January
25.7°C ~ 78°F
3 days of rain
Crowds: Busy
Van Thuy Tu Temple
A seaside temple dedicated to the whale spirit, with a large collection of whale skeletons.
- Location
- Phan Thiet
- Time needed
- 30 – 45 min
- Entry fee
- Free
- Best months
- Nov – Apr
Overview
Van Thuy Tu is a temple in Phan Thiet dedicated to the whale, a sacred animal for local fishermen. It holds a large collection of whale skeletons, including some very large ones, and the festival to honour the whale is held each year.
It is an easy stop on a city walk and a good place to learn about fishing culture. A visit takes 30 to 45 minutes.
Highlights
- See the whale skeletons
- Learn about the fishermen's beliefs
- Visit the temple halls
Visitor information
| Opening hours | Daily. Reports give about 9:00 – 17:00 (confirm). |
|---|---|
| Entry fee | Free to about 15,000 VND (reports differ; confirm) |
| Time needed | 30 – 45 min |
| Best time of day | Morning |
| Good for | Culture lovers |
| Accessibility | Mostly flat |
| Facilities | Toilets nearby |
Prices and hours can change. Check the official source before you go.
Best time to visit
Weather in Phan Thiet by month.
February
26.1°C ~ 79°F
1 day of rain
Crowds: Moderate
March
27°C ~ 81°F
2 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
April
28.2°C ~ 83°F
8 days of rain
Crowds: Busy
May
28.5°C ~ 83°F
23 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
June
27.9°C ~ 82°F
24 days of rain
Crowds: Busy
July
27.4°C ~ 81°F
26 days of rain
Crowds: Busy
August
27.4°C ~ 81°F
25 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
September
27°C ~ 81°F
25 days of rain
Crowds: Quiet
October
26.7°C ~ 80°F
22 days of rain
Crowds: Quiet
November
26.6°C ~ 80°F
12 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
December
26°C ~ 79°F
6 days of rain
Crowds: Busy
How to get there
- From Phan Thiet centre
In Phan Thiet city, near the seafront. Easy by taxi or motorbike.
- Van Thuy Tu Temple
Tips before you go
- Dress modestly
- Go in the morning
- Combine with the fishing harbour
- Keep your voice low
Location
Phan Thiet
More attractions in Phan Thiet
FAQs
Why is the whale sacred?
Local fishermen believe the whale saves boats at sea.
How long do I need?
About 30 – 45 minutes.
Is it free?
Reports differ. Confirm at the gate.