Immerse yourself in the spiritual heart of the Mekong Delta at Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery. Situated just 15km from Can Tho city center, this architectural marvel stands as the region’s largest Zen complex, reviving the glorious Ly-Tran dynasty style with its massive ironwood pillars and intricate tile work. This comprehensive Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery travel guide takes you beyond the gates, offering essential insights into its rich history, operating hours, and cultural etiquette to ensure a respectful visit. We also provide a perfect itinerary to combine your spiritual journey with nearby gems for your meaningful experience in Can Tho.
An Overview of Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery
A glance of Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery
- Built: 2013 (Inaugurated 2014)
- Location: TL 923, My Khanh Commune, Phong Dien District, Can Tho
- Opening Hours: 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM daily
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Time Needed: 30 – 45 minutes
- Famous For: Largest Zen monastery in the Mekong Delta, Ly-Tran Dynasty architecture, massive ironwood pillars
History & Significance
Though it exudes an ancient atmosphere, Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery is a relatively modern addition to the Mekong Delta’s religious landscape.
- Establishment: Construction began on July 16, 2013, and the monastery was officially inaugurated on May 17, 2014. The project was proposed by General Pham Van Tra, former Minister of National Defense, with the desire to revive and expand the Truc Lam Zen spirit in the Southern region.
- Religious Roots: The monastery belongs to the Truc Lam Yen Tu Zen sect, a unique Vietnamese Buddhist school founded by Buddha Emperor Tran Nhan Tong in the 13th century. This sect is celebrated for integrating Buddhist teachings with Vietnamese patriotism and culture.
- Cultural Importance: Before its construction, the Mekong Delta lacked a major center for this specific Zen tradition. Today, Truc Lam Phuong Nam is not only a religious hub for monks and nuns but also a spiritual anchor for the locals. It represents the harmony of Vietnamese Buddhism, preserving the nation’s “soul” through its Ly-Tran architectural identity while adapting to the open, generous spirit of the Mekong Delta people.
Video about Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery
Planning Your Visit to Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery
Location & Address
Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery is situated in a serene suburban area, approximately 15 km from Can Tho city center.
- Address: TL 923, My Khanh Commune, Phong Dien District, Can Tho City.
- Landmark: It is located very close to the famous My Khanh Tourist Village. If you are looking at a map, it lies roughly halfway between the city center and the Phong Dien Floating Market.
Operating Hours & Schedule
The monastery is open daily to welcome visitors and Buddhist followers.
- Opening Hours: 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Monday to Sunday).
- Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to explore is early morning (7:00 AM – 9:00 AM) when the air is fresh and the monastery is most tranquil, or late afternoon (3:00 PM – 5:00 PM) to avoid the harsh midday sun.
- Religious Days: On the 1st and 15th days of the lunar month, the monastery attracts more visitors for prayers and vegetarian offerings. If you prefer a quiet sightseeing experience, you might want to avoid these specific dates.
Admission & Duration
- Entrance Fee: Free. There is no charge to enter the complex.
- Parking: There is a spacious parking area for motorbikes and cars, which is also generally free (though small donations for security keepers are appreciated).
- Duration: Most visitors spend about 45 to 60 minutes here. This gives you enough time to walk through the Triple Gate, visit the Main Hall, admire the Bell/Drum towers, and take a relaxing stroll around the lotus ponds.
How to Get There
Getting to the monastery is straightforward as the road is paved and easy to navigate.
By Motorbike or Taxi (Recommended):
- From downtown Can Tho, head towards Nguyen Van Cu Street (Extended).
- Drive straight for about 10 km. You will pass the University of Medicine and Pharmacy and continue towards Phong Dien district.
- Look for signs for My Khanh Tourist Village. The monastery is located just a few hundred meters past the tourist village entrance on the left side.
- Taxi Cost: A taxi from Ninh Kieu Quay to the monastery typically costs between 200,000 – 250,000 VND (one way).
By Bus:
- Travelers on a budget can take the local bus (Route: Can Tho – Phong Dien).
- You can catch the bus along Nguyen Trai or Hoa Binh Avenue. Ask the driver to drop you off at My Khanh or Thien Vien Truc Lam. However, be prepared for a short walk or a “xe om” (motorbike taxi) ride from the main road to the monastery gate.
Architecture Highlights of Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery
What makes Truc Lam Phuong Nam truly special is its dedication to pure Vietnamese architectural traditions. Unlike many temples in the south that feature Khmer influences or colorful modern concrete structures, this monastery is a masterpiece of wooden craftsmanship, echoing the distinct styles of the Ly and Tran Dynasties—the golden eras of Vietnamese Buddhism.
The Grand Main Hall (Dai Hung Buu Dien)
The centerpiece of the complex is the massive Main Hall, which is built in the architectural style of the Tran Dynasty.
- Roofing: It features a double-tiered roof with eight curved corners, covered in traditional red fish-scale tiles that curve upwards like the prow of a boat.
- Interior: Stepping inside, you will be awed by the sheer scale of the timber frame. The hall is supported by 44 giant pillars made of ironwood (Lim) imported from South Africa. Each pillar is so large it takes an adult’s arms to embrace it, and they rest on gray stone bases carved with stylized lotus flowers.
- The Statues: In the center sits a majestic 3.5-ton bronze statue of Shakyamuni Buddha holding a lotus flower, symbolizing the “pick up a flower, smile” (niêm hoa vi tiếu) philosophy of Zen Buddhism. Flanking the main sanctuary are wooden statues of Bodhisattvas Manjushri and Samantabhadra, carved from 800-year-old Du Sam wood.
The Ancestral Hall (To Duong)
Located directly behind the Main Hall is the Ancestral Hall, dedicated to the founding fathers of the sect.
- Style: This structure follows the architectural style of the Ly Dynasty, characterized by a four-tiered roof layout.
- Worship: Here, visitors pay respects to the three patriarchs of the Truc Lam Zen sect: King-Monk Tran Nhan Tong, Phap Loa, and Huyen Quang. The statues here are life-sized and exude a sense of calm authority.
The Bell and Drum Towers
On either side of the main courtyard stand the Bell Tower and Drum Tower. These are not random designs but are modeled after the iconic Keo Pagoda in Thai Binh province, a national architectural treasure.
- The Bell: The Bell Tower houses a massive bronze bell weighing 1.5 tons. Its deep, resonant sound is said to help cleanse the mind of worldly worries.
- The Drum: Opposite it is the Drum Tower, featuring a large ceremonial drum intricately carved with dragon motifs.
Unique Structures & Garden Features
- One Pillar Pagoda Replica: To the right of the entrance, you will find a delicate replica of the famous One Pillar Pagoda (originally in Hanoi). It stands on a single pillar rising from a lotus pond, symbolizing purity rising from the mud.
- The 18 Arhats: Lining the path to the Main Hall are two rows of stone statues depicting the 18 Arhats (La Hán). Each statue captures a different expression—joy, sorrow, anger, or contemplation—representing the various emotions and trials of the human experience.
- Maitreya Buddha: Near the rear of the complex, look for the statue of Maitreya (the Future Buddha) carved from precious wood, depicting him with a large belly and a radiant smile, symbolizing abundance and happiness.
Insider Tips for an Enhanced Visit
Visiting a religious site in Vietnam comes with its own set of unwritten rules. To make your trip to Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery smooth and respectful, keep these local tips in mind:
- Dress Modestly: This is an active place of worship. Avoid wearing tank tops, short skirts, or shorts that are above the knee. If you are wearing sleeveless clothing, bring a light scarf or sarong to wrap around your shoulders or waist before entering the main halls.
- Wear Slip-On Shoes: You will need to remove your footwear before entering the Main Hall (Dai Hung Buu Dien) and the Ancestral Hall. Wearing sandals or slip-on shoes will save you the hassle of constantly tying and untying laces as you move between buildings.
- Silence is Golden: As a Zen monastery, the atmosphere is deliberately quiet to support meditation. Speak in hushed tones, especially when near the monk’s living quarters or when prayers are in session.
- Photography Etiquette: Photography is generally allowed in the courtyard and outside areas. However, avoid taking photos of monks without permission, and never use flash inside the prayer halls. When taking photos near Buddha statues, do not pose with your back directly turned to the Buddha, as this is considered disrespectful.
- Hydrate and Protect: The courtyard is large and open with little shade in the center. The Mekong Delta sun can be intense between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM, so bring a hat, sunglasses, and a bottle of water.
Combining Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery with Nearby Attractions
- My Khanh Tourist Village: A large eco-tourism complex nearby featuring ancient houses, orchards, and traditional games.
- Phong Dien Floating Market: An authentic, less crowded floating market best visited early in the morning.
- Gian Gua Relic: A unique historical site famous for its massive, ancient ficus tree covering the grounds.
- Vam Xang Orchard: An authentic garden for picking tropical fruits and experiencing the rustic rural lifestyle.
- Lung Ngoc Hoang Nature Reserve: A vast wetland conservation area known as the “green lung” of the Mekong Delta.
- Ut Dzach Noodle Factory: Visit this famous household factory to see the traditional making of “Banh Hoi” (fine rice vermicelli) and try their unique “hammock-shaped” noodles.
- Ong De Eco-Tourism Village: A popular recreational spot nearby offering “farmer for a day” activities like ditch fishing, mud sliding, and crossing “monkey bridges.”
- Can Tho Floating Market (Cai Rang): Although closer to the city center, it is on the river route to Phong Dien; many tours combine the sunrise market here with a later stop at the monastery.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery
Is there an entrance fee to visit Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery?
No, admission to the monastery is completely free for all visitors, including international tourists. However, there are donation boxes (hòm công đức) placed in the main halls if you wish to contribute to the maintenance of the monastery.
What is the dress code for visiting Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery?
Since this is a sacred religious site, visitors are required to dress modestly. You should wear clothes that cover your shoulders and knees. Avoid wearing tank tops, short skirts, or revealing shorts. If you are not dressed appropriately, you may be denied entry to the Main Hall (Dai Hung Buu Dien).
Can I take photos inside the Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery?
Photography is allowed in the outdoor grounds, gardens, and courtyards. However, you should limit photography inside the main worship halls to respect those who are praying. Using flash is generally discouraged inside the halls.
How far is the monastery from Cai Rang Floating Market?
The monastery is approximately 6 to 7 km from Cai Rang Floating Market. It takes about 15-20 minutes to travel between the two spots by car or motorbike, making them perfect to combine in a single morning trip.
Is there parking available at the Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery?
Yes, there is a very spacious parking lot located right in front of the entrance gate. It can accommodate both motorbikes and large tour buses. Parking is generally free, though small tips for the security guards are appreciated.
Can I eat at the Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery?
The monastery does not have a public restaurant for tourists. However, on special lunar calendar days (like the 1st and 15th), they sometimes offer free vegetarian meals to pilgrims. For regular tourists, there are plenty of local restaurants and food stalls in the neighboring My Khanh Tourist Village just a few minutes’ walk away.
Is the Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery accessible for wheelchair users?
Most of the outdoor courtyard and pathways are flat and paved, making them accessible. However, accessing the Main Hall and Ancestral Hall requires climbing stairs, which may be difficult for wheelchair users or those with limited mobility.
