The Perfume Pagoda, so-called because of nearby fragrant blossoms, is located in the environs of Hanoi and is always a fascinating place to visit. This intriguing attraction is easily accessible for travellers staying at a convenient serviced accommodation in Hanoi like the Somerset West Lake Hanoi. This attractive rest offers comfortable well-furnished interiors and courteous hospitality, making it an appealing place to stay.
The Perfume Pagoda, also known as the Inner Temple, or in the local tongue as Chua Huong, is situated at the heart of a highly venerated religious site located within the limestone hills of the region. This much revered location consists of a maze of shrines, most of them Buddhist, which have been constructed in proximity to one another. The Perfume Pagoda lies near the centre of this complex.
According to tradition the initial temple constructed in this location was built as far back as the 15th century, although local folklore states that the location was discovered much earlier. The craggy local foothills are a region of extraordinary natural splendour, featuring luxuriant vegetation, streams and caves. Of the many different temples in the compound the majority are Buddhist, whilst a few relate to animist beliefs.
The Perfume Pagoda itself is situated within an immense and intriguing cavern, the entrance to which resembles the open mouth of a dragon. Within this vast expanse the visitor will notice an elaborate shrine adorned with numerous statues, prominent among which are figures of Buddha and the Buddhist deity Quan Am. Visitors will also see an array of large stalagmites and stalactites, which are often touched by devotees who believe that they possess the power to bestow good luck and even miracles. You will find that the interior of this cavern is refreshingly cool and pleasant.
The route to the temple is an attraction in itself, with appealing scenery that includes an array of fruit trees and other greenery. A visit to the Perfume Pagoda will always be an experience to treasure.
Uditha Dharmawardhane is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Roland Lefevre. He specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe. Google+
