Ha Tien Vietnam, located in the southwestern part of the Mekong Delta, is a charming coastal town that offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich culture and history. With its picturesque landscapes, historic landmarks, mouth-watering cuisine, and stunning beaches, Ha Tien is an ideal destination for those exploring a lesser-known corner of Vietnam.
In this blog post, we’ll be taking a closer look at Ha Tien and all it has to offer, including its fascinating history.
Contents
Ha Tien Vietnam: A Traveler’s Guide on How to Get There
Ha Tien town in Kien Giang Province, around 100 kilometers from Rach Gia City and 340 kilometers from Ho Chi Minh City.
The town is easily accessible by bus, car, or motorcycle, and several transportation alternatives are available. The bus ride from Ho Chi Minh City takes 6-7 hours, while the one from Rach Gia City takes only 2-3 hours.
The Rich History of Ha Tien
The current Ha Tien neighborhood has a long and rich history dating back to the 6th century. The Khmer people first settled in the area, forming a thriving kingdom.
Because of its strategic location along the border between Vietnam and Cambodia, Ha Tien was an important trading town throughout the 17th century. The town was a trading center for items including rice, salt, and fish, and it was home to a large number of Chinese merchants.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Ha Tien played a significant role in Vietnam’s struggle for independence from French colonial rule. The town was a center of anti-colonial resistance and was the site of several important battles during the First Indochina War.
Today, Ha Tien is a thriving coastal town that has managed to preserve its rich cultural heritage while embracing modernization and development.
Top Attractions and Activities
Once you arrive in Ha Tien, plenty of activities keep you busy. Here are some of the must-see attractions in the area:
Visit the Mac Cuu Tombs
The Mac Cuu Tombs are the temple and tomb of the Mac family, which began more than 300 years ago with Mac Cuu, who openly exploited the land of Ha Tien.
The Mac Cuu Tomb Relic area is part of the Binh San Relic complex, which has been designated a national scenic area since 1989. It is located on Mac Cuu Street, at the foot of Binh San mountain, in Binh San ward, Ha Tien City, Kien Giang province. Situated on a hill just outside of Ha Tien, the tombs are impressive, with their intricate carvings, statues, and decorations. Visitors can explore the tombs and learn about the history of the Mac family and their influence on the region.
Wander Through the Ha Tien Market
The Ha Tien Market is a bustling hub of activity, filled with local vendors selling everything from fresh seafood to handmade crafts. This is a great place to sample some local cuisine, including Ha Tien’s famous banh canh soup, a hearty noodle soup made with pork broth and thick noodles.
Take a Boat Tour to Phu Tu Island
Phu Tu Island is a small island just off Ha Tien’s coast. The island is known for its crystal-clear waters and pristine beaches, and it’s a popular spot for snorkeling and diving. Visitors can take a boat tour from Ha Tien to the island and spend the day exploring its natural beauty.
Explore the Thach Dong Cave Pagoda
The Thach Dong Cave Pagoda is a fascinating pagoda constructed on a limestone cliff just a few kilometers west of Ha Tien. Visitors can approach the temple by climbing a series of stairs, which affords breathtaking views of the surrounding area. There are numerous statues and shrines devoted to various deities within the temple.
Relax on the Beach
Ha Tien is home to several beautiful beaches, including Bai Bang and Mui Nai. These beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing in the warm sun. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of water sports, including kayaking and windsurfing.
A Culinary Journey Through Vietnam’s Coastal Delights
Ha Tien is a food lover’s paradise, with a wide variety of dishes that reflect its coastal location and cultural heritage. Here are some of the must-try dishes in Ha Tien:
Banh Canh
Banh Canh is a popular noodle soup specialty of Ha Tien. The soup is made with thick, chewy noodles similar to udon and is usually served with pork, shrimp, or crab.
Banh Khot
Banh Khot are small, crispy pancakes made with rice flour and coconut milk. They’re usually topped with shrimp, scallions, and mung beans and served with a sweet and sour dipping sauce.
Seafood
Ha Tien is known for its fresh seafood, which includes everything from crabs and clams to fish and squid. Some of the most popular seafood dishes in Ha Tien include grilled oysters, stir-fried clams, and fish hotpot.
Best Accommodation Options for Every Budge
Ha Tien has plenty of accommodation options, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury resorts. Here are some of the best places to stay in the area:
River Hotel
The River Hotel is a contemporary hotel in the heart of Ha Tien. The hotel has nice rooms with all of the necessities, such as air conditioning and complimentary Wi-Fi. There’s also a rooftop patio where guests may take in the scenery of the city and the nearby river.
Nam Phuong Hotel
The Nam Phuong Hotel is a low-cost choice a short walk from the Ha Tien Market. The hotel has simple rooms with air conditioning, complimentary Wi-Fi, and a restaurant serving traditional Vietnamese food.
Sunrise Hotel Ha Tien
Sunrise Hotel Ha Tien, located in Ha Tien, has an outdoor swimming pool, a bar, a communal lounge, and a garden. This resort features a 24-hour front desk, room service, and complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the property. The hotel offers free private parking and car rental options for guests who want to explore the local area.
Conclusion
Ha Tien may have started as a prominent region before, but the town has become a significant part of Vietnam’s history and culture.
With its rich history, stunning natural beauty, delicious cuisine, and welcoming locals, Ha Tien has something for everyone.
So if you’re planning a trip to Vietnam, be sure to add Ha Tien to your itinerary and experience the unique charms of this hidden gem in Kien Giang Province.
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