As the nation’s largest pagoda, Bai Dinh pagoda in Gia Vien district of the northern province of Ninh Binh appears silent at the beginning of the lunar new year, a huge contrast compared to previous years due to the impact of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

Pilgrims attending the site are required to complete medical declarations at the entrance of Bai Dinh pagoda as part of COVID-19 pandemic prevention measures.

Only a few visitors make their way to Bai Dinh pagoda.

Only one young worshipper can be seen praying.

The majority of visitors are young people who wear face masks and follow the Health Ministry’s 5K message in Vietnamese, namely Khau trang (facemask), Khu khuan (disinfection), Khoang cach (distance), Khong tu tap (no gatherings), and Khai bao y te (health declaration).

Few old people visit Bai Dinh pagoda this year due to COVID-19 fears.

An elevated view shows no one at the relic site.

A tour guide says there has been a sharp decline in the number of pilgrims visiting Bai Dinh pagoda due to the negative influence of the COVID-19 pandemic.