Tra Vinh

Written by Lorraine Aust, Minh Nguyen
16/08/2025
Cổng chào thành phố Trà Vinh, tỉnh Trà Vinh, Việt Nam.
Bùi Thụy Đào Nguyên, Wikimedia Commons

Tra Vinh, a peaceful province in the Mekong Delta, offers a unique cultural experience blending Vietnamese, Khmer, and Chinese traditions. Visitors can explore a wealth of ancient Khmer pagodas and enjoy serene natural landscapes, including tranquil ponds and mangrove forests.

Tra Vinh is not a destination known for a bustling social scene with other tourists or backpackers; instead, it offers a quiet atmosphere and limited nightlife. Social interaction is more likely to be with locals, especially when exploring community-based tourism sites like Chim Islet.

Top 4 Things to do in Tra Vinh

Tra Vinh offers a rich tapestry of cultural exploration through its ancient Khmer pagodas, serene natural landscapes, and immersive community-based experiences.

1. Explore Hang Pagoda and its Bird Sanctuary

Discover Hang Pagoda, also known as Wat Kompong Ch'rây, a significant Khmer Buddhist temple over 300 years old. The pagoda is renowned for its unique 'cave-like' gate and a tranquil bird sanctuary where thousands of storks and other birds nest in the surrounding trees. Visitors can observe the traditional wood carving workshop on site, where artisans create intricate sculptures from tree roots. It is advisable to wear a hat when visiting due to the presence of birds.

Cost: Entrance is free.

Transport: Located approximately 5-6 kilometers south of Tra Vinh City center, near the bus station. A taxi from the city center would cost around 60,000 - 80,000 VND. Alternatively, motorbikes can be rented in Tra Vinh for about 150,000 VND per day, or bicycles may be available for free from accommodations.

2. Visit Ang Pagoda, Ba Om Pond, and the Khmer Minority People's Museum

Experience a cluster of cultural and natural attractions conveniently located together. Ang Pagoda, also called Wat Angkor Raig Borei, is one of Tra Vinh's most ancient and revered Khmer temples, featuring impressive traditional architecture and a central hall with a large Buddha statue. Adjacent to the pagoda is Ba Om Pond, a large, square pond framed by ancient trees with uniquely shaped roots. This site is significant for its serene beauty and local legends, and it hosts traditional Khmer festivals like Ok Om Bok. The Khmer Minority People's Museum, also nearby, offers extensive insights into the culture, history, and daily life of the Khmer community in Tra Vinh through its artifacts and displays.

Cost: Entrance to the pagoda, pond, and museum is generally free.

Transport: Situated about 5 kilometers southwest of Tra Vinh City center. A taxi ride from the city to this complex would typically be around 60,000 - 80,000 VND. Renting a motorbike or cycling are also viable options for personal exploration.

3. Immerse in Local Life at Con Chim Islet (Bird Islet)

Embark on a community-based tourism experience at Con Chim Islet, a peaceful island amidst the Co Chien River. This destination offers a genuine glimpse into the rural Mekong Delta lifestyle. Visitors can cycle through traditional villages with thatched-roof houses, participate in activities like crab fishing, shrimp fishing, grinding flour for traditional cakes, and enjoy rustic local dishes made from self-grown ingredients. The islet focuses on environmental protection and cultural preservation, offering a refreshing and authentic encounter with the local community.

Cost: Entrance is free. Specific activities or meals provided by local families might have a cost, often bundled into a community tourism experience.

Transport: Con Chim Islet is located approximately 10-15 kilometers northeast of Tra Vinh City center. To reach the islet, one can take a motorbike or taxi to a local wharf (such as Long Tri wharf or via Ba Tram/Long Hung ferry) and then take a short ferry ride across the river. Some tours might include transport. Bicycles are often available for use on the island.

4. Admire the Grandeur of Vam Ray Pagoda

Witness the magnificent Vam Ray Pagoda, Vietnam's largest Khmer temple. Its striking golden exterior and intricate Angkor-inspired architecture stand out, making it a significant spiritual and cultural landmark. The pagoda features unique motifs representing deities on its dome, walls, and columns, along with a prominent 54-meter-tall outdoor Buddha statue. It offers a powerful sense of tranquility and a deep appreciation for Khmer Buddhist artistry.

Cost: Entrance is free.

Transport: Vam Ray Pagoda is located further from the city center, approximately 32-55 kilometers away in Chau Thanh district. A taxi or motorbike rental would be necessary for this journey. Costs for a round trip by taxi could range significantly due to the distance, likely 300,000 - 500,000 VND or more, depending on negotiation and waiting time.

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