In the system of temples, shrines, and sanctuaries in Binh Thuan province, there is a sacred pagoda associated with a revered monk—a figure considered a “savior of the world.” His virtue and reputation are honored by the people of Binh Thuan and Buddhists from near and far, who commemorate him annually.
The Legend of the Sacred Pagoda's Founder
Mount Ta Cu, recognized as a national scenic spot in Binh Thuan province, is renowned for its 49-meter-long reclining Buddha statue at the summit. This sacred place is also steeped in legends about the founder of the revered pagoda, attracting pilgrims from all over.
The Peaceful Reclining Buddha on Ta Cu Mountain
In the late 19th century, a great sage known as Master Tran, with the Dharma name Thong An and the Dharma title Huu Duc, secluded himself in the tranquil surroundings of Ta Cu Mountain.
Born in 1812 to a noble family in Bac Ma Village, Dong Xuan, Phu Yen (now Tuy An District, Phu Yen Province), Master Tran Huu Duc was known for his extraordinary intellect and compassion from a young age. At ten, he studied Confucianism, and by seventeen, after honoring his late parents, he left home, determined to pursue a life of detachment.
The Shrine of Master Tran Huu Duc at Linh Son Long Doan on Mount Ta Cu
In 1872, Master Huu Duc quietly made his way up Ta Cu Mountain, which at that time was an untouched, wild forest teeming with dangerous animals and devoid of human footprints. He ascended to a height of over 400 meters, to a part of the mountain facing the sea, where large rocks were stacked atop one another. Here, he found a narrow cave, just large enough for a person to enter. Descending more than three meters inside, he discovered a spacious and secluded stone platform, which served as his shelter from the rain and sun.
Below the cave, a crystal-clear underground spring flowed year-round, and there were deep branching passages. At the cave’s entrance stood large, lush trees, creating a tranquil, mystical atmosphere perfect for deep meditation. Master Huu Duc vowed to live a reclusive life, never descending the mountain. This place later became known as the Founder’s Cave.
From the cable car up to Ta Cu Mountain, visitors can enjoy views of the pristine forest, rich with diverse flora and fauna.
At the stone retreat, he drank from the spring, gathered wild herbs, and collected edible fruits, living in harmony with the plants, birds, and animals around him. Over the years, countless legends about Master Huu Duc’s life in seclusion spread, adding an aura of sanctity and mystery to Ta Cu Mountain.
Two Sacred Pagodas on the Holy Mountain
The two pagodas on Ta Cu Mountain, Linh Son Truong Tho (Upper Pagoda) and Linh Son Long Doan (Lower Pagoda), are popular pilgrimage destinations for visitors from near and far.
The Weathered Steps of Linh Son Long Doan
Linh Son Truong Tho Pagoda, conferred royal recognition by Emperor Tu Duc after Master Tran Huu Duc successfully treated Empress Dowager Tu Du, is steeped in a legend of healing still passed down among the locals.
Linh Son Truong Tho Pagoda is associated with the legend of healing Empress Dowager Tu Du.
Over time, Linh Son Truong Tho Pagoda has undergone restoration, giving it a nearly new appearance. However, when viewed from the mountaintop, the pagoda retains its original form, with red-tiled roofs standing out among the mountains, enhancing the picturesque natural landscape of Ta Cu from above.
Linh Son Long Doan, located on the eastern slope of Linh Son Truong Tho, was built by Venerable Tam Hien—one of the disciples of Master Huu Duc—from an original thatched hut. The pagoda grounds feature notable structures such as the Founder’s Stupa and the Buddha Hall.
On the 1st and 15th of each lunar month, numerous pilgrims visit TTC World - Ta Cu to pay homage to the reclining Buddha statue of Shakyamuni—a 49-meter-long Buddha statue that holds the Asian record as the longest reclining Buddha on a mountaintop. Additionally, the giant wind chime at TTC World - Ta Cu, completed in late 2023, has become a popular spot for visitors seeking tranquility and rare “healing” sounds.
Every year, on the 5th-10th day of the lunar month, thousands of Buddhists and visitors come to Ta Cu to offer incense, pray, and pay respects to Master Tran Huu Duc on his death anniversary. For this year’s anniversary, TTC World - Ta Cu is offering numerous special promotions for visitors.
Free cable car tickets for monks and individuals over 80 years old
Binh Thuan residents: 175,000 VND per adult | 120,000 VND per child
Seniors, groups, and students: 125,000 VND per ticket
General visitors: 200,000 VND per adult | 120,000 VND per child
SPECIAL OFFER: Buy six tickets, get one free.
The program is valid for two days, November 5-6, 2024 (lunar 5th-6th of October)
TTC World - Ta Cu is part of the TTC Hospitality ecosystem, which offers Lodging, Recreation, Cuisine, and Travel services. In Binh Thuan, TTC Hospitality also owns three other destinations:
TTC Hotel - Phan Thiet: the tallest 4-star hotel in Phan Thiet City
TTC Resort - Ke Ga: located along the pristine Ke Ga Beach
TTC Palace - Binh Thuan: a centrally located conference and wedding center.
Guests staying at any TTC Hospitality destination in Binh Thuan receive a 50% discount on cable car tickets to visit Ta Cu.
Contact Information:
TTC World - Ta Cu
18 Nguyen Van Linh, Nam Thanh Ward, Thuan Nam Town, Ham Thuan Nam District, Binh Thuan, Vietnam
Phone: +84 83 886 7484
Email: contacts@tacutourist.com
Facebook: TTC World - Ta Cu
Website: TTC Hospitality
Via TheSaigonTimes