Tay Ninh is in the northwest of Saigon and serves as the headquarters of Caodaism,
one of Vietnam's most interesting indigenous religions.
The area's dominant geographic
feature is Black Lady Mountain and the eastern border is formed by the
Saigon River.
The Vam Co River flows from
Cambodia through the western part of the province.
What to Do ?
Cao Dai Temple (Cao Dai Holy See): Established in 1926, is 4km east of Tay Ninh
in the village of Long Hoa. Its doctrine is an east-west mix said to have been communicated
through seances by famous spirits such as Shakespeare and Lenin. The Cao Dai symbol,
an all-seeing eye, and the temple decor in general are colorfully garish. A visit
to this sacred temple is usually combined with Cu Chi Tunnels exploration.
Black
Lady Mountain is 15km northeast of
Tay Ninh and was used as a staging area by both
the Viet Minh and the VC as well as the scene of fierce fighting during the French
and American Wars. If you like more exercise, a walk to the summit is very interesting.
Otherwise, having fun with chair lifts that shuttle the pilgrims up and down the
hill.
Travel Tips: When visiting Cao Dai Temple, please dress modestly and respectfully and remove
your shoes before entering. It is also important to ask for permission before taking
photos at this complex.
Also bring hat, sunglasses and easy walking shoes.
