**Introduction:**
Dong Thap, situated in the heart of the Mekong Delta region, is a captivating destination renowned for its scenic beauty and cultural richness. From lush green landscapes to vibrant local traditions, Dong Thap offers a myriad of experiences for travelers seeking an authentic Vietnamese adventure.
**Getting There:**
Dong Thap doesn’t have its own airport, so travelers typically fly into Ho Chi Minh City or Can Tho and then proceed by road. From Ho Chi Minh City, it’s approximately 145 km to Cao Lanh City, the provincial capital, with a travel time of around 3 hours. From Can Tho, it’s 85 km to Cao Lanh, taking about 1 hour and 45 minutes by road.
**Accommodation:**
Accommodation options in Dong Thap are primarily concentrated in the main cities of Cao Lanh and Sa Dec. Hotels range from budget to mid-range, with room rates typically ranging from 300,000 to 700,000 Vietnamese Dong per night. Highly rated hotels include Thư Lê, Trí Lê, Đế Vương, and Bảo Ngọc.
**Things to Do:**
1. **Chua La Sen (Phuoc Kien Tu):** Explore the enchanting Phuoc Kien Pagoda, where giant lotus leaves create a unique landscape. Visitors can step onto the large lotus leaves for memorable photo opportunities.
2. **Tram Chim National Park:** Discover the biodiversity of Tram Chim, home to over 230 bird species, including rare and endangered ones. Boat tours offer a glimpse of the park’s diverse ecosystems, including wetlands and melaleuca forests.
3. **Huynh Thuy Le Ancient House:** Visit this well-preserved 19th-century house in Sa Dec, famous for its blend of Eastern and Western architectural styles. The house is also known for its connection to the novel “L’Amant” (The Lover) by Marguerite Duras.
4. **Kien An Cung Temple:** Explore the historic Kien An Cung Temple, known for its Chinese-influenced architecture and intricate roof details. The temple, over 100 years old, is a cultural landmark in Dong Thap.
Nestled in the heart of the Mekong Delta, Dong Thap province stands as a testament to Vietnam’s rich cultural tapestry and stunning natural beauty. From its serene lotus ponds to its bustling local markets, Dong Thap offers travelers a unique glimpse into the charm and allure of the region. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into everything you need to know to make the most of your journey to Dong Thap, from transportation and accommodation to dining and must-see attractions.
Exploring Dong Thap
Dong Thap, bordered by the mighty Mekong River and Cambodia, boasts a tropical climate characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. The province is renowned for its vast lotus ponds, once part of the ancient Dong Thap Muoi region.
Transportation
While Dong Thap does not have its own airport, travelers can easily reach the province by flying into either Ho Chi Minh City or Can Tho and then utilizing ground transportation. From Ho Chi Minh City, it’s approximately 145 kilometers to Cao Lanh City, with a travel time of about three hours. From Can Tho, the journey to Cao Lanh spans 85 kilometers and takes roughly one hour and 45 minutes.
Coach services from Ho Chi Minh City to Dong Thap depart from the Mien Tay Bus Station and other designated points within the city. Popular bus companies include Phuong Trang, Tam Nong, Tai Loi, Quang Phat, and Kim Cuong, with ticket prices ranging from 80,000 to 100,000 Vietnamese dong, depending on the timing and bus operator.
For a unique travel experience, visitors can also opt to journey between Can Tho and Dong Thap via waterway, traversing the Hau River through various ferry terminals such as Bang Tang – Cai Dua, Ba Goa – Vinh Thoi, Tan Loc – Tan Thanh, Tan Loc – Cai Doi, and Bo Ot – Dinh An. Ferry services operate from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM, with ticket prices ranging from 1,000 to 20,000 Vietnamese dong, depending on the mode of transport.
Accommodation
Accommodation options in Dong Thap are primarily concentrated in the cities of Cao Lanh and Sa Dec. Prices for hotel rooms typically range from 300,000 to 700,000 Vietnamese dong per night. Highly-rated hotels listed on popular booking websites include Thu Le, Tri Le, De Vuong, and Bao Ngoc.
Adjacent to Tram Chim, the Wildbird Hotel offers a myriad of choices, including conference rooms accommodating up to 50 guests and a restaurant. Additionally, in Tram Chim town, Tam Nong district, just a few hundred meters from the garden, visitors can find several hotels, guesthouses, and farm stays.
5. **Xeo Quyt Historical Site:** Delve into the region’s history at Xeo Quyt, a former Viet Cong base during the Vietnam War. The site offers guided tours through its dense mangrove forests and underground bunkers.
6. **Dong Sen Thap Muoi Ecotourism Area:** Immerse yourself in the beauty of lotus ponds at Dong Sen, especially stunning from June to November. Visitors can enjoy peaceful surroundings and witness the lotus flowers’ changing colors throughout the day.
**Where to Eat:**
Indulge in Dong Thap’s culinary delights, including:
– Local specialties like fish hotpot, freshwater fish dishes, and dishes made from lotus.
– Sa Dec’s food street, offering a variety of traditional snacks and desserts like banh beo, banh chuoi, and banh xeo.
– Explore the unique flavors of lotus-based dishes, including lotus seed soup, lotus tea, and crispy fried lotus roots.
**Travel Tips:**
– Be prepared for slow travel due to narrow roads and average speeds of around 40 km/h.
– While ferries operate between Can Tho and Dong Thap, travelers seeking more comfortable transportation options should consider booking tours with local travel agencies.
**Conclusion:**
With its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and culinary delights, Dong Thap Province offers a rich tapestry of experiences for travelers looking to explore the heart of the Mekong Delta. From serene lotus ponds to vibrant street food scenes, Dong Thap promises an unforgettable journey through the heart of Vietnam.