Explore Dong Thap Vietnam’s Hidden Beauty

Dong Thap Vietnam, situated in the heart of the Mekong Delta, is an unexplored treasure waiting to be discovered. This province offers an authentic Vietnamese experience with its rich history, vibrant culture, and spectacular natural beauty.

Join us on a tour of Cao Lanh and Dong Thap Muoi towns, exploring major attractions, cuisine, lodging options, and transportation advice. Prepare to be amazed by the splendor of Dong Thap.

History and Culture of Dong Thap Vietnam

Dong Thap Province‘s history extends back to the 17th century. The Khmer people, who had a massive influence on the province’s culture, initially occupied the area. Dong Thap was ruled by the Nguyen Dynasty in the 18th and 19th centuries and played an important part in the war for Vietnamese independence against French colonialists.

The province is also known for its unique cultural traditions, including the annual Chol Chnam Thmay festival, which celebrates the Khmer New Year. Other important festivals in the province include the Oc Om Bok festival and the Kate festival, both celebrated by the Khmer community.

Cao Lanh and Dong Thap Muoi are two notable cultural heritage sites in the province. Cao Lanh, the province capital, was founded in 1904 and has a rich history intertwined with agriculture and business in the surrounding area. Dong Thap Muoi, also known as the Plain of Reeds, is a huge wetland area formerly home to the Oc Eo civilization, one of the Mekong Delta’s ancient societies.

Dong Thap Province’s history and culture are a fascinating blend of Khmer, Vietnamese, and French influences, and exploring its heritage is a must-do activity for any visitor.

The Heart of Dong Thap Province

Cao Lanh is a city that combines modernization and tradition perfectly. The majestic Cao Lanh Bridge, which spans the Tien River and gives breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, is often the first thing visitors to the city notice. The bridge, finished in 2018, is one of Vietnam’s largest cable-stayed bridges and has since become a symbol of the city’s success and development.

The Nguyen Sinh Sac Memorial is a must-see destination for history buffs. The memorial celebrates Ho Chi Minh’s father, the creator of modern Vietnam, and is located in the city center. The museum honors the life and memory of Nguyen Sinh Sac, who was instrumental in the country’s independence movement. Visitors can learn about his contributions to Vietnamese society and how he influenced his son’s political thought.

The Xeo Quyt Eco-Tourism Park is a must-see for environment lovers. The park is a wetland environment home to many animals, including uncommon bird and plant species. Visitors can go on a boat excursion through the marshes to see exotic birds and other wildlife. They can also use the park’s numerous walking trails, which provide breathtaking views of the surrounding marshes.

Cao Lanh is particularly well-known for its delicious food, which combines Khmer, Vietnamese, and Chinese components. Cá lóc hấp lá sen (steamed snakehead fish with lotus leaf), bánh xèo (Vietnamese savory pancake), and gỏi cuốn (Vietnamese spring rolls) are among the local delights available to visitors. The city also has a thriving street food scene where visitors may sample various local dishes at reasonable costs.

A Unique Experience in the Mekong Delta’s Wetlands

Dong Thap Muoi, often known as the Plain of Reeds, is a huge wetland region in southern Vietnam’s Mekong Delta. The location is named after the many growing reeds, providing vital habitat for various bird and fish species. Dong Thap Muoi is a biologically diversified area with uncommon and endangered flora and animals, including the Sarus Crane. The region is ideal for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and adventure seekers.

The Tram Chim National Park, a 7,500-hectare park with over 200 bird species, is one of Dong Thap Muoi’s most fantastic attractions. The park is one of Vietnam’s largest and most important wetland habitats, and it is designated as a Ramsar site, a wetland of international significance. Tram Chim National Park visitors can explore the park’s different habitats, which include ponds, melaleuca woods, and grasslands. The park’s primary attraction is the Sarus Crane, the world’s highest-flying bird, which may be seen from December to May.

The Go Thap Archaeological Area houses ancient relics and artifacts from the Oc Eo culture and is another must-see sight in Dong Thap Muoi. From the first to the sixth centuries AD, the Oc Eo civilization was a pre-Angkorian civilization in the Mekong Delta.

The archaeological site contains a collection of temples, tombs, and other monuments that shed light on the Oc Eo people’s daily lives and religious beliefs. Visitors visiting the location can also visit the neighboring Go Thap Museum, which has exhibits about the Mekong Delta’s history and culture.

Dong Thap Muoi is a unique and beautiful region in southern Vietnam that offers a variety of attractions for travelers. As a travel agency, we highly recommend including Dong Thap Muoi on your itinerary when visiting Vietnam.

Discovering the Unique Cuisine and Drinks of Dong Thap Province

Dong Thap Province is renowned for its distinctive cuisine and beverages, which reflect the region’s rich history and cultural heritage. Bánh lọt, a chewy and slightly sweet rice noodle eaten with coconut milk and crushed ice, is a famous local specialty.

Cá tra cuộn, a sort of snakehead fish wrapped in rice paper with fresh herbs and dunked in a sweet and sour sauce, is another must-try meal. Dong Thap Province is particularly well-known for its tropical fruits, such as pomelo, mango, and longan, utilized in various traditional cuisines and desserts.

Dong Thap Province offers a unique culinary experience that is to be noticed. This region has many local specialties, from the chewy banh lot to the delicious tra cuon fish.

Finding Your Home Away from Home in Dong Thap Province

Dong Thap Province offers a variety of accommodation options for travelers, ranging from budget-friendly hotels to luxurious resorts and homestays. Several hotels and guesthouses in Cao Lanh, Dong Thap Province’s provincial capital offer comfortable and affordable accommodations.

One of the top options is the Cao Lanh Hotel – GreenClub, located in the heart of the city and offers spacious rooms and a range of amenities, including a restaurant, swimming pool, and fitness center. Another popular choice is the Sao Mai Hotel, which is situated on the banks of the Hau River and offers stunning river views.

In Dong Thap Muoi, several accommodation options provide a unique and authentic experience. One of the best options is to stay in a homestay, where visitors can stay with a local family and experience the daily life and culture of the region. The Tram Chim Homestay, located near the Tram Chim National Park, offers comfortable rooms and traditional Vietnamese meals the host family prepares.

How To Get Around in Dong Thap Province?

The most convenient way to explore Dong Thap Province is by renting a motorbike or hiring a taxi. Motorbikes can be rented from various shops and hotels in Cao Lanh and Dong Thap Muoi and are a popular mode of transportation for locals and tourists.

Taxis are also widely available and can be hailed on the street or booked through ride-hailing apps. For those who prefer public transportation, some buses and minibusses connect significant towns and cities in the province.

However, navigating the public transportation system may be challenging for non-Vietnamese speakers, so it is recommended to travel with a local guide or translator.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Dong Thap Province is a hidden gem in southern Vietnam that offers a unique and authentic travel experience. From the diverse birdlife of Tram Chim National Park to the delicious local cuisine and charming homestays, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this region.

As a travel agency, we highly recommend visiting Dong Thap Province and experiencing its charm. Whether you are a nature lover, history buff, or foodie, Dong Thap Province will surely exceed your expectations and leave you with unforgettable memories.