About Binh Duong
Binh Duong Province, located in southern Vietnam just 30 kilometers from Ho Chi Minh City, serves as a key industrial and agricultural hub. Historically, the region was home to indigenous ethnic groups such as the Xtiêng, Chơ Ro, Mnong, and Khmer Krom before Vietnamese settlers arrived in the 17th century, transforming the area into productive farmland. Today, Binh Duong is known for its rapid industrial development, with numerous international companies like Nike, Adidas, and Lego establishing manufacturing facilities here.
Despite its industrial focus, Binh Duong retains pockets of charm with its traditional craft villages, fruit orchards, and local culinary specialties, such as mangosteen chicken salad. While it’s not a major destination for foreign tourism, the province is increasingly popular among domestic travelers seeking a weekend retreat. With its proximity to Ho Chi Minh City, Binh Duong makes for a convenient short trip to experience a mix of modern development and cultural traditions.
Is Binh Duong worth to visit?
Binh Duong may not be a must-visit destination for international travelers exploring Vietnam, but it offers some appeal for those interested in temples, craft villages, or local culinary experiences. The province mainly caters to domestic tourists from Ho Chi Minh City looking for a quick getaway. While there are a few unique things to do in Binh Duong, the overall attractions may not justify an extended visit unless combined with a trip to the Central Highlands or another nearby region.
Best time to visit Binh Duong
Binh Duong is located in southern Vietnam, sharing a similar tropical climate with Ho Chi Minh City. The region experiences two main seasons: the dry season from December to April and the rainy season from May to November. The best time to visit is during the dry season, especially from December to February, when the weather is cooler and ideal for outdoor activities.
During the rainy season, frequent but short-lived downpours occur, which may limit outdoor exploration. However, the lush greenery and fewer crowds can still make it an enjoyable time for a brief visit.
How to travel to and around Binh Duong
Binh Duong’s central city, Thu Dau Mot, is located just 25 kilometers (15.5 miles) north of Ho Chi Minh City, making it less than an hour’s drive away. With its close proximity, Binh Duong feels more like an extension of Saigon than a standalone destination. If you’re traveling from elsewhere in Vietnam, it’s best to first reach Ho Chi Minh City and then make your way to Binh Duong. Here are your main transportation options:
Taxi
For such a short distance, taking a taxi is a convenient option. Most taxi services will readily accept this ride, making it a straightforward way to get from Ho Chi Minh City to Thu Dau Mot.
Limousine Vans
Shared limousine vans are the most affordable option, with prices starting from 150,000 VND (approximately USD 6). These vans often include pickup and drop-off services. However, this option only takes you to Thu Dau Mot, so if you plan to explore multiple places in Binh Duong, this might not be the most convenient choice.
Private Car with Driver
A private car with a driver is the most flexible and comfortable option, especially if you plan to visit multiple sights in Binh Duong. This service covers transportation to the province, travel between attractions, and a return trip to your accommodation. Prices are fixed based on an agreed itinerary, so there are no surprises with the meter. A private car is also a great option if you’re traveling north to the Central Highlands, allowing you to make stops in Binh Duong along the way.
Motorbike or scooter
Renting a motorbike or scooter in Ho Chi Minh City is another possibility, with prices starting from approximately 150,000 VND per day (around USD 6). While this can be an economical and flexible way to explore Binh Duong, it’s not recommended for beginners. The province has busy roads with heavy traffic from factories and farmlands, so only experienced riders with a valid license should consider this option.
Things to do in Binh Duong
1. Dai Nam Park
Dai Nam Park is a sprawling recreational complex in Thu Dau Mot City, spanning 260 hectares. The park features a variety of attractions, including an open zoo, a temple complex, amusement rides, and even an artificial beach. While its size and offerings are impressive, this site is more suited to families with children or those looking for a fun, modern experience rather than cultural immersion.
The Dai Nam Open Zoo, home to 76 animal species like white tigers and white hippos, offers a unique experience for animal lovers. The Van Hien Wonderland temple area showcases traditional Vietnamese architecture and history. However, international travelers seeking authentic cultural experiences might find it less engaging compared to other destinations in Vietnam.
2. Hoi Khanh Pagoda
As one of the most significant ancient temples in Binh Duong, Hoi Khanh Pagoda offers a peaceful retreat and a glimpse into the province’s Buddhist heritage. Built in 1741, this temple is home to Asia’s longest reclining Buddha statue, measuring 52 meters.
The pagoda also holds historical importance, as it was linked to Nguyen Sinh Sac, the father of President Ho Chi Minh, who co-founded the Patriotic Honor Society here in the early 20th century. Its serene atmosphere and intricate architecture make it a worthwhile stop for those interested in spiritual and cultural experiences.
3. Thuy Chau Ecotourism Area
Thuy Chau Ecotourism Area is a popular spot for locals seeking a relaxing getaway amidst waterfalls, streams, and lush greenery. Visitors can enjoy activities like swimming, hiking, and picnicking. While the artificial elements may lack authenticity, the area provides a peaceful escape for nature enthusiasts. Facilities are basic but sufficient, with affordable entrance fees starting at 100,000 VND. However, the site can get crowded on weekends.
4. Chau Thoi Buddhist Temple
Perched atop Chau Thoi Mountain, this temple is regarded as the oldest in Binh Duong, dating back to 1681. The climb to the temple, either via 220 shaded steps or a drive, offers scenic views and fresh mountain air.
The temple features traditional Vietnamese architecture, with statues of Lady Buddhas, dragons, and other intricate details. From the hilltop, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding delta. While the temple is beautiful and peaceful, its remote location makes it better suited for those with extra time to explore.
5. Phu Cuong Cathedral
Located in Thu Dau Mot City, Phu Cuong Cathedral is a Gothic architectural gem dating back to 1864. With its dome, arched windows, and spacious green surroundings, the cathedral is a quiet spot for reflection.
Visiting during Christmas offers a particularly festive experience as the cathedral welcomes everyone to its celebrations. While not as grand as some cathedrals in Vietnam, it’s a charming site for those interested in religious architecture.
6. Tay Tang Buddhist Temple
Tay Tang Buddhist Temple is a hidden gem with its serene atmosphere and unique Tibetan-style architecture. The intricate carvings and vibrant colors set it apart from other temples in the region, making it an interesting stop for temple enthusiasts.
7. Phu An Bamboo Village
Phu An Bamboo Village is a conservation area that showcases Vietnam’s diverse bamboo ecosystem, with 1,500 bamboo bushes representing 90% of the country’s varieties. The site’s focus on biodiversity, recognized by the UNDP, makes it a meaningful visit for those interested in sustainable tourism and nature.
The village offers a peaceful setting and insight into bamboo’s cultural and environmental significance in Vietnam.
8. Song Be Bridge Historic Site
This broken bridge in Phu Giao District stands as a stark reminder of the Vietnam War. Originally built by the French in the 1920s, it played a crucial role in colonial expansion. The bridge’s destruction during the war in 1975 marked a pivotal moment in history.
Today, the bridge is a quiet yet impactful site for history enthusiasts. Its weathered structure and the surrounding serene landscape provide a glimpse into Vietnam’s past struggles and resilience.
9. Truc Lam Thanh Nguyen Monastery
Nestled in the quiet Cay Kho Hamlet of Phu Giao District, Truc Lam Thanh Nguyen Monastery is the first Zen monastery in Binh Duong Province associated with the Truc Lam Yen Tu Zen sect. Spread across over 10 hectares, the monastery is surrounded by serene rubber forests and vibrant flower gardens, making it an ideal spot for those seeking peace and introspection.
The lush greenery and tranquil ambiance create a harmonious connection between spirituality and nature. This monastery is not only a place of worship but also a soothing escape for travelers looking to unwind amidst natural beauty.
10. Dau Tieng Lake
Dau Tieng Lake is one of Vietnam’s largest artificial reservoirs, spanning the provinces of Tay Ninh, Binh Duong, and Binh Phuoc. Originally constructed in 1981, the lake is now a favorite spot for locals and visitors looking for outdoor recreation.
Activities around the lake include leisurely strolls along the shoreline, playing games, and setting up tents for overnight camping. With its tranquil waters and scenic surroundings, it’s an excellent destination for group outings or a relaxing day in nature. However, travelers seeking more dynamic or cultural experiences may find it limited in offerings.
11. Thai Son Pagoda
Located on the slopes of Cau Mountain in Dau Tieng District, Thai Son Pagoda is a spiritual and natural retreat. The pagoda features a striking nine-story tower, the Cuu Trung Dai Pagoda, and a 12-meter-tall statue of Avalokiteśvara Bodhisattva. Its expansive campus spans over 5 hectares and is filled with rare trees, including a 300-year-old fig tree.
Visitors can climb 1,000 stone steps to reach the mountain summit, where they are rewarded with panoramic views of the Cau mountain range and Dau Tieng Lake. This combination of natural beauty and religious significance makes Thai Son Pagoda a rewarding destination for those seeking a blend of culture and adventure.
12. Thien Hau Pagoda
Thien Hau Pagoda, or Ba Pagoda, is one of the most significant pilgrimage sites in Thu Dau Mot City. Located on Nguyen Du Street, the pagoda is dedicated to Thien Hau, the Lady of the Sea, revered for her protection of sailors and travelers.
The annual Ba Pagoda Festival, held from the 13th to the 15th day of the first lunar month, is the largest cultural festival in Binh Duong. The festivities include vibrant worship ceremonies, lantern auctions, and the grand procession of Thien Hau’s palanquin, drawing visitors from Binh Duong, Ho Chi Minh City, and neighboring provinces. It’s an excellent time to visit if you want to witness the province’s spiritual and cultural vibrancy.
13. Phu Loi Prison
Phu Loi Prison, located just 3 kilometers from the center of Thu Dau Mot City, is a stark reminder of Vietnam’s tumultuous history. Built in 1957, this prison was used to detain and torture revolutionary soldiers during the Vietnam War.
The prison complex is divided into three camps, surrounded by barbed wire and guarded bunkers, with a central dome used for surveillance. Visitors can explore the reconstructed facilities to understand the harsh conditions prisoners endured, including cramped spaces and inadequate resources. Admission is free, and a visit here provides a somber yet educational insight into Vietnam’s struggle for independence.
14. Lai Thieu Fruit Garden
Spanning over 1,200 hectares across several communes, Lai Thieu Fruit Garden is a lush haven for fruit lovers. Visitors can enjoy picking and tasting fresh fruits such as rambutan, mango, and durian while learning about cultivation techniques from the growers.
Families and groups can relax under the trees, rent mats or hammocks, and even arrange picnics on-site. The garden is best visited from March to July during the fruit harvest season. Admission is free, and you only pay for the fruits you pick, making it a delightful and budget-friendly activity for travelers.
15. Tuong Binh Hiep Lacquer Village
Tuong Binh Hiep Lacquer Village showcases the centuries-old craft of Vietnamese lacquerware. Artisans here create intricate products like paintings, vases, and furniture using traditional techniques that involve around 25 meticulous stages, some requiring months to complete.
A visit to this village offers a fascinating glimpse into the artistry and dedication behind lacquer production. It’s a great opportunity to purchase unique, handmade souvenirs while supporting local artisans. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply curious about Vietnamese craftsmanship, Tuong Binh Hiep is a worthwhile stop.
