Thai Vi Temple built by
Tran Thai Tong, king under the Tran dynasty, is highly
favored by tourists in Ninh Binh Province thanks to its
long history and magnificent entourage.
The temple was built by King Tran Thai Tong in 1258
after the first and glorious victory over the invading
Chinese forces. Historical records state that the king,
who was 41 years old, after the victory handed power
over to his son and went to a small town located in
todays Ninh Hai commune, Ninh Binh Province.
He stopped at the small town at the foot of a mountain,
viewing the Ngo Dong River and built a small temple in
Van Lam cave. The temple worshipped Buddha and three
saints. The king meditated daily and helped villagers
build a prosperous life. The temple was featured during
the second battle against Chinese invaders in 1285.
Though it is located one kilometer from the crowded and
noisy station leading to the famous Three Cave, tourists
will find a unique peace and mediation air in Thai Vi
Temple. The temple lies against a small mountain,
surrounded by nine bigger mountains and creating the
most spectacular scene that can take your breath away.
Local people have compared it to the image of nine
dragons fighting for one pearl, and the pearl is where
the temple located.
The temple has undergone much reconstruction and the
latest was in 2006, carried out by a Buddhist living in
Hanoi. It worships King Tran Thai Tong, his wife and
son. Until now it has attracted thousands of tourists
every month. The number of visitors doubles when local
people organize the Thai Vi temple festival from March
14 to 17 from the lunar calendar.
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