Ba Chua Xu Temple Travel Guide: Explore An Giang’s Sacred Gem in Vietnam’s Mekong Delta

A Spiritual and Cultural Landmark

Ba Chua Xu Temple, nestled at the foot of Sam Mountain in Chau Doc, An Giang Province, is a revered spiritual destination in Vietnam’s Mekong Delta, drawing 2 million pilgrims and visitors annually. Far beyond its outdated image as a local shrine, this temple, dedicated to the prosperity goddess Ba Chua Xu, blends rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant festivals recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage. The temple’s serene setting, coupled with the tropical monsoon climate (dry season: November–April, 24–32°C or 75.2–89.6°F; rainy season: May–October, 26–36°C or 78.8–96.8°F), offers a perfect backdrop for cultural exploration, with activities like festivals, cable car rides, and local dining costing $5–$50 (125,000–1,250,000 VND). The region’s diverse Kinh, Cham, Khmer, and Hoa communities, enriched by the inclusion of the Kien Giang ward, add a vibrant cultural tapestry.

Legend Travel Group, a sustainable tourism leader since 2008, offers eco-friendly tours to Ba Chua Xu Temple, featuring electric shuttles, bicycles, and local guides to immerse travelers in its spiritual and cultural essence while preserving the environment. Contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com to book your journey.

Administrative Note

Use “Ba Chua Xu Temple, Chau Doc, An Giang Province” for navigation. Located in Nui Sam ward, 6 km from Chau Doc center and 55 km from Long Xuyen City, An Giang’s administrative center, the temple is easily accessible for Mekong Delta explorers.

With 17 years of expertise, Legend Travel Group serves 20,000 travelers annually across Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and Myanmar, prioritizing sustainable tourism. Our Ba Chua Xu Temple tours feature eco-friendly transport, English-speaking guides with deep cultural knowledge, and partnerships with local communities to preserve traditions. Enjoy transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours prior, and 24/7 support. Book through this guide for a responsible, immersive experience that supports An Giang’s green tourism vision.

A Sacred Site with Timeless Significance

Ba Chua Xu Temple, built in 1820 and renovated in 1972, is a masterpiece of Vietnamese architecture, shaped like the Chinese character “quoc” (nation) with three-tiered, blue-tiled roofs and intricate carvings. Located at the base of Sam Mountain, it honors Ba Chua Xu, the “Lady of the Realm,” a goddess believed to bring prosperity, health, and protection. According to legend, her statue, discovered in the 6th century, was carried down Sam Mountain by nine virgin girls after dozens of men failed, symbolizing her divine power. The temple’s spiritual aura and historical ties to Thoai Ngoc Hau, a Nguyen dynasty general who dug the Vinh Te Canal, make it a cultural cornerstone.

The temple is a hub for eco-tourism, with sustainable initiatives like the 900-meter Sam Mountain cable car ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND) offering panoramic views of rice fields and waterways. Visitors can explore local markets selling offerings like incense and Cham textiles ($3–$15 or 75,000–375,000 VND) or dine on regional specialties like Banh Xeo ($1–$3 or 25,000–75,000 VND). As part of An Giang’s UNESCO-recognized biosphere reserve, the temple supports sustainable practices, ensuring its cultural and environmental legacy endures.

Cultural and Historical Significance

Ba Chua Xu Temple is more than a religious site; it’s a vibrant symbol of An Giang’s multicultural heritage, shaped by Kinh, Cham, Khmer, and Hoa influences. The temple’s history, tied to the reclamation of the Mekong Delta, reflects the resilience of local communities. The Ba Chua Xu Festival, held from the 23rd to 27th of the fourth lunar month, is a UNESCO-recognized event featuring rituals like the “Tam Ba” bathing ceremony, dragon dances, and Don Ca Tai Tuperformances, drawing thousands for its spiritual and cultural vibrancy.

Cultural experiences, such as fortune-telling sessions ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND) or amulet purchases ($1–$3 or 25,000–75,000 VND), allow visitors to engage with local traditions. The temple’s role in supporting social welfare through festival contributions underscores its community impact, making it a beacon of spiritual and cultural pride.

Activities at Ba Chua Xu Temple

Ba Chua Xu Temple offers immersive experiences beyond its spiritual core:

• Temple Exploration: Admire the temple’s intricate architecture and offer incense (free entry; offerings $1–$5 or 25,000–125,000 VND). Note: Photography of the main statue is prohibited.

• Ba Chua Xu Festival: Join the vibrant festival (April/May, lunar calendar) with rituals, unicorn dances, and folk games (free entry; guided tours $15–$30 or 375,000–750,000 VND).

• Sam Mountain Cable Car: Ride the 900-meter cable car ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND) for stunning views of the Mekong Delta.

• Cultural Workshops: Participate in Cham weaving or cooking classes nearby ($6–$18 or 150,000–450,000 VND), supporting local artisans.

• Local Dining: Savor Ca Loc Nuong Trui ($3–$8 or 75,000–200,000 VND) at eateries like Sam Mountain Food Court (1 km away).

• Nearby Attractions: Visit Tay An Pagoda (1 km, free entry), Hang Pagoda (2 km, free entry), or Chau Doc Floating Market (6 km, $12–$25 or 300,000–625,000 VND).

• November–April (Dry Season, 24–32°C or 75.2–89.6°F): Ideal for temple visits and cable car rides with clear skies and moderate crowds (200–500 daily visitors). Book tours 1–2 weeks ahead.

• May–October (Rainy Season, 26–36°C or 78.8–96.8°F): Lush landscapes and fewer crowds (100–300 daily visitors). Bring rain gear ($3–$6 or 75,000–150,000 VND). Last-minute bookings often available.

• Festival Seasons:

  • Ba Chua Xu Festival (April/May, 23rd–27th Lunar Month): Peak vibrancy with 10,000+ visitors, featuring rituals and performances. Book 2–4 weeks ahead.

  • Lunar New Year (January/February): Crowded with pilgrims praying for prosperity, 5,000+ visitors. Book 2–4 weeks ahead.

  • Chol Chnam Thmay (Mid-April): Cham New Year with cultural events, 1,000+ visitors. Book 1–2 weeks ahead.

• Timing Tip: Visit early morning (6:00–8:00 AM) for a peaceful experience; afternoons for cable car rides; evenings (5:00–8:00 PM) for local dining and markets.

• From Chau Doc (6 km, 15–20 minutes): Walk (free), cyclo ($1–$4/hour or 25,000–100,000 VND), motorbike ($3–$7/day or 75,000–175,000 VND), or Xanh SM electric taxi ($3–$6 or 75,000–150,000 VND). Follow Tan Lo Kieu Luong Street to Sam Mountain.

• From Long Xuyen City (55 km, 1–1.5 hours): Bus ($3–$8 or 75,000–200,000 VND); Xanh SM electric taxi ($15–$25 or 375,000–625,000 VND).

• From Ho Chi Minh City (250 km, 5–6 hours): Bus ($10–$20 or 250,000–500,000 VND) from Mien Tay Bus Station; Xanh SM electric taxi ($120–$180 or 3,000,000–4,500,000 VND); flight to Can Tho ($40–$80 or 1,000,000–2,000,000 VND) + bus ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND).

• From Hanoi (1,600 km, 5–6 hours): Flight to Can Tho ($80–$150 or 2,000,000–3,750,000 VND) + bus ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND); flight to Rach Gia (Kien Giang ward, $90–$160 or 2,250,000–4,000,000 VND) + taxi ($15–$25 or 375,000–625,000 VND).

• Navigation Tip: Save “Ba Chua Xu Temple, Chau Doc, An Giang Province” in offline maps (Maps.me). Parking: $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND).

• Eco-Friendly Note: Opt for cyclos or electric taxis; book through Legend Travel Group for sustainable transport.

• Walking: Free, ideal for exploring the temple and nearby pagodas (1–2 km radius).

• Bicycle Rental: $2–$6/day (50,000–150,000 VND), sustainable for Sam Mountain exploration.

• Motorbike Rental: $3–$7/day (75,000–175,000 VND), eco-friendly for short distances.

• Cable Car: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND) for a 900-meter ride up Sam Mountain.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Prioritize bicycles or cable cars; book through Legend Travel Group.

• Tip: Confirm fares upfront; rent bikes at Chau Doc Market (5 km away).

Pack these essentials for a sustainable trip:

• Clothing: Lightweight attire, sturdy sandals, hat; waterproof poncho ($3–$6 or 75,000–150,000 VND) for rainy season; modest clothing (long sleeves, covered knees) for temple visits.

• Gear: Reusable water bottle ($0.80 or 20,000 VND), reusable tote ($1–$3 or 25,000–75,000 VND), biodegradable wipes.

• Essentials: Compact umbrella ($3–$6), hand sanitizer, mosquito repellent ($0.80 or 20,000 VND), sunscreen ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND).

• Tech: Smartphone with Vietmap/Maps.me, portable charger; Vietnamese SIM card ($6–$12 or 150,000–300,000 VND).

• Documents: Passport copy, travel insurance, VND (10,000–50,000 notes).

Activity Costs

• Temple Entry: Free; offerings: $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).

• Cable Car: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

• Cultural Workshops/Dining: $6–$18 (150,000–450,000 VND).

• Nearby Attractions: $2–$25 (50,000–625,000 VND).

Transport Costs (Local)

• Bicycle Rental: $2–$6/day (50,000–150,000 VND).

• Motorbike Rental: $3–$7/day (75,000–175,000 VND).

• Cable Car: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

• Xanh SM Electric Taxi: $0.50–$1/km (12,500–25,000 VND).

Accommodation Costs

• Budget Homestays (e.g., Nui Sam Eco Lodge): $12–$25/night (300,000–625,000 VND).

• Mid-Range Hotels (e.g., Chau Doc Riverside Hotel): $30–$50/night (750,000–1,250,000 VND).

• Luxury Hotels (e.g., Victoria Chau Doc Hotel): $60–$100/night (1,500,000–2,500,000 VND).

Total Daily Cost (Per Person)

• Budget: $15–$30 (self-guided temple visit, local snacks).

• Mid-Range: $40–$60 (guided tour, homestay dining).

• Luxury: $80–$120 (premium tours, upscale lodging).

• Timing: Visit early morning (6:00–8:00 AM) for a peaceful experience; afternoons for cable car rides; evenings (5:00–8:00 PM) for markets. Expect 100–500 visitors on weekdays, 300–1,000 on weekends, and 10,000+ during festivals.

• Booking: Reserve Legend Travel Group’s tours 24–48 hours ahead; book festival tours (April/May) 2–4 weeks ahead. Homestays require 1–2 days’ notice.

• Sustainability: Use reusable items; support local vendors with purchases like amulets ($1–$3 or 25,000–75,000 VND). Choose eco-friendly transport like bicycles or cable cars.

• Navigation: Save “Ba Chua Xu Temple, Chau Doc, An Giang Province” in offline maps; key sites are within 1–6 km.

• Safety: Secure valuables due to pickpockets, especially during festivals; respect temple rules (no statue photography).

• Cultural Respect: Greet with “xin chào”; dress modestly and remove shoes before entering the main hall. Offerings should be sincere, with no mandatory requirements.

Discover Ba Chua Xu Temple with our eco-friendly tour packages:

• Ba Chua Xu Temple Spiritual Journey ($80–$120/person, 1 day): Explore the temple, ride the Sam Mountain cable car, and enjoy Banh Xeo. Includes guide, eco-transport, meals.

• Chau Doc Cultural Immersion ($160–$220/person, 2 days): Visit the temple, Chau Doc Floating Market, and stay at eco-homestays. Includes meals, guide, eco-transport.

• Mekong Delta Eco-Explorer ($400–$560/person, 4 days): Discover the temple, Tra Su Forest, and Tay An Pagoda with boat and bike tours. Includes meals, eco-transport.

• Prices include guides, eco-transport, fees. 15% off for groups of 8+! Book now for an unforgettable journey.

Ba Chua Xu Temple in Chau Doc, An Giang Province, is a spiritual and cultural treasure, offering a profound connection to the Mekong Delta’s heritage. Beyond its historical roots, it captivates with vibrant festivals, stunning architecture, and sustainable tourism initiatives. Legend Travel Group’s An Giang Tours guide you through this sacred gem, ensuring a sustainable An Giang Travel experience that supports local communities and preserves An Giang’s legacy. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your adventure today!
Ready to experience the spiritual allure of Ba Chua Xu Temple? Reserve your eco-tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable Mekong Delta adventure!

Author Bio: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, personally guiding and organizing tours for over 100,000 travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.