Tu Van Shell and Coral Temple
Chùa Từ Vân
Tu Van Shell and Coral Temple
Chùa Từ Vân
A unique Buddhist monastery built entirely by hand from sea shells and coral.
Khanh Hoa
Buddhist Temple
Attraction
Tu Van Temple is a functioning Buddhist monastery founded in 1968, which has become world-famous for its unusual architecture. All structures of the complex, from walls to towers, were created by monks from materials gathered on the Cam Ranh coast: coral, oyster shells, and mollusk shells. This place combines spiritual practice with amazing handcrafted skill.
- Visit duration
from 1 hour
- Average budget
Free
- Admission
Free (parking ~20,000 ₫)
- Current weather
Hot, high humidity
- Best time
Morning/evening
- Local language
Vietnamese
What you need to know
The uniqueness of the temple lies in its details. The Bao Tich Tower, standing 39 meters tall, is the highest spiral tower in Vietnam. It was built by monks by hand over five years. Inside the dome, it creates the feeling of being inside a giant seashell. Also at the entrance, you will see the Prajna Paramita Boat, a symbol of crossing the ocean of sufferings.
Special attention should be paid to the "Path to Hell" (Duong xuong Dia nguc) — a dark 500-meter tunnel that begins at the dragon's mouth. It symbolizes the 18 levels of Buddhist hell with corresponding sculptures. Visitors are advised to bring a flashlight and be cautious due to low ceilings and heat. Remember: this is a functioning monastery where monks live and pray, so it is important to observe silence and dress respectfully.
The temple is open daily. Due to the climatic conditions of Khanh Hoa province, it is recommended to visit in the morning or evening hours to avoid the daytime heat, especially when walking through the underground tunnel.
On-site
- How to get there
Car or motorbike (60 km from Nha Trang)
- Tunnel entry
Safety helmets recommended
- Cash
Required for parking
- Lighting
Phone flashlight for the tunnel
- With kids
Important to watch closely in the tunnel