography, offering a unique perspective of the coastal landscape. Many visitors describe the feeling as finding peace above the clouds, a moment of serenity amidst their travels.
The overall atmosphere at Long Son Pagoda is one of tranquility and reverence, despite the presence of visitors. The well-maintained grounds, the gentle breeze at the summit, and the sheer scale of the Buddha statues contribute to a deeply peaceful experience. It's a place where you can connect with the spiritual side of Vietnam and enjoy a moment of quiet reflection.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit