About Cao Dai Holy See, Tay Ninh
Caodaism was founded in southern Vietnam in 1926, blending elements of Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, Christianity and spiritism. Followers worship a supreme God symbolized by the Divine Eye within a triangle, and they honor saints as varied as the Buddha, Jesus, Laozi and Victor Hugo. The Holy See at Tay Ninh is the mother temple and administrative center of the faith.
The Great Divine Temple is a fantasy of pastel colors, with twin towers, dragon-wrapped columns and a star-spangled blue ceiling. Four times daily, robed worshippers in white, yellow, blue and red file into the nave for prayer accompanied by music. Visitors may watch the noon service from the upper gallery, a striking and peaceful spectacle.
What to see
- Noon prayer service from the balcony
- Divine Eye above the altar
- Dragon-coiled columns in the nave
- Mural of the Three Saints signing a covenant
- Nearby Black Virgin Mountain
Visiting Cao Dai Holy See, Tay Ninh: practical guide
- Best time
- December to April, the dry season
- Hours
- Services at 6:00, 12:00, 18:00 and 24:00
- Entry
- Free
- Dress code
- Modest clothing; remove shoes inside
- Nearest airport
- Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN), 95 km
Tips from experienced pilgrims
- Arrive by 11:30 to see the noon service
- Stay in the gallery during prayers and photograph quietly
- Combine with the Cu Chi Tunnels on a day trip from Ho Chi Minh City
Festivals and special days
- Festival of the Supreme Being (9th day of the 1st lunar month)
- Hoi Yen Dieu Tri Cung (15th day of the 8th lunar month)
Etiquette for visitors
Guidance drawn from Caodaism tradition. Always follow signs and local custodians.
- Remove shoes before entering temples.
- Dress modestly with shoulders and knees covered.
- During ceremonies, stay on the upper balcony or in designated areas.
- Do not walk through the nave during prayers.
- Photograph quietly from permitted areas, without flash.
Location map
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Frequently asked questions
Where is Cao Dai Holy See, Tay Ninh?
Cao Dai Holy See, Tay Ninh is in Hoa Thanh, Tay Ninh Province, Vietnam, Asia. GPS coordinates: 11.3039, 106.1333. The nearest airport is Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN), 95 km.
What is the best time to visit Cao Dai Holy See, Tay Ninh?
December to April, the dry season
Is there an entry fee for Cao Dai Holy See, Tay Ninh?
Free Opening hours: Services at 6:00, 12:00, 18:00 and 24:00
What should I wear when visiting Cao Dai Holy See, Tay Ninh?
Modest clothing; remove shoes inside
Which religion is Cao Dai Holy See, Tay Ninh sacred to?
Cao Dai Holy See, Tay Ninh is sacred to Caodaism. Active place of worship.
