Chen Kieu Pagoda Travel Guide: Explore Soc Trang’s Unique Khmer Sanctuary

Nestled in Dai Tam Ward, My Xuyen, Soc Trang, now part of the expanded Can Tho City administrative region, Chen Kieu Pagoda (also known as Sa Lon or Sro Loun Pagoda) is a cultural jewel of the Mekong Delta, located 230 km from Ho Chi Minh City. Renowned for its distinctive architecture, adorned with colorful porcelain bowls and plates, this 200-year-old Khmer temple attracts thousands of visitors annually. Built in 1815 and restored in 1969, the pagoda reflects the spiritual and artistic heritage of the Khmer community, offering a serene escape and a deep dive into Theravada Buddhist traditions. Committed to sustainable tourism via the “Mekong Green” initiative, Soc Trang is ideal for eco-conscious travelers. Legend Travel Group, a leading local tour operator, offers eco-friendly tours to explore this sacred site and beyond. Contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com to book your journey!

Legend Travel Group is dedicated to authentic, sustainable Southeast Asian experiences. Our Soc Trang tours use low-impact transport—bicycles, electric boats, and eco-vans—guided by local experts who share the region’s cultural stories. Supporting communities in Dai Tam and Vinh Chau Wards, we align with Can Tho City’s vision to preserve its heritage. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we ensure a seamless adventure. Book our eco-tours via the links on this page and travel with purpose

Vietnam’s administrative restructuring has merged Soc Trang and Hau Giang into Can Tho City, with Can Tho as the administrative hub. District-level units are now wards or communes, making Can Tho City Vietnam’s largest by landmass. Enhanced by sustainable infrastructure—cycling paths, electric buses, and a VND800 billion flood mitigation project—Chen Kieu Pagoda is easily accessible, offering a perfect blend of culture and eco-tourism.

Located 10 km from Soc Trang’s central ward along National Highway 1A, Chen Kieu Pagoda (Wath Sro Loun) is a Khmer temple celebrated for its unique decor. Rebuilt in 1969 after war damage, monks creatively used donated porcelain bowls, plates, and Japanese tiles to adorn the walls, pillars, and stairs, creating vibrant motifs. Recognized as a provincial historical and cultural relic in 2012, the pagoda spans a lush, tree-filled area, offering tranquility and cultural immersion. Its architecture blends Khmer, Kinh, and Chinese influences, making it a must-visit in Soc Trang.

By Air and Ground

• Fly to Can Tho International Airport (VCA): 60 km from Soc Trang, VCA serves flights from Ho Chi Minh City ($70–$140 or 1,750,000–3,500,000 VND, 45 minutes) or Hanoi ($100–$180 or 2,500,000–4,500,000 VND, 2 hours 10 minutes).

• Ground Transport from VCA to Soc Trang:

  • Eco-Van (Recommended): Legend Travel Group’s electric vans cost $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND) for 2–4 passengers, taking 1–1.5 hours.

  • Taxi/Grab: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND).

  • Bus: $3–$6 (75,000–150,000 VND), 1.5–2 hours.

• From Soc Trang Central Ward to Chen Kieu Pagoda (10 km): Follow National Highway 1A toward Bac Lieu. Options include:

  • Motorbike Rental: $5–$10/day (125,000–250,000 VND).

  • Bicycle Rental: $1–$2/day (25,000–50,000 VND).

  • Taxi/Grab: $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND).

By Bus from Ho Chi Minh City

• Sleeper Bus: 5–6 hours, $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND). Book via Baolau or 12go.asia.

• Private Eco-Van: $50–$80 (1,250,000–2,000,000 VND) for 2–4 passengers, 4.5–5 hours.

Tip: Book eco-van transfers via Legend Travel Group for sustainable travel. Download Maps.me or MyCanTho app for navigation.

The name “Chen Kieu” (or “Sa Lon,” derived from Sro Loun, meaning Chro Luong canal) reflects the pagoda’s innovative reconstruction in 1969. Due to limited funds, monks collected broken porcelain bowls, plates, and ceramics from locals to tile the walls, stairs, and pillars, creating a dazzling, mosaic-like aesthetic. This resourceful approach not only saved costs but also symbolized the Khmer community’s unity, earning the pagoda its nickname, “Bowl Pagoda.” The decor, combined with traditional Khmer motifs, makes it a unique cultural landmark.

Architectural Highlights

• Pagoda Gate: Features three towers in southern Khmer style, with the central tower higher, adorned with Khmer script and symbolic carvings. Two stone lions guard the entrance, protecting the sacred space.

• Main Sanctuary: A three-tiered roof, painted yellow, narrows upward with a triangular peak. Inside, 20 Shakyamuni Buddha statues in various meditative poses are surrounded by murals depicting Buddha’s life from birth to Nirvana.

• Porcelain Decor: Nearly 30 tons of colorful bowls, plates, and ceramics adorn the walls, 16 stone pillars, and stairs, creating intricate patterns.

• Nagar Motifs: A central flagpole features a five-headed Nagar snake, a Khmer symbol of protection, referencing the legend of a snake shielding Buddha from rain.

• Sala and Garden: The sala serves as a lecture hall and festival venue, while the garden houses a reclining Buddha statue symbolizing Nirvana, small thatched meditation huts, and Apsara fairy statues along the fence.

Unique Experiences

• Cultural Immersion: Observe Theravada Buddhist rituals and learn about Khmer traditions from resident monks. The pagoda hosts seven annual festivals, including Ooc Om Bok, drawing local pilgrims.

• Photography: Capture the vibrant porcelain decor and serene garden, especially under sunlight when the ceramics shimmer.

• Meditation: Use the garden’s thatched huts for quiet reflection, guided by monks (donations appreciated, $1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND).

• Historical Insights: Explore the pagoda’s library, housing Buddhist scriptures on palm leaves, some centuries old, with guided explanations (included in tours).

• Community Connection: Engage with local Khmer vendors selling farm products near the pagoda, supporting the community ($1–$5 or 25,000–125,000 VND for fruits or crafts).

Cost: Free entry; donations $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND) appreciated. Guided tours $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).
Hours: 6:00 AM–6:00 PM daily.
Tip: Dress modestly (covered shoulders, knees) and avoid touching porcelain decor, especially with children. Visit early morning for fewer crowds and cooler weather.

The dry season (December–April, 25–34°C or 77–93.2°F) is ideal for visiting, with sunny weather perfect for exploring the pagoda and nearby attractions. Festivals like Ooc Om Bok (October–November, lunar calendar) draw crowds, increasing accommodation prices by 10–20%. The rainy season (May–November, 22–30°C or 71.6–86°F) offers fewer visitors and 15–25% discounts, but August–October may bring flooding. Check forecasts via AccuWeather.

Tip: Book tours 3–5 weeks in advance for December–April or festivals to secure better rates. Contact Legend Travel Group for festival schedules.

Entrance Fees:

• Chen Kieu Pagoda: Free; donations $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).

• Guided tours: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

Transport:

• Motorbike rental: $5–$10/day (125,000–250,000 VND).

• Bicycle rental: $1–$2/day (25,000–50,000 VND).

• Taxi/Grab (Soc Trang to pagoda): $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND).

• Eco-van (VCA to Soc Trang): $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND).

Dining (Nearby):

• Street food (e.g., banh xeo, noodle soup): $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).

• Restaurants: $3–$12 (75,000–300,000 VND).

• Drinks: $0.50–$3 (12,500–75,000 VND).

Accommodation (Soc Trang Central Ward, 10 km away):

• Hostels/Guesthouses: $10–$25/night (250,000–625,000 VND).

• Hotels: $30–$100/night (750,000–2,500,000 VND).

• Resorts: $120–$300/night (3,000,000–7,500,000 VND).

Total Daily Cost:

• Budget: $15–$40 (free entry, street food, bike rental).

• Mid-range: $40–$70 (guided tours, dining).

• Luxury: $70–$110 (private tours, upscale dining).

Tip: Use ATMs in Soc Trang Central Ward; carry VND for donations and vendors.

• Book Early: Reserve flights, hotels, and tours 3–5 weeks in advance via Legend Travel Group (+84 938 987 654) or Klook, especially for December–April or Ooc Om Bok.

• Navigation: Download offline maps (Maps.me) or MyCanTho app. The pagoda is accessible by bike or motorbike along Highway 1A.

• Sustainability: Use bicycles or eco-vans; carry reusable water bottles; support local vendors to align with Mekong Green initiatives.

• Cultural Respect: Dress modestly, say “cảm ơn” (thank you), and tip monks or guides ($1–$2). Avoid loud noises or climbing on decor.

• Health Precautions: Apply mosquito repellent; bring sunscreen (SPF 50+) and a hat for outdoor areas.

• Safety: Secure valuables during festivals; avoid flooded paths in August–October.

Explore Chen Kieu Pagoda and Soc Trang with our sustainable tours:

• Soc Trang Cultural Tour ($55–$75/person): Chen Kieu Pagoda, Kh’leang Pagoda, Clay Pagoda. Includes bike rentals, eco-transfers, and snacks.

• Mekong River Adventure ($60–$80/person): Chen Kieu Pagoda, Nga Nam Floating Market, Hau River cruise. Includes electric boat transfers and lunch.

• Soc Trang Nature Tour ($65–$85/person): Chen Kieu Pagoda, Vinh Chau Mangrove Forest, Tan Long Stork Garden. Includes eco-transfers and meals.

• Soc Trang Festival Tour ($70–$90/person, October–November): Chen Kieu Pagoda, Ooc Om Bok Festival, Ngo boat races. Includes eco-transfers and dining.

Prices include English-speaking guides, eco-transfers, entrance fees, and meals/snacks. Enjoy 10% off for groups of 8+ or seasonal promotions. Book now via links around this page

Chen Kieu Pagoda in Soc Trang, Can Tho City, a cultural gem located 170 km from Can Tho, captivates with its stunning porcelain-clad architecture and deep Khmer heritage, drawing thousands yearly with entry fees of $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND). From its sacred sanctuary to tranquil gardens, this temple offers a unique blend of spirituality and artistry. Legend Travel Group’s Ca Mau Tours ensure a sustainable Ca Mau Travel experience, supporting local communities and sustainable tourism through eco-friendly practices like low-impact tours, paired with visits to Tac Say Floating Market and Phong Dien Bird Sanctuary. Don’t miss out—contact Legend Travel Group to browse our featured tours and book your eco-friendly adventure today!
Ready to discover Chen Kieu Pagoda’s beauty? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and explore Soc Trang’s cultural heart in the Mekong Delta!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.

Sources:

• Chen Kieu Pagoda Information: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group