Long Son Pagoda

If you are tired of beaches, another destination recommended in Nha Trang is Long Son Pagoda. The pagoda was first built on Mount Trai Thuy in 1886 and named Dang Long Pagoda. In 1900, it was damaged in a storm and then rebuilt down the mountain to its present location onThai Nguyen Street.

Long Son Pagoda has undergone several restorations respectively in 1940, 1971, and 1975. The new pagoda is now the largest one inVietnam. It is dedicated to Buddhist monks who set themselves on fires to protest Diem regime.

Entrance to Long Son Pagoda is found on the north side of Nha Trang. There are 150 steps to the hilltop, but around the half way point, take a break to view the80mlong sleeping Buddha. The central building of the spot is not exceptional, the main feature instead being the huge white statue of Sakyamuni Buddha sitting on a lotus pedestal, which erected in 1964-1965,24mhigh not including its pedestal being14m. The large Buddha’s base used to be a library until it was closed after the Tet Offensive when it was discovered that the Viet Cong used the library to plan attacks on the city. Long Son Pagoda is at the base of the stairs that lead up to the giant Buddha, it is very ornate with a strong Chinese influence. After climbing the numerous flights of stairs, you'll also be rewarded with a bird's-eye view of Nha Trang, the rice fields and city below are absolutely breathtaking.

When visit the scenic spot, watch out for the hecklers and scammers asking for miscellaneous fees.