Buzz
When it comes to tourist destinations in Kiên Giang, one cannot overlook the enchanting Thap Canh Ha Tien, immortalized in the verses of the talented administrator Mac Thien Tich. Ten breathtaking scenes once captivated hearts, yet now only five remain, still holding onto their original charm. The blossoming Kim Du orchards, ancient Giang Thanh citadel, moonlit Dong Ho village, vibrant Nam Pho market, and the tranquil Lư Khê fishing village (Rach Vuot) have either vanished under the influence of nature and mankind or lost their former beauty. These remaining five scenic spots have transformed into must-visit tourist attractions when visiting the land of Ha Tien.
1. Bình San Orchid Hill
Mount Bình San is situated in Bình San Ward, Hà Tiên Town, Kiên Giang Province. From Rach Gia city, travel along National Highway 80 for approximately 93 km to reach Hà Tiên Town. From To Chau Bridge, the gateway to the town, turn left onto Phuong Thanh Road and travel around 800 meters to reach the historical and cultural site of Mount Bình San. Also known as Lang Mountain, it stands at a modest height of 53 meters. In all seasons, the mountain is covered in lush greenery, earning it the nickname 'Bình San Orchid Hill' (meaning a mountain standing in a sea of green). This tranquil spot is associated with the Mac family, particularly Mac Cuu (1655-1735), who played a significant role in the development of Phuong Thanh (present-day Ha Tien) and other coastal cities stretching from Kiên Giang to Siem Reap, Cambodia. From the summit of Bình San, one can behold the picturesque beauty of Ha Tien, akin to a painting.
2. Tiêu Tự Sacred Bell (Tranquil Bell Tower Scene - Tam Bao Pagoda)
Located at 75 Phuong Thanh, Bình San Ward, Ha Tien, Tam Bao Pagoda was built by Mac Cuu for his elderly mother's meditation retreat, along with two large bronze bells, collectively named 'Tiêu Tự Sacred Bell.' Although Tam Bao Pagoda no longer retains its original architectural style, it still exudes the serene ambiance of a place of spiritual practice. Inside the Buddhist hall stands a 2.3-meter-tall bronze statue of Amitabha Buddha, dedicated by Mac Cuu. In the front courtyard, a revered statue of Quan The Am Bodhisattva stands solemnly.
3. Stone Cave Village (Cloud-swallowing stone cave – Thach Dong mountain)
Located about 3km from Ha Tien market towards the border, Stone Cave Village, also known as Thach Dong mountain, boasts a gigantic green stone towering 80m high amidst a vast expanse of land. Standing atop the mountain, visitors can overlook the picturesque Ha Tien town, with glimpses of Cambodian villages along the border scattered at the foot of the hills. It's unclear when exactly the people of Ha Tien began to take pride in Thach Dong as the birthplace of the legendary tale of Thach Sanh, deeply ingrained in childhood memories. Inside Thach Dong, stalactites formed over time have created various shapes: a lizard, a long-haired girl commonly referred to as Lady Guan Yin by locals... A few more steps beyond Thach Dong lead to the Xa Xia border gate, beyond which lies the land of Chua Thap. Entrance fee: 5,000 – 10,000 VND.
4. Chau Nham Serene Cliff (Nestling Chau Nham – Dang Dung mountain)
From Thach Dong, another 2km journey leads to Dang Dung mountain. This limestone peak stands at 83m tall, with a flat summit and numerous caves filled with sparkling stalactites resembling pearls. The Mac clan named it “Chau Nham Serene Cliff” (chau nham meaning a mountain resembling jade, serene cliff referring to a roosting spot for herons). Dang Dung mountain is approximately 6km from the center of Ha Tien town. Visiting the historical site of Dang Dung makes you feel connected to the roots of the people while exploring the mysterious beauty of the caves. Entrance fee: 5,000 – 10,000 VND.
5. Prosperous Egret Hamlet (Mui Nai hamlet)
The rural hamlet of “Prosperous Egret Hamlet” or Mui Nai hamlet, located in My Duc commune (now part of Phao Dai Ward), Ha Tien town, leans against the mountain wall, serving as a renowned eco-tourism destination in the Mekong Delta region. Mui Nai Beach stretches over 1km, gently sloping, with relatively clear water compared to other beaches in the Southwest region, attracting many visitors for swimming during the summer. Along the beach are lush coconut groves, with several restaurants serving cuisine at reasonably comfortable prices. Mui Nai Beach is rich in seafood, so in the afternoon, small fishing boats dock with a variety of freshly caught seafood. Visitors can purchase these and have restaurants prepare them for a delicious and enticing taste experience. The best time to visit Mui Nai is in spring, when seagulls flock back, soaring over the area, while on Nai Vang Hill, wildflowers bloom in shades of purple, captivating hearts... Mui Nai features a mini water park right by the beach, perfect for children to enjoy carefree play. Entrance fee: 5,000 – 10,000 VND.
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