Phat Da Pagoda in Ha Tien, Kien Giang Province

History of Formation and Development of Phat Da Pagoda

According to historical records, in 1945, Venerable Thich Chi Hoa, during his pilgrimage, arrived in Ha Tien and established a small pagoda named Tinh Xa Chi Hoa. At that time, the pagoda was quite simple, with a thatched roof. The pagoda utilized the abandoned brick kiln as the main hall for chanting, worshiping, and offering ceremonies. Hence, this pagoda is also known as Lò Gạch Pagoda.

Due to the changes of the times, the pagoda went through years of neglect and suffered severe damage. Many structures and components within the pagoda deteriorated. Therefore, in 2009, the Provincial Buddhist Executive Board of Kien Giang appointed Venerable Thich Hue Tam as the abbot of the pagoda and renamed it Phat Da Pagoda. Phat Da Pagoda underwent restoration and reconstruction according to the wishes of the local community.

Exploring the Architecture and Space of Phat Da Pagoda

Phat Da Pagoda features a unique and impressive architecture, blending Vietnamese and Chinese styles. The pagoda gate has a dark-colored tiled roof designed symmetrically. On the roof, there are two dragons winding around a globe, symbolizing luck and power. The pagoda gate has three arches with three phrases: "Phat Da Tu" (Phat Da Pagoda), "Phap Quang Chieu" (Dharma Light Shines), and "Tinh Xa Chi Hoa" (Chi Hoa Monastery).

Inside the pagoda gate is a spacious courtyard with two rows of shady trees. On the left side of the pagoda is a Bodhi tree about 60 years old. Notably, the tree roots only grow forward and sideways without encroaching on the pagoda, creating an interesting scene. At the base of the tree is a statue of Buddha Shakyamuni in a serene meditation posture.

Behind the pagoda gate is the main hall, where Phat Da is worshipped, also known as Buddha Amitabha. Phat Da is a bodhisattva known for spreading Buddhist teachings in India and China. Phat Da is considered a symbol of peace, happiness, and prosperity. Inside the main hall, there are statues of other bodhisattvas such as Quan The Am, Dia Tang, Manjusri, and renowned monks.

Visitors can admire the ancient architectural relics, historical traces, and commemorative structures within the pagoda. Tourists can also learn about the history, culture, and beliefs of the local people. Phat Da Pagoda is an unmissable destination when visiting Ha Tien.

Phat Da Pagoda is an ancient and sacred pagoda in Ha Tien, Kien Giang Province. Also known as Lò Gạch Pagoda, it is situated on the grounds of an abandoned brick kiln. Belonging to the Northern Zen Buddhist sect, located at the foot of Binh San mountain, next to the tomb of Mac Cuu, Phat Da Pagoda boasts a unique and impressive architecture that combines Vietnamese and Chinese styles. The pagoda holds significant historical and cultural value for Ha Tien and Kien Giang. Beyond being a place of Buddhist worship, it is a site that preserves and promotes the traditional values of the nation. Phat Da Pagoda is also a spiritually appealing tourist destination for both domestic and international visitors exploring Ha Tien.