Travel guide Experiences

Month: May 2021

Kittyd & Minnied Amusement Park – Things to do in Hau Giang

Posted on by Thomas Vietnam

Kittyd & Minnied Park is known as the most unique entertainment paradise in Hau Giang, like Disneyland, attracting many young people to check-in.

By Thomas Vietnam at vemekong.com | Official Hau Giang Visitor Guide

Kittyd & Minnied Amusement Park in Hau Giang

1. Better to Know as a Tourist

Ticket: 60,000 VND – 80,000 VND (Game fees are not included)

Spend-time: One hour (approx)

Hours: Dawn – dusk

Food: Yes

Shop: Yes

Parking lot: Yes, for coach

Blog: https://vemekong.com/kittyd-minnied-amusement-park-hau-giang-vietnam/

Address: National Highway 1A, Tan Phu Thanh commune, Chau Thanh A, Hau Giang.

Added values: Visiting here, you will admire the magnificent castles, immerse yourself in the European-style scenery and experience countless exciting entertainment games.

Nearby attractions and hidden gems: Looking for places to stop on your way to and from Kittyd & Minnied Amusement Park? Or maybe you found it too crowded here? We’ve got some ideas! Check out our list: Lung Ngoc Hoang Forest & Bird Sanctuary (36 km), Truc Lam Zen Monastery Hau Giang (35 km), Vi Thanh Outdoor Farmers Market (46 km), Xa No Park in Hau Giang (44 km), Cau Duc Pineapple Fields (57 km),…

2. Travel Guide to Kittyd & Minnied Amusement Park

The most instagrammable spot in Hau Giang

Kittyd & Minnied Park in Hau Giang is designed according to the largest European architecture in the Mekong Delta, open to welcome guests from February 2018. The park is a fancy highlight in the tourist colors of the West River. .

The park is spread over an area of ​​20 hectares of the campus of Vo Truong Toan University, designed according to a modern park model with many visitor areas suitable for many ages. In general, the park is divided into 3 main areas: a walking square with super beautiful European castles, a water park and an area with diverse sports and adventure games suitable for many ages.

If you come to Can Tho, you can choose to go to an amusement park if you are bored with ecotourism in fruit gardens and floating markets. Although the park is located in Hau Giang, it is only about 12km from Can Tho city, the road is easy to go, so you can come here to visit easily. Choose the right vehicle according to your preferences.

3. What to Do – See – Eat at Kittyd & Minnied Amusement Park

“A little Leaning Tower of Pisa” in Hau Giang”

When entering the inner campus, visitors will be amazed at an extremely large park divided into many areas.

At the Walking Street named after Olympus Street (Olympus Street), you can visit and shop for souvenirs with the characteristics of Kittyd & Minnied Amusement Park. The pedestrian zone is also a place where visitors can immerse themselves in the fairy-tale space with many special performances: street parades (re-enactment of fairy-tale characters such as Snow White, Cinderella, Beauty and the Beast, etc.) Mermaid, Aladdin, Cloud-haired Princess, …), aerial statue performance, mascot performance, …

At Eros Square, you can mingle, watch, have fun and admire the statue of the cupid. Young people in love can send their eternal love by carving their beloved’s name on beautiful keychains to stay at this square for a long time.

One of the highlights of Hau Giang touirism.

The highlight of the Kittyd & Minnied theme park is the Coeus Castle (Coeus Castle) with a population of ancient Greek mythological statues, surrounded by solid walls and royal-style interior design. . Coeus Castle is also the place to host special performances every night, you can immerse yourself to bring the feeling of the fairy-tale world.

In addition to buildings with European architecture, fresh air suitable for resort tourism, Kittyd & Minnied Amusement Park is also particularly attractive to visitors by its modern game system and thrills as standard. international. For those who are adventurous and looking for thrills, surely the 360o Roller Coaster, Pendulum Game or Viking Pirate Ship will delight you.

For those of you who have not dared to challenge with thrilling games, games such as Horse Riding Ferris Wheel, Ocean Jellyfish, Space Bike or indoor games will also bring you moments of entertainment. very comfortable.

If you are a fan of Sasuke’s motion TV game show or simply love movement games, you cannot ignore the Sports area with many attractive games: Dragon Snake Swing, Rope Tower Swing, Eagle’s Nest, … This is an adventure game area that has never been seen in other parks in Vietnam.

Located in a high-class, modern entertainment complex, Water Park with modern, thrilling and latest water games of the world such as Cyclone Trough, “Round of Rage” slide. … will bring many unique experiences to visitors.

4. Free Itineraries from VeMekong

As a local travel expert, we have some ideas for you to think about.

From Hau Giang center:

Route 1:

Route 2:

Route 3:

If you do not have much time left, it is easy to check out spots in one full day by boat or with bike or with motorbike and car. But there are much more than tourist sites like these in Hau Giang. Make sure you have more time to feel and explore more about the hidden gems and the culture, food, night life, wildlife and forest as well. Top tip: Stay in a homestay nearby, so you have more chances to visit it and surroundings. If you are looking for the package Hau Giang daily tour with local, you can contact www.vemekong.com or Hotline/WhatsApp/WeChat/Zalo +84939888559; email: hello@vemekong.com

5. Google Maps of Kittyd & Minnied Amusement Park

 Google Maps made a name for itself helping people travel from one place to another, avoid traffic (You probably know the route from your hotel to the gas station by heart, but what you can’t be sure about is gridlock), measure a distance, get back to the hotel on time, share the location…

6. Visit Kittyd & Minnied Amusement Park  by yourself

Solo traveller? Travelling on your own means you will get out of any difficult situations by yourself. This, in turn, leads to more satisfying travel experiences and helps you improve your problem-solving skills. These days we rarely get the chance to sit with ourselves and simply be. That’s why you should consider the time you spend alone on your trip as a gift.

It is possible for solo travellers to use google maps and do it alone. But sometimes they need to update local maintained roads and bridges which close and lead you a longer road than the road from google maps. It is just about the time. It takes more time to find the correct garden to come. Adventure is always fun. Wifi is strong in Hau Giang village! The locals find it hard to speak English as well. Top tip: Sticking to one canal and keeping going along it which gives you more things to see and avoids getting lost. Contact vemekong.com to hire a car, scooter with English-speaking-guide or cycling tours in Hau Giang.

7. Responsible Travel and Advice to Visit Kittyd & Minnied Amusement Park

Many families and children come and enjoy the park at the weekend.

Don’t get us wrong. But we assure you that you totally agree with us. “Do not give candy and things to the children when you plan to visit any local villages”, the kids will leave the school and follow the sweets and later they find some things to give you or sell to you. The garden is a little forest, don’t pick and touch the flowers or fruits without the local’s smiles. We deal with traveling green and leaving green behind, not plastic. Top tip: Vemekong.com are some of the companies that care a lot about responsible travel and local respectation.

8. Amazing Video flycam/drone of  Kittyd & Minnied Amusement Park (4k)

If a picture says a thousand words, it stands to reason that the video says many times more.

9. Incredible Tips for Photography, Specialists, KOLs, Media and Influencers

Very Europe style and different to the locals’

To get the best of the best for your unique writing, featuring, photo, video and insider’s stories. We do recommend you to have a local travel expert, the one who always gets more ground information and makes sure every single element is solved perfectly. Vemekong (very exclusive Mekong) team is your priority choice. Email and have a private talk with them to customize your journey smoothly, personal and the most ultimately amazing. You can contact www.vemekong.com or Hotline/WhatsApp/WeChat/Zalo +84939888559; email: hello@vemekong.com

10. Pro Tips

You can stay in a homestay which is near the riverside, this will help you out the best option. Then you can hire a scooter, car or bike and explore it by yourself and I hope you have an amazing Mekong Delta river sunrise.

If you plan to extend your travel to Hau Giang homestay, do not forget to bring mosquito repellent cream.

Visit Hau Giang or do any customized tours, please choose reputable providers with boat trips equipped with lifebuoys, jackets, motorcycle and cycling tours with the helmets and. Safety is a priority! Choose Hau Giang responsible tours which help you give back while traveling. It’s a cliché, but it’s true.

Hau Giang food & drink guide ranges from street food, authentic, fancy to fusion foods. As a tropical land of many fresh vegetables and homegrown gardens, which always make Hau Giang cuisines fresh, close to nature and very traditional. If you are a food lover, don’t hesitate to put other bites onto your food lists such as Cau Duc pineapple, Hau Giang’s Bronze Featherback Fish Cake, Cai Tac’s Pork Organs Porridge…

Bring your hat, sunglasses, and sunblock, scarf to wear when visiting temples, pagodas, and the cathedral.

Bring the raincoat if you’re planning a trip to Hau Giang in the rainy season, as Hau Giang always looks fantastic in the full rain and full sun.

Hau Giang tourist attractions are magnificent itself, but if you have enough time, don’t forget to put other places onto your bucket lists such as Lung Ngoc Hoang Forest, Nature Reserve & Bird Sanctuary, Kittyd & Minnied Amusement Park, Truc Lam Zen Monastery Hau Giang, Vi Thanh Outdoor Farmers Market, Bo Tum Vong Say Khmer Pagoda, Like Coffee Shop in Hau Giang, Phung Hiep Bamboo and Rattan Craft Village, Tu Sang Bamboo Garden Hau Giang, Cau Duc Pineapple Fields, Tam Vu ecotourism area, Long My Stork Garden,Ba Bai Base, Chuong Thien Cultural & historic site, Vi Hung Church, Xa No Park – Xa No Canal…

Hopefully, the above tips will help you to come up with a great plan for your adventure in Hau Giang province, Mekong Delta, Vietnam. Have a safe trip!

“Sleep less, travel more, respect more” – Thomas Vietnam – Local travel expert.

Thank you

Phung Hiep Bamboo and Rattan Craft Village – Hau Giang Vietnam

Posted on by Thomas Vietnam

The traditional handicraft villages are considered as the factors that have greatly contributed to increased income and reduced poverty in rural areas. In Mekong Delta, Vietnam, there are more than 200 traditional handicrafts villages that make various handicrafts, absorbing about 200,000 laborers. Phung Hiep bamboo and rattan craft village is one of them. It is located in Nga Bay, Phung Hiep, Hau Giang. Established in the 1950s, the village is famous for its beautiful and handmade bamboo and rattan products. It is also one of the hidden gems for tourists to see in Hau Giang.

By Thomas Vietnam at vemekong.com | Official Hau Giang Visitor Guide

Being a peaceful village, Phung Hiep bamboo and rattan craft village lies along the Cai Con Kenh Xang canal about 2km.

From many years ago, handicraft villages evolved as families used free time between harvests to create products for their daily needs and give the chance to earn money for a number of households, labors in the flood seasons by making the fishing nets and other fishing catching tools like bamboo fish traps and bamboo baskets.

The bamboo and rattan craft has brought people here a more stable and prosperous life. The village has been creating regular jobs for local bamboo and rattan production households. Baskets have been the main products of Phung Hiep craft village for generations.
Everyone in the village, young or old, man or woman, weaves rattan and bamboo. It has been in their blood for generations.

Pro tips

You can stay in a homestay which is near the riverside, this will help you out the best option. Then you can hire a scooter, car or bike and explore it by yourself and I hope you have an amazing Mekong Delta river sunrise.

If you plan to extend your travel to Hau Giang homestay, do not forget to bring mosquito repellent cream.

Visit Hau Giang or do any customized tours, please choose reputable providers with boat trips equipped with lifebuoys, jackets, motorcycle and cycling tours with the helmets and. Safety is a priority! Choose Hau Giang responsible tours which help you give back while traveling. It’s a cliché, but it’s true.

Hau Giang food & drink guide ranges from street food, authentic, fancy to fusion foods. As a tropical land of many fresh vegetables and homegrown gardens, which always make Hau Giang cuisines fresh, close to nature and very traditional. If you are a food lover, don’t hesitate to put other bites onto your food lists such as Cau Duc pineapple, Hau Giang’s Bronze Featherback Fish Cake, Cai Tac’s Pork Organs Porridge…

Bring your hat, sunglasses, and sunblock, scarf to wear when visiting temples, pagodas, and the cathedral.

Bring the raincoat if you’re planning a trip to Hau Giang in the rainy season, as Hau Giang always looks fantastic in the full rain and full sun.

Hau Giang tourist attractions are magnificent itself, but if you have enough time, don’t forget to put other places onto your bucket lists such as Lung Ngoc Hoang Forest, Nature Reserve & Bird Sanctuary, Kittyd & Minnied Amusement Park, Truc Lam Zen Monastery Hau Giang, Vi Thanh Outdoor Farmers Market, Bo Tum Vong Say Khmer Pagoda, Like Coffee Shop in Hau Giang, Phung Hiep Bamboo and Rattan Craft Village, Tu Sang Bamboo Garden Hau Giang, Cau Duc Pineapple Fields, Tam Vu ecotourism area, Long My Stork Garden,Ba Bai Base, Chuong Thien Cultural & historic site, Vi Hung Church, Xa No Park – Xa No Canal…

Hopefully, the above tips will help you to come up with a great plan for your adventure in Hau Giang province, Mekong Delta, Vietnam. Have a safe trip!

“Sleep less, travel more, respect more” – Thomas Vietnam – Local travel expert.

Thank you

Bo Tum Vong Say Khmer Pagoda – Hau Giang Must See & Do

Posted on by Thomas Vietnam

One of the famous Khmer temples that attract tourists when coming to Hau Giang is Bo Tum Vong Say pagoda. A temple with mysterious beauty with unique architecture of Khmer people.

By Thomas Vietnam at vemekong.com | Official Hau Giang Visitor Guide

Khmer pagoda in Mekong Delta,, Vietnam

1. Better to know as a tourist

Ticket: Free

Spend-time: Half an hour (approx)

Hours: All day till 9:00 PM

Food: Yes

Shop: Yes

Parking lot: Yes

Blog: https://vemekong.com/bo-tum-vong-say-pagoda-hau-giang/

Address: Located in Cai Tac, Chau Thanh A, Hau Giang, Mekong Delta, Vietnam.

Added values: This pagoda is not only famous for mysterious color by night but also for its unique architecture.

Nearby attractions and hidden gems: Looking for places to stop on your way to and from Bo Tum Vong Say Khmer Pagoda? Or maybe you found it too crowded here? We’ve got some ideas! Check out our list: Lung Ngoc Hoang Forest & Bird Sanctuary (30 km), Kittyd & Minnied Amusement Park (6 minutes), Truc Lam Zen Monastery Hau Giang (30 km), Vi Thanh Outdoor Farmers Market (39 km), Xa No Park in Hau Giang (37 km), Cau Duc Pineapple Fields (50 km),…

2. Travel Guide to Bo Tum Vong Say Khmer Pagoda

Bo Tum Vong Say Khmer Pagoda located in Hau Giang province of Mekong Delta. This pagoda is not only famous for mysterious colorful by night but also for its unique architecture.

One of the most beautiful Khmer pagodas in Vietnam is Bo Tum Vong Say Khmer Pagoda located in Hau Giang province of Mekong Delta. It is said that Bo Tum Vong Say Khmer Pagoda was built in 1937 following Khmer traditional architectural practice and has been repaired many times. In 2020, the new and magnificent main hall was upgraded to the joy of thousands of Buddhists. It is sometimes also called Cai Tai Khmer pagoda because its location is near the Cai Tac fork junction..

3. What to Do – See – Eat at Bo Tum Vong Say Khmer Pagoda

There are many charming Khmer people selling their own farm products in this area. And perhaps, the most special thing in this pagoda is the nighttime and the nearby market.

4. Free Itineraries from VeMekong

As a local travel expert, we have some ideas for you to think about.

From Hau Giang center:

Route 1:

Route 2:

Route 3:

If you do not have much time left, it is easy to check out spots in one full day by boat or with bike or with motorbike and car. But there are much more than tourist sites like these in Hau Giang. Make sure you have more time to feel and explore more about the hidden gems and the culture, food, night life, wildlife and forest as well. Top tip: Stay in a homestay nearby, so you have more chances to visit it and surroundings. If you are looking for the package Hau Giang daily tour with local, you can contact www.vemekong.com or Hotline/WhatsApp/WeChat/Zalo +84939888559; email: hello@vemekong.com

5. Google Maps of Bo Tum Vong Say Khmer Pagoda

Google Maps made a name for itself helping people travel from one place to another, avoid traffic (You probably know the route from your hotel to the gas station by heart, but what you can’t be sure about is gridlock), measure a distance, get back to the hotel on time, share the location…

6. Visit Bo Tum Vong Say Khmer Pagoda by yourself

Solo traveller? Travelling on your own means you will get out of any difficult situations by yourself. This, in turn, leads to more satisfying travel experiences and helps you improve your problem-solving skills. These days we rarely get the chance to sit with ourselves and simply be. That’s why you should consider the time you spend alone on your trip as a gift.

It is possible for solo travellers to use google maps and do it alone. But sometimes they need to update local maintained roads and bridges which close and lead you a longer road than the road from google maps. It is just about the time. It takes more time to find the correct garden to come. Adventure is always fun. Wifi is strong in Hau Giang village! The locals find it hard to speak English as well. Top tip: Sticking to one canal and keeping going along it which gives you more things to see and avoids getting lost. Contact vemekong.com to hire a car, scooter with English-speaking-guide or cycling tours in Hau Giang.

7. Responsible Travel and Advice to Visit Bo Tum Vong Say Khmer Pagoda

Don’t get us wrong. But we assure you that you totally agree with us. “Do not give candy and things to the children when you plan to visit any local villages”, the kids will leave the school and follow the sweets and later they find some things to give you or sell to you. The garden is a little forest, don’t pick and touch the flowers or fruits without the local’s smiles. We deal with traveling green and leaving green behind, not plastic. Top tip: Vemekong.com are some of the companies that care a lot about responsible travel and local respectation.

8. Amazing Video flycam/drone of Bo Tum Vong Say Khmer Pagoda (4k)

If a picture says a thousand words, it stands to reason that the video says many times more.

9. Incredible Tips for Photography, Specialists, KOLs, Media and Influencers

To get the best of the best for your unique writing, featuring, photo, video and insider’s stories. We do recommend you to have a local travel expert, the one who always gets more ground information and makes sure every single element is solved perfectly. Vemekong (very exclusive Mekong) team is your priority choice. Email and have a private talk with them to customize your journey smoothly, personal and the most ultimately amazing. You can contact www.vemekong.com or Hotline/WhatsApp/WeChat/Zalo +84939888559; email: hello@vemekong.com

10. Pro Tips

You can stay in a homestay which is near the riverside, this will help you out the best option. Then you can hire a scooter, car or bike and explore it by yourself and I hope you have an amazing Mekong Delta river sunrise.

If you plan to extend your travel to Hau Giang homestay, do not forget to bring mosquito repellent cream.

Visit Hau Giang or do any customized tours, please choose reputable providers with boat trips equipped with lifebuoys, jackets, motorcycle and cycling tours with the helmets and. Safety is a priority! Choose Hau Giang responsible tours which help you give back while traveling. It’s a cliché, but it’s true.

Hau Giang food & drink guide ranges from street food, authentic, fancy to fusion foods. As a tropical land of many fresh vegetables and homegrown gardens, which always make Hau Giang cuisines fresh, close to nature and very traditional. If you are a food lover, don’t hesitate to put other bites onto your food lists such as Cau Duc pineapple, Hau Giang’s Bronze Featherback Fish Cake, Cai Tac’s Pork Organs Porridge…

Bring your hat, sunglasses, and sunblock, scarf to wear when visiting temples, pagodas, and the cathedral.

Bring the raincoat if you’re planning a trip to Hau Giang in the rainy season, as Hau Giang always looks fantastic in the full rain and full sun.

Hau Giang tourist attractions are magnificent itself, but if you have enough time, don’t forget to put other places onto your bucket lists such as Lung Ngoc Hoang Forest, Nature Reserve & Bird Sanctuary, Kittyd & Minnied Amusement Park, Truc Lam Zen Monastery Hau Giang, Vi Thanh Outdoor Farmers Market, Bo Tum Vong Say Khmer Pagoda, Like Coffee Shop in Hau Giang, Phung Hiep Bamboo and Rattan Craft Village, Tu Sang Bamboo Garden Hau Giang, Cau Duc Pineapple Fields, Tam Vu ecotourism area, Long My Stork Garden,Ba Bai Base, Chuong Thien Cultural & historic site, Vi Hung Church, Xa No Park – Xa No Canal…

Hopefully, the above tips will help you to come up with a great plan for your adventure in Hau Giang province, Mekong Delta, Vietnam. Have a safe trip!

“Sleep less, travel more, respect more” – Thomas Vietnam – Local travel expert.

Thank you

Can Tho Motorcycle Travel Guide – Join a Tour, Rent or Go Alone

Posted on by Thomas Vietnam

Welcome to the Can Tho Motorcycle Travel Guide! Here’s everything you need to know about motorcycle touring in Can Tho. You’ll find information on our in-depth guides, info on roads, paperwork, tips, tricks and loads more. Generally speaking, there is no unsuitable motorcycle, no unsuitable time of year and no unsuitable level of experience but instead a matter of motivation and will. However, good planning is essential for a successful and safe journey.

By Thomas Vietnam at vemekong.com | Official Can Tho Visitor Guide

Travel by motorcycle or motorcycle touring can be an amazing adventure. A long-distance motorcycle trip through scenic landscapes is something many dreams of.

1. Can Tho Motorcycle Tour and Travel Guide

Like when cruising on Can Tho sampan, getting around by motorcycle enables you to experience Can Tho city and the elements in a much different way than if you’re sitting inside a vehicle. With the two wheels you can explore every corner of Can Tho from the floating market in the countryside to the forests, from the paddy rice fields to the secret VC base, from the village to the hidden village and all Mekong paths and tributaries. Can Tho is also home to many homestay’s gardens that you can easily reach by motorcycle.

2. Motorcycle Paperwork in Can Tho, Vietnam

How Can Tho traffic looks like

Vietnamese driving licences are mandatory for all drivers of motor vehicles as well as for riders of motorcycles with a capacity of over 50cc. Non-Vietnamese citizens are only permitted to drive in Vietnam if they hold a temporary Vietnamese driver’s licence. To convert an international driving licence into a temporary Vietnamese driver’s licence, the applicant must hold a valid Vietnamese residence permit of at least three month’s validity.

In Hanoi, applications for temporary driver’s licences should be directed to the Hanoi Urban Transport Management and Operation Centre, 16 Cao Ba Quat street, telephone (024) 3747 0029, fax (024) 3747 0024, website address: http://tramoc.com.vn/index.php?newlang=english; In Ho Chi Minh City, applications should be directed to the following link; Add: 252 Ly Chinh Thanh, Ward 9, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City. In provincial areas, travellers should consult local police authorities to determine what action is required to obtain a temporary driving licence in the province where the applicant resides.

3. How to Get To Can Tho with two wheels

Can Tho off the beaten track

From the HCMC you follow the national road 1A. If you’re coming from Con Dao island, you just put your motorbike on the speed boat of Mailinh Express which goes directly from Con Dao to Can Tho. From Ha Tien, Rach Gia or Chau Doc, you can easily find good road maps to reach Can Tho city. From Cambodia to Can Tho by motorbike is quite common for adventurous travelers to do so.

4. Can Tho rain and flooding season?

Some streets in Can Tho get flooded during the wet and high tide season.

In Can Tho, It is best visited between December and February when it is cool and dry at night, while monsoon rains saturate the place between July and November. If you don’t like excessive heat, avoid March to June. Therefore, it doesn’t really matter when you visit, as the Mekong Delta looks fantastic in full sun and full rain. Travel companies may list tours for the rainy period, but plan your trip dates carefully or your trip may be a washout. Being in southern Vietnam, Can Tho has a tropical climate and three seasons – dry, rainy and flooding. Rainy season in Can Tho lasts from May to November; dry season from December to April. There are no typhoons in Can Tho, but annual flooding. It starts from mid-August to October. The total number of sunny hours is 2,561 hours per year (source: Vietnam Institute for Building Science and Technology). Average humidity per month is 86.6%. The least humid month is March (78.3% relative humidity), and the most humid month is September (87.9%). Wind in Can Tho is usually calm. The annual average rainfall is 1,946 mm with 189 rainy days per year.

5. The Best Can Tho Motorcycle Routes and Itineraries

Driving in Can Tho’s villages like “a jungle drive”

There are some tastes for all motorcyclists of different levels to unlock Can Tho city.

Can Tho scooter & city center route o1 about 10km: Can Tho city and all tourist destination spots in the center like Ninh Kieu riverside park, Ong pagoda, Can Tho old market, Can Tho fish market, Can Tho ion market for motorbikes, Can Tho museum and many Can Tho hidden authentic coffee shops and Can Tho food and drink, Can Tho roof tops, Can Tho by night…all you can go with your baby – the motorcycle!

Can Tho scooter & suburban route 02 about 20km: From Ninh Kieu district – the center of Can Tho, you can go to Cai Rang and Phong Dien district for taking the boat for the floating markets, the traditional home-made noodle factory, cacao farm, and and tropical fruit garden, heritage tree, rice fields, local ferries, and a lot more.

Can Tho scooter & long-distance route 3 about 40km: From Ninh Kieu district – the center of Can Tho, you can go to Binh Thuy district for the ancient house, the Son islet, then keep going to Thot Not district for Bang Lang stork garden as a bird sanctuary, rattan and bamboo craft village and more.

Can Tho scooter & wildlife route 4 about 40km: From Ninh Kieu district – the center of Can Tho, you can go to Hau Giang province for the amazing Hau Giang Outdoor Farmers Market, Lung Ngoc Hoang Forest & Nature’s Smile and Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery – the largest monastery in Can Tho.

Can Tho scooter & Soc Trang Khmer Pagodas route 5 about 60km: From Ninh Kieu district – the center of Can Tho, you can go to Soc Trang province for the Khmer minority and its worthy-exploration and uniqueness such as: Nga Nam non-touristy floating market, Bat pagoda (Chua Doi), Som Rong pagoda (famous for the largest reclining Buddha statue in Vietnam) and more. From Soc Trang city, you can catch the ferry at Tran De boat station for Con Dao island.

Can Tho scooter & whole Mekong Delta route! We will update you with another post.

6. Join a Motorbike Tour, Rent or Go Alone

Can Tho Motorbike Group Tour runs daily by Vemekong.com

This one is down to personal preference. Luckily, Can Tho is built for all three options. There are some fantastic, extremely well-run tour and rental companies in Can Tho. And if you want to go it alone with your own bike, then Can Tho is one of the easiest places to ride in the Mekong Delta!

Joining a motorcycle tour

It might be your first time abroad, or you could be strapped for time or maybe you just don’t want to sit there for days planning a trip. If so, then jumping on a pre-arranged tour is a fantastic option. You’ve got the benefit of an experienced tour guide who knows the routes and country like the back of their hands. All hotels, stops, lunches, paperwork and the bike are taken care of. All you have to do is turn up and ride.

There’s also the option to go for a self-guided tour where everything is laid out exactly the same as a guided-tour: your hotels, route, stops etc are all planned out. The only difference is that you’re on your own with a detailed itinerary and the route on google maps.

Can Tho Motorcycle rental

Perhaps you don’t like the idea of riding with others and want to do your own thing. All the hassle of getting your bike to your destination country is saved. This is a great option when you have limited time, know you want to explore a specific spot and don’t want to waste valuable days of your holiday getting there and back.

Motorbikes can be hired from virtually anywhere, including cafes, hotels and travel agencies. Some places will ask you to keep your passport until you return the bike. Try to sign some sort of agreement, clearly stating what you are hiring, how much it costs, the extent of compensation and so on. Many rental places will make you sign a contract agreeing to a valuation for the bike if it is stolen. Use guarded parking where available.

If you fancy a guided motorcycle tour or want to rent a bike instead, check out Vemekong.com company.

Going it alone

Perhaps you’re an experienced motorcycle traveller or you just want to give it a go on your own bike. Great! Can Tho is incredibly easy to get to and navigate – “it’s just like riding in my home town”!

7. Accommodation

Can Tho Motorcycle Travel Guide – Join a Tour, Rent or Go Alone

There’s plenty of accommodation and it’s easy to find and book for bikers. How you find it depends on your style of travel. If you’re on a short tour then you may want to book everything while at home – but this gives you a tight schedule and no room for error. Other people find the hotels they’d like to stay in and pin them on a map with backup hotels if they want to cover more or less miles.

8. Helmet Law

Can Tho golden hour

It is compulsory to wear a helmet when riding a motorbike in Vietnam, even when travelling as a passenger. Consider investing in a decent helmet if you are planning extensive rides as the local eggshells don’t offer much protection. Better-quality helmets are available in major cities from US$35.

9. Pro Tips

Can Tho by night from Can Tho River Tour

It’s important to remember motorcycling rules and to wear a helmet.  

Google Maps is a good starting point when planning a motorbike route.

Carry spares and a few tools to perform basic tasks like fixing punctures.

Travel insurance is essential if you’re planning to travel by motorbike. However, check your policy carefully as some exclude cover for two-wheeled travel. The cost of treating serious injuries can be bankrupting for budget travellers.

Research the destinations you’re visiting and plot a rough route. It will stop you from missing out on spectacular roads and sights and also avoid any unwanted surprises like toll roads.

It’s also a good idea to take a mobile phone with you in case you get stuck.

Always carry enough gear for the conditions including waterproofs and extra gloves.

Get your bike serviced before you go. Are your tyres on the way out? Brakes good? Chain set correctly? Due to an oil change?

Remember: you are a stranger. Away from home, vigilance must stay high to balance your lack of local knowledge, including road conditions and potentially hazardous traffic areas. Relax and enjoy the sights, but maintain your usual level of alertness (or better).

Extra Tips:

If you plan to extend your travel to Can Tho homestay, do not forget to bring mosquito repellent cream.

Visit Can Tho or do any customized tours, please choose reputable providers with boat trips equipped with lifebuoys, jackets, motorcycle and cycling tours with the helmets and. Safety is a priority! Choose Can Tho responsible tours which help you give back while traveling. It’s a cliché, but it’s true.

Can Tho food & drink guide ranges from street food, authentic, fancy to fusion foods. As a tropical land of many fresh vegetables and homegrown gardens, which always make Can Tho cuisines fresh, close to nature and very traditional. If you are a food lover, don’t hesitate to put other bites onto your food lists such as Cong cake in Can Tho, Ut Dzach Fine Rice Vermicelli…

Bring your hat, sunglasses, and sunblock, scarf to wear when visiting temples, pagodas, and the cathedral.

Bring the raincoat if you’re planning a trip to Can Tho in the rainy season, as Can Tho always looks fantastic in the full rain and full sun.

Can Tho tourist attractions are magnificent itself, but if you have enough time, don’t forget to put other places onto your bucket lists such as Can Tho Wildlife & Forest, Binh Thuy Ancient House, Organic Cacao farm, Can Tho Floating Markets, Can Tho Small Canals & Sampan Ride, Can Tho Fruit Garden, Can Tho Paddy Rice Fields, Can Tho Giant Ficus Tree – Secret VC base, Can Tho Rice Noodle Factory, Cai Rang floating market, Can Tho Old Market, Phong Dien floating market, Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery, Can Tho to Con Dao – Express boat, Son Islet – Community-based Tourism…

Hopefully, the above tips will help you to come up with a great plan for your adventure in Can Tho, Mekong Delta, Vietnam. Have a safe trip!

“Sleep less, travel more, respect more” – Thomas Vietnam – Local travel expert.

Thank you

Can Tho Bike Travel Guide – Routes, Paths and Weather Advice

Posted on by Thomas Vietnam

Getting around on two wheels is not only fun and educational but also for responsible travel and environmentally friendly of the destination you bike. Cycling holidays in Can Tho are suited to most everyone. Trust us: You don’t need to be in perfect shape or have top-notch gear to have fun cycling in Can Tho. Our “Can Tho Bike Travel Guide – Routes, Paths and Weather Advice” will help you out!

By Thomas Vietnam at vemekong.com | Official Can Tho Visitor Guide

Cycling in Can Tho’s villages

1. Can Tho cycling or not?

Can Tho city is great for biking along the Mekong River and hundreds of tropical fruit gardens and many hidden unlocked villages are only reached by bike or scooters. You can choose long-distance to bike and explore all Mekong regions, where you can bike hundreds of kilometres, or rugged mountain trails that will test your abilities in An Giang forests and mountains, Tra Vinh coastal paths, Ca Mau mangrove forests, Vinh Long isolated islands and thousand kilometers of paddy rice fields and farms.

Can Tho from bird’s eye view

Can Tho’s fascinating ciyt offer plenty of cycling villages in Cai Rang, Phong Dien, Thot Not where you can combine with the floating market, tropical farms and flower garden. As there are so many options available, finding the right cycling holiday in Can Tho won’t be difficult, no matter if you’re training for the Tour de France or are a family with small children. 

2. How to prepare for your cycling holiday

Can Tho Bike Travel Guide – Routes, Paths and Weather Advice

Bike rentals are widely available in Can Tho. In the city, you will find both private bike rental companies as well as bike rental hotels. Out in the countryside there are also plenty of bike rental companies, many of whom will deliver bikes to your location, as well as pick up the bike when you’re done. Many also offer service packages, which come in handy if you get a flat tyre or run into other trouble. Some homestays also offer basic bikes for local exploration.

3. What kind of bike is also a consideration.

Meet the locals

Electric bikes are increasingly popular in Can Tho but it is not for rent yet and while not all bike rental companies offer them. You can also rent mountain bikes, child bike seats, children’s bikes, traditional city bikes, and much more. The best advice is to contact a bike rental company prior to your arrival to see what they offer and book in advance.

4. Explore on your own or take a guided tour

Can Tho, Vietnam

There are a number of cycling options when it comes to exploring Can Tho City where bike rentals are widely available. In this city, there are a number of companies offering various types of guided tours. Some will take you through particular neighborhoods, sites, giving you the history of the area as you explore the city center, while others are flexible and will accommodate your personal interests.

You can also mountain bike through the outskirts of the city. Outside the city you can also choose to have a guide with you. If you’re interested in a multi-day guided cycling holiday in Can Tho and surroundings, Vemekong.com will not only provide you with a bike and a guide, but they will also book accommodation along the way.

A family is exploring Can Tho by bike

If you want to take a self-guided tour be sure to research prior to your trip, as Can Tho has a lot of ferries. Vemekong.com can provide both maps and excellent advice on where to go and what to see.

5. Long-distance touring

So fun to be on two wheels.

There are some long-distance touring routes spread across the Can Tho and its connected provinces. In the North of Can Tho, you can bike to Binh Thuy ancient house, Son islet, Bang Lang stork garden in Thot Not, paddy rice fields and Thot Not rattan and bamboo craft village and more…The 51 kilometers route is relatively easy going, so it’s suitable for cyclists.

In the South of Can Tho, Cai Rang and Phong Dien districts, you will explore more traditional villages of rice noodle, organic cacao garden, Ut Dzach fine rice vermicelli, many tropical fruit gardens and local ferries… This 15 kilometers route and path is relatively very easy going, beautiful, educational and fun, so it’s fine for cyclists of all skill levels with or without kids.

Bike with the baby seat.

If you choose the long routes and stay overnight in Dong Thap (home to Sadec flower village), Vinh Long (home to islets and secret canals), Tra Vinh and Soc Trang (home to the Khmer minority), Chau Doc (for Tra Su forest and then leave the bike there and take the speed boat up to Phnompenh –  the capital of Cambodia) which will give you so much more things to explore the real Mekong and the locals’s values.

6. Can Tho cycling in the rain and flooding season

An army bridge in Can Tho still!

Can Tho rain and flood a lot? Well, it can be in the wet months of June, July, August, September and October. But by the summer and spring time rolls around, conditions are pretty much perfect for exploring by bike. The sunny days of November, December, January, February and March are wonderfully bright, and there’s none of the oppressive heat that you get in the North. Even the shoulder months of April and May can be nice and mild.

Can Tho hidden paths

Many tourists refuse to pack their bikes away when the rain is getting heavy so why not make like a local? But if you do, be sure to wear appropriate gear, such as raincoat, plenty of layers, changes of clothing, and water and food. Also, make sure your bike is outfitted for rain riding – that means the right tyres and a good tune up before you arrive. Tropical rain? Yes. Freezing? Like tropical rain and cool. Fun? Absolutely.

7. Pro tips:

A big group start to cycle after the Can Tho floating market.

It’s important to remember cycling rules and to wear a helmet.

Google Maps is a good starting point when planning a bike route.

You’ll find repair shops in most towns and cities, but if you’re heading out into the countryside you’ll want to pack a few tools – the distances between villages can be huge. It’s also a good idea to take a mobile phone with you in case you get stuck.

If you’d rather not go it alone there are a couple of companies offering cycle holidays in Can Tho. Some provide tour guides and others will simply hook you up with gear and support.

Vietnamese also love to bike and rest for coconut drink along the way.

Extra Tips:

If you plan to extend your travel to Can Tho homestay, do not forget to bring mosquito repellent cream.

Visit Can Tho or do any customized tours, please choose reputable providers with boat trips equipped with lifebuoys, jackets, motorcycle and cycling tours with the helmets and. Safety is a priority! Choose Can Tho responsible tours which help you give back while traveling. It’s a cliché, but it’s true.

Can Tho food & drink guide ranges from street food, authentic, fancy to fusion foods. As a tropical land of many fresh vegetables and homegrown gardens, which always make Can Tho cuisines fresh, close to nature and very traditional. If you are a food lover, don’t hesitate to put other bites onto your food lists such as Cong cake in Can Tho, Ut Dzach Fine Rice Vermicelli…

Bring your hat, sunglasses, and sunblock, scarf to wear when visiting temples, pagodas, and the cathedral.

Bring the raincoat if you’re planning a trip to Can Tho in the rainy season, as Can Tho always looks fantastic in the full rain and full sun.

Can Tho tourist attractions are magnificent itself, but if you have enough time, don’t forget to put other places onto your bucket lists such as Can Tho Wildlife & Forest, Binh Thuy Ancient House, Organic Cacao farm, Can Tho Floating Markets, Can Tho Small Canals & Sampan Ride, Can Tho Fruit Garden, Can Tho Paddy Rice Fields, Can Tho Giant Ficus Tree – Secret VC base, Can Tho Rice Noodle Factory, Cai Rang floating market, Can Tho Old Market, Phong Dien floating market, Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery, Can Tho to Con Dao – Express boat, Son Islet – Community-based Tourism…

Hopefully, the above tips will help you to come up with a great plan for your adventure in Can Tho, Mekong Delta, Vietnam. Have a safe trip!

“Sleep less, travel more, respect more” – Thomas Vietnam – Local travel expert.

Thank you

Nga Nam Floating Market – A Must-do in Soc Trang, Mekong Delta

Posted on by Thomas Vietnam

One of the best authentic things to see and do in Soc Trang is Nga Nam non-touristy floating market and the local villages. This market gives many visitors so much touching about the Mekong Delta floating market like 30 years ago because of its charmings, natural beauties, amazing sampan experiences and the stunning location. It is a must-see for those who want to know the real floating market of the local Vietnamese with the traditional and cultural river life on the Mekong River.

By Thomas Vietnam at vemekong.com | Official Soc Trang Visitor Guide | 7-floating-market Vietnam Cai Rang, Long Xuyen, Nga Nam, Phong Dien, Chau Doc, Cai Be, Tra On

Nga Nam floating market in Nga Nam town, Soc Trang, Mekong Delta, Vietnam

1. How to Get and Visit Nga Nam Floating Market

The first thing you need to know is that. This authentic market is for real and for the locals. That is why it is not located in the center where there is much noise, huge traffic and malls nearby. Nga Nam floating market, Soc Trang province, is in the town of the same name as the market. The market is both on the mainland and on the Nga Nam canal, so that you can see the market with or without the sampan ride. But the absolute sampan ride gives you a unique experience to explore other sides of Nga Nam (Nga Nam means 5 tributaries/canals) canals.

Easily to know why the floating market called Nga Nam. Nga means ways or canals/tributaries, Nam means number 5.
Chợ Nổi Ngã Năm: Nga Nam floating market; Kính chào quí khách: Welcome all Visitors

Firstly, you get to Nga Nam market and its riverside, where there are so many local sampan ferries. Secondly, you take the hand-rowing sampan from there, there are small sampan and big boats for a big group, so it depends on your group. The last, the boat trip, just takes you about 15 minutes from that boat station to explore all 5 canals of Nga Nam floating market. Top tip: You should hire a boat a day ahead at least, the next early morning is too dark and hurry to have a boat at 5am.

2. Why to visit the Floating Market at the Sunrise

An amazing sunrise view at Nga Nam town

As a local travel expert, we do know that the floating market will be less busy after 7am. Because the locals need time to go back to their home which is far away from Nga Nam. Let’s tell you, we inspect this market a lot and it is always busy and real touching is at the sunrise. This market is especially great for KOLs, Influencers and Media to film and add values for both sides. Top tip:  Best enjoying time to be right at the spot is from 5:45am-6:am-6:30am. I hope you have an amazing sunrise on the Mekong Delta river and catch many photos of pupils, locals sitting on the sampan ferry for school and market!

3. Better to Watch Our Latest Video of Nga Nam Floating Market (Drone 4k)

4. What to Eat and See at Nga Nam Floating Market and Along the Way

The local noodle soup restaurant at the floating market
The locals and pupils are taking a ferry to cross the Nga Nam canal.

As you see, this is a very local floating market which is located in the deep countryside of Soc Trang, there are plenty of authentic pagodas that you may stop over to feel more about the villages and its spiritual life. At Nga Nam floating market, you sometimes find coffee and noodle soup and some cakes, fruits on the land market as well. Besides, you may admire local women there, we see many of them are female who run boats and manage the small business as well. Top tip: Smile and have a cup of coffee with the locals and watch the river floating life at the floating market.

5.Better to go with Google Maps of Nga Nam Floating Market

6. Nga Nam Floating Market Tour from Can Tho or Bac Lieu?

Stunning Soc Trang paddy rice field at the sunrise
Nga Nam sampan ride

It is very fine to do the floating market tour from Soc Trang city which is 55km from the city center. But somehow you have to stay overnight in Can Tho city, you still can do the Nga Nam floating market tour from Can Tho city center which is 73km away by the shortcut way. And it is only 40km away from Bac Lieu city center! Top tip: you can leave Can Tho for Nga Nam floating market and then keep going to Bac Lieu, Soc Trang, Ca Mau or for Con Dao, Phu Quoc.

7. Nga Nam Floating Market & Hau Giang Forest & Wildlife in One day

Hau Giang widlife and forest tour from Can Tho
A beautiful Nga Nam trip.

What a trip! If you can make this full adventure day tour of Nga Nam Floating Market & Hau Giang Forest & Wildlife in One day will be so well-planned and worthy. Top tip: Contact vemekong.com to see more unique full itinerary.

8. Nga Nam Floating Market Opens during Lunar New Year?

They sell more farm products on the river market

We do not think so! The local market is not too touristy yet, so it does not run during the traditional Tet Lunar New Year, but the Calendar New Year is fine. Top tip: If you make a visit to this market one week before Lunar New Year, you win! The best time for all.

9. The Solo Travel Guide to Nga Nam Floating Market & Stay overnight near by

A cute kid sticks with his mom on the local ferry

Yeah, you can do it by yourself. Vietnamese are friendly and used to with foreigner tourists, so you are fine to bargain and make a deal with them. Remember responsible travel please, bargain for fun and willing to help the local and its destination. There are few local motels on 3/2 street and nearby for you to take a sleep. Top tip: Get to Nga Nam riverside market in the afternoon for hiring a sampan. Make sure you have a life jacket equipped on the boat. And please book your room in advance.

10. The Cheapest Way to Visit Nga Nam Floating Market and Surroundings

Soc Trang river life

Join Soc Trang daily group tours for the best solution about boat, time, pick-up and drop-off, information, fun, great memory, responsible travel and safety at vemekong.com. Top tip: Hire a bike or motorbike for the adventure and off the beaten tracks to do Nga Nam floating market tour by yourself and explore Soc Trang rice fields and many unlocked villages.

11. Responsible Travel and Advice to Do any Soc Trang River Tour

The sunrise in the Soc Trang village

It is always good to repeat “responsible travel” over and over. River itself is facing so many challenges from chemical and human waste and modern life with high-tech. We do appreciate any of you who do respect and take good behavior about the river and its protection. Top tip: Soc Trang River Tour from Vemekong.com is a kind of responsible tour in Soc Trang province.

12. Pro tips:

The locals are rowing the sampan for shopping on the river market.

Soc Trang Khmer pagodas are solemn places, so you should choose beautiful clothes that are still polite and discreet. In the temple grounds, there are many animal statues such as elephants, snakes, etc. If you go with the children, please remind them not to climb because these are sacred symbols of the Khmer people.

The monks don’t ask for money, although donations won’t hurt.

Bring your hat, sunglasses, and sunblock, scarf to wear when visiting temples, pagodas, and the cathedral.

If you plan to extend your tour to Soc Trang homestay, do not forget to bring mosquito repellent cream.

When visiting the Soc Trang or doing any customized tours, choose reputable providers with boat trips equipped with lifebuoys, jackets, motorcycle and cycling tours with the helmets. Safety is a priority!

Soc Trang tourist attractions are magnificent itself, but if you have enough time, don’t forget to put other places onto your bucket lists such as Bat pagoda, Chen Kieu (Bowl) pagoda, Dung islet, Ghe Ngo boat race festival, pink trumpet tree road, Clay pagoda (Chua Dat Set), Khleang pagoda, Nga Nam floating market, Phat Hoc 2 pagoda, Soc Trang central market, Soc Trang museum, Som Rong pagoda, popular and clean homestays and hotels in Soc Trang…

Soc Trang food & drink guide ranges from street food, authentic, fancy to fusion foods. As a tropical land of many fresh vegetables and homegrown gardens, which always make Soc Trang cuisines fresh, close to nature and very traditional. If you are a food lover, don’t hesitate to put other bites onto your food lists such as Cong Cake, Pia Cake, Bun Nuoc Leo Soc Trang’s Noodle Soup…

Bring the raincoat if you travel to Soc Trang in the rainy season, as Soc Trang always looks fantastic in the full rain and full sun.

Hopefully, the above tips will help you to come up with a great plan for your adventure in Soc Trang, Mekong Delta, Vietnam. Have a safe trip!

“Sleep less, travel more, respect more” – Thomas Vietnam – Local travel expert.

Thank you

Bat pagoda (Chua Doi) – A Beautiful Soc Trang Khmer pagoda in Mekong Delta Vietnam

Posted on by Thomas Vietnam

One of the oldest Khmer temples to see in Soc Trang city is Bat pagoda – A beautiful Soc Trang Khmer pagoda in Mekong Delta Vietnam. This 452-year-old pagoda is not only famous for mysterious landscape sheltering colonies of bats but also for its unique and majestic architecture.

By Thomas Vietnam at vemekong.com | Official Soc Trang Visitor Guide

Venerable Linh said that until a few decades ago, hundreds of thousands of bats could be seen perching on branches, but now their numbers have decreased greatly due to hunting. “The sight of thousands of bats flying in the sky every evening has become a memory now.”

1. Better to know as a tourist

Ticket: Free

Spend-time: Half an hour (approx)

Hours: All day

Address: It is located approximately 3 km southeast of Sóc Trăng City, Mekong Delta, Vietnam

Recognition(s): Since 1999, Doi pagoda has been recognized as a national relic for architectural art by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism.  

Site beauties: There are many charming Khmer people are selling their own farm products at this area. And perhaps, the most special thing in Bat Pagoda is the bats. Any traveler after visiting the temple, listening to music, also focused in the backyard of pagoda to look at a lot of bats. Occasionally, bats spread their wings to fly from branch to another branch.

2. Travel guide to Bat Pagoda (Chua Doi)

Dơi pagoda’s architecture exhibits both Vietnamese and Cambodian features. It was initially named “Serây tê chô mahatúp”, which means a blessing of good virtue. It was called Mã Tộc by the local. The pagoda is commonly known as “Dơi means Bat” because it is home to a big colony of bats. According to the bibliography, this is one of the most intact examples of pagodas in the Mekong Delta.

Bat Pagoda, or Ma Toc, Mahutup temple is the typical architectural complex representing the beliefs of Khmer people.

At the entrance, visitors will be overwhelmed by the bright and shiny yellow colour that nearly covers the entire Bat Pagoda. While the main gate is simply decorated, the sub-gates are decorated with five-head giant snakes. The walls of the main hall are comprised of bricks. The four corners of its tile roof are curved and engraved with Naga snake god. A tower rises in the middle. Pillars along the corridor surrounding the main hall are adorned with Kemnar statues with palms pressed together chest-high in a prayerful gesture to all visitors.

The pagoda is a place of worship for devout Buddhists, most from the Khmer community. It is also a social space for the community where traditional festivals are held.

Inside the hall is a stone statue of the Buddha sitting high on a 2-meter lotus throne and another statue of the Buddha riding on the snake genie Muchalinda. The curved walls feature pictures depicting the lifecycle of the Buddha from birth to enlightenment and entering into Nirvana. The pagoda preserves sutras written on palmyra leaves and rare and precious treasures of the Khmer belief system.

Visiting Bat Pagoda in Soc Trang, besides the meaning of burning incense to pray for the family and social peaceful and happy, most travelers are inevitably surprised to admire the bats dangling under the old trees.

The pagoda courtyard is shaded by ancient trees. There are several stupas and a stilt house where monks rest and study. The eye-catching brown and black bats which live in the pagoda weigh about 1.5 kilograms each with an average wingspan of 1.5 meters, the fastest cruising speed is from 50-60 kmh. They hang up-side-down from the trees during daytime and look like clusters of ripe fruit. It’s still mysterious why the bats live here. Some people think the reasons may include the nearby fruitful gardens, the high ancient trees, and the peaceful atmosphere of Dơi Pagoda.

Kemnar statues are decorated on the support pillars surrounding the pagoda.

Oddly, the bats live in the fruit trees but never the eat fruit growing in the pagoda grounds. When it begins to get dark, they leave the pagoda to find food elsewhere and return early the next morning. It is also unknown why there are many other tranquil pagodas in Sóc Trăng province but the bats only inhabit in this particular one. Another mystery is that the bats don’t fly straight but avoid the roof of the main hall. The locals consider them auspices that always protect them.

Like other Khmer temples in Soc Trang, Bat Pagoda is closely associated with the cultural, daily and spiritual life of the local community.

According to the temple’s ancient bibliographies have left: Bat pagoda started construction since 1569 in the solar calendar, Mr. Thach Ut organized to build the pagoda and has undergone 19 lifetimes of Venerable. In 1960, the pagoda was repaired in the main hall. In August 2007, an unfortunate incident caused the temple to burn down the main hall. Soc Trang provincial government has helped to rebuild the main hall of Bat pagoda with a budget of 4 billion VND.

Besides the ancient beauty of the temple has formed several hundred years, ancient trees are the habitat of thousands of bats.

Less than 2 years, the new and magnificent main hall was finished in the joy of thousands of Buddhists. The heart of people in the hamlet and local government helped each painting, each pattern array of the temple more brilliant and beautiful. In 2013, Chua Doi tourist area in Soc Trang was put into operation as a unique part of Mekong delta tours. Although the budget is not abundant. But the tourist area is opposite the pagoda gate with spacious parking, other services like restaurants and electric cars… it’s more convenient for visitors.

The Bat Pagoda’s garden and its tower.

Bat Pagoda is an overall architecture consists of: The Main Hall, Sala, the synagogue of monks and believers, living room, bed rooms of the abbot and the other monks, the tower to put ashes of the dead… The works housed in a big campus with many ancient trees, an area of about 4 hectares. Overall, the entire of architectural ensemble is balance, it makes us think that’s a pattern forest with harmony and neat layout, smooth and impressive contours… exudes the spirit of industriousness and creativity through skillful hands of the Khmer.

3. Better to go with google maps of Mahatup (Bat – Chua Doi) pagoda

4. Better to see our short latest video indvance (4k)

5. Pro tips:

Bat (Chua Doi) or Mahatup Pagoda in Soc Trang is a solemn place, so you should choose beautiful clothes that are still polite and discreet. In the temple grounds, there are many animal statues such as elephants, snakes, etc. If you go with the children, please remind them not to climb because these are sacred symbols of the Khmer people.

The monks don’t ask for money, although donations won’t hurt.

Bring your hat, sunglasses, and sunblock, scarf to wear when visiting temples, pagodas, and the cathedral.

If you plan to extend your tour to Soc Trang homestay, do not forget to bring mosquito repellent cream.

When visiting the Soc Trang or doing any customized tours, choose reputable providers with boat trips equipped with lifebuoys, jackets, motorcycle and cycling tours with the helmets. Safety is a priority!

Soc Trang tourist attractions are magnificent itself, but if you have enough time, don’t forget to put other places onto your bucket lists such as Bat pagoda, Chen Kieu (Bowl) pagoda, Dung islet, Ghe Ngo boat race festival, pink trumpet tree road, Clay pagoda (Chua Dat Set), Khleang pagoda, Nga Nam floating market, Phat Hoc 2 pagoda, Soc Trang central market, Soc Trang museum, Som Rong pagoda, popular and clean homestays and hotels in Soc Trang…

Soc Trang food & drink guide ranges from street food, authentic, fancy to fusion foods. As a tropical land of many fresh vegetables and homegrown gardens, which always make Soc Trang cuisines fresh, close to nature and very traditional. If you are a food lover, don’t hesitate to put other bites onto your food lists such as Cong Cake, Pia Cake, Bun Nuoc Leo Soc Trang’s Noodle Soup…

Bring the raincoat if you travel to Soc Trang in the rainy season, as Soc Trang always looks fantastic in the full rain and full sun.

Hopefully, the above tips will help you to come up with a great plan for your adventure in Soc Trang, Mekong Delta, Vietnam. Have a safe trip!

“Sleep less, travel more, respect more” – Thomas Vietnam – Local travel expert.

Thank you

Bowl (Chen Kieu) Pagoda – A Colorful Soc Trang Khmer pagoda in Mekong Delta Vietnam

Posted on by Thomas Vietnam

Wherever there are Khmer people, there are Khmer pagodas. One of the best pagodas to see in Soc Trang city is Bowl (Chen Kieu) pagoda – A colorful Soc Trang Khmer pagoda in Mekong Delta Vietnam. Chen Kieu Pagoda (also known as Sa Lon Pagoda) is one of ancient pagodas with the most unique architecture in Soc Trang Province.

By Thomas Vietnam at vemekong.com | Official Soc Trang Visitor Guide

Visiting Khmer pagodas is not only a serene getaway, but also a fascinating way to peek into the lives of a Khmer Buddhist, a solitary culture at the heart of the Mekong delta.

1. Better to know as a tourist

Ticket: Free

Spend-time: Half an hour (approx)

Hours: All day

Address: Dai Tam Commune, My Xuyen District, Soc Trang Province. About 10km from SocTrang city center, the pagoda is on the way from SocTrang to Bac Lieu province, about 230 km from Ho Chi Minh City.

Recognition(s): was recognised as a province-level historical and cultural relic in 2012.

Site beauties: There are many charming Khmer people are selling their own farm products at this area. Real local life of the Khmer!

2. Travel guide to Bowl (Chen Kieu) pagoda

Chen Kieu or Sa Lon pagoda – a unique pagoda of the Khmer

According to a member of the pagoda’s management board, the pagoda was erected in 1815 in a spacious area with lots of trees. It was damaged at war. During the rebuilding, due to a lack of construction materials, monks came up with the inspiration of calling for donations of bowls and plates from local people for use in decorating the main building. The name of “Chen Kieu” pagoda is originated from the monks tiled old “Porcelain” bowls, plates to the pagoda’s walls, stairs and many other locations to create extremely impressive motifs during the process of pagoda reconstruction in 1969.

The Sala functions as a lecture hall, a place to welcome guests during traditional national festivals and a place to host monks.
Like other Khmer temples in Soc Trang, The Bowl (Chen Kieu – Sa Lon) pagoda is closely associated with the cultural, daily and spiritual life of the local community.

The gate is emphasized by 3 towers designed with the traditional architecture of the southern Khmer people. Along the main entrance is two lines of Fairies Kayno – symbolizing for beauty and strength. The sanctum of the pagoda has 3-layer roof that is smaller from lower to top, of which the top layer has the triangular shape with sharp high peak. Inside the sanctum, there are about 20 Shakyamuni Buddha statues with different meditation position surrounded by paintings of the life of Shakyamuni Buddha from his birth until Nirvana.

Bowls and plates combined with Japanese tiles add bright colours to the pagoda.
The pagoda’s roof top.

In the residence of the pagoda there is a set of chairs and a bed made from ebony, donated by the family of Tran Trinh Huy, commonly known as Cong Tu Bac Lieu, son of one of the richest families in Bac Lieu province in the first years of the 20th century.

The pagoda looked like a colourful work of embroidery sparkling under the sun. Salon Pagoda and other sacred places in the town display the admirable creativity and elegant aesthetic sense of the Khmer and their wealth of knowledge about Buddhist culture.
The inner sanctum of the pagoda has 16 pillars carved with images of the legends of Khmer culture.

To the Khmer, pagodas are similar to communal houses in northern Việt Nam or long houses in the Central Highlands, but their bond with the local community is even closer. They are also schools teaching Buddhist principles and the Khmer language to local people. Khmer male youngsters often spend a couple years in the pagodas to be recognised by society. Their first school is the pagoda. These pagodas have stood the test of time, showing their beauty and supporting the local communities. Visiting Khmer pagodas in Sóc Trăng is not only a serene getaway but also an intriguing way to encounter one of the most unique communities in the heart of the Mekong Delta.

Kemnar statues are decorated on the support pillars surrounding the pagoda.
Architecture inside the sanctuary of Chen Kieu (Sa Lon) pagoda.

3. Better to go with google maps of Bowl (Chen Kieu) pagoda

4. Better to see our short latest video indvance (4k)

5. Pro tips:

The Bowl (Chen Kieu – Sa Lon) Soc Trang Pagoda is a solemn place, so you should choose beautiful clothes that are still polite and discreet. There are many decorations with porcelain bowls, plates to the pagoda’s walls, stairs and many other locations, if you go with the children, please remind them not to climb or touch for the respections and safety.

The monks don’t ask for money, although donations won’t hurt.

Many locals and inter tourists come and check-in Chen Kieu (Bowl) pagoda

Bring your hat, sunglasses, and sunblock, scarf to wear when visiting temples, pagodas, and the cathedral.

If you plan to extend your tour to Soc Trang homestay, do not forget to bring mosquito repellent cream.

The Bowl (Chen Kieu – Sa Lon) pagoda in the Mekong Delta province of Soc Trang is one of the most colorful pagodas in the region.

When visiting the Soc Trang or doing any customized tours, choose reputable providers and boats equipped with lifebuoys and jackets. Safety is a priority!

The Khmer people
Khmer’s specialty food
Khmer’s specialty food
Nuoc Leo Rice Vermicelli Noodle Soup in  Soc Trang (Soc Trang Rice Vermicelli Noodle Soup)
Side beautites next to the pagoda
Side beautites next to the pagoda

Soc Trang tourist attractions are magnificent itself, but if you have enough time, don’t forget to put other places onto your bucket lists such as Bat pagoda, Chen Kieu (Bowl) pagoda, Dung islet, Ghe Ngo boat race festival, pink trumpet tree road, Clay pagoda (Chua Dat Set), Khleang pagoda, Nga Nam floating market, Phat Hoc 2 pagoda, Soc Trang central market, Soc Trang museum, Som Rong pagoda, popular and clean homestays and hotels in Soc Trang…

Soc Trang food & drink guide ranges from street food, authentic, fancy to fusion foods. As a tropical land of many fresh vegetables and homegrown gardens, which always make Soc Trang cuisines fresh, close to nature and very traditional. If you are a food lover, don’t hesitate to put other bites onto your food lists such as Cong Cake, Pia Cake, Bun Nuoc Leo Soc Trang’s Noodle Soup…

Bring the raincoat if you travel to Soc Trang in the rainy season, as Soc Trang always looks fantastic in the full rain and full sun.

Hopefully, the above tips will help you to come up with a great plan for your adventure in Soc Trang, Mekong Delta, Vietnam. Have a safe trip!

“Sleep less, travel more, respect more” – Thomas Vietnam – Local travel expert.

Thank you

Som Rong Pagoda – Soc Trang Khmer pagoda in Mekong Delta

Posted on by Thomas Vietnam

One of the best highlight things to see and do in Soc Trang city is Som Rong pagoda – A Beautiful Soc Trang Khmer pagoda in Mekong Delta Vietnam. The pagoda is not only famous for the reclining Buddha statue and the stupa but also for its striking architacture.

By Thomas Vietnam at vemekong.com | Official Soc Trang Visitor Guide

The Patum Wongsa Som Rong Pagoda in the Mekong Delta province of Soc Trang is one of the most beautiful and largest Khmer pagodas in the region.

1. Better to know as a tourist

Ticket: Free

Spend-time: Half an hour (approx)

Hours: All day

Address: 367 Ton Duc Thang Street, Ward 5, southern Soc Trang Town, Mekong Delta, Vietnam

2. Travel guide to Som Rong Pagoda

This is also the very hot check-in point of Som Rong pagoda

Som Rong Pagoda, somtines also called Patum Wongsa Som Rong pagoda, was built in 1785s following Khmer traditional architectural practice and has been repaired many times. It is widely known as Som Rong pagoda, because there are many local Som Rong trees for long time in this area. The two-tiered roof of the pagoda is decorated with coloured tiles and adorned with sculptures in the shape of Naga, a devine snake from Khmer cultural tradition, with masterful skills. On the top of the pagoda is a pionted tower. Each pillar supporting the pagaoda features a nymph named Kemnar, clasping her hands to welcome visitors.

Like other Khmer temples in Soc Trang, Som Rong Pagoda is closely associated with the cultural, daily and spiritual life of the local community.

The sanctuary of the pagoda is devoted to a two-metre high stone staue of Buddha Shakyamuni sitting atop a lotus pedestal of about 2m high. Another special feature is the relief decoration, rounded statues or carving of Goddness Reahu (tiger-face design), fairy Kayno (Apsara), sacred bird Krud (Garuda) and the Ogre (Yeak) depicted in the external of the pagoda. The motifs of these external decorations reflect the traces of primitive religions and Brahmanism, which have existed since before Buddhism in the spiritual life of the Khmer. 

Kemnar statues are decorated on the support pillars surrounding the pagoda.

The stupa is located right in the entrance to the pagoda, parallel to the main hall, built on an area of 100 m2, 25 m high and is the place to keep more than 400 jars of ashes of the monks, vows and temple abbot. Instead of the traditional yellow color, the gray painted tower looks majestic and ancient as carved from monolithic rock. Four-sided tower with four paths representing love, compassion, joy, discharge, carved many delicate Khmer patterns. The entrance to the stupa is a statue of Naga snake God. On the tower is a statue of Gautama Buddha meditating.

Unique architecture of Patum Wongsa Som Rong pagoda.

This is also the very hot check-in point of Som Rong pagoda. The Stupa towered on a strangely beautiful image, radiating a mystical spiritual atmosphere. Many young people choose to check-in at sunset when the orange sunlight turns to a fanciful purple color coating each pattern. If you catch the moment when the pigeons flutter their wings on the top of the tower, you will get an image with a beautiful background that vibrates.

Som Rong temple library is the old sala. Currently, more than 1500 books are kept to serve the learning needs of monks, students, Buddhists and local people.

Som Rong pagoda is home to the largest giant reclining Buddha statue in Vietnam that was just inaugurated in 2020, with a length of 63m, a height of 22.5m and a weight of 490 tons. From hundreds of metres away, visitors can see the majestic statue of the Buddha Shakyamuni Buddha. This is the highlight, creating a harmonious beauty in the overall architecture of the Somrong pagoda.

The Sala functions as a lecture hall, a place to welcome guests during traditional national festivals and a place to host monks

The sala house is the lecture hall and monkhood of Som Rong pagoda, inaugurated in 2017 with an area of more than 1 ha and a total budget of nearly 16 billion. The sala house is a specialized place to receive guests, organize offerings and great traditional ceremonies. It is an indispensable part of the architectural complex of traditional Khmer temples.

Architecture inside the sanctuary of Patum Wongsa Som Rong pagoda.

3. Better to go with google maps of Som Rong pagoda

4. Better to see our short latest video in advance (4k)

5. Pro tips:

The largest giant reclining Buddha in Vietnam

Som Rong Soc Trang Pagoda is a solemn place, so you should choose beautiful clothes that are still polite and discreet. In the temple grounds, there are many animal statues such as elephants, snakes, etc. If you go with the children, please remind them not to climb because these are sacred symbols of the Khmer people.

The monks don’t ask for money, although donations won’t hurt.

Bring your hat, sunglasses, and sunblock, scarf to wear when visiting temples, pagodas, and the cathedral.

If you plan to extend your tour to Soc Trang homestay, do not forget to bring mosquito repellent cream.

Som Rong pagoda – A Beautiful Soc Trang Khmer pagoda in Mekong Delta Vietnam

When visiting the Soc Trang or doing any customized tours, choose reputable providers with boat trips equipped with lifebuoys, jackets, motorcycle and cycling tours with the helmets. Safety is a priority!

Soc Trang tourist attractions are magnificent itself, but if you have enough time, don’t forget to put other places onto your bucket lists such as Bat pagoda, Chen Kieu (Bowl) pagoda, Dung islet, Ghe Ngo boat race festival, pink trumpet tree road, Clay pagoda (Chua Dat Set), Khleang pagoda, Nga Nam floating market, Phat Hoc 2 pagoda, Soc Trang central market, Soc Trang museum, Som Rong pagoda, popular and clean homestays and hotels in Soc Trang…

Soc Trang food & drink guide ranges from street food, authentic, fancy to fusion foods. As a tropical land of many fresh vegetables and homegrown gardens, which always make Soc Trang cuisines fresh, close to nature and very traditional. If you are a food lover, don’t hesitate to put other bites onto your food lists such as Cong Cake, Pia Cake, Bun Nuoc Leo Soc Trang’s Noodle Soup…

Bring the raincoat if you travel to Soc Trang in the rainy season, as Soc Trang always looks fantastic in the full rain and full sun.

Hopefully, the above tips will help you to come up with a great plan for your adventure in Soc Trang, Mekong Delta, Vietnam. Have a safe trip!

“Sleep less, travel more, respect more” – Thomas Vietnam – Local travel expert.

Thank you

Photo of the day

When people ask me what to see in Mekong today. I tell them view our MekongDelta365.

Can Tho Rice Noodle Factory & Villages
March 27, 2021
PHOTO BY THOMAS VIETNAM, MEKONG COLLECTION
Can Tho Rice Noodle Factory & Villages

Nowadays, there are more and more green and responsible tours which are meaningful and educational as well. This is why Can Tho noodle factory is getting popular for both Vietnamese and foreigners to come and explore the cuisine culture and the typical local life in Can Tho, Mekong Delta.