Top 12 Famous Tourist Destinations in Dong Thap

Gao Giong Ecotourism Area, located in 6th Hamlet, Gao Giong Commune, Cao Lanh District, Dong Thap Province, is about 15 km from Cao Lanh City. This ecotourism site was established on the foundation of Gao Giong's cajeput forest, dating back to 1985. The area is known for its natural beauty and the hard work of local people in cultivating and preserving the environment. Visitors can admire the lush greenery of the cajeput trees, rice fields, and lotus plants, as well as the diverse wildlife such as storks, herons, and the rare Black-crowned Night Heron, listed in Vietnam's Red Book. The area also offers a chance to enjoy Dong Thap's local delicacies like grilled snakehead fish wrapped in lotus leaves with tamarind sauce, clay pot fried tilapia, sour fish soup with fermented rice, and wild water lily, paired with honey-infused rice wine.

Visitors to Gao Giong can also explore the local birdlife, especially the large flocks of white storks, making this cajeput forest the largest heron sanctuary in Dong Thap. During the flood season, thousands of white storks soar across the vibrant green cajeput trees, creating a breathtaking view. Additionally, the lotus swamps attract thousands of Red-necked Phalaropes that forage for fresh lotus stalks, their songs and dances adding a beautiful rhythm to the scene.

Come to Gao Giong to experience the stunning natural beauty, diverse ecosystems, and unique local specialties. A visit here will undoubtedly leave you in awe and make you fall in love with the area.

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Address: Gao Giong Commune, Cao Lanh, Dong Thap

Dong Sen Thap Muoi Ecotourism Area is located in My Hoa Commune, Thap Muoi District, Dong Thap Province, about 39 km from Cao Lanh City. What makes this site special is its vast, serene lotus fields. Visitors can experience the unique opportunity to swim in the expansive lotus ponds, pick lotus flowers, and take photos with traditional items such as conical hats and local Ao Ba Ba shirts. The peaceful atmosphere of Dong Sen Thap Muoi Ecotourism Area invites visitors to enjoy a range of local delicacies made from lotus, including grilled snakehead fish wrapped in lotus leaves, lotus stem salad with chicken, lotus sticky rice, and lotus tea, alongside traditional dishes like fish hotpot, sour snakehead fish soup, clay pot tilapia, and grilled field rat.

The lotus fields are surrounded by wooden walkways connecting various huts, and at the center of the area stands a tall tower. From the top of the tower, visitors can enjoy sweeping views of endless rice fields. Tourists can also stroll through the lotus ponds, breathe in the delicate scent of blooming pink lotuses, or rent Ao Dai, Ao Ba Ba, and conical hats to capture beautiful memories among the lotus flowers with friends and family. To enter the area, visitors must travel by boat, floating slowly down the river while enjoying the scenic surroundings. Activities such as lotus picking, fishing, and farming also allow tourists to experience rural life firsthand. The cool breeze carrying the scent of the lotuses creates a calming, almost magical atmosphere that soothes the soul.

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Address: My Hoa Commune, Thap Muoi, Dong Thap

Tram Chim National Park is located across seven communes (Tan Cong Sinh, Phu Duc, Phu Tho, Phu Thanh A, Phu Thanh B, Phu Hiep) and Tram Chim town in Tam Nong District. Spanning more than 7,500 hectares, this park is a miniature version of the Dong Thap Muoi region, offering visitors a chance to explore the rich ecosystem and unique features of the Mekong Delta. The land, where ‘six months of dry fields and six months of flooded plains’ defines its seasons, is home to over 130 species of plants and a remarkable 233 bird species across 25 genera and 49 families. During the dry season, 88% of these species can be observed, representing a quarter of all bird species documented in Vietnam. The park is especially known for the rare Red-headed Crane, the largest species in the crane family, which is a priceless natural treasure of Tram Chim National Park in Dong Thap.

The park’s aquatic life is equally rich, playing a vital role in maintaining ecological balance and providing food for its avian residents. Among the species found here, some are listed in Vietnam's Red Book, such as the Còm Fish, Tiger Fish, Seahorse Fish, and the Hô Fish. By sustainably leveraging its natural resources for conservation efforts, Tram Chim National Park has become an increasingly popular destination for tourists, drawn by its unique beauty and diverse activities. Those who visit are always impressed by the stunning waterways, the local delicacies, and the warm hospitality. The plant life is just as varied, with over 130 species, and the largest area of swamp forest (2,968 hectares) within the park.

When you visit Tram Chim National Park, you’ll be immersed in the untouched beauty of nature, with scenic views and the sight of birds soaring high above. The park offers an unforgettable and fascinating experience that connects visitors with the magic of the natural world.

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Address: Tam Nong District, Dong Thap

Sa Dec Flower Village is located in Tan Quy Dong Commune, Sa Dec City, Dong Thap Province. This year-round tourist destination boasts fertile land, abundant sunshine, and a gentle breeze, making it a paradise for hundreds of rare and exotic flower species. As one of the largest centers for ornamental plants in Southern Vietnam, it spans 60 hectares and is home to 600 households and 3,600 workers who specialize in growing flowers and plants. During spring, the village bursts into color with a variety of blooming flowers. You’ll find an impressive range of flowers, from roses and orchids to lilies, as well as ornamental plants like star fruit trees, pine, fig, and mai trees. The vibrant floral backdrop makes it the perfect spot for stunning photos.

Sa Dec Flower Village has been around since the early 20th century when just a few households in Tan Quy Dong began growing flowers to decorate for Tet. Over time, the favorable soil and climate encouraged more people to grow flowers, and the business gradually expanded. Today, the village spans over 500 hectares with more than 2,300 households and over 2,000 different species of flowers, becoming one of the largest flower-growing regions in the Mekong Delta and Southern Vietnam.

Initially, the village followed a “family business” model and struggled with investment. However, since entering the integration phase and applying modern agricultural techniques, Sa Dec Flower Village has flourished. Investments in infrastructure, the introduction of rare flower varieties, and the establishment of a plant breeding center and flower wholesale market have all contributed to the village's growth, bringing it into its golden age.

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Address: Tan Quy Dong Commune, Sa Dec, Dong Thap

Huynh Thuy Le Ancient House is located in Sa Dec City, near the bustling Sa Dec wholesale market in Dong Thap Province, Vietnam. The house is renowned not only for its blend of Eastern and Western architectural styles but also for its association with a transcendent love story between French writer Marguerite Duras and her wealthy Vietnamese-Chinese lover, Huynh Thuy Le, in the early 20th century. The house originally belonged to Huynh Thuy Le’s family, who was the first lover of Duras, and their affair later inspired her memoir and the acclaimed novel, 'The Lover' (1984), which was adapted into a French film, 'L’Amant' (1992), directed by Jean-Jacques Annaud.

The house was initially built in the traditional three-aisle style of the Mekong Delta, spanning 258 square meters, constructed from fine wood, and featuring a curved roof with yin-yang tiles. It was later renovated with brick to reinforce the wooden structure. The Huynh Thuy Le Ancient House attracts visitors with its bittersweet love story and its well-preserved architecture. In 2009, it was recognized as a national historical site. Visit the Huynh Thuy Le Ancient House to admire this preserved piece of historical architecture.

CONTACT INFORMATION:
Address: 255A Nguyen Hue Street, Ward 4, Sa Dec, Dong Thap

Kien An Cung Pagoda, also known as Ong Quach Pagoda, is over a century old and is located in the heart of Sa Dec City, making it one of Dong Thap's top tourist destinations. Recognized as a national historical monument in 1990, this architectural gem reflects Chinese cultural heritage. The pagoda was built by a group of Chinese settlers from Fujian Province, China, who resided in Sa Dec. Its purpose was not only to worship ancestors and educate future generations, but also to foster community ties, facilitate business meetings, and exchange information. Construction began in 1924 and was completed in 1927. Over the course of three years, artisans from Fujian and Sa Dec worked tirelessly to craft intricate details, patterns, and symbols, creating a majestic building in the traditional Chinese temple style.

One of the unique features of Kien An Cung is its fence, made from cement but crafted to resemble bamboo poles, a rustic touch that blends tradition with innovation. The pagoda faces the Cai Son canal and is built in the shape of the Chinese character 'Gong' (功), symbolizing strength and grandeur. Remarkably, the pagoda’s structure does not include beams; instead, it relies on crossbars and wooden columns that bear the weight. The front of the pagoda features a harmonious design with three main sections, and its roof, tiled in the traditional yin-yang pattern, rises in six sweeping waves, each crowned by a small, elegant palace, symbolizing the overcoming of adversity and success. Visitors to Kien An Cung will be impressed by the exquisite wood carvings, particularly the long beams beneath the ceiling that connect the wooden columns. These carvings, created by skilled Chinese artisans, are made from precious materials such as green stone for doorframes and incense burners, all imported from China. Despite nearly a century of history, the pagoda remains magnificent, with its paintings still vivid, a testament to the craftsmanship of the past.

CONTACT INFORMATION:
Address: 39 Phan Boi Chau Street, Ward 1, Sa Dec, Dong Thap

Lai Vung District in Dong Thap is renowned for its lush orchards filled with plump, vibrant pink grapefruits. Visitors eager to witness the sight of these heavy, fruit-laden trees can visit two notable gardens: the Phuong Nghi garden of farmer Dang Van Khanh in Tan Quy Hamlet, Tan Phuoc Commune, and the Ut Tuong garden of farmer Nguyen Van Tuong located along Provincial Road 851 in Tan Khanh Hamlet, Tan Thanh Commune, Lai Vung. These gardens are open daily from 8 AM to 7 PM, allowing visitors ample time to explore, film, and photograph the beautiful orchards while enjoying Lai Vung’s signature specialties like sweet, tangy pink grapefruit, aromatic sweet tangerines, and crispy Lai Vung spring rolls, all within the delightful ambiance of Southern folk music.

The best time to visit the pink grapefruit gardens is during the Tet holiday season, when the trees are in full bloom, their fruits golden and glossy, laden with juice. From Ho Chi Minh City, take National Highway 1A, cross the My Thuan Bridge, and continue along National Road 80 until reaching Lai Vung District. The pink grapefruit trees generally bear fruit near the end of the year, transforming the orchards into a vibrant sea of orange and green as hundreds of grapefruit trees come to life with ripe, juicy fruit. A visit to the orchard is an exciting experience where visitors can enjoy unlimited fruit and capture unforgettable photos while exploring the garden.

Located in Long Hung A Commune, Lap Vo District, Dong Thap Province, the Phuong Nam Cultural Tourism Area is a recently developed tourist destination that offers visitors a glimpse into the history and culture of the Southern region. Opened in 2017, the 17-hectare complex features five main attractions: the Nam Phuong Linh Temple, the Dang Clan Nam Phuong Linh Temple, the Dang Family Museum, the Southern Vietnam Museum, and a surrounding corridor that represents the five continents. The site honors historical figures and showcases a recreated Southern village, making it a perfect spot for history enthusiasts and those interested in the traditions of the region.

As you explore, you’ll be surrounded by lush greenery, shady trees, and wide spaces adorned with vibrant flowers and intricately carved red-tiled roofs. The tranquil atmosphere is complemented by green-covered walkways and lotus ponds, which create a serene and peaceful environment. A large lotus pond blooms during the flower season, adding a splash of color to the landscape. The highlight of the area is the Nam Phuong Linh Temple, built with traditional Hue-style wooden architecture, dedicated to honoring 125 historical figures who helped cultivate and protect the Southern lands. The site also features other remarkable structures such as a tile-roofed bridge, Buddha statues, a traditional Southern village replica, and the Southern Land Museum.

When visiting Dong Thap, be sure to stop by and immerse yourself in the region’s rich history and culture while enjoying the beauty and tranquility of this unique destination.

Known for its unique lotus pond, Phuoc Kien Pagoda may not boast exceptional architecture or stunning landscapes, but it draws many visitors who come to pay respects and enjoy the serene environment. The main attraction here is the giant lotus leaves, so large they can support a person’s weight, which has made the pagoda famous among locals and tourists alike.

Located in Hoa Tan Commune, Chau Thanh District, Dong Thap Province, Phuoc Kien Pagoda was established before the reign of King Thieu Tri. During the war, the pagoda was severely damaged by bombs, but after its reconstruction in 1975, the bomb craters were repurposed into a lotus pond, marking the pagoda’s rebirth. This pond became home to a rare species of lotus, discovered in 1992, which is now known to be Victoria regia, native to the Amazon. These lotus leaves are thick, large, and covered in spikes, and they thrive in the local environment. Though the lotus has several common names such as royal lotus or gunnera, it is most famously known as the 'King Lotus.' The best time to visit the pagoda is from September to January, when the lotus leaves grow large and lush, covering the pond’s surface. In addition to the unique lotus, the pagoda is also famous for its sacred turtles and cranes.

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Address: Hoa Tan Commune, Chau Thanh District, Dong Thap

If you ever visit Dong Thap, one historical site you cannot miss is the Nguyen Sinh Sac Tomb Historical Site, the resting place of the father of President Ho Chi Minh. Located at 137 Pham Huu Lau, Ward 4, Cao Lanh City, Dong Thap, this site commemorates Nguyen Sinh Sac (1862-1929), a patriot and a well-respected doctor known for his selfless service to his country and people. The tomb has been restored several times and has become a significant cultural and historical landmark not just for the people of Dong Thap but for the entire Mekong Delta region.

The site was recognized as a national historical landmark on April 9, 1992. The most prominent feature of the site is the tomb of Nguyen Sinh Sac, which is adorned with nine dragons in a distinctive folk style, symbolizing the people of the Mekong Delta protecting and embracing the tomb. The site also includes a temple, a statue of Nguyen Sinh Sac, an exhibition hall showcasing his life, and the traditional stilt house of President Ho Chi Minh.

With its unique architecture and profound historical significance, the Nguyen Sinh Sac Tomb has become a famous pilgrimage destination. It is not only a symbol of patriotism and revolutionary spirit for the people of Dong Thap but also for all who visit. When traveling in Dong Thap, make sure to stop by the Nguyen Sinh Sac Tomb Historical Site and pay your respects to the father of President Ho Chi Minh.

The Xeo Quyt Historical Site is located in the communes of My Hiep and My Long in Cao Lanh District, Dong Thap, approximately 30 km from Cao Lanh City and 170 km from Ho Chi Minh City. Covering an area of 50 hectares, including 20 hectares of cajeput forest, Xeo Quyt is home to a rich and diverse ecosystem, with around 170 plant species, 158 wild plant species, 12 types of trees, and 200 species of animals, including 7 types of frogs, 22 species of reptiles, 73 species of fish, 91 bird species, and 7 mammals. Notably, 13 rare species, such as the trau snake, reticulated python, box turtle, and large-billed heron, are listed in Vietnam’s Red Book.

In addition to its natural beauty, Xeo Quyt also holds historical significance as a former revolutionary base during the resistance against foreign invaders. The site features wartime bunkers like the “A” bomb shelters, “Z” combat tunnels, and “L” secret caves. Xeo Quyt was restored on the basis of its historical remnants and was officially recognized as a national historical site in 1992.

From its lush forests and waterways to its rich history and delicious local cuisine, Xeo Quyt offers a peaceful escape into nature. Visitors can explore the area on foot, wandering through dense forests, or take a boat ride along the waterways to observe the diverse wildlife from a unique perspective. Local specialties like snakehead fish and sour fish hotpot with water lilies are popular dishes that will leave you craving for more. Xeo Quyt is a must-visit for those seeking tranquility and a glimpse into the beauty of Vietnam’s rural landscapes.

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Address: My Hiep and My Long communes, Cao Lanh, Dong Thap

The Go Thap Historical Site was officially recognized as a national cultural relic in 1998, holding significant historical and cultural value for the nation. This site is home to the remains of the ancient Funan Kingdom, dating back over 1,500 years, along with relics from two periods of resistance against French and American colonization, as well as layers of folk culture. Visitors to Go Thap can experience the rich history and deeply appreciate the contributions of ancestors who laid the foundations of the region.

Go Thap consists of several small mounds, spread across a sandy region in the heart of the Dong Thap Muoi area, with a dense network of canals and flourishing cajeput forests. Notably, Go Thap is one of the 34 “National Special Monuments” of Vietnam and is one of only two important historical and archaeological sites in the country, along with the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long (in Hanoi).

In the late 19th century and early 20th century, French researchers began excavating the area, uncovering ancient architectural remains, statues, stone tablets, and ancient inscriptions. After the reunification of Vietnam in 1975, Vietnamese archaeologists continued to explore Go Thap, discovering several important relics from the Oc Eo civilization. Among the key findings were residential sites with artifacts such as fire pits, fragments of pottery, charred wood, and stilt house posts, as well as burial sites at the mounds. Excavations have revealed 13 tombs containing over 1,000 artifacts, including gold pieces with intricate carvings, gemstones, figurine heads, pottery, and gold rings, alongside architectural remains at high mounds such as Go Minh Su, Go Thap Muoi, Ba Chua Xu Temple, and Thap Linh Pagoda.

Every year, during two major religious occasions — the Ba Chua Xu Festival (on the 15th of the third lunar month) and the memorial of national heroes Thien Ho Duong and Doc Binh Kieu (on the 15th of the 11th lunar month) — hundreds of visitors gather to offer incense and admire the beautiful surroundings of Go Thap.

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Address: Located in the communes of My Hoa and Tan Kieu, Thap Muoi District, Dong Thap