Located just 4km/2.5 miles from Tay Ninh, Cao Dai Temple is part of a prominent Caodaist complex founded in 1926. It’s still an active place of worship for the Caodaism faith, one of the ten official religions in Vietnam.

The Holy See, also known as “Toa Thanh Temple,” is regarded as the Caodaist headquarters and a popular tourist attraction.

The area that the Holy See resides on totals about 100 hectares/247 acres and has 12 gates. The main building to see is The Great Temple, which is a beautifully designed and colorful structure that stands out from the rest. The roof of the building has a lot of exciting shapes incorporated in it to represent a blend of European and Asian influences.

Cao Dai Religion

tay ninh holy see (cao dai temple) – hoa thanh

Cao Dai Religion. Photo: Shawn Harquail

The Cao Dai religion was created in 1926 by Ngo Van Chieu, an employee of the French government during the Indochina War. The religion’s main symbol is the Divine Eye, and followers preach love for all and prioritize peace, harmony, and tolerance for all different kinds of people. Caodaists also believe in karma and practice vegetarianism.

Visiting the Cao Dai Temple

Even though the temple is a busy attraction, it’s also a full-functioning place of worship for Caodaists. When going inside, visitors should be dressed appropriately and take their shoes off before entering. Taking photographs inside the temple is allowed, but it’s requested that tourists don’t snap pictures of anyone inside praying without their permission.

Getting There

Tây Ninh Holy See. Photo: Gary Todd

Tours of the Holy See can be easily arranged in Ho Chi Minh City, but self-guided tours are also done. The Cu Chi Tunnels are close by, so often, an organized tour will include them in a tour of the See. Tay Nihn is roughly a two-hour drive from Ho Chi Minh City, so it’s possible to visit this site in one day.