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Trúc Lâm Phương Nam Zen Monastery is one of the largest and most peaceful Buddhist monasteries in the Mekong Delta. Located in My Khanh Commune, Phong Dien District, Can Tho, it serves as a tranquil retreat for both monks and visitors seeking peace, spiritual reflection, and insight into Vietnamese Buddhist culture.
This Zen monastery follows the Trúc Lâm Yên Tử tradition, a Vietnamese school of Zen Buddhism established in the 13th century by King Trần Nhân Tông. With its majestic wooden architecture, peaceful gardens, and spiritual atmosphere, Trúc Lâm Phương Nam has become a popular destination for both pilgrims and tourists.
The monastery is located about 15 kilometers south of Can Tho city center. Visitors can reach it by taxi, motorbike, or private car. The journey takes around 30–40 minutes depending on traffic. From Can Tho, follow National Highway 1A and take the road leading to My Khanh Tourist Village; the monastery is just a few minutes beyond.
If you’re traveling from Ho Chi Minh City, you can take a bus or flight to Can Tho, then continue by road to the monastery. Many day tours from the city center include Trúc Lâm Monastery as part of a cultural sightseeing package.
Can Tho has a tropical monsoon climate with two main seasons: the dry season (December to April) and the rainy season (May to November). The dry season is the most comfortable time to visit, with sunny skies and temperatures ranging from 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F).
During the rainy season, rain usually comes in short bursts, mostly in the afternoon. Early morning visits during any time of year offer a cool and peaceful experience at the monastery.
The monastery is open daily from around 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Mornings are ideal for quiet walks, meditation, and enjoying the peaceful setting. Special ceremonies, chanting, and other spiritual activities usually take place early in the morning or on Buddhist holidays such as Vesak Day or the Lunar New Year.
Trúc Lâm Phương Nam Zen Monastery is famous for its grand architecture, spiritual ambiance, and role in preserving traditional Vietnamese Buddhist teachings. As the largest Zen monastery in the Mekong Delta, it attracts thousands of visitors each year who come for prayer, meditation, or simply to admire its cultural and architectural beauty.
The monastery is also known for its beautiful wooden structures, including a large main hall built entirely from rare ironwood, and a giant bronze statue of the Buddha. It serves as a place of education, spiritual retreat, and inspiration for many Buddhists and laypeople alike.
Entry to Trúc Lâm Phương Nam Zen Monastery is free of charge. Visitors are welcome to explore the grounds, but are expected to dress modestly and behave respectfully. Taking photographs is allowed, except in some sacred areas where silence is required.
Donations are accepted but not required. There are signs in both Vietnamese and English that help guide tourists around the monastery, and monks or volunteers are often happy to answer questions about Buddhism or the site.
Trúc Lâm Phương Nam Zen Monastery was inaugurated in 2014 and built on a 4-hectare site. Although relatively new, it was designed to reflect the architectural style of traditional Vietnamese temples from the Ly and Tran dynasties.
The monastery includes several distinct buildings, such as the main hall (Chánh điện), the ancestral hall (Nhà tổ), a bell tower, drum tower, guest reception area, and a library. The main hall features a massive 3.5-ton bronze Buddha statue seated on a lotus, symbolizing enlightenment and peace.
The roofs of the buildings are tiled in traditional curved shapes, while the interiors are richly decorated with lacquered woodwork, lotus motifs, and Buddhist calligraphy. The materials used, such as precious ironwood and carved stones, reflect Vietnamese craftsmanship at its finest.
- Explore the Main Hall: Admire the grand Buddha statue and serene interior used for meditation and prayer.
- Walk the Grounds: Enjoy peaceful gardens, lotus ponds, and shaded paths around the monastery.
- Listen to the Bell: Hear the resonating sound from the bell tower, said to bring calm and clarity.
- Join a Meditation Session: On special days, the monastery may host guided meditation or chanting.
- Learn About Buddhism: Speak with monks or read available materials about Zen teachings.
- Photography: Capture the beauty of the temple’s architecture and tranquil landscape.
- Visit Nearby Attractions: Combine your trip with a visit to My Khanh Tourist Village or Bang Lang Stork Sanctuary.
- It is the largest Zen monastery in the Mekong Delta region.
- The main hall is supported by 44 massive ironwood pillars.
- The monastery was designed to follow the Trúc Lâm Zen tradition founded by King Trần Nhân Tông.
- It houses a 3.5-ton bronze statue of Buddha seated on a lotus throne.
- The site is a frequent venue for Buddhist ceremonies and public meditation events.
- Though newly built, its design draws from centuries-old temple architecture.
- Dress Modestly: Wear long pants and covered shoulders to show respect.
- Visit Early: Early morning offers the quietest and most peaceful atmosphere.
- Avoid Loud Noises: Maintain silence or speak softly within temple grounds.
- Respect Monastic Areas: Some areas may be restricted for monks only—observe posted signs.
- Don’t Point at Statues: Use your whole hand to gesture when referencing sacred items.
- Bring a Camera: The architecture and landscaping are stunning for photos.
- Stay Hydrated: Bring water, especially on hot days, as walking around can take time.
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