Cao Dai Religion Temple

Cao Dai Temple, a new religion in southern Vietnam

If you are someone who enjoys unique travel experiences like me, mr.hotsia, who often follows unusual paths in southern Vietnam, "Cao Dai Temple" orCao Daiis one of the places I strongly recommend. This temple is located in Tây Ninh province, not far from Ho Chi Minh City. If you are planning to travel in southern Vietnam, I suggest buying a one-day tour fromHo Chi Minhwhich usually includes both Cao Dai Temple and the Cu Chi Tunnels at a very affordable price, just a few hundred baht.

For me, having experienced Cao Dai Temple myself, the first feeling upon entering was a unique and peaceful atmosphere combined with deep faith. Cao Dai is a new religion established less than 100 years ago. Its concept is very interesting because it blends teachings from many world religions including Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism. This belief emphasizes goodness, kindness, non-harm to others, and ancestor worship through practical daily life.

Atmosphere and faith observed at Cao Dai Temple

When I arrived at Cao Dai Temple, followers of this religion dressed in clean white áo dài were sitting and chanting attentively. The local music and harmonious singing created a very reverent atmosphere. In the center of the temple is the unique circular symbol of the Cao Dai religion, clearly visible. This made me feel that this place is not just an ordinary tourist site but a true spiritual center for its followers.

One thing mr.hotsia would like to remind is that when visiting this temple, you should respect the rules of the place, such as not entering restricted zones or sacred areas, because religion is a matter of belief that we must honor mutually.

Travel and visiting Cao Dai Temple from Ho Chi Minh

If you travel to Ho Chi Minh and want to visit Cao Dai Temple, I recommend buying a tour from Pham Ngu Lao street, a popular area for tourists and backpackers. I have stayed here many times myself and suggest that a one-day tour including both Cao Dai Temple and Cu Chi Tunnels is a good choice because it is convenient and reasonably priced (read more about accommodation and tours in Ho Chi Minh atBackpacking Ho Chi MinhandBuying Tours in Ho Chi Minh)

). Traveling independently to Tây Ninh is not difficult but requires good planning due to the distance. Using a tour service can save time and reduce hassle significantly.

Field stories from mr.hotsia

I remember when I arrived at Cao Dai Temple, the morning atmosphere was quite cool with soft sunlight streaming through the temple windows, casting golden shadows on the floor. We saw followers in white clothes lining up to chant several times throughout the day. Their lifestyle was simple and peaceful, very different from the hustle and bustle of the big city. I felt the unique spiritual energy of this religion and understood why it has over 5 million followers worldwide, especially in southern Vietnam.

For those interested in studying religion and culture, Cao Dai Temple is a very interesting destination because it not only features beautiful architecture but also serves as a center for a harmonious blend of multiple religious ideas.

Hanoi and traveling to northern Vietnam

Although Cao Dai Temple is located in southern Vietnam, for those visiting Hanoi, the capital of northern Vietnam, I, mr.hotsia, recommend planning a trip south to Ho Chi Minh to experience the cultural and tourist diversity. Traveling within Hanoi is convenient with many options like buses and taxis (I have shared stories in articlesBackpacking Hanoi 2016andTraveling Hanoi)

). From Hanoi, you can travel to Ho Chi Minh by plane or bus. I personally prefer flying because it is more convenient and time-saving, but if you want to experience street life or travel economically, the bus is also a good option.

Savoring Vietnamese food along the way

Another charm of traveling in Vietnam is the delicious and diverse local food, whether it’s fragrant chicken biryani or spicy nem fang. I, mr.hotsia, enjoy stopping by roadside eateries or local markets in Ho Chi Minh and Hanoi. If you want to see the atmosphere and taste authentic Vietnamese food, check out the videos I have compiled, such asVietnamese Chicken BiryaniorVietnamese Nem Fangwhich will surely increase your desire to travel.

Summary

Visiting Cao Dai Temple in Tây Ninh province is an experience I, mr.hotsia, consider worthwhile—not only because of the temple’s beauty and the interesting Cao Dai religion but also as an eye-opening insight into the religious diversity of Vietnam and the world. If you visit Ho Chi Minh, don’t forget to stop by and experience the peace and faith at this temple yourself.

For those who want to plan a detailed trip to southern Vietnam or want information on tours and accommodation in Ho Chi Minh, I recommend following my articles atBuying Tours in Ho Chi MinhandBackpacking Ho Chi Minh 2016.