Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery: A Peaceful Retreat in the Mekong Delta
The Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery (Thiền Viện Trúc Lâm Phương Nam) stands as a monumental spiritual and architectural landmark in Cần Thơ. It serves as the largest Zen monastery in the entire Mekong Delta region, providing a peaceful and solemn atmosphere that attracts both pilgrims and cultural tourists. Visitors seek this tranquil site to escape the city’s hustle and bustle and find inner peace.
Address: TL 923, Mỹ Khánh, Phong Điền, Cần Thơ, Vietnam.
I. History and Cultural Significance
The monastery embodies the rich heritage of Vietnamese Buddhism. General Pham Van Tra, the former Minister of National Defense, proposed the project, aiming to revive the Trúc Lâm Yên Tử Zen tradition founded by King Trần Nhân Tông in the 13th century.
Construction and Scale: Construction began in July 2013 and finished remarkably quickly in May 2014. The expansive grounds cover an area of over 38,000 square meters.
Spiritual Role: The monastery plays a vital role in the spiritual life of the Southern region, offering a place for meditation, worship, and Buddhist teachings. It promotes the philosophy of “Buddha is in the heart” and emphasizes practice in daily life.
II. Architectural Highlights
The entire complex showcases beautiful, traditional Vietnamese architecture, drawing heavily from the styles of the Ly and Tran dynasties (11th–14th centuries). This traditional design creates a truly majestic and culturally rich environment.
Materials and Detail: Builders utilized high-quality materials, including large frames of imported Lim wood (ironwood) and traditional terracotta tiles for the roofs and walkways. The construction features intricate carvings and fine craftsmanship throughout.
Key Structures: The complex includes twenty major structures. The Main Hall (Đại Hùng Bửu Điện) is the centerpiece, housing a 3.5-ton bronze statue of Shakyamuni Buddha. Next to the hall stand the impressive Bell Tower and Drum Tower. Other notable features are the Patriarch Hall, the Lecture Hall, and a replica of the One Pillar Pagoda.
Courtyard Statues: The main courtyard path features 18 large stone statues of the Arhats (La Hán) on either side, creating a visually stunning entryway to the Main Hall.
III. Essential Visitor Information
The monastery welcomes all visitors seeking reflection and cultural insight. We advise guests to adhere to the following guidelines.
Operating Hours: The monastery opens daily, typically from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Confirm the hours upon arrival, as they may change for special Buddhist holidays.
Entrance Fee: The site offers free admission to all visitors.
Dress Code: Please wear respectful attire; you must cover your shoulders and knees. Avoid loud conversations or activities that disturb the peaceful environment.
Getting There: The monastery is located approximately 15 kilometers southwest of Cần Thơ city center, near the Mỹ Khánh Tourist Village. Visitors typically reach the location by taxi, motorbike, or as part of an organized tour.
Contact: For general inquiries, you can use the public phone number: +84 2923933227 (Please note: The availability and English fluency of this number may vary).
