Tu Van Pagoda, located on April 3rd street in Cam Linh ward, is notable for the Bao Tich Tower in its courtyard, constructed from millions of seashells and coral. Locals often refer to this place as "Seashell Pagoda".

Construction of the Bao Tich Tower began in 1994 and was completed in 1998. The structure stands 39 meters tall and was gradually built by monks from its foundation without an initial design plan. Surrounding the tower are 49 small, conical stupas, each housing a Buddha statue. A small stupa crowns the tower's peak. The structure features eight entrances, symbolizing the "Eightfold Path" (Bat Chanh Dao).

The tower has two levels, with the lower level open to visitors. The walls and entrances are adorned with seashells and coral.

A representative from Tu Van Pagoda stated that the tower's construction was smooth. Noticing an abundance of dead seashells and coral on Cam Ranh beach, the monks collected them and combined them with cement to build the structure. This serves both as a place for monastic practice and a visitor attraction.

The tower's second level is dedicated to Buddha worship. Its conical dome is crafted from coral and seashells, interspersed with ventilation holes. Many visitors describe the interior space as resembling a giant seashell.

A representative from Tu Van Pagoda noted that during holidays and Tet (Lunar New Year), visitor numbers can reach up to 50,000 per day.

The patterns on the walls, ceilings, and thresholds of the Bao Tich Tower were conceived by the monks themselves.

The incense-lighting area within the courtyard is also built from coral and seashells.

Surrounding the Bao Tich Tower is a dragon-shaped tunnel, approximately one kilometer long, often called the "18 levels of hell".

Inside the dimly lit tunnel, visitors must use flashlights or follow light from the openings to navigate. Along the pathway are 18 sections named after corresponding sins, representing the 18 levels of hell.

Ms. Thao Nhi, a visitor from Ho Chi Minh City, commented that the path is easy to navigate and the space offers an educational message, encouraging people to do good deeds.

By Bui Toan