Thang Tam Temple & Whale Temple
Đình Thắng Tam & Lăng Cá Ông
A cluster of traditional shrines for Vung Tau's fishing community. The Whale Temple preserves several huge whale skeletons and reflects the sea-god worship of southern Vietnam.
Thang Tam Pavilion was first built in the early 19th century to honor three village heads who opened up the area. Beside it, Nam Hai Whale Temple (Lăng Ông Nam Hải) is dedicated to the whale, which fishermen regard as a guardian of the sea. Dozens of whale bones are kept inside, including one about 18 meters long, one of the largest whale skeletons in Vietnam. The temple features carved beams and painted walls, with murals of whales and mermaids. Every year in the eighth lunar month, the Whale Welcoming Festival is held, with processions to the sea to welcome the whale god and traditional opera performances. Entry is free. The temple is on Hoang Hoa Tham Street, about 1 kilometer from Back Beach.
Opening hours
About 07:00–17:00
Nearby sights
- Xom Luoi Seafood Market
- Vung Tau Lighthouse
- Front Beach (Bai Truoc)
- Niet Ban Tinh Xa (Nirvana Vihara)
- Pig Hill (Doi Con Heo)
- Back Beach (Bai Sau)
- Pineapple Beach (Bai Dua)
- Christ of Vung Tau