Thich Ca Phat Dai

Thich Ca Phat Dai is a large Buddhist temple complex on the northern slope of Lon Mountain (Nui Lon) in Vung Tau, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Built between 1961 and 1963, it covers about 6 hectares with landscaped gardens, stupas and sculptures depicting the life of Shakyamuni Buddha. Notable for its hillside setting, octagonal stupa and large seated Buddha statue, it is a major pilgrimage site and visitor attraction in Vung Tau.

Visitors can expect a terraced hillside complex accessed by stone steps and pathways through landscaped gardens. The site contains a series of white statues and dioramas illustrating the life of the Buddha, a large seated Buddha statue, an octagonal stupa housing relics, smaller shrines, meditation halls and banyan trees. The grounds offer views over Vung Tau and the sea, with quiet courtyards for walking, sightseeing and photography.

Constructed between 1961 and 1963 by the Vung Tau Buddhist Association on land donated for religious use. The complex was built to commemorate the life and teachings of Shakyamuni Buddha and to provide a center for Buddhist practice in the region. The octagonal stupa was built to enshrine relics and has been a focal point for Buddhist ceremonies since its inauguration.

An important Buddhist pilgrimage and cultural site in southern Vietnam, representing Mahayana Buddhist tradition. The site is used for prayer, meditation and major Buddhist festivals such as Vesak (Buddha's Birthday). Its sculptures and architecture illustrate Buddhist narratives and serve as an educational and spiritual center for devotees and visitors.