Located on the Red River in Dong Cuong commune, Lao Cai province, Dong Cuong Temple is one of the most famous and sacred spiritual destinations in Northwest Vietnam. Every spring, it welcomes thousands of tourists and Buddhists from all over to participate in the Dong Cuong Temple Festival – a unique cultural and religious event deeply rooted in national identity.
Recognized as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2023, the festival is closely associated with the Vietnamese Mother Goddess worship, especially the worship of Mau Thuong Ngan – the deity who governs the mountains and forests. At the same time, the festival is also an occasion to commemorate the deities and heroes who contributed to protecting the border region throughout history.
A highlight of the festival is the procession of the Mother Goddess across the Red River. In a solemn atmosphere, the procession, with its flags, palanquins, offerings, and traditional music, moves across the river, praying for national peace and prosperity, favorable weather, and a bountiful harvest. Besides its spiritual significance, the ritual of sacrificing a white buffalo – a unique cultural feature of the Tay ethnic group – also attracts the attention of many tourists due to its profound spiritual and agricultural beliefs.
Beyond its spiritual value, the Dong Cuong Temple Festival is also a unique cultural exchange space. Tourists have the opportunity to enjoy folk dances, participate in traditional games such as tug-of-war and wrestling, explore the highland market, and experience the characteristic spirit medium rituals of the Mother Goddess worship. These activities contribute to honoring the rich cultural identity of the ethnic groups living in Lao Cai.
Dong Cuong Temple has long been considered one of the most sacred temples in Northern Vietnam. Located amidst majestic mountains and lush green nature, the temple is not only an important place of religious activity but also an attractive destination for those who love exploring Vietnamese culture and history.
Dong Cuong Temple has long been considered one of the most sacred temples in Northern Vietnam. Situated amidst majestic mountains and lush greenery, the temple is not only an important place of worship but also an attractive destination for those who love exploring Vietnamese culture and history. For visitors to Lao Cai, the Dong Cuong Temple Festival is not simply a traditional festival, but also a journey to rediscover the roots of national culture, a place where unique spiritual, historical, and artistic values converge. It’s an opportunity to deeply appreciate the beauty of Vietnamese folk beliefs and the community bonds passed down through generations.
Time of organization: Usually takes place in the first lunar month of each year, peaking on the 5th and 6th days of the Lunar New Year.
Location: Dong Cuong Temple, Dong Cuong Commune, Lao Cai Province.
The Dong Cuong Temple Festival is an attractive springtime destination, enriching the cultural and spiritual tourism map of the Northwest region, attracting an increasing number of domestic and international tourists to experience and explore.
Đỗ Hoa
