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Mytour.vn presents you with the ultimate travel guide to Hà Tiên. Packed with essential information on transportation, climate, must-visit landmarks, and the region's unique culinary delights. Let this guide be your trusted companion on your upcoming journeys to Hà Tiên!
Overview of Hà Tiên Tourism
Hà Tiên is a city in Kiên Giang Province, located 88km from Rạch Giá. It boasts a 14km border with Cambodia and a 26km coastline along the Gulf of Thailand. Traveling to Hà Tiên, you’ll discover a diverse natural landscape, from expansive beaches and majestic mountains to mysterious caves filled with intriguing stories. This destination is perfect for nature enthusiasts and those eager to explore local culture.
Best Time to Visit Hà Tiên
Dry Season (December to April)
Advantages: This is the dry season, with minimal rainfall and clear skies, making it ideal for outdoor activities like beach outings, sightseeing, and photography. The temperature during this period is pleasantly cool, especially in the early months of the year.
Disadvantages: This is also the peak tourist season due to the Lunar New Year and holiday periods, which means crowded attractions and potentially higher service costs.
Rainy Season (May to November)
Advantages: If you enjoy lush natural landscapes and don’t mind occasional rain, the rainy season can be a unique experience. With fewer tourists, you’ll have more space to explore and can enjoy Hà Tiên’s beauty without the crowds.
Disadvantages: Rain may disrupt outdoor activities like beach visits and sightseeing. Roads can become slippery and challenging to navigate, especially if you plan to travel extensively by motorbike.
Transportation: Travel Options
Traveling to Hà Tiên from Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi
When visiting Hà Tiên, you can choose from various transportation methods depending on your starting point.
From Ho Chi Minh City to Hà Tiên
Bus: Numerous bus operators run routes from Ho Chi Minh City to Hà Tiên, with travel times ranging from 6 to 8 hours. Some reputable bus companies you can consider include:
Phương Trang Bus – Phone: 1900 6067
Kumho Bus – Phone: 0903 58 0000
Hoàng Minh Bus – Phone: 0903 773 022
Motorbike or Private Car: If you prefer a flexible journey and want to explore stops along the way, this is an excellent option.
From Hanoi to Hà Tiên
Flight: You can fly to Phú Quốc or Rạch Giá, then take a bus or speedboat to Hà Tiên. From Rạch Giá to Hà Tiên is approximately 90 km, and you can rent a car or take a bus. Check flight prices to Rạch Giá or Phú Quốc HERE.
Bus: Direct buses are available from Hanoi to Hà Tiên. However, due to the long distance, consider prioritizing flights for a more convenient travel experience.
Getting Around Hà Tiên
Once in Hà Tiên, you can choose from the following transportation options to easily explore the area's attractions.
Renting a Motorbike
Motorbikes are a popular choice due to their flexibility and convenience. They allow you to navigate smaller or harder-to-reach areas with ease.
Note: When renting a motorbike, ensure you have your ID ready and be prepared to leave a deposit or your driver’s license. Always inspect the bike thoroughly before renting to avoid issues later.
Taxi or Motorbike Taxi
Taxis and motorbike taxis are popular transportation options in Hà Tiên. They are quick and convenient for families or groups of friends traveling together.
Must-Visit Attractions in Hà Tiên
Mũi Nai Tourist Area
Mũi Nai Beach is a must-visit destination when traveling to Hà Tiên. It features a long stretch of white sand and crystal-clear, refreshing waters. Visitors can enjoy the stunning natural scenery, with the sea on one side and mountains on the other, while participating in activities like swimming, jet skiing, and banana boat rides. Additionally, Mũi Nai offers numerous seafood restaurants serving delicious local specialties.
Mạc Family Temple
The Mạc Family Temple is a remarkable attraction in Hà Tiên. Located on Mạc Cửu Street in Bình San Ward, the temple houses the tombs of the Mạc family, who discovered this land. The tombs are situated on Bình San Mountain, surrounded by picturesque landscapes. The serene and sacred atmosphere of this site attracts many visitors who come to pay their respects and explore.
Hòn Phụ Tử (Father and Son Islet)
Hòn Phụ Tử captivates visitors with its towering rock pillar leaning over the sea. This site is tied to a legend about father-son love, where two rocks resemble a father and son embracing, facing the ocean and connected by a 5-meter-high stone base. Surrounded by small islets, visitors can not only take photos but also enjoy the clear blue waters at the nearby Dương Beach.
Hà Tiên Night Market
Hà Tiên Night Market is one of the most vibrant and lively spots in the area. It features a variety of stalls selling everything from handmade crafts made of seashells and stones to textiles, clothing, and souvenirs. Visitors can also savor fresh seafood dishes and enjoy a cyclo ride to explore Hà Tiên’s night scenery.
Thạch Động Cave
Thạch Động Cave is linked to the legend of 'Thạch Sanh and Lý Thông.' This cave is located on a high elevation, and reaching its entrance requires climbing numerous steps. However, the breathtaking, picturesque views from the top make the effort worthwhile.
Pirate Island (Đảo Hải Tặc)
Pirate Island is an archipelago in the Gulf of Thailand, located in Tiên Hải commune, Hà Tiên city, Kiên Giang province. The archipelago consists of 18 islands, both submerged and visible. Once known as a hideout for pirates who attacked passing merchant ships, this area now offers visitors a glimpse of pristine and stunning natural beauty. You can witness the daily life of fishing villages, try fishing, and enjoy fresh seafood by the shore. Additionally, diving and coral viewing services are available for those who love exploring the underwater world.
Núi Đèn (Lighthouse Mountain)
Núi Đèn, also known as 'Lighthouse Mountain,' is home to a century-old lighthouse and a favorite spot for those who enjoy scenic coastal roads. Reaching the summit, visitors are treated to breathtaking views of the mountains, refreshing sea breezes, and the picturesque surroundings.
Tam Bảo Pagoda
Tam Bảo Pagoda, with a history of over 200 years, was granted the title 'Sắc Tứ Tam Bảo Tự' by the Nguyễn Dynasty. This ancient and solemn pagoda welcomes tens of thousands of visitors each year who come to explore and pay their respects.
Núi Đá Dựng (Standing Stone Mountain)
This is a renowned scenic spot celebrated for its majestic and enchanting beauty. Often described as a special gift from nature to Hà Tiên, it is deeply intertwined with legends and historical events that mark the early days of southern exploration by our ancestors.
Visitors can explore a variety of stunning caves, including Thần Kim Quy Cave, Dơi Cave, Bồng Lai Cave, Khổ Qua Cave, Sám Hối Cave, Cổng Trời Cave, Trống Ngực Cave, and Lầu Chuông Cave.
Chùa Hang (Cave Pagoda)
This pagoda attracts numerous visitors due to its serene and peaceful atmosphere. Named 'Cave Pagoda' because it houses a Buddha shrine within a seaside cave, the interior offers breathtaking views of majestic mountains, resembling a heavenly paradise.
In front of the pagoda stands a stone statue of the Maitreya Buddha, carved from Non Nước stone. One of the highlights of visiting Chùa Hang is the stunning stalactites, some of which produce musical sounds, earning them the name 'stone bells.'
Hà Tiên Cuisine
Hà Tiên is not only famous for its beautiful landscapes but also a culinary paradise with many unique dishes.
Bún kèn (Ken Noodles)
Bún kèn is a must-try dish when visiting Hà Tiên. Originating from the Khmer ethnic group, this dish features a light and sweet broth made from snakehead fish bones. The fish is marinated, stir-fried, and enhanced with a touch of annatto oil for a vibrant color. This humble yet flavorful dish leaves a lasting impression on anyone who tries it.
Top Bún kèn Spots in Hà Tiên:
Bún kèn Năng – 09 Mạc Tử Hoàng Street, Bình San Ward, Hà Tiên, Kiên Giang.
Bún kèn Năm Của – 82 Chi Lăng Street, Bình San Ward, Hà Tiên, Kiên Giang.
Quán K & T – 9 Bùi Chấn Street, Bình San Ward, Hà Tiên, Kiên Giang.
Xôi xiêm Hà Tiên (Hà Tiên Sticky Rice)
Xôi xiêm captivates visitors to Hà Tiên with its fragrant aroma of glutinous rice. This dish can be enjoyed in two variations: savory and sweet. Made from aromatic sticky rice, it becomes incredibly soft and fragrant when cooked. Locals prepare it skillfully, resulting in glossy, ivory-colored grains that are visually appealing and irresistibly delicious.
Top Spots for Xôi in Hà Tiên:
Xôi hột gà – 82 Trần Hầu Street, Bình San Ward, Hà Tiên, Kiên Giang.
Hà Tiên Night Market – In front of Đông Hồ Ấn Nguyệt Park, Hà Tiên, Kiên Giang.
Steamed Rice Noodles (Hủ tiếu hấp)
This dish stands out with its unique flavor profile. The rice noodles are steamed to achieve a perfect chewy texture, served with a rich coconut milk-based sauce, mixed with shredded pork, pork skin, and spring rolls. It’s garnished with fresh herbs and roasted peanuts for added flavor.
Top Spots for Steamed Rice Noodles in Hà Tiên:
Hủ tiếu hấp – Bún chả giò Hà Tiên – 56 Mạc Thiên Tích Street, Bình San Ward, Hà Tiên, Kiên Giang.
Kampot Grilled Chicken (Gà đốt Kampot)
Kampot Grilled Chicken is known for its tender yet firm texture, crispy skin, and a hint of lemongrass aroma. The chicken remains juicy and flavorful when grilled, avoiding dryness. It’s typically served with fresh herbs, tomatoes, or stir-fried morning glory, paired with a spicy garlic fish sauce dip. This dish leaves a lasting impression on anyone who tries it.
Top Spots for Kampot Grilled Chicken in Hà Tiên:
Quán gà đốt Tý – Ấp Bà Lý, Xà Xía, Hà Tiên, Kiên Giang.
Gà đốt Ý Mom – Mỹ Đức, Hà Tiên, Kiên Giang.
Gà đốt Dốc Núi – Khu phố 2, Pháo Đài Ward, Hà Tiên, Kiên Giang.
Bánh tằm bì (Steamed Rice Noodles with Shredded Pork Skin)
This is a beloved local dish. Bánh tằm bì features rice flour noodles steamed to achieve the perfect balance of softness and chewiness. The dish is elevated with a rich coconut milk sauce, served with fresh herbs, shredded pork skin, and fried shallots. The combination of creamy, salty, and sweet flavors creates an unforgettable taste for diners.
Top Spots for Bánh tằm bì in Hà Tiên:
Hà Tiên Night Market – In front of Đông Hồ Ấn Nguyệt Park, Hà Tiên, Kiên Giang.
Quán 52 – Alley 52, Mạc Tử Hoàng Street, Khu phố 3, Hà Tiên, Kiên Giang.
Cà xỉu muối (Salted Clams)
A must-try seafood delicacy in Hà Tiên is cà xỉu muối. These clams have a distinctive green shell and long tentacles, with tender and sweet meat. The peak harvest season for this seafood is from June to August annually. To prepare, the clams are mixed with chili, garlic, sugar, and lime, then refrigerated to enhance their flavor.
Top Spots for Salted Clams in Hà Tiên:
Cà xỉu muối – Chợ Cá, Hà Tiên, Kiên Giang.
Bánh canh chả ghẹ (Crab Cake Noodle Soup)
In Hà Tiên, where fresh seafood is abundant, bánh canh chả ghẹ is a must-try dish for visitors. The broth is made from dried shrimp, fish bones, and mackerel heads, offering a light, sweet flavor. The fish cake is crafted from mackerel and threadfin fish, seasoned, pounded, mixed with fat, shaped into balls, and steamed. The chewy noodles paired with fresh seafood make this dish a favorite among many.
Top Spots for Bánh canh chả ghẹ in Hà Tiên:
Bánh canh cua Tí Nị – 14 Phương Thành Street, Bình San Ward, Hà Tiên, Kiên Giang.
Bánh canh ghẹ Út Giàu – Nguyễn Phúc Chu Street, Bình San Ward, Hà Tiên, Kiên Giang.
Bánh canh ghẹ Ý Buôi – 63 Mạc Thiên Tích Street, Bình San Ward, Hà Tiên, Kiên Giang.
Bánh thốt nốt (Palm Sugar Cake)
A trip to Hà Tiên is incomplete without trying bánh thốt nốt, a local delicacy. This traditional Khmer dish is often prepared for festivals and offered as a ceremonial offering. It’s commonly served as a dessert after main meals during celebrations.
The cake is made from rice flour, palm sugar, ripe palm fruit, coconut milk, and shredded coconut. It has a mild sweetness, rich aroma, and creamy texture that makes it irresistible.
Top Spots for Bánh thốt nốt in Hà Tiên:
Mũi Nai Tourist Area and Hà Tiên Market, Kiên Giang.
Hà Tiên Seafood
When visiting Hà Tiên, seafood lovers need not worry. The seafood here is fresh, delicious, and highly appealing. You can purchase seafood at the market and have it prepared on-site, or enjoy it at local restaurants and eateries.
Top Spots for Fresh Seafood in Hà Tiên:
Vựa hải sản Mộng Trinh 2 – QL80, Tô Châu, Hà Tiên, Kiên Giang.
Chợ cá Hà Tiên – Nguyễn Trung Trực Street, Pháo Đài Ward, Hà Tiên, Kiên Giang.
Quán hải sản Vinh Mập – 8 Đặng Thuỳ Trâm Street, Bình San Ward, Hà Tiên, Kiên Giang.
Nhà hàng Cánh Buồm Hà Tiên – 1 Trường Sa Street, Khu phố 1, Bình San Ward, Hà Tiên, Kiên Giang.
Travel Tips for Hà Tiên
When planning your trip to Hà Tiên, keep these important tips in mind to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey:
– Pack sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and weather-appropriate clothing.
– Choose the right time to visit. Avoid the rainy season if you don’t want your trip disrupted by bad weather. Check the weather forecast before your trip to prepare accordingly.
– Follow swimming regulations and only swim in designated areas. Consult locals about safe zones and pay attention to warning signs.
– When visiting spiritual sites like temples or pagodas, dress modestly and adhere to the rules of the sacred spaces.
Source: Mytour.vn
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Reference: Mytour.vn Travel Guide
Mytour.vnMay 21, 2024
