Thanks to a foundation of massive, robust columns, a unique temple in Tri Ton, An Giang appears to float mid-air when viewed from afar. Its structure stands out vividly against the lush, untamed backdrop of the surrounding mountains and forests.

Located about 44 kilometers from downtown Chau Doc, Ta Pa Temple (in Nui To commune, Tri Ton district, An Giang province) is a renowned spiritual destination. Its distinctive architecture and mystical location make it a popular site for thousands of visitors annually.

Ta Pa Temple was first built in 1999 on a nearly 4,000-square-meter area. Initially constructed from wood and thatched roofing, the temple underwent four major renovations. By the end of 2019, it had taken on a more modern appearance and gained wider recognition among travelers.

With architecture deeply rooted in Khmer Theravada Buddhist culture, Ta Pa Temple harmoniously blends traditional features with modern color schemes. The temple roof features stylized fish-scale tiles with pointed ends and a large triangular tower encircled by smaller spires.

The temple interior is richly decorated with murals, statues, and bas-reliefs of various sizes, each crafted with high artistic value.

One of the most striking features of Ta Pa Temple is its main hall, which is built into the mountainside and supported by 120 reinforced concrete columns ranging from 5 to 18 meters in height. These columns elevate the temple above the terrain, creating the illusion that it is floating above the treetops and rocky cliffs.

Inside the main hall, artistic depictions of the Buddha's life and scenes from Khmer culture are portrayed in vivid, lifelike detail.

To reach the temple, visitors must ascend a 70-meter-long, 15-meter-wide staircase with 240 steps leading from the mountain base to the main hall. This design adds a sense of pilgrimage and wonder to the visit, making the journey to Ta Pa Temple both accessible and memorable.

Its elevated position offers expansive views of the surrounding natural beauty. From the main hall, one can gaze across the fertile landscapes of Tri Ton district. During rice season, fields transition from lush green to golden yellow, their fragrant scent blending with the fresh, open air.

Visitors arriving in the flood season are treated to the majestic sight of vast waterscapes dotted with vibrant green sugar palm groves. Local photographer Nguyen Quoc Dat shares that the temple is open year-round with daily visiting hours. Each season brings a unique charm: lush greenery in the rainy season, and golden hues during the rice harvest.

Dat recommends combining a visit to the nearby Ta Pa Lake, often referred to as the “love valley” or “mountain lake” of An Giang. The lake area also features eateries and services such as costume rentals and instant photo booths to enhance the experience.

Tri Ton district also offers other scenic spots for sightseeing and photography, including Soai Chek Lake, O Ta Soc Lake, Co To Lake, and the Heaven Gate arch.

Before leaving, visitors should try local specialties such as Ot Thum grilled chicken, mountain-climbing beef, papaya salad, and grilled frog.

Thao Trinh