Unique traditional procession festival at Cao An Phu Temple
Thanh Chung - Tran Hien•18/05/2026 23:45
The palanquin procession at Cao An Phu Temple is a unique traditional ritual in the festival commemorating An Sinh Vuong Tran Lieu.
Cao An Phu Temple (also known as An Phu Son Tu) is located on the highest peak of the An Phu mountain range in Pham Su Manh Ward. The temple is dedicated to Tran Lieu.The statue of Tran Quoc Tuan is situated on a mountain peak within the An Phu range at an elevation of 200 meters above sea level, about 50 meters lower than the Temple of An Sinh Vuong.The Cao An Phu Temple Festival is officially held on the first day of the fourth lunar month each year, marking the death anniversary of Tran Lieu. The festival usually lasts for three days and features a variety of cultural and sporting activities.The festival is especially famous for its statue procession ritual rather than merely carrying ancestral tablets as practiced in many other localities. According to legend, the ritual commemorates the procession of the statue of Tran Lieu into the temple after it was carved from an ancient jackfruit tree trunk.The procession includes palanquins carrying ceremonial offerings such as sticky rice, roasted pigs, cakes, fruits, and local specialties, accompanied by vibrant lion and dragon dances. Large numbers of local residents and visitors from across the country join the procession to pray for peace, favorable weather, and prosperity for their homeland.A solemn sacrificial ceremony is held at “An Phu Son Tu.”The ritual reading of the ceremonial oration is conducted with great solemnity at Cao An Phu Temple, expressing deep respect and gratitude for the contributions of Tran Lieu to the Tran Dynasty and the nation.Large crowds of residents and visitors attend the festival opening ceremony.Many impressive artistic performances are staged during the festival opening.Numerous local people also visit the temple to offer incense and prayers.
