Tu Van Pagoda, also known as the Shell Pagoda or Coral Pagoda, was built in 1968 and is notable for its unique architecture made from millions of seashells and coral. This structure was built by the monks themselves and is one of the unique spiritual destinations in Khanh Hoa. - Private tous to Vietnam

Tu Van Pagoda is located on 3/4 Street, Cam Linh Ward, Cam Ranh City, Khanh Hoa Province. The pagoda was built in 1968. Because it is constructed primarily from seashells and coral, it is also known as the Shell Pagoda or Coral Pagoda. Thanks to its unique architecture, this pagoda is not only a religious center for the local people but also a distinctive tourist attraction, drawing many visitors to admire its beauty.

The highlight of Tu Van Pagoda is the Bao Tich Tower, built in 1995 and standing 39 meters tall. The tower has an elaborate structure, with 49 smaller pyramidal towers on the outside, each containing a statue of the Thousand-Handed, Thousand-Eyed Buddha; each tower is topped with a small stupa. Hundreds of Buddha statues of various sizes are meticulously arranged on this tower.

The Bao Tich Tower has eight doors symbolizing the "Eightfold Path". Inside, there are two levels; the upper level is dedicated to Buddha, while the lower level allows visitors to stop and admire the magnificent beauty of the tower, imbued with a distinct maritime charm.

Not only the exterior, but also the graceful lines and patterns inside the tower are intricately and skillfully crafted from seashells, snails, and clams. The conical dome of the tower is also inlaid with colorful seashell patterns. With its two-tiered, pointed spire, it soars against the azure sky.

The tower was designed and built by the creative minds and skillful hands of the monks in the temple. To create this unique masterpiece, the monks spent five years working on it, starting in 1995. Over time and through the elements, the coral stones and seashells here have taken on a weathered appearance, giving the tower a rugged yet ancient and incredibly peaceful look.

Besides the Bao Tich Tower, another interesting feature of the temple is the "18-level Hell Tunnel," a fascinating experience at Tu Van Temple (Oc Temple). Although only about 500 meters long, the path down to "hell" is meticulously constructed from coral and seashells, with an eye-catching dragon motif on the outside. Because it descends deep underground, the passage is dark, narrow, and winding. Along the path are 12 plaques detailing the sins of the mortal world and the punishments at the gates of hell, serving as a moral admonition for people to live virtuously and compassionately.

According to Buddhist belief, overcoming all "18 levels of hell" and crossing the Nai Ha Bridge means you have ended all suffering and returned to the mortal world through the mouth of a large dragon. Although it's just a concept, you will feel a sense of peace, as if you have shed all worries and embraced the beautiful life around you.

Following the wide, open path behind the dragon's mouth, you arrive at the luminous "paradise" of "Prajna Flower Garden." Here, ancient trees, vibrant flower gardens, and sculptures of sea creatures, forest animals, and the Five Elements Mountains made from seashells create a serene and enchanting space.

The pagoda is a highlight of tourism in the Ba Ngoi coastal area of Cam Ranh Bay. Visitors are amazed by the unique architecture of the structure. Over time and through exposure to the elements, the seashells and coral here have become even more ancient and majestic.

Besides its unique structure, this pagoda also carries a moral message, encouraging people to live more virtuously and accumulate merit, and possesses profound cultural value. Currently, Tu Van Pagoda has been included in several tourist tours to Cam Ranh City as a spiritual tourism destination.

Source: Discover unique architecture of Tu Van pagoda in Nha Trang.