Visit the Cao Dai Temple, its decor and messes
If you are going to discover the Cu Chi tunnels during a day off Ho Chi Minh , you should go to this magnificent Caodaist temple located in Tây Ninh, 100 km from HCMC.
Flickr – dalbera
Visit of the temple
The temple is followed by 50,000 followers in the center of Vietnam . Like all Cao Dai temples, prayers are held four times a day at 05:30, 11:30, 17:30 and 23:30. This event (you will certainly attend that of 11:30-12h) is a real show to which a hundred visitors attend from the balconies inside the temple, or close to the entrance doors.
The left door leading to the complex is for women, the right door is for men. We have to remove his shoes before entering. The gates of the sanctuary are separated for the followers, even if the priests of both sexes use the central door. Behind the main altar is a huge globe with “the divine eye” Cao Dai, symbol of Caodaism.
(Miguel Navaza)
A "van Giao Nhat Ly" sign (all religions have the same reason) is suspended from the ceiling in front of the altar. Behind the golden letters is an image of the founders of the five largest religions in the world. From left to right: Mohammed, Lao Tseu, Jesus, Buddha and Confucius.
Wikimedia - Thomas Schoch
During prayer, you will notice that everything is very well organized. Nothing is left to chance.
Flickr – theboywiththethorninhisside
Before or after prayer, turn the temple to admire the motifs and architecture. We also find gardens not far. Think about taking pictures.
The entrance to the temple is free but it does not prevent you from making a gift.
Source: layered.typepad.com
How do I go to Cao Dai Temple from Saigon?
Like for the Cu Chi tunnels , I suggest you go to the street De Tham . Don't take your tour at your hotel but rather in one of the agencies present in this street of the district. You can easily visit the Cao Dai temple in the morning then the Cu Chi tunnels in the afternoon and come back in the evening to drink a good fresh beer less than €0.70.
Question budget , the only visit to Cao Dai Temple will cost you between 100,000 and 130 000 VND (about 3,50€) for the bus + the guide from Saigon. If you are a group of 4 to 6 people, take a taxi or a private van. It will be cheaper and faster.
Did you visit the Cao Dai Temple? This is one of the essential activities in Saigon !
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