TRAVEL GUIDE TO AN GIANG: ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING

• Mekong Delta Tours, Travel Guide Tips

An Giang is a captivating destination where natural beauty and cultural heritage converge. Known for its scenic landscapes. It offers an unforgettable journey for travelers seeking an authentic Vietnamese experience. I will introduce you to travel guide to An Giang, as well as the top attractions in this province.

1. Where is An Giang?

An Giang is a province in the Southwest region, part of the Long Xuyen quadrangle. The province belongs to the Mekong Delta, with the Tien and Hau rivers running through it. The border is nearly 100 km long with Cambodia.

Whether you’re drawn to bustling city vibes in Long Xuyen or the tranquil charm of Chau Doc, An Giang has something magical waiting for you.

An Giang

2. How to get there?

-By Bus: Just hop on a bus from Ho Chi Minh City, and in 4-6 hours, you’ll find yourself in Long Xuyen or Chau Doc. There are plenty of options to suit every traveler’s needs, from budget-friendly rides to super comfy sleeper buses. You can access website:vexere.com to search more the information when travel to An Giang by bus. The price is range from 150.000 to 200.000 VND/person (6 to 8 USD).

-By Motorbike or Car: For the adventurous souls, a road trip through the Mekong Delta is pure magic. It’s an experience that’s as much about the journey as the destination. It will takes about 5-7 hours from Ho Chi Minh City to An Giang.

3. The ideal time to visit An Giang

From March to May, An Giang enjoys a dry season with sunny and pleasant weather. If you want to see the vibrant green duckweed carpets and the lush natural beauty of the Tra Su Cajuput Forest during the flood season, plan your visit in October or November. From late November to early December, you can admire the golden rice fields during the harvest season at Tà Pạ.

In April and August, two major festivals take place: the Ba Chua Xu Festival on Sam Mountain (from the 23rd to the 27th of April, lunar calendar) and the bull racing festival at the end of August. However, July and August experience significant rainfall, so remember to bring an umbrella and suitable clothing.

4. Top attractions in An Giang

4.1. Tra Su Cajuput Forest

Tra Su Cajuput Forest is a typical wetland forest of the Hau River region, playing an important role in water regulation and climate control for the entire Seven Mountains area.

Tra Su Cajuput Forest

Experience the forest by canoe or rowing boat is extremely interesting.

The forest is also home to many rare species of flora and fauna within Vietnam’s protected forest system.

Check in the longest bamboo bridge in Vietnam when visiting Tra Su Forest.

The flood season, from September to November each year, is considered the best time to experience the beauty of the Melaleuca Forest.

The wild beauty of Tra Su in flood season.

The best time of day to explore the forest is early morning or at sunset. Between 3-5 PM, various species of birds and storks gather in the forest, creating a beautiful natural scene.

Address: Tinh Bien District, An Giang Province.

Opening Hours: open 24 hours

4.2. O Thum Lake

O Thum Lake is known as a water reservoir primarily used for agricultural purposes, with a relatively small area.

Located at the foot of a mountain, the lake has very clear, calm water, and combined with the surrounding mountains and forests, it creates a breathtaking natural landscape that is refreshing, serene, and full of relaxation.

O Thum Lake

According to the experiences of young visitors from both within and outside the province, the best time to visit and take photos at P Thum Lake is during the rainy season. At this time, the water level rises to the shore, creating an expansive view on both sides, with fresh, cool weather ideal for those who want to immerse themselves in nature and recharge after stressful and tiring workdays.

After taking a leisurely walk around the lake, visitors can also purchase tickets to experience rowing a boat around the lake.

Address: Tri Ton District, An Giang Province.

Opening Hours: open 24 hours

4.3. Sam Mountain

Sam Mountain (Vinh Te Mountain), from the top of which you can get a panoramic view of Chau Doc and the Vinh Te Canal.

Nui Sam

On and around Sam Mountain, there are many temples and shrines, the most famous of which are the Ba Chua Xu Temple, Tay An Pagoda, Thoai Ngoc Hau Tomb, and Phuoc Dien Pagoda.

Ba Chua Xu Temple

Tay An Pagoda

Address: An Giang Province, Chau Doc City.

Opening Hours: Open 24 hours.

4.4. Ta Pa Field

Ta Pa located in Tri Ton District, is like a vast carpet, dotted with tall sugar palm trees standing proudly against the blue sky.

This is a remnant of the stone quarrying area on the hilltop – has a poetic, tranquil beauty, resembling a watercolor painting.

Ta Pa Field

When coming to Ta Pa field, you should prepare clothing concepts such as ao dai, ba ba clothes, conical hats… to be able to take extremely artistic countryside photos. If when checking in, you see farmers working in the fields around, ask them for permission to come in and take photos!

Address: Tri Ton District, An Giang Province.

Opening Hours: 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily.

4.5. Tay An Pagoda

Tay An Pagoda is located at the foot of Sam Mountain (Vinh Te Commune, Chau Doc City) and was built in 1847, featuring an architectural style reminiscent of India.

Tay An Pagoda

The ancient pagoda has been recognized by the Ministry of Culture as a national architectural and artistic heritage site. It is also the first pagoda in Vietnam to combine Vietnamese and Indian architectural styles.

The main hall has pillars engraved with many teachings of Buddha.

This is the spiritual palace so that you should wear politely, and speak with low voice.

Address: Vong Nui Sam Street, An Giang Province.

Opening Hours: open 24 hours.

4.6. Tinh Bien Market

Tinh Bien Market located in An Giang, Vietnam. Situated along the river, this market stands out for its distinctive setting amidst the vast waterways and rural landscapes of the Mekong Delta.

Tinh Bien Market

The market is not just a place for buying and selling goods, but also a cultural experience that reflects the local way of life.

It is known for its lively atmosphere, with boats carrying fresh produce and local specialties.

Dry stall, western specialties at the market.

You can explore a variety of local products, including fresh fruits, seafood, and handicrafts.

The market, which thrives especially during the early mornings, is an ideal spot for you to shopping like local people.

Delicious cakes and fresh fruit.

When you visit there you should bring the Vietnamese cash to buy something and experience the local dishes here.

Address: Tinh Bien District, An Giang Province.

Opening Hours: open 24 hours.

4.7. Cham Village

Cham Village focus on their rich cultural heritage and ethnic identity. The Cham community, with a long history in Vietnam, has maintained its unique traditions, language, and religious practices, primarily Islam. An Giang is home to a significant population of Cham and their presence contributes to the diverse cultural tapestry of the region.

When you visit this village you can experience agriculture and crafts, and their contributions to the broader cultural and spiritual life of An Giang.

The cathedral is the most sacred place of the Cham community.

Traditional dress of Cham people.

For Cham men in An Giang, their attire includes a sarong and a hat. During festivals, men wear long robes in the traditional Arab style.

Women wear long dresses, covering their faces, and wrap a mat’ra scarf around their heads. The mat’ra scarf is often compared to the Vietnamese conical hat, symbolizing gentleness and femininity.

Cham village is famous for its brocade weaving.

In An Giang, Cham people will celebrate three holidays such as Eid Ahda, Ramadhan, and Mohamed. Each ceremony has a different meaning, hoping that all good things will come to the people here.

Address: Da Phuoc Ward, An Phu District, An Giang Province.

Opening Hours: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily.

4.8. That Son

That Son is also known as the Seven Mountains Region, it consists of seven notable mountains among the 37 mountains in the Tri Ton and Tinh Bien Districts.

Mount Cam, at an elevation of 705 meters and a circumference of 28,600 meters, is the highest mountain in Thất Sơn and offers beautiful scenery.

That Son is the spiritual place.

Nui Cam

Nui Ket

Nui Co To

Nui Tuong

Nui Dai

Nui Nuoc

On the mountain, there are the Van Linh Pagoda, Big Buddha Pagoda, the statue of the Laughing Buddha, and the Cao Dai Temple.

Van Linh Pagoda

Address: An Giang

Opening Hours: open 24 hours.

4.9. Long Xuyen Floating Market

Long Xuyen Floating Market is located near the center of Long Xuyen City, the traditional floating market has been around for centuries and still maintains its original way of life.

This unique market offers a glimpse into the local culture, where goods such as fresh produce, fish, and other daily necessities are sold directly from boats on the river.

The ferry will take you to the market, to the breakfast places.

Let’s try the local dishes here

You just need to look at the sign to know what each boat is selling and stop by to buy.

This is the must try experience when you visit An Giang.

Visitors can rent a boat for around 200,000 VND to explore the market, interact with friendly local vendors, and witness the hustle and bustle of this water-based trading hub. It’s also a great opportunity to enjoy a peaceful breakfast on the river, sampling local specialities. The experience provides a rare insight into the rhythms of life along the Mekong Delta, making it a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Long Xuyen.

The best time to visit this market is from 5 to 6 am because this is the ideal time to watch the sunrise and explore small trading activities on boats and boats. During this period, the weather is cool and has some mild weather, so it is very suitable for your visit.

Address: An Giang Province, Long Xuyen City.

Opening Hours: 5:00 AM to 10:30 AM daily.

4.10. Lady Temple (Ba Chua Xu)

Ba Chua Xu Temple built in 1824, is one of the most famous spiritual sites in An Giang. Located at the foot of Sam Mountain, this sacred temple attracts a large number of visitors and pilgrims.

Ba Chua Xu attracts many of local and tourist every year.

The Ba Chua Xu Festival, held annually from the 24th to the 27th of the fourth lunar month, is a special event that draws thousands of Buddhists and tourists from all over.

The Lady of Sam Mountain Festival takes place from April 24 to 27 every year.

It is not only a time for praying for peace and blessings but also an opportunity to experience the lively festival atmosphere, strengthen community bonds, and learn more about the unique spiritual and cultural traditions of this region.

The statue of Lady Xu is worshiped in the main hall, facing the Northeast, surrounded by the Council altar in front.

Address: No. 925, Pham Van Bach Street, An Giang Province, Chau Doc City.

Opening Hours: open 24 hours.