Trúc Lâm Chân Nguyên Zen Monastery – Embracing the Timeless Essence of Buddhism.
Founded by Venerable Thich Thanh Tu in 1987, Truc Lam Chân Nguyên Zen Monastery follows the tradition of Mahayana Buddhism, bearing resemblance to the renowned Truc Lam Zen Monastery in Da Lat. Nestled at the foot of Minh Dam Mountain in Phuoc Hai town, Ba Ria Vung Tau province, just over 1km from the Long Hai freshwater pass, this monastery is ensconced in vast nature, amidst towering mountains and lush foliage, exuding a serene and solemn ambiance befitting a Zen retreat. Known also as the Monkey Temple, due to its residence of approximately 200 monkeys surrounding the temple, it has been recognized by the Vietnam Record Organization as the “temple with the largest natural monkey population in Vietnam.”
The temple grounds at Truc Lam Chân Nguyên Zen Monastery
Positioned beautifully with its back against the mountainside and facing the East Sea, the temple impresses with its traditional Vietnamese Buddhist architecture, featuring red-tiled roofs. Moreover, the monastery boasts small hermitages made of wood tucked deep within the forest, serving as places of meditation for monks. This unique setting exudes solemnity and tranquility, providing a haven for those seeking inner peace.
The Main Hall at Truc Lam Chân Nguyên Zen Monastery
Within the Main Hall of the temple lies a golden statue of Shakyamuni Buddha, seated atop a lotus pedestal, emanating peace and tranquility. In front of the Main Hall stand a bell tower, a drum tower, and two large stone tablets engraved with Buddhist scriptures, used for illumination at night. Particularly noteworthy are the numerous statues of Quan The Am Bodhisattva, exuding a serene countenance and adorned with resplendent robes, emitting a radiant glow when illuminated by sunlight.
Standing within the monastery grounds, listening to the chanting of the monks, the echoing of temple bells, the distant melodies of birdsong, and the gentle chimes of wind bells, one’s soul is enveloped in profound serenity and tranquility.