Once touring Bac Lieu and visiting cultural and historical indigenous attractions such as Vung Hung ancient tower, Bac Lieu ancient house, Nha Mat sea tourists should take a step to Xiem Can Pagoda to discover old Khmer décor and experience the stillness and peace of the sanctuary.

The pagoda, built in the nineteenth century, is in Bien Tay Hamlet, Hiep Thanh Commune, about six kilometers from Bac Lieu Township. The pagoda is renowned with imposing architecture filled with Angkor décor with clusters of towers, tombs striking with colorful and meticulous patterns and bas-relief clearly presenting Buddhist culture in harmony with Indian civilization.

The pagoda captures romance and tranquility by poetic surroundings of seasoned trees and many kinds of flowers. Interior designs are frescoes telling the life of Sakyamuni.

The pagoda is not only a place for locals to worship and pray for good luck and health but also the cultural and education center of the Khmer people. There are training courses for Khmer and Bali languages as well as Buddhist teachings.

The pagoda is also a venue to celebrate traditional cultural festivals such as Ok Om bok, Chol Chnam Thmay and Don Ta. Visiting the pagoda on these occasions, tourists can join the animated festive atmosphere and learn more cultural features of the Khmer people.

VietNamNet/SGT