Discover the Must-Visit Tourist Spots in Dong Thap

When in Dong Thap and unsure about where to go and what to explore, consider these suggestions for your itinerary:

If you're traveling from Ho Chi Minh City along National Highway 1A towards Vinh Long and Can Tho, take a right at the An Huu intersection (before the My Thuan Bridge), and you'll find yourself in Dong Thap.

Xeo Quyt Historical Site

As you journey from An Huu to the city of Cao Lanh, you'll encounter the Xeo Quyt Historical Site, spanning the areas of My Long and My Hiep in the Cao Lanh district. Covering 50 hectares, including 20 hectares of cajuput forest, Xeo Quyt was once a military base from 1960-1975 during the resistance against the United States, and today, it stands as a renowned tourist destination.

The bomb shelters shaped like the letter A, personal secret bunkers in the form of the letter L, combat tunnels resembling the letter Z, and more—all meticulously restored to their original state. The ecological environment here boasts diversity with over 170 plant species, including cajuput trees, sedge, grass, water lilies, and more, alongside 200 species of wildlife. Notably, 13 of these species are listed in the Vietnam Red Data Book, such as the water monitor, king cobra, softshell turtle, and box turtle. This is why Xeo Quyt is often referred to as the miniature Dong Thap Muoi (Plain of Reeds).

Xeo, a term akin to 'mini canals,' and Quyt, the name of a tree. Explore this historical site by strolling along winding paths or drifting in small boats through the narrow waterways.

Cao Lanh Landmark

Cao Lanh, as locals explain, traces its name back to Mr. Do Cong Tuong, also known as Lanh. His origins unknown, he and his wife migrated from the Central region to establish themselves in My Tra Village (now part of Ward 2, Cao Lanh City, Dong Thap Province) around the year Dinh Suu (1817), during the reign of King Gia Long.

Through years of diligent cultivation and orchard planting, Mr. Tuong prospered, thanks to the revenue from his citrus groves. Positioned conveniently by both water and land routes, his citrus garden became a hub for trade and gatherings. The name 'Vườn Quýt Market' has persisted since then. Respected for assisting the needy and known for his integrity, Mr. Tuong was appointed as the Village Judge, responsible for resolving local disputes.

In the year Canh Thin (1820), a severe epidemic struck unexpectedly. Despite the risks to their own lives, Mr. Tuong and his wife dedicated themselves to saving the local population. Following their demise, a shrine was erected in their honor. The name Cao Lanh refers to Cau Lanh—his title and moniker. The shrine of Mr. Cau Lanh and Mrs. Cau Lanh stands near the Cao Lanh Market, commemorating these two revered individuals.

The Mausoleum of Grandparent Pho Bang

The Memorial Area of Mr. Pho Bang Nguyen Sinh Sac (dedicated to the father of President Ho Chi Minh) was inaugurated on December 13, 1977. Located on Pham Huu Lau Street, it's 1 km away from the center of Cao Lanh City. Currently, this project has expanded by an additional 6.3 hectares (raising the total area of the memorial to over 9 hectares) with a budget of 95 billion VND. The expansion includes exhibition halls showcasing the life and career of Mr. Nguyen Sinh Sac, working quarters, a flower garden, and a reconstruction of a corner of the ancient Hoa An village (now part of Hoa Thuan Ward, Cao Lanh City)—where Mr. Nguyen Sinh Sac first set foot to live and practice traditional medicine for the people.

Lai Vung – The Paradise of Pink Grapefruits

As you arrive in Long Hau, Tan Phuoc, Tan Thanh, Lai Vung District, you'll feel like you've stepped into a paradise of pink grapefruits. For over 100 years, pink grapefruits have been cultivated in this region. Thanks to the favorable climate, water, and soil conditions, the pink grapefruits here are always larger, rounder, and juicier than those in other areas.

The majority of the large-sized pink grapefruits you see being sold from North to South are, in fact, from Lai Vung. Pink grapefruit trees, about 2 years old, start bearing fruit. A mature tree can yield farmers from 200 to 400 kg of fruit per year (4-5 fruits/kg). The grapefruit blossoms in uniform during May. After 9 months, the grapefruits begin to ripen and turn golden on the trees. Farmers, however, have now mastered techniques to have grapefruits all year round.

The Once Bustling Night Market

Dinh Yen Commune in Lap Vo District, Dong Thap, has a longstanding tradition of weaving mats. In the past, due to the daytime busyness with farming or the intense focus on mat weaving, locals only had time to sell their mats in the evening. Similarly, boat traders would conduct their business elsewhere during the day and return in the evening to purchase mats. Hence, the mat market often convened at night amid the thin smoke and cool breeze along the river.

In the serene courtyard of the ancient temple, beneath the flickering oil lamps, people strolling through the market silently move like elusive shadows. Hence, the Dinh Yen mat market is also known as the ghost market or the market of whispers. However, with the convenience of trade and commerce nowadays, the 'ghost market' of the mat village has faded away. Visitors to Dinh Yen now have the opportunity to explore the mat village during daylight hours only.

Phan Boi Chau Ancient Street

When taking a break in Sa Dec, opt for guesthouses or hotels along Phan Boi Chau Street, the most enchanting thoroughfare in Sa Dec town. Along the street runs the Cai Son canal, about 5 meters wide. On one side, willow trees gracefully lean over, reflecting their tresses into the flowing water. On the other side stands the ancient Kim Hue Pagoda, built in 1806. A small curved bridge elegantly connects both banks. You'll feel like you've stepped into a historical drama while exploring this picturesque setting.

Dong Thap boasts several other noteworthy attractions, including the Gao Giong ecotourism area, the historic Huynh Thuy Le house, the nem (fermented pork roll) village in Lai Vung, the flower village of Tan Qui Dong, and more.

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Source: Travel guide Mytour – Courtesy of: Libero