Tu Van Pagoda, also
known as the Shell Pagoda or Coral Pagoda, was built in 1968 and is notable for
its unique architecture made from millions of seashells and coral. This
structure was built by the monks themselves and is one of the unique spiritual
destinations in Khanh Hoa. -
Vietnam private tour
Tu Van Pagoda is located on 3/4 Street, Cam Linh Ward, Cam Ranh City, Khanh Hoa
Province. The pagoda was built in 1968. Because it is constructed primarily from
seashells and coral, it is also known as the Shell Pagoda or Coral Pagoda.
Thanks to its unique architecture, this pagoda is not only a religious center
for the local people but also a distinctive tourist attraction, drawing many
visitors to admire its beauty.
The highlight of Tu Van Pagoda is the Bao Tich Tower, built in 1995 and standing
39 meters tall. The tower has an elaborate structure, with 49 smaller pyramidal
towers on the outside, each containing a statue of the Thousand-Handed,
Thousand-Eyed Buddha; each tower is topped with a small stupa. Hundreds of
Buddha statues of various sizes are meticulously arranged on this tower.
The Bao Tich Tower has eight doors symbolizing the "Eightfold Path". Inside,
there are two levels; the upper level is dedicated to Buddha, while the lower
level allows visitors to stop and admire the magnificent beauty of the tower,
imbued with a distinct maritime charm.
Not only the exterior, but also the graceful lines and patterns inside the tower
are intricately and skillfully crafted from seashells, snails, and clams. The
conical dome of the tower is also inlaid with colorful seashell patterns. With
its two-tiered, pointed spire, it soars against the azure sky.
The tower was designed and built by the creative minds and skillful hands of the
monks in the temple. To create this unique masterpiece, the monks spent five
years working on it, starting in 1995. Over time and through the elements, the
coral stones and seashells here have taken on a weathered appearance, giving the
tower a rugged yet ancient and incredibly peaceful look.
Besides the Bao Tich Tower, another interesting feature of the temple is the
"18-level Hell Tunnel," a fascinating experience at Tu Van Temple (Oc Temple).
Although only about 500 meters long, the path down to "hell" is meticulously
constructed from coral and seashells, with an eye-catching dragon motif on the
outside. Because it descends deep underground, the passage is dark, narrow, and
winding. Along the path are 12 plaques detailing the sins of the mortal world
and the punishments at the gates of hell, serving as a moral admonition for
people to live virtuously and compassionately.
According to Buddhist belief, overcoming all "18 levels of hell" and crossing
the Nai Ha Bridge means you have ended all suffering and returned to the mortal
world through the mouth of a large dragon. Although it's just a concept, you
will feel a sense of peace, as if you have shed all worries and embraced the
beautiful life around you.
Following the wide, open path behind the dragon's mouth, you arrive at the
luminous "paradise" of "Prajna Flower Garden." Here, ancient trees, vibrant
flower gardens, and sculptures of sea creatures, forest animals, and the Five
Elements Mountains made from seashells create a serene and enchanting space.
The pagoda is a highlight of tourism in the Ba Ngoi coastal area of Cam Ranh
Bay. Visitors are amazed by the unique architecture of the structure. Over time
and through exposure to the elements, the seashells and coral here have become
even more ancient and majestic.
Besides its unique structure, this pagoda also carries a moral message,
encouraging people to live more virtuously and accumulate merit, and possesses
profound cultural value. Currently, Tu Van Pagoda has been included in several
tourist tours to Cam Ranh City as a spiritual tourism destination.
Source:
Discover unique architecture of Tu Van pagoda in Nha Trang
