About Tra Vinh
Tra Vinh is both a city and a province in southern Vietnam, located in the Mekong Delta region, neighboring the well-known Can Tho. Surrounded by the Tien and Hau rivers, its economy thrives on agriculture, fishing, and shrimp farming, making it a lush and fertile area.
The province is most notable for its strong Khmer cultural influence, with over 140 Khmer-style pagodas scattered throughout the region. This cultural richness makes Tra Vinh a unique destination in the Mekong Delta, offering travelers an authentic glimpse into Vietnam’s diversity and heritage without the crowds.
Is Tra Vinh worth to visit?
Tra Vinh is worth visiting for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience, particularly to explore its unique Khmer culture and tranquil rural landscapes. However, it doesn’t have an abundance of tourist attractions or developed facilities compared to nearby Can Tho. This can be both a charm for those seeking authenticity and a challenge for those expecting convenience. A great way to enjoy the area is by combining Tra Vinh’s quiet cultural immersion with Can Tho’s famous floating markets and tourist-friendly activities, allowing you to experience the best of both worlds.
Best time to visit Tra Vinh
Tra Vinh is located in southern Vietnam, sharing a similar weather pattern with nearby destinations like Can Tho. The region has a tropical monsoon climate with a distinct dry season and rainy season.
The best time to visit Tra Vinh is during the dry season, which runs from December to April, with January and February being particularly pleasant for outdoor activities.
During the rainy season (May to November), expect frequent showers and occasional flooding, though the lush greenery of the countryside can make this time appealing for certain travelers.
Khmer Festivals
In addition to the weather, visiting Tra Vinh during one of its Khmer festivals offers a unique cultural experience:
- Chol Chnam Thmay (Khmer New Year): Celebrated in mid-April, this marks the Khmer New Year with vibrant ceremonies and traditional games.
- Ok Om Bok Festival: Held in November, this moon worshiping festival features boat racing, cultural performances, and offerings to the moon.
- Sene Dolta Festival: Taking place in September or October, this is a time for honoring ancestors with prayers and feasts.
How to travel to Tra Vinh
Tra Vinh’s main hub is the city of the same name. While the city itself is relatively small and not a major tourist area, there are still several ways to reach it. However, options are a bit more limited compared to more popular Mekong Delta destinations like Can Tho.
Bus connections
From Ho Chi Minh City, you’ll find a variety of bus options to Tra Vinh despite its size. The journey takes approximately 3 to 4 hours and prices start from 150,000 VND (around USD 6–7). Many buses offer drop-off points close to accommodations in Tra Vinh. If you’re staying in a more remote area, you can easily take a taxi for the final leg of your journey.
Car with private driver
Hiring a car with a private driver is a convenient and flexible option, especially if you’d like to combine your travel with sightseeing along the way. From Ho Chi Minh City, you could stop in Ben Tre, known for its coconut groves, or enjoy other Mekong Delta highlights.
This is also an excellent choice if you’re traveling from other parts of the Mekong Delta, such as Can Tho. You can arrange a pickup from your hotel or Can Tho Airport and visit nearby sights, or even take a detour through Soc Trang for another off-the-beaten-path experience.
Cars can be booked for various purposes, whether it’s a one-way transfer, a sightseeing day tour, or even a multi-day road trip exploring the Mekong Delta in depth. This option provides the most flexibility for tailoring your travel to your itinerary and interests.
Getting around
Getting around Tra Vinh can be straightforward, but the best method depends on how far you want to travel and what kind of experience you’re looking for. Here are the most practical options:
Taxis
Taxis are available within the city and are a good option for short trips around town. It’s best to use reliable brands like Mai Linh or Vinasun for consistent pricing and service. However, taxis are not ideal for longer trips around the region, as the costs can add up and availability may be limited outside the city.
Car with driver
As mentioned earlier, hiring a car with a driver is a great option for both reaching and exploring Tra Vinh. If you didn’t travel to Tra Vinh by car, it’s best to arrange this service in advance. Finding a car with a driver in Tra Vinh itself can be more challenging, so it’s often easier to book one from Can Tho or Ho Chi Minh City.
Keep in mind that drivers are not tour guides, so you’ll need to clearly communicate the places you want to visit. Don’t expect them to provide detailed suggestions or local insights. If you’d like a more in-depth experience, consider hiring a local guide to join you on the trip.
Driving motorbike or scooter
For adventurous travelers, renting a motorbike or scooter is an excellent way to explore Tra Vinh’s off-the-beaten-path areas at your own pace. The region is relatively quiet and remote, making it less stressful than driving in larger cities. However, there are a few things to consider:
- While most rentals won’t ask for a license, you’ll need one to ensure your insurance is valid in case of an accident.
- The lack of heavy traffic makes it safer, but Tra Vinh is not the best place to learn how to ride for the first time.
- Be prepared with a map or offline navigation, as some rural areas may have limited signage.
Biking
Biking is another fantastic way to get around Tra Vinh, offering a slow-paced, immersive experience of the countryside. The province’s quiet roads and scenic rural landscapes are ideal for cyclists. Within the city, biking is a practical option too, with light traffic making it easy to navigate. You can explore local life, bustling markets, and the Khmer temples scattered across the area. Several of these temples are included in the “things to do in Tra Vinh” section below, making biking a convenient and enjoyable way to visit them.
Tip: Renting bikes in Tra Vinh can be a bit more challenging due to its less-developed tourism infrastructure. Check with your accommodation for availability. If unavailable, consider renting a bike in Can Tho or Saigon, or arrange a guided cycling tour for a hassle-free experience.
Things to do in Tra Vinh
Tra Vinh offers a mix of cultural, natural, and off-the-beaten-path experiences, perfect for travelers seeking a quieter and less commercialized destination. With its Khmer heritage, numerous pagodas, and scenic countryside, Tra Vinh provides a unique glimpse into Vietnam’s Mekong Delta. Below, you’ll find the best things to do in Tra Vinh, complete with honest and practical insights to help you decide if they’re worth including in your trip.
1. Ang Pagoda
Ang Pagoda, or Wat Angkor Raig Borei, is a key Khmer temple in Tra Vinh and a prime example of Khmer architecture in the Mekong Delta. The pagoda features intricate carvings, colorful frescoes depicting the life of Buddha, and towering ancient trees that provide shade across its 4-hectare grounds. Built in the 10th century and expanded in later years, it is a peaceful spot to explore Khmer culture and spirituality.
The temple is located in the Ao Ba Om complex, making it easy to combine with other nearby sites. Its historical and cultural significance, along with its serene setting, makes it one of the standout places to visit in Tra Vinh.
Museum of Khmer Ethnic Culture
Next to Ang Pagoda, this small museum houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits showcasing the daily life, traditions, and history of the Khmer people in Tra Vinh and the Mekong Delta. While modest in size, it offers a concise and interesting introduction to Khmer culture, making it worth a quick visit if you’re visiting the main pagoda.
Ao Ba Om (Ba Om Pond)
On the other side of the pagoda is Ao Ba Om, a rectangular pond surrounded by ancient trees with exposed roots, some of which form natural benches. The pond itself is calm and reflects the surrounding greenery, which makes it a nice place for a short walk or a break from sightseeing.
2. Hang Pagoda
Hang Pagoda (Cave Pagoda), also known as Kompong Ch’ray, is one of the oldest Khmer temples in Tra Vinh, dating back to 1637. The pagoda is set within a sprawling 7-hectare area surrounded by dense trees, creating a peaceful and natural atmosphere. A distinctive feature of the temple is the arched gate resembling a cave, which gave the pagoda its name.
Beyond its beautiful architecture, Hang Pagoda is known for its wood carving workshop, where artisans create intricate sculptures—a tradition that has been carried on for decades. The pagoda is also a sanctuary for various bird species, including flocks of storks that return in the evening, making it an interesting spot for nature enthusiasts. Located just a short drive or bike ride from Tra Vinh city, it’s a unique and serene place to explore.
3. Con Chim Island
Con Chim is a small, community-based tourism destination in the Co Chien River, offering visitors a chance to experience authentic rural life in the Mekong Delta. The island spans 60 hectares and is accessed by a short ferry ride. Once on the island, you’ll find quiet paths lined with rice fields and small homestays offering local meals made from homegrown produce.
Activities on the island include crab fishing, shrimp catching, cycling, and participating in simple farming tasks. The emphasis here is on sustainable living—plastic waste is strictly avoided, and farming follows eco-friendly practices. While the facilities are basic, the island’s rustic charm and slower pace make it a refreshing escape from the busier parts of Tra Vinh.
4. Ba Dong Beach
Ba Dong Beach is not your typical tropical getaway but rather a stretch of alluvial sand along the South China Sea. Located about 60 km from Tra Vinh city, it offers a local experience with fresh seafood, clam harvesting, and views of a nearby wind farm.
While the water is not ideal for swimming due to its muddy color, the beach is great for a leisurely stroll or to enjoy the constant sea breeze. There’s a path along the shore, and a few basic eateries serve local seafood dishes. Sunrise and sunset here can be picturesque, with the silhouettes of wind turbines adding a unique backdrop. Ba Dong Beach is best suited for those seeking a quiet, off-the-beaten-track experience.
5. Truc Lam Zen Monastery Tra Vinh
Situated near Ba Dong Beach, Truc Lam Zen Monastery Tra Vinh is the only Zen monastery of the Truc Lam sect in the province. Built on a 10-hectare plot, the monastery features traditional Vietnamese architecture inspired by the Ly and Tran dynasties. The serene grounds, with casuarina forests and views toward the East Sea, make it an ideal spot for those seeking a peaceful retreat.
The main hall stands out for its intricate woodwork and houses a unique bronze Buddha statue, weighing over three tons. Another highlight is the 31-meter-tall statue of Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva, the tallest in the region, gazing toward the sea. While it is primarily a spiritual site, visitors of all backgrounds are welcome to explore the tranquil grounds and appreciate its architectural beauty. Truc Lam Zen Monastery can easily be combined with a visit to Ba Dong Beach, as they are located close to each other.
6. Mangrove Forest
Tra Vinh’s mangrove forests, located near the coastal area in Long Khanh Commune, offer a glimpse into the Mekong Delta’s delicate ecosystem. These forests are not just a natural attraction—they also play a crucial role in protecting the region against coastal erosion and support shrimp farming, a key livelihood for locals.
Although not developed as a formal tourist destination, exploring the mangrove forest can be an enriching experience for nature lovers. You might need to arrange a trip with a local fisherman or hire a guide to navigate the waterways. The best way to explore is by small boat, drifting through the dense mangroves and observing the local wildlife. For those interested in eco-tourism, this is a unique opportunity to experience a less commercialized side of the Mekong Delta.
7. Nodol Pagoda (Stork Pagoda)
Nodol Pagoda, often referred to as Stork Pagoda, is located in Tra Cu District, about 40 km from Tra Vinh city. Built in 1677, this Khmer temple is surrounded by groves of trees that serve as a sanctuary for thousands of storks and other birds.
The pagoda’s Khmer-style architecture is striking, with ornate decorations on its gates, main hall, and stupas. Inside, colorful murals depicting Buddhist teachings add to its cultural appeal. While the architecture is impressive, the real charm lies in the tranquil surroundings and the sight of flocks of birds returning to their nests at dusk. Early mornings or late afternoons are the best times to visit, as you can witness the birds in their natural habitat.
8. Tan Quy Island
Located in Cau Ke District, Tan Quy Island is known as the “Kingdom of Fruits,” thanks to its fertile land enriched by the Hau River. The island is a serene escape, offering lush orchards where visitors can taste fresh tropical fruits like rambutan, durian, and mangosteen straight from the tree.
This is a great destination for those who enjoy nature and local experiences. Besides fruit tasting, visitors can row a boat along the river, enjoy the tranquil scenery, or learn about traditional farming methods. While the island is relatively remote and less developed for tourism, this adds to its charm as an off-the-beaten-path destination in the Mekong Delta. However, it’s worth noting that due to limited tourist infrastructure, it’s best to plan your trip carefully or consider a guided tour.
9. Vam Ray Pagoda
Vam Ray Pagoda is one of the largest Khmer temples in Vietnam, located about 35 km from Tra Vinh city. Originally built over 600 years ago, the temple was reconstructed after being damaged during the war. Today, it stands as a magnificent example of Khmer architecture, adorned with golden towers, intricate carvings, and colorful murals depicting Buddhist stories.
The most striking feature of the pagoda is the giant reclining Buddha statue, 54 meters long and 20 meters high, which dominates the temple grounds. Visitors are often awed by its size and craftsmanship. While the pagoda is primarily a place of worship, its grandeur makes it a must-visit for those interested in Khmer culture and architecture.
10. The Mansion of Huynh Ky
Located in Cau Ke District, about 30 km from Tra Vinh city, the Mansion of Huynh Ky is a fascinating blend of traditional Vietnamese and French colonial architecture. Built in 1924 by a wealthy landowner, the mansion reflects the fusion of cultures during Vietnam’s colonial period.
Visitors can explore the intricately designed interiors, featuring French ceramic tiles, wooden ceilings, and ornate carvings. While the exterior showcases elegant European influences, the layout and furnishings inside reflect Vietnamese traditions. The mansion provides a unique historical insight into the lives of affluent families in the early 20th century. Its quiet setting and well-preserved structure make it a worthwhile stop for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.
11. Kampong Ksan Pagoda
Kampong Ksan Pagoda is one of Tra Vinh’s most visually striking Khmer temples, known for its shimmering golden spires that reach into the sky. Situated along the river, the pagoda offers a photogenic scene, especially when viewed from Kho Dau, where the temple’s architecture reflects beautifully against the water, evoking comparisons to Bangkok’s iconic riverside temples.
Though relatively new, the pagoda’s intricate design and grand scale make it a must-see for architecture and culture enthusiasts. Visitors are welcome to explore the temple grounds when ceremonies are not in progress. While it is less steeped in historical significance than some other temples in the region, its contemporary grandeur and serene setting make it a worthwhile visit, especially for those already exploring Tra Vinh’s Khmer cultural landmarks.
Where to stay in Tra Vinh
Tra Vinh City, while not the most picturesque location in the Mekong Delta, is an excellent base for exploring the province. It boasts the widest range of accommodations, including budget-friendly guesthouses and mid-range hotels, along with convenient access to many Khmer temples and other sights.
If you’re looking for a more authentic Mekong Delta experience, countryside stays are an option, though accommodations here are often limited to basic guesthouses, homestays, or farmstays. These provide a simple but charming experience, suitable for most travelers for a short stay. For a truly local and unique setting, you could stay on Con Chim Island, where homestays offer a rustic atmosphere. However, keep in mind that the island’s location, accessible only by ferry, makes it less practical for exploring the rest of Tra Vinh Province.
Two day travel itinerary
Here’s a suggested 2-day travel itinerary to help you explore the best things to do in Tra Vinh. This plan includes visits to the area’s key Khmer temples, cultural landmarks, and unique natural sites, offering a well-rounded experience of the province.
Day 1: Exploring around Tra Vinh City
Morning: Khmer Temples in Tra Vinh Town
- Hang Pagoda: Start your day at this serene temple, known for its bird sanctuary and wood carving workshop.
- Ang Pagoda: Visit this impressive Khmer temple surrounded by ancient trees, and explore the adjacent Ao Ba Om pond.
- Kampong Ksan Pagoda: Admire its golden spires, best viewed from across the river, and experience its peaceful atmosphere.
Afternoon: Con Chim Island
Take a ferry to Con Chim Island for a glimpse into local life. Enjoy the rustic charm of its rice fields, clean shrimp farming practices, and community-based tourism. If time allows, try local dishes or join an activity like fishing or baking traditional cakes.
Day 2: Highlights Beyond Tra Vinh Town
Morning: Temples and Khmer Culture
- Vam Ray Pagoda: Marvel at the largest Theravada Buddhist temple in Vietnam, complete with a massive reclining Buddha.
- Nodol Pagoda (Stork Pagoda): Visit this charming temple surrounded by green bamboo groves and home to thousands of storks.
Early Afternoon: Mangrove Forest and Truc Lam Zen Monastery
- Explore the Mangrove Forest in Long Khanh for a peaceful nature experience. Consider hiring a guide to navigate the area.
- Visit Truc Lam Zen Monastery Tra Vinh, a large Zen complex with a serene atmosphere and impressive architecture, located near the coast.
Later Afternoon: Ba Dong Beach
End your day at Ba Dong Beach. While it’s not ideal for swimming, the long sandy beach, fresh seafood, and nearby wind turbines offer a unique coastal experience to relax before heading back.
