Top 20 Must-See Attractions in An Giang

Tịnh Biên is a border gateway between Vietnam and Cambodia, located in Tịnh Biên District, An Giang Province. Tịnh Biên Market serves as an essential commercial and transportation hub for the southwestern border region. It offers a bustling shopping center, modest in luxury but with affordable prices and a wide variety of household goods. A notable attraction here is the wide range of beautiful, modern watches, produced in Thailand and China, which are a major draw for visitors.

One of the unique specialties of Tịnh Biên Market in Châu Đốc is its variety of insects. These exotic delicacies may not be for everyone, but those who dare to try are often mesmerized by their distinctive flavors. You can find a range of insect dishes on display at the market, including geckos, wild birds, scorpions, lizards, centipedes, and even some rare venomous snakes such as cobras and vipers, alongside other goods.

DETAILS:

Address: 350 Xuân Hòa St., Tịnh Biên Town, Tịnh Biên District, An Giang.

Fanpage: https://www.facebook.com/groups/537223404114282

Opening Hours: 5:00 AM - 6:30 AM

Lady Chua Xiu Temple at Sam Mountain is located at the foot of Sam Mountain, formerly part of Vĩnh Tế Commune, now within Núi Sam Ward in Châu Đốc City, An Giang Province, Vietnam. It is an important historical, architectural, and spiritual site for both the province and the region. The worship of Lady Chua Xiu is part of the Vietnamese Mother Worship belief. The Lady Chua Xiu Festival, celebrated annually from the 23rd to the 27th of April in the lunar calendar, has been recognized by the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism and the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism as a National Festival since 2001.

Originally, the Lady Chua Xiu Temple was a humble structure made of bamboo and leaves, situated on the lowland area at the northwest foot of Sam Mountain, with its back to the mountainside and the main hall facing the road and the village fields. In 1870, the temple was rebuilt with bricks. In 1962, it was renovated with stone and ceramic tiles. In 1965, the temple’s guest house and fence were expanded. In 1972, the temple underwent significant reconstruction, completed in 1976, to achieve its current form.

The intricate carvings in the main hall are strongly influenced by Indian art. High above, statues of gods stand strong and beautiful, holding up the roof beams. The doors and frames are finely carved and adorned with gold-leafed plaques and decorative panels. Notably, the back wall behind the statue of the Lady, along with the four columns of the old hall in front of the main temple, have been preserved. Today, the Lady Chua Xiu Temple is considered one of the largest temples in Vietnam.

DETAILS:

Address: Núi Sam Ward, Châu Đốc City, An Giang Province.

Mubarak Mosque is located on a vast plot of land along the Châu Giang River, in Châu Giang Hamlet, Châu Phong Commune, Tân Châu Town, An Giang Province (formerly Phú Hiệp Commune, Phú Tân District). Locals affectionately call these mosques 'chùa'. From the Châu Giang ferry terminal, a left turn will offer you a direct view of this impressive structure. The mosque was originally constructed in 1750 using wood and palm leaves. It has since undergone four major renovations, with the latest in 1965, when it adopted architectural elements typical of Middle Eastern mosques. At first glance, Mubarak Mosque overwhelms with its splendor and intricate yet graceful designs.

The mosque is designed as a large building with long, straight hallways, primarily in shades of blue and white. The walls along these corridors are decorated with ornamental patterns and Cham script, featuring verses from the Qur'an. Mubarak Mosque is regarded as an iconic representation of the architectural style of the Cham community in Châu Giang. Its design reflects the unique cultural blend of Islamic architecture and Cham traditions from southern Vietnam.

DETAILS:

Address: Châu Giang Hamlet, Phú Hiệp Commune, Phú Tân District, An Giang Province.

Standing 284 meters above sea level, Sam Mountain is a renowned tourist spot in An Giang. The mountain is home to over 200 temples, pagodas, shrines, and altars scattered from the base to the summit. Among them, the most revered is the Lady Chua Xiu Pagoda, a major pilgrimage site during festival seasons, attracting visitors nationwide. While commonly known as Sam Mountain, it is also referred to by other names such as Vĩnh Tế Sơn or Ngọc Lãnh Sơn. It is located in Vĩnh Tế Ward, now Núi Sam Ward, Châu Đốc City, An Giang Province, Vietnam. Although many tourists are familiar with the 'Seven Mountains' (Thất Sơn) region, Sam Mountain is not part of this range.

With its lush green forests, visitors to Sam Mountain can enjoy a tranquil atmosphere and capture beautiful photos. From the summit, one can take in a sweeping view of Châu Đốc City and the Vĩnh Tế Canal. The mountain, seen from afar, resembles a giant shrimp resting in the vast fields. To cater to the growing number of tourists, a dedicated tourist zone has been established around the mountain, offering scenic views as well as numerous architectural and cultural landmarks deeply embedded in the local people's spiritual life.

DETAILS:

Address: Châu Đốc City, An Giang Province.

When visiting Châu Đốc, make sure to stop by the well-known market famous for its fish sauces, dried fish, local cakes, and tropical fruits, all representative of the Mekong Delta. Fish sauce is a true symbol of the region's rich aquatic life, created to preserve the abundant fish catch for longer storage. It's unclear when exactly fish sauce became an essential part of the local diet, but it has since become a favorite ingredient among the people of the Southwestern region. While other provinces in the Mekong Delta also produce fish sauce, Châu Đốc is renowned for having the finest varieties. The Châu Đốc Market, located in Châu Phú A Ward, Châu Đốc City, An Giang Province, is a must-visit spot for anyone exploring the southern part of Vietnam. The market is bustling with a wide range of products and is open from early morning until noon.

Once you step into the market, you'll be warmly welcomed by the friendly vendors, who will give you a taste of the genuine Mekong Delta hospitality. Known as the “fish sauce kingdom,” the market offers an extensive selection of fish sauces, making it a true paradise for lovers of this iconic local delicacy.

DETAILS:

Address: Châu Phú A Ward, Châu Đốc City, An Giang Province.

Soài So Lake, located on the slopes of Cô Tô Mountain, is a stunning natural spot with pristine beauty, where the green skies and turquoise waters captivate every visitor. This lake is part of the Long Xuyen Quadrangle in An Giang. Not only is it the largest artificial lake in the Seven Mountains region, but it also draws visitors with its unique and breathtaking natural scenery.

When traveling to An Giang, tourists usually visit famous spots like Cù Lao Giêng, the Sập Mountain tourist area, or Cấm Mountain, but don’t forget to check out Soài So Lake. This newly developed tourist destination offers fresh landscapes and a cool climate, making it a favorite for nature lovers and adventurers.

Soài So Lake covers an area of about 5 hectares, with a water capacity of approximately 400,000 cubic meters sourced from the high Bạc stream. The lake serves not only as an attractive tourist spot but also as a vital source of water for the region’s daily use and irrigation. Despite being an artificial lake, much like Tà Pạ Lake in Tri Tôn or Thanh Long Lake on Mount Thiên Cấm in Tịnh Biên, Soài So Lake boasts natural beauty that enchants visitors with its serene and picturesque landscapes.

DETAILS:

Address: Núi Tô Commune, Tri Tôn District, An Giang Province.

Vạn Linh Pagoda is located at an elevation of 535 meters above sea level on Mount Cấm, beneath the peak of Vồ Bồ Hông (which rises over 700 meters), near the Thủy Liêm Lake (with a water capacity of 60,000m³). It belongs to Vồ Đầu Hamlet, An Hảo Commune, Tịnh Biên District, An Giang Province. A revered landmark and cultural treasure, it attracts many visitors who come to pay their respects. The pagoda is set on a gently sloping mountainside, surrounded by lush gardens that bloom year-round, creating a serene and contemplative atmosphere. The structure follows traditional Eastern temple architecture. At the front of the main hall stand three impressive towers:

• In the center is the nine-story Avalokitesvara Tower, 35 meters tall. The top floor houses relics of the Buddha, while the other levels honor various Buddhas, with a statue of Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva on the ground floor.
• To the right is the three-story tower dedicated to the late Venerable Thích Thiện Quang, the founder of the pagoda. The middle floor houses the monk’s relics brought from Huệ Nghiệm Pagoda in Ho Chi Minh City.
• On the left is the octagonal Bell Tower with two floors. The ground floor contains a statue of Avalokitesvara with a thousand arms and eyes, along with a massive bronze bell weighing 1.2 tons. The upper floor is dedicated to Amitabha Buddha.

The main hall is a large, solemn building. The central altar features a magnificent statue of Buddha Shakyamuni in meditation, made from a single stone block weighing 2 tons. On either side are reliefs of Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva and Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva. Other structures in the temple complex include the Niệm Phật Hall (large and beautiful, located at the highest point to the right of the main hall), living quarters for the monks, a guesthouse, a dining hall, and kitchen facilities.

DETAILS:

Address: An Hảo Commune, Tịnh Biên District, An Giang Province.

This is currently one of the hottest spots sought after by young people in An Giang. Latina Lake is the perfect place for amazing photos, so come here to capture those 'thousand-like' shots. Located in the Tri Tôn and Tịnh Biên areas of An Giang, the lake sits at the foot of Mount Cấm and is also known as Stone Lake. The path to reach the lake is quite remote, so it is recommended to visit with a group.

The lake is relatively small, surrounded by numerous slabs of silver stone in various sizes and shapes. Visitors can sit on these stones and dip their feet into the refreshing water. The water is so clear that you can see all the way to the bottom. This makes it the perfect backdrop for breathtaking photos, often featured in the most stunning 'selfie' shots. Latina Lake is located next to a road leading up to Mount Cấm, with fields of golden rice nearby, wildflower bushes in a variety of colors, and rocky outcrops in the distance. Immersing yourself in the natural beauty of this tranquil place, you’ll forget your worries and feel the relaxation you’ve been longing for. It’s a great weekend getaway with friends that’s not too far away.

DETAILS:

Address: An Hảo Commune, Tịnh Biên District, An Giang Province.

Óc Eo Archaeological Site is located in the Sập - Ba Thê Mountain region, Thoại Sơn District, An Giang Province. This vast historical site is closely linked to the remains of the Funan Kingdom, a powerful civilization in Southeast Asia that existed around 2,000 years ago. Visitors to Óc Eo will have the opportunity to explore and learn about this ancient culture. Many tourists traveling to An Giang take time to visit this fascinating archaeological site.

Óc Eo Culture flourished in the Mekong Delta during the first ten centuries of the Common Era. According to Viet Fun Travel’s research, around the beginning of the Common Era, Óc Eo was a seaport connected to the Gulf of Thailand. It was strategically located along the maritime trade route between the Malay Peninsula and India, and the Mekong River and China, making it a major trade hub.

Whether you visit An Giang in any season, don’t miss the chance to explore the Óc Eo Archaeological Site. This historical site, with its immense cultural significance, attracts numerous visitors, researchers, and archaeologists. In the 1920s, French archaeologist Louis Malleret used aerial photography to capture images of southern Vietnam. During his aerial survey, he discovered that the area around Ba Thê Mountain likely contained ancient artifacts.

The name Óc Eo originally referred to a rectangular structure within the site, but Malleret later used it to describe the entire area. Subsequent archaeological studies revealed that traces of the Óc Eo civilization can be found in other regions such as Núi Sam, Lò Mo (An Giang), Nền Chùa, Cạnh Đền, Mốp Văn (Kiên Giang), and Gò Tháp (Đồng Tháp).
DETAILS:

Address: Óc Eo Town, Thoại Sơn District, An Giang Province.

Located to the north of Châu Đốc, near the confluence of the Tiền and Hậu Rivers in the Mekong Delta, lies the charming Cham Village of Châu Giang in Châu Phong Commune, Tân Châu District. This area is known for its distinct Islamic customs and cultural practices, which remain deeply rooted in the daily lives of the Cham people. The village is renowned for its traditional stilt houses, a signature of the riverside lifestyle.

Much like other Cham villages such as An Khánh, An Bình, Sa Bâu, Châu Phong, and Đa Phước, Cham Village Châu Giang showcases a unique cultural heritage. What sets it apart, however, is the preservation of traditional practices under the shade of the mosque, making it an even more prominent example of Cham life. The village's stilt houses are a mesmerizing sight, adding to the area's charm. This captivating setting has inspired many writers, poets, and musicians, making it a popular muse in literature and the arts.

DETAILS:

Address: Châu Phong Commune, Tân Châu District, An Giang Province.

Located on the way to the summit of Mount Sam, Long Sơn Pagoda is a tranquil sanctuary with ancient architecture and a serene atmosphere. The pagoda grounds are adorned with statues of Buddha and bodhisattvas, exuding a majestic and peaceful presence, seemingly overseeing the world. The sound of the temple bell occasionally echoes through the quiet mountain forest, giving visitors a sense of transcendence.

From behind the pagoda, you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the lush rice fields and the city below, especially at sunset. The peaceful ambiance, combined with the lush surroundings, creates a sense of calm and serenity that makes you reluctant to leave.

Long Sơn Pagoda on Mount Sam offers a perfect combination of traditional architecture and a tranquil environment, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both spiritual solace and natural beauty. Situated on the peaceful and picturesque Mount Sam, this spot is perfect for breathing in the fresh, cool air and enjoying a gentle breeze. A must-visit when in An Giang!

DETAILS:

Address: Vĩnh Phước Ward, Châu Đốc City, An Giang Province.

Mount Cô Tô rises to 614 meters in height, stretching 5,800 meters in length and 3,700 meters in width. Due to its semi-mountainous location and unique geological features, many areas within the mountain house an extensive network of underground caves, resembling a giant honeycomb, sturdy and resilient. Mount Cô Tô offers various fascinating spots for visitors. One of its highlights is the Tức Dụp Hill (or Tức Chóp in Khmer), meaning 'water all year round'. Located on the western slope of Mount Cô Tô, it is approximately 18 kilometers from Tri Tôn town. Before 1975, this hill was famously referred to as the 'Two Million Dollar Hill' by the press, referencing the amount of American bombs that fell here, equivalent to millions of US dollars.

This area served as a base for resisting American forces, with its labyrinth of rocky paths, sometimes wide, sometimes narrow, sometimes steep, and large caves that once served as the base's headquarters, weapons storage, living quarters, clinic, and a hall that could accommodate up to 150 people.

Mount Cô Tô is a perfect spot to watch the sunset. From here, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Tri Tôn District and the nearby Cambodian border, with rolling hills, vast rice fields, and the picturesque plots of land cultivated by the Khmer people.

Mount Cô Tô doesn’t have a specific address on the map like a city building or restaurant. However, given its massive size, it’s easy to spot from a distance. If you're starting from Long Xuyên, take Provincial Road 943 towards Núi Sập Town. From here, asking locals for directions to Mount Cô Tô is easy. Alternatively, you can take other routes that lead to the mountain, but the 943 road offers a more scenic experience.

Amidst endless rice fields, Mount Cô Tô stands as a majestic and raw natural beauty, captivating visitors. It’s an ideal place for an unforgettable check-in!

DETAILS:

Address: Cô Tô Commune, Tri Tôn District, An Giang Province.

Tà Pạ Lake is likely a familiar destination for many. It's often described as a paradise on earth.

Located in Núi Tô Commune, Tri Tôn District, An Giang Province, Tà Pạ Lake is famous for its crystal-clear waters that allow you to see straight to the bottom. The lake is surrounded by towering, majestic mountains, creating a serene, poetic, and idyllic atmosphere. You can also visit Tà Pạ Pagoda and the Tà Pạ fields nearby. It’s one of the must-see spots in An Giang – the “Fairy Lake” of the Mekong Delta.

As you travel toward Tà Pạ, you’ll be treated to stunning landscapes along the road leading to the lake, bordered by fields of golden and green grass, silver-white boulders, and gently swaying reed patches. Occasionally, cows graze peacefully, adding to the charm of this tranquil rural setting.

To reach the lake, traveling by motorbike is the best option, as it lets you enjoy the scenic route and the open landscapes. When visiting Tà Pạ, be cautious if you decide to swim, as the water can be deep or cold, potentially causing cramps. It’s advisable to wear a life vest when swimming.

The beauty of this place is bound to surprise you and make you want to return again and again!

DETAILS:

Address: Núi Tô, Tri Tôn, An Giang

Opening Hours: 6:00 AM - 5:00 PM

O Thum Lake is located about 63 kilometers from Long Xuyen City. This serene water body lies along Provincial Road DT15, which connects to the scenic Tức Dụp Hill, the Heart Palm Tree, and the path leading to Tà Pạ Lake. The lake is situated to the west of Cô Tô Mountain. To get here, visitors can start from Tri Tôn Town and follow Nguyễn Trãi Road around the base of the mountain to Ô Lâm Commune. From there, you’ll come across the Tức Dụp Hill tourist area. After passing this area, take a left turn after 500 meters, then travel 2 kilometers to reach the lake.

Visiting O Thum Lake allows you to immerse yourself in its pristine, unspoiled natural beauty. While the scenery may not be overwhelmingly picturesque or sweetly enchanting, it offers the perfect amount of peace for those looking for a relaxing moment. Locals say the lake is most beautiful during the rainy season when the water levels rise and overflow onto the embankment, enhancing the landscape’s charm. Visitors can also enjoy a tranquil boat ride across the lake, embracing the peacefulness of the surroundings.

In addition to the beauty, tourists are sure to be drawn in by the delicious and aromatic grilled chicken wrapped in chúc leaves. It’s an experience not to be missed when visiting!

DETAILS:

Address: O Thum Lake, Ô, Tri Tôn, An Giang

Opening Hours: All day

Huỳnh Đạo Pagoda was originally built in 1928. In 1962, Mr. Ngô Văn Dư commissioned the construction of a more robust pagoda, naming it Thiên Khai Huỳnh Đạo at 105 Thủ Khoa Nghĩa Street in Châu Đốc. In 1996, under the leadership of Abbot Thích Tôn Trấn, the pagoda was relocated to a spacious 12-hectare site in Núi Sam, Châu Đốc, where it was rebuilt and completed in 2018.

The main hall of the pagoda is grand and spacious, with a large lotus pond that blooms beautifully in the summer, filling the air with fragrance. On the pond, you will find nine majestic dragons, representing the mighty Mekong Delta region. A small pavilion is situated on the pond, adding to the picturesque charm of the surroundings. The pagoda's 3,000-square-meter grounds are home to over 50 white marble Buddha statues in various postures and garments, contributing to the temple's awe-inspiring presence. Notably, the statue of the Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara, seated in meditation and standing over 30 meters tall, is an unforgettable highlight for visitors.

To fully experience the beauty of the pagoda, it's best to visit early in the morning when the light is perfect for capturing stunning photos. However, the pagoda also has a unique glow at night, offering a different but equally mesmerizing view. Come and discover its charm!

DETAILS:

Address: Vĩnh Đông 2, National Road 91, Tân Lộ Kiều Lương, Núi Sam Ward, Châu Đốc, An Giang

Opening Hours: All day

Truc Lam Zen Monastery began construction in 2017 and consists of two main areas: the inner and outer zones. The outer zone includes essential structures such as the main hall, conference room, and meditation hall. In addition, it also features a majestic gate, path of offerings, bell tower, and other significant buildings.

Truc Lam Zen Monastery was designed in a style that combines Buddhist architectural elements with distinctive features of Vietnamese dynastic architecture. The monastery’s grounds are expansive, offering a cool, open atmosphere with impressive structures built from red-orange bricks. Upon entering the main hall, visitors can admire the red-tiled floors and intricately carved wooden pillars. Notably, from the main entrance, you’ll also notice a large pond filled with lotus flowers.

Truc Lam Zen Monastery is not only a place of worship for monks and Buddhists but also a spiritual destination for locals and young people alike. The monastery's beauty draws many visitors, and the picturesque surroundings, including the lotus pond and the grand entrance gate, offer perfect spots for photography.

DETAILS:

Address: Đông Sơn 1 Hamlet, Núi Sập Town, Thoại Sơn District, An Giang Province

Phone: 0328 368 833

Tuc Dup Hill is a hill located near Mount Co To, about 70 km from Long Xuyen City and 10 km from the Cambodian border.

Tuc Dup Hill stands at 216 meters high, covering an area of over 2,200 square meters, with a crescent-shaped perimeter stretching about 3 km. Though small in size, the hill has a unique and mysterious natural structure. Inside the hill, there are numerous deep caves and large tunnels that are interconnected, formed by large and small stones stacked on top of each other, resembling a spider's web. Locals refer to these caves as "lo - ang" (mountain caves).

At Tuc Dup Hill, visitors can enjoy the scenery and take stunning photos, as well as participate in various recreational activities such as hang gliding, basket boat rides, folk games, and crocodile farm tours.

With its picturesque landscapes, diverse dining options, and wide range of entertainment services, Tuc Dup Hill offers a well-rounded experience that is sure to impress!

DETAILS:

Address: 15, Phuoc Tho, Tri Ton, An Giang

Phone: 0296 3771 003

Opening Hours: 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Tra Su Melaleuca Forest is a typical wetland forest in the southwestern region of Vietnam, home to numerous animal and plant species that are part of Vietnam's protected forest system. Located at the confluence of the Chau Doc and Hau Rivers, it is one of the most famous tourist destinations in An Giang and the Mekong Delta. With its diverse ecosystem and breathtaking natural beauty, Tra Su Forest is often referred to as the "waterway" and has become an increasingly popular attraction for tourists.

Covering an area of 845 hectares, the majority of the trees in Tra Su Melaleuca Forest are melaleuca (over 10 years old, standing 5 to 8 meters tall). The forest is home to a variety of animal and plant species, including 70 species of birds from 13 orders and 31 families, such as the rare Eastern Sarus Crane and Eastern Yellow-billed Stork, which are both listed in Vietnam's Red Book. The forest also hosts 11 species of mammals, 25 species of reptiles and amphibians, including cobras and kraits, and 10 species of fish that can be found year-round. Additionally, the forest is home to 140 plant species, with 22 species of trees, 25 species of shrubs, and a variety of aquatic plants and medicinal plants.

DETAILS:

Address: Van Giao Commune, Tinh Bien District, and part of O Long Vy Commune, Chau Phu District, An Giang Province.

Phone: 0296 6512 299

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kdlrungtramtrasu/

Website: https://www.trasu.vn/

Opening Hours: 7:00 AM - 5:30 PM

Thốt nốt, also known as Toddy Palm, is a species of plant belonging to the Palm family, native to South and Southeast Asia, ranging from Indonesia to Pakistan. Though it resembles the date palm, it produces sweet fruit and is an iconic tree in An Giang. The image of the Toddy Palm is closely tied to the locals, especially those far from home. Its fruit provides refreshing drinks on hot days, and for the people of An Giang, seeing a Toddy Palm means they are home.

For generations, the toddy palm has been integral to the daily lives of An Giang’s people. Its leaves are used for roofing and fuel, while the trunk serves as material for building homes and furniture. The fruit is used to prepare local specialties like Toddy Palm rice cakes, fresh or fermented Toddy Palm juice, palm sugar, sweet soups, and cakes. Few may know that this tree was originally called thốt lốt. Visiting the palm groves in An Giang, you will feel a deep connection to this land. The rows of palms casting their shade over the parched, dusty fields are a familiar sight to those born here.

DETAILS:

Location: Tinh Bien and Tri Ton districts, An Giang Province.

Operating Hours: 7:20 AM - 10:00 PM

Tay An Pagoda, also known as Tay An Sam Mountain Pagoda, is a Buddhist temple located at the foot of Sam Mountain in what is now Nui Sam Ward, Chau Doc City, An Giang Province. This pagoda was recognized by the Ministry of Culture as a national architectural monument in 1980, and the Vietnam Book of Records officially recognized it as the first pagoda in Vietnam to combine Indian architectural influences with traditional Vietnamese styles.

The pagoda is situated on a high, spacious site covering 15,000 square meters, with Sam Mountain providing a striking green backdrop. The most striking feature of the pagoda is its main facade, which features three ancient pagoda towers with bulbous, onion-shaped domes in vibrant colors that are harmoniously designed. Inside, the main hall houses about 150 statues, including representations of Buddha, Bodhisattvas, Arhats, and various deities. Most of the statues are carved from precious wood, intricately designed to showcase 19th-century Vietnamese sculpture. The pagoda is also adorned with numerous colorful plaques and couplets.

DETAILS:

Address: Nui Sam Ward, Chau Doc City, An Giang Province.

Operating Hours: 6:00 AM - 7:00 PM