Ky Sam Temple – Sacred Shrine of Khau Sam Dai Vuong Nung Tri Cao
Just a short distance from the center of Cao Bang, Ky Sam Temple sits quietly at the foot of a mountain, surrounded by green fields and peaceful villages. This is where the people of the border region honor Nung Tri Cao – an outstanding 11th-century leader revered as Khau Sam Dai Vuong. Every spring, the temple becomes the center of one of Cao Bang’s largest festivals.
Featured image of Ky Sam Temple in Nung Tri Cao Ward
If you’re planning a trip to Cao Bang, this is an ideal place to begin your journey with a sense of peace and a deeper understanding of the history of this border region.
1. Where is Ky Sam Temple?
Under the current administrative divisions, Ky Sam Temple lies in Nung Tri Cao Ward, Cao Bang Province. In the past, this area belonged to Tuong Cam Commune, Thach Lam District; before the 2025 administrative restructuring, it was Hamlet 9, Vinh Quang Commune, Cao Bang City. It is a fitting coincidence that the new ward was named after the very hero worshipped at the temple.
From the center of Cao Bang, head along the road toward Pac Bo for about 5 km to reach the temple – making it a convenient half-day visit.
2. Nung Tri Cao – Hero of the Border Region
Nung Tri Cao (1025–1055) was a Tay ethnic historical figure who defended the nation under King Ly Thai Tong. In the 11th century, he led an army that defeated invading Song dynasty forces, making a major contribution to safeguarding the northern border.
To this day, he remains a symbol of courage and resilience. He is admired not only by the Tay and Nung people of Vietnam but also by the Zhuang people across the border. An interesting detail: all of the caretakers of Ky Sam Temple share the surname Nung.
3. Architecture and Setting
The temple stands at the foot of Ky Sam Mountain (also known as Khau Sam), within a site covering roughly 1 hectare. It follows Nguyen dynasty-style architecture laid out in a “nhi” (two-section) form, comprising a main hall and an inner sanctuary.
Highlights to look out for inside the temple:
- The “Hai Duc Son Cong” lacquered plaque in the main hall – meaning that Nung Tri Cao’s merit is as vast as the sea and as towering as the mountains.
- The inner sanctuary with three altars: the central altar honors Nung Tri Cao, the left altar honors his mother, Lady A Nung, and the right altar honors his three wives – Vuong Lan Anh, Doan Hong Ngoc, and Tran Thi Cam.
- Stone dragon statues near the entrance, along with rows of ancient trees shading the temple courtyard.
In front of the temple lies an open field, while green limestone mountains rise behind it – a tranquil setting, perfect for pausing, burning incense, and taking a quiet stroll.
4. The Legend of the “Flying Temple” That Landed at the Mountain’s Foot
Elders in the area still pass down a sacred story. Long ago, the temple was built high up the mountain, making it difficult for villagers to make their offerings. So the villagers held a ceremony asking to move the temple down to the foot of the mountain. That very night, a storm broke out with heavy rain and strong winds, and one section of the temple seemed to fly through the air before landing exactly where the temple stands today. The story has led many to believe this is an especially sacred site.
5. Heritage Status
Ky Sam Temple was recognized as a National Historical Relic by the Ministry of Culture and Information under Decision No. 43-VH/QD dated January 7, 1993. According to some local records, the temple was first built during the Ly dynasty and has since undergone several restorations.
6. Ky Sam Temple Festival – Cao Bang’s Largest Spring Festival
The festival takes place every year around the 9th–10th day of the first lunar month. It is considered the oldest and largest festival in Cao Bang Province, drawing large crowds of locals and visitors alike.
Ritual ceremony: a procession presenting offerings and ringing the bell of Ky Sam Temple, along with incense-offering rites to pray for national peace, prosperity, and bountiful harvests.
Festive activities: performances of then singing and tinh tau lute music, Chinese chess competitions, sepak takraw (foot volleyball), and many traditional folk games. The vibrant atmosphere, filled with the colorful traditional costumes of the Tay and Nung people, makes it well worth experiencing at least once.
7. How to Get There
From the center of Cao Bang: Take a motorbike, taxi, or ride-hailing car toward Pac Bo, about 10–15 minutes away. During festival season, it’s best to set out early, as the road to the temple can get congested.
8. Tips for Visiting
- Dress modestly and respectfully; avoid shorts or short skirts when entering the main hall or inner sanctuary.
- Keep quiet and orderly, and refrain from joking around in the worship areas.
- Place offering money in the designated donation box rather than placing it on statues or altars.
- Limit the burning of ceremonial paper offerings to help keep the environment clean and green.
- During festival season, keep a close eye on your belongings and park only in the official parking areas.
- Ask for permission before taking photos inside the inner sanctuary or during ceremonies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which commune/ward is Ky Sam Temple in?
It is currently located in Nung Tri Cao Ward, Cao Bang Province (before 2025, it was part of Vinh Quang Commune, Cao Bang City).
Who is worshipped at Ky Sam Temple?
The temple honors Khau Sam Dai Vuong Nung Tri Cao, along with his mother, Lady A Nung, and his three wives.
When does the Ky Sam Temple Festival take place?
Around the 9th–10th day of the first lunar month each year.
Is there an entrance fee for the temple?
Visitors can enter for free; donations are made voluntarily.
Ky Sam Temple is not only a sacred spiritual site but also a place that preserves the glorious memory of Cao Bang’s border region. Spending a morning offering incense, admiring the “Hai Duc Son Cong” plaque, and hearing the legend of the “flying temple” will make your journey all the more meaningful.
