Van Thuy Tu Temple

Van Thuy Tu Temple is a historic whale-worship temple located on Ngu Ong Street in Duc Thang Ward, Phan Thiet, Lam Dong Province. Built in 1762, it is dedicated to Ca Ong (the Whale God), protector of fishermen. The temple is recognized as a National Historic-Cultural Relic and houses the largest whale skeleton in Vietnam, measuring 22 meters, along with hundreds of other whale skeletons and fishing artifacts.

Visitors can expect a traditional Vietnamese temple complex with an ancient wooden structure, altars dedicated to the Whale God, and a large exhibition hall displaying a 22-meter whale skeleton and over 100 smaller whale skeletons and artifacts. The interior features incense altars, imperial decrees, fishing boat models and documents related to local maritime culture. The setting is quiet and located near Phan Thiet harbor, allowing exploration of the main worship hall and museum-like display area.

Originally built in 1762 during the Nguyen Lords period to worship the Whale God. The temple has been restored several times and preserves 24 imperial decrees from the Nguyen Dynasty honoring Ca Ong. It was recognized as a National Historic-Cultural Relic and is considered the oldest whale temple in Binh Thuan (now Lam Dong) with over 260 years of history.

Represents the whale worship belief of central and southern Vietnamese fishing communities, where whales are revered as Ca Ong, protector of fishermen at sea. The temple is the spiritual center for local fishermen, hosting rituals and the Nghinh Ong Festival to pray for safe voyages and abundant catches, reflecting maritime folk religion and community identity.