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Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery

Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery (Can Tho): A complete guide

26/07/2025 277 views

Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery is one of the most beautiful spiritual sites in the Mekong Delta. With a classic Vietnamese design, peaceful gardens, and sacred halls, it offers a calming escape where you can learn about Buddhism and find a moment of quiet reflection.

1. Overview of Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery

Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery is one of the largest monasteries in the Mekong Delta. It is located in My Nhon Village, An Binh Ward, Can Tho, about 15 kilometers away from the city center. 

The idea to build this monastery came from General Pham Van Tra, who was the former Minister of National Defense. His goal was to carry on and develop the Truc Lam Yen Tu Zen tradition, which was founded by King Tran Nhan Tong. Construction started on July 16, 2013 and was completed less than a year later on May 17, 2014. The monastery now covers more than 38,000 square meters.

Truc Lam Phuong Nam Monastery

Truc Lam Phuong Nam Monastery is one of the largest monasteries in the Mekong Delta (Source: Collected)

2. Architecture of Truc Lam Phuong Nam Monastery

Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery in the Mekong Delta features traditional Vietnamese architecture. The layout follows the style of Buddhist temples from the Ly and Tran dynasties. It includes a main hall, an ancestral house, a bell tower, and a drum tower. The buildings all have ironwood frames and tiled roofs. The walls are made of brick, while the floors and walkways are paved with terracotta tiles.

2.1. Main gate

The main gate of the monastery has curved roofs with dragon head figures. The doors are crafted from precious wood and painted a shiny brown. On each side of the gate, there are tall statues covered in gilded gold. On the left is the statue of Vi Da Ho Phap (the Light Protector), on the right is the statue of Tieu Dien Dai Si (the Dark Protector).

2.2. Floating pavilions

Past the main gate, you will find a spacious courtyard. On both sides, there are pavilions that seem to float on a round pond covered with colorful water lilies. A red bridge leads you to these pavilions. Inside the one on the right, there is a brown wooden statue of Maitreya Buddha. The pavilion on the left holds a white stone statue of Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva.

2.3. Main hall

Along the walkway leading to the main hall, there are rows of granite statues of the Eighteen Arhats. Nine stand on each side, carved with great detail, reflecting folk beliefs. Inside the main hall, which is also called Dai Hung Bao Dien, you will notice a solemn atmosphere. The floor is paved with red terracotta tiles, and the roof has eight layers. Large ironwood pillars with a glossy finish support the structure. All the pillars stand on greystone bases carved with lotus patterns.

The main hall of Truc Lam Phuong Nam Monastery

The main hall of Truc Lam Phuong Nam Monastery (Source: Collected)

At the center sits a golden bronze statue of Shakyamuni Buddha on a lotus throne. On the right side of the hall is an altar with statues of Manjushri Bodhisattva and Duc Chua Ong. On the left is an altar with statues of Samantabhadra Bodhisattva and Duc Thanh Hien. These statues are made from 800-year-old Du Sam wood and decorated with fine carvings. You can also see black calligraphy couplets painted on a yellow background on each column.

2.4. Ancestral house

From the side of the main hall, you can follow a pathway that leads to the ancestral house behind it. Statues of the Arhats stand beside the path, together with displays of photos that show the monastery’s activities. The ancestral house has the look of an old home. Inside, there are two sets of antique wooden benches. The building has a four-sided tiled roof in the style of the Ly dynasty. Here, you will find statues of Bodhidharma and the Three Patriarchs of the Truc Lam Zen tradition.

2.5. Drum tower and bell tower

To the right of the main hall stands a bell tower, which has a tall curved roof and holds a bronze bell that weighs 1.5 tons. To the left is a drum tower that features a carved wooden stand holding a large drum. The main materials used to build the bell tower, drum tower, main hall, and ancestral house are ironwood imported from South Africa.

2.6. Courtyard and other areas

The grounds of Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery include many other structures that add to its peaceful atmosphere. There is the Quan Am Hall, a replica of the One Pillar Pagoda in Hanoi, lecture halls, guest rooms, a dining hall, a library, and a traditional medicine room. Each building is arranged in harmony with the landscape.

Truc Lam Phuong Nam Monastery has a peaceful atmosphere

Truc Lam Phuong Nam Monastery has a peaceful atmosphere (Source: Collected)

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3. Tips for visiting Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery

3.1. Transportation

To get to Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery from downtown Can Tho, make your way to Nguyen Van Cu Road. Follow the road southwest until you see the monastery on the left. For convenience, you can hail a taxi. If you prefer public transport, hop on the bus CT-02, which will take you to Phong Dien District, then get off at Nguyen Van Cu Road.

3.2. Opening hours and entrance fees

The monastery is open every day from 6 AM to 6 PM. Entry is free.

3.3. Nearby attractions

From Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery, you can also explore:

  • My Khanh Tourist Village (280 meters away): This village offers gardens, old homes, and folk games.
  • Sau Hoai’s Rice Noodle Factory (4.9 kilometers away): Here, you can watch how rice noodles are made by hand in a small workshop. You can also enjoy unique dishes like fried rice noodles and pizza-style rice noodles. 
  • Phong Dien Floating Market (5.9 kilometers away): This market is known for its friendly atmosphere and fresh produce sold from boats.
  • Cai Rang Floating Market (10 kilometers away): One of the largest floating markets in the Mekong Delta, it is full of boats selling fruits, vegetables, and breakfast dishes. 
There are many attractions near Truc Lam Phuong Nam Monastery

There are many attractions near Truc Lam Phuong Nam Monastery (Source: Collected)

3.4. Notes

Before visiting Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery, keep these tips in mind:

  • Wear modest clothing suitable for a spiritual site.
  • Be prepared for some walking.
  • Pay your visit in the afternoon if you prefer cooler weather.
  • Park your vehicles for free.
  • Leave a donation in the contribution box if you wish to support the monastery’s work.
  • Shop for souvenirs, rent traditional outfits, and try vegetarian food on site.

Visiting Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery is a wonderful way to connect with the spiritual heritage of the Mekong Delta. Whether you are interested in learning about Buddhism, exploring traditional architecture, or simply taking a quiet break from daily life, this beautiful monastery offers a memorable experience.

To keep exploring Vietnam, you can add more destinations to your trip. Popular spots like Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, Da Nang, and Hoi An offer stunning beaches, vibrant markets, and historic sites.

For even more fun, visit VinWonders, where you can enjoy exciting games and family-friendly activities. After a day of adventure, relax at the hotels and resorts of Vinpearl, which provide comfortable rooms, beautiful views, and top-notch services to make your stay unforgettable.

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