Quan The Am Festival at Marble Mountains Da Nang: Sacred Buddhist Rituals, Lantern Release & Travel Tips (2026)
Central Vietnam’s Grandest Buddhist Gathering
Set against the dramatic limestone peaks of Marble Mountains (Ngu Hanh Son), the Quan The Am Festival celebrates the virtues of compassion, peace, and universal loving-kindness embodied by Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara. The resonance of temple bells, soft incense smoke curling around ancient grottos, and deep monastic chanting create an unforgettable atmosphere of spiritual reverence.
Sacred Ceremonies & Cultural Festivities
1. The Grand Bodhisattva Procession
Starting at dawn on the 19th of the second lunar month, senior venerable monks, ceremonial musicians playing eight traditional instruments (bat am), and thousands of devotees accompany the sacred lotus-crowned palanquin. As the procession winds past limestone cliffs, incense and fresh flowers perfume the morning air.
2. Floating Lotus Lanterns on the Co Co River
On festive evenings, the dark waters of the Co Co River light up with thousands of floating paper lotus lanterns carrying handwritten prayers for global harmony, health, and family well-being. It is one of Da Nang’s most visually stunning photographic spectacles.
3. Dragon Boat Regatta & Vegetarian Charity Feasts
Cheer on spirited rowing teams battling along the river in traditional wooden boats, followed by a visit to the open-air communal kitchens where generous volunteers distribute steaming bowls of vegetarian noodles, fried tofu, and herbal teas to pilgrims.
💡 🗺️ More Destination Highlights & Regional Insights:
- Make the most of your central Vietnam journey with A O Show Lune Hoi An: Bamboo Circus Tickets
- Uncover hidden charms and local secrets in Ba Cho Duoc Festival Guide: Heritage & Rituals
- Official travel information: UNESCO World Heritage Centre ↗
Private Transport & Parking Tips
During the three days of the festival, surrounding streets like Le Van Hien and Su Van Hanh face severe vehicular congestion. Booking a private car to Marble Mountains allows your driver to handle parking logistics and drop you off at convenient perimeter walking points.
| Origin | 4-Seater Sedan | 7-Seater SUV | 16-Seater Van |
|---|---|---|---|
| Da Nang City ↔ Marble Mountains | 170,000 VND ( | 280,000 VND ( | $11 USD)330,000 VND (~$13 USD) |
| Hoi An Town ↔ Marble Mountains | 280,000 VND ( | 280,000 VND ( | $11 USD)390,000 VND (~$16 USD) |
| Da Nang ➔ Marble Mountains ➔ Hoi An | 330,000 VND ( | 390,000 VND ( | $16 USD)600,000 VND (~$24 USD) |
Explore all Central Vietnam transfer options on our comprehensive transport pricing page.
Attend the Quan The Am Festival in Comfort
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1When does the Quan The Am Festival at Marble Mountains take place?
The festival takes place over three days from the 17th to the 19th day of the 2nd Lunar Month annually (usually falling in March or early April in the Gregorian calendar), with the main ceremony held on the 19th.
2Where is the festival held in Da Nang?
The event is hosted on the grounds of Quan The Am Pagoda, located at 48 Su Van Hanh Street, Hoa Hai Ward, Ngu Hanh Son District, Da Nang, nestled right at the base of Kim Son (Metal Mountain) along the historic Co Co River.
3What is the most sacred ritual during the festival?
The Bodhisattva Procession on the morning of the 19th lunar day is the most solemn ceremony: a flower-adorned golden palanquin bearing the statue of Avalokiteshvara is paraded around the Marble Mountains and along Co Co riverbanks to grant peace and blessings.
4What cultural and public activities take place during the festivities?
Visitors can join the floating lotus lantern ceremony on the Co Co River, watch traditional dragon boat racing, view martial arts demonstrations, taste complimentary vegetarian cuisine, and admire Non Nuoc stone carving exhibitions.
5Can international tourists attend and receive free vegetarian meals?
Yes, all visitors regardless of nationality or faith are warmly welcomed. The pagoda's volunteer committees prepare and serve tens of thousands of free, delicious Buddhist vegetarian meals throughout the three-day celebration.
6What should visitors wear when attending this Buddhist festival?
Modest and respectful clothing covering shoulders and knees is strictly required. Comfortable flat walking shoes are strongly recommended due to large crowds and stairs around the temple grounds.
7What is the all-inclusive flat rate to book a private car with driver or Da Nang airport transfer for 'Quan The Am Festival Marble Mountains' with no advance deposit?
For Quan The Am Festival, the most relevant Sun Travel private car route is Hoi An to Marble Mountains (20 km, 30 mins): 4-seat car 280,000 VND (~$11 USD), 7-seat SUV 330,000 VND (~$13 USD), 16-seat van 500,000 VND (~$20 USD) — all-inclusive one-way fares covering tolls and parking with no peak-hour surcharge. Door-to-door pickup at the time you choose, ideal for Quan The Am Festival and Marble Mountains; book via WhatsApp +84 384 833 444 and pay after the ride.
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