The Tam Chuc pagoda complex (Ninh Binh, Vietnam) is one of the largest spiritual tourism destinations in the country, possessing multiple advantages such as a monumental system of architectural structures, the convergence of religious, cultural, and historical values, and a distinctive natural landscape. Among these, Buddhism exerts a profound influence, not only serving as the spiritual foundation shaping the sacred space but also guiding the development of tourism products toward deeper spiritual and cultural values, encouraging visitors to engage in meaningful religious and cultural experiences. In recent years, the Tam Chuc pagoda complex has become a key destination within the tourism development strategy of the Red River delta region. The exploitation of its spiritual and cultural values has brought significant economic benefits and generated employment opportunities for local communities. However, its rapid growth has also raised several challenges, including environmental pollution, visitor overcrowding during peak seasons, and the commercialization of sacred spaces. The objective of this study is to identify and analyze the potential for developing spiritual tourism at the Tam Chuc pagoda complex based on the three pillars of sustainable development: economic, socio-cultural, and environmental dimensions. It also aims to assess the role of Buddhism in shaping cultural–spiritual values and enhancing visitors’ experiences. On that basis, the paper proposes a set of recommendations and solutions to strengthen the management of cultural and religious resources, diversify tourism products, raise community awareness, and foster cooperation among stakeholders in order to preserve and promote cultural–religious values and advance the sustainable development of spiritual tourism.
Keywords: Spiritual tourism, Sustainable Development, Tam Chuc pagoda complex
