Con Phung (Phoenix Island) – A Mystical Landmark in the Mekong Delta

📍 Opening Hours: Daily 8:00 AM – 11:30 AM & 1:30 PM – 6:00 PM
🎟️ Entrance Fee: Applicable

Discovering the Legacy of Phoenix Island

Nestled in the heart of the Mekong Delta, Con Phung (Phoenix Island) is a fascinating historical and spiritual site, best known for its connection to the eccentric Coconut Monk, Ong Dao Dua. Once the center of an offbeat religious sect, the island still holds remnants of his visionary structures, though much of its original grandeur has faded over time.

What to See on Phoenix Island

🛕 The Remains of a Spiritual Complex
While much of the Coconut Monk’s religious commune has disappeared, visitors can still explore the skeletal remains of the open-air complex he built. Among its rusting staircases and platforms, you’ll find one of its most bizarre features—a rocket-shaped elevator, designed to carry the monk to his private meditation chamber above the site.

🐉 The Nine Dragon Pillars
Another striking structure is the set of nine dragon-entwined pillars, believed to represent the nine tributaries of the Mekong River. These intricate designs suggest a Cao Dai influence, reflecting the monk’s fusion of spiritual beliefs.

🏺 The Coconut Monk’s Masterpiece
A highlight for many visitors is a magnificent urn, featuring an engraved account of Ong Dao Dua’s life (in Vietnamese). Legend has it that the monk personally crafted this urn using shards of porcelain from France, Japan, and China, symbolizing his eclectic worldview.

A Unique Stop on Your Mekong Delta Journey

While Phoenix Island may no longer be the thriving religious center it once was, it remains a captivating site filled with history, mysticism, and architectural oddities. Whether you’re interested in the unconventional beliefs of the Coconut Monk or simply want to experience a different side of the Mekong Delta, a visit to Con Phung is well worth your time.

Would you explore the forgotten kingdom of the Coconut Monk? 🌿✨