Pagoda features largest reclining Buddha statue in Vietnam

PANO - Som Rong Pagoda in Soc Trang City stands as a magnificent architectural site and houses the largest reclining Buddha statue in Vietnam. Its grandeur attracts numerous tourists each year for sightseeing and worship.

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Som Rong Pagoda, also known as Botum Vong Sa Som Rong, is located on Ton Duc Thang Street, Ward 5, Soc Trang City. Its splendid beauty, deeply imbued with Khmer cultural elements, draws a large number of visitors. Established in 1785 with simple wooden structures and thatched roofs, the pagoda has undergone multiple renovations and now boasts a majestic appearance.

According to locals, the name "Som Rong" refers to a type of wild tree that once thrived around the pagoda.

The pagoda's fame largely stems from the largest reclining Buddha statue in Vietnam, which measures 63m in length, 22.5m in height, and weighs 490 tons. The statue rests on a platform 28m above ground, painted predominantly in white and light blue hues. Beneath the statue are living and study quarters for monks. The construction began in October 2017 and was completed in 2021.

Tran Minh Ly, Director of the Soc Trang Provincial Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, confirmed that the Buddha statue at Som Rong Pagoda holds the title of the largest reclining Buddha statue in Vietnam. The structure was built to meet the spiritual needs of local people and contribute to the province's tourism development. According to Most Venerable Ly Minh Duc, the pagoda’s abbot, the statue embodies the distinct cultural features of the Khmer people and has become a highlight of the site, attracting pilgrims and tourists alike.

The Buddha’s head and body are intricately crafted, exuding a serene and benevolent expression. Due to its elevated position and massive size, the statue is visible from various parts of Soc Trang City. Nhu Phuong, a visitor from Can Tho City, shared that she visited the pagoda about 20 years ago and was amazed by its transformation.

A child dressed in traditional Khmer attire poses for a photo in front of the reclining Buddha statue.

Covering an area of about 5 hectares, Som Rong Pagoda features ancient yet magnificent structures, with walls that carry a timeless beauty. The lush greenery and towering sao trees provide ample shade across the expansive grounds.

In 2013, the abbot initiated the construction of a sala (ceremonial hall) to offer more spacious and dignified worship spaces for Buddhists. The structure, spanning over 1,000 sq.m. with a total investment of nearly VND 16 billion, was inaugurated in late January 2017. The sala harmoniously blends traditional Khmer architecture with modern elements, characterized by vibrant color schemes. A distinctive feature of the new sala is a statue of Buddha standing atop nine dragons, symbolizing his mission to guide all beings.

Adjacent to the new sala is the old sala, which has been refurbished and now serves as a library with over 1,500 book titles, catering to monks, students, and local residents. The building is adorned with intricate patterns featuring traditional Khmer symbols such as the Naga serpent and the Krud bird deity.

The pagoda grounds are divided into several areas, with a notable stupa near the entrance. Construction of the stupa began in December 2010 and was completed in March 2012. Covering an area of 100 sq.m., the structure stands 25m tall and 11m large with a total cost of over VND 1.2 billion, funded by donors and Buddhists. The stupa features four entrances symbolizing loving-kindness, compassion, empathetic joy, and equanimity. The paths leading up to it are decorated with Naga serpent imagery and traditional Khmer patterns. Its grey color sets it apart from other golden Khmer religious structures, exuding a modern yet solemn aesthetic. The stupa has become a must-visit attraction for young people exploring the pagoda.

Directly opposite the sala buildings stands the main hall, supported by six rows of columns. Its roof features a distinctive structure of three overlapping tiers, with corners adorned by dragon motifs of the Khmer people. The roof edges are further embellished with depictions of the Keynor goddess and the Krud bird deity.

Nguyen Quang Toan, a visitor from Long An, shared enthusiastically, "I really admire Khmer culture and find the pagoda’s architecture and atmosphere fascinating. I’ll definitely come back many more times."

Translated by Song Anh