Discover Kh’leang Pagoda in Soc Trang, the oldest Khmer temple in the Mekong Delta! Explore its history, architecture, costs, and sustainable tours. Book with Legend Travel Group now!
Kh’leang Pagoda - Capture the majestic essence of Soc Trang’s Khmer heritageSituated at 71 Mau Than Street, Hamlet 5, Ward 6, Soc Trang, now part of the expanded Can Tho City administrative region, Kh’leang Pagoda (Chùa Kh’leang) is the oldest Khmer temple in the Mekong Delta, established in 1532 and nearing 500 years of history. Located 230 km from Ho Chi Minh City, this sacred site attracts thousands of visitors annually with its majestic Khmer architecture, vibrant festivals, and rich cultural heritage. As a cornerstone of Soc Trang’s Khmer community, it houses over 45 Shakyamuni Buddha statues and hosts significant ceremonies like Ooc Om Bok. Soc Trang’s dedication to sustainable tourism, through the “Mekong Green” initiative, ensures an eco-friendly experience. Legend Travel Group, a premier local tour operator, offers sustainable eco-tours to immerse you in this iconic pagoda. Contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com to book your cultural journey!
Legend Travel Group specializes in authentic, sustainable Southeast Asian experiences across Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and Myanmar. Our Soc Trang tours use low-impact transport—bicycles, electric boats, and eco-vans—guided by local experts who share the region’s cultural and spiritual narratives. Supporting communities in Ward 6 and Nga Nam 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 responsibly!
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—Kh’leang Pagoda is easily accessible, offering a perfect blend of cultural and eco-tourism exploration.
Learn Soc Trang’s cultural heritage with expert insights (Source: Internet)Kh’leang Pagoda, Soc Trang’s oldest temple, is a masterpiece of Khmer Theravada Buddhist architecture, recognized as a national historical and cultural relic in 1990. Spanning a lush, tree-filled campus, it features a majestic main hall rebuilt in 1918, a Sala assembly house, monks’ residences, and a cultural school teaching Khmer language and traditions. The pagoda preserves sacred palm-leaf scriptures and hosts vibrant festivals, serving as a spiritual and educational hub for the Khmer community, which comprises over 30% of Soc Trang’s 1.3 million residents. Its intricate design, blending Khmer, Chinese, and Vietnamese influences, and its serene ambiance make it a must-visit for cultural enthusiasts.
Kh’leang Pagoda is Soc Trang’s most important Khmer temple due to its historical, spiritual, and cultural roles. Established in 1532, it predates most regional temples, initially built with bamboo, wood, and leaves before being reconstructed with brick through community contributions. It serves as a center for religious ceremonies, including Khmer New Year (Chol Chnam Thmay) and Ooc Om Bok, drawing pilgrims and tourists. The pagoda houses over 500 years of Buddhist teachings, including palm-leaf manuscripts, and educates youth in Khmer culture through its intermediate school. Its architecture and festivals reflect the Khmer’s enduring influence, fostering unity among Soc Trang’s multicultural communities.
Capture the sustainable charm of Soc Trang’s ecotourism (Source: Internet)The pagoda’s architecture is a stunning fusion of Khmer, Chinese, and Vietnamese styles, with the main hall as its centerpiece:
Main Hall (Rebuilt 1918): Elevated on a three-tiered foundation (4–7 m wide, 1 m high per tier), it features a three-level roof with no central tower, adorned with sharply curved tails at the corners. The third tier forms an internal courtyard for worship during festivals. The interior houses a 1.5-m Shakyamuni Buddha statue on a lotus pedestal, surrounded by 45 statues in cement, wood, copper, stone, and earthenware, most gilded in gold. Oil paintings of dancing fairies on the ceiling and ancient Vietnamese inscriptions on pillars add vibrancy.
Four Gates: Decorated with colorful Khmer patterns, including Naga snakes and Kemnar fairies, they encircle the hall with ornate fences.
Auxiliary Structures: The Sala assembly house, abbot’s residence (storing rituals and scriptures), monks’ quarters, and guest houses complement the main hall, creating a functional campus.
Campus Features: A lotus pond, ancient trees, and a cultural school enhance the serene, green environment, ideal for reflection.
Tip: Photograph the main hall’s roof curves and gate motifs at sunrise for vibrant colors.
Kh’leang Pagoda is centrally located in Soc Trang, opposite the Khmer Museum, making it easily accessible:
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 Kh’leang Pagoda (1 km): Located on Mau Than Street, options include:
Walking: 10–15 minutes from downtown.
Bicycle Rental: $1–$2/day (25,000–50,000 VND).
Motorbike Rental: $5–$10/day (125,000–250,000 VND).
Taxi/Grab: $2–$3 (50,000–75,000 VND).
Sleeper Bus to Soc Trang: 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.
Begin your Soc Trang Tours with a scenic adventure (Source: Internet)Admire the gilded Shakyamuni Buddha statue, 45 diverse statues, and vibrant ceiling paintings of fairies, reflecting Khmer artistry. Study ancient Vietnamese inscriptions on pillars for historical insights.
Cost: Free; donations $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).
Hours: 6:00 AM–6:00 PM daily.
Tip: Observe quietly during prayers. Included in our Soc Trang Cultural Tour ($55–$75).
Participate in major Khmer events like Ooc Om Bok (October–November, lunar calendar), featuring Ngo boat races and lantern releases, or Khmer New Year (mid-April) with traditional dances and rituals.
Cost: Free; donations $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).
Hours: Event-dependent, typically 8:00 AM–10:00 PM.
Tip: Book tours early for festival dates. Included in our Soc Trang Festival Tour ($70–$90).
Engage in Theravada Buddhist meditation or prayer sessions with monks in the Sala house, fostering spiritual connection.
Cost: Free; donations $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).
Hours: On request, typically 7:00 AM–4:00 PM.
Tip: Dress modestly (covered shoulders, knees). Included in our Soc Trang Cultural Tour ($55–$75).
Learn Khmer calligraphy or study palm-leaf scriptures in the pagoda’s library, guided by monks, to understand Buddhist teachings and Khmer literacy.
Cost: $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND).
Hours: On request, typically 9:00 AM–3:00 PM.
Tip: Book via Legend Travel Group for small groups. Included in our Soc Trang Cultural Tour ($55–$75).
Relax under ancient trees, explore the lotus pond, or visit the cultural school to observe Khmer language classes, enjoying the pagoda’s serene ambiance.
Cost: Free.
Hours: 6:00 AM–6:00 PM daily.
Tip: Ideal for photography at sunrise. Included in our Soc Trang Cultural Tour ($55–$75).
The dry season (November–April, 25–34°C or 77–93.2°F) is ideal, with mild weather perfect for exploring the pagoda’s campus and nearby attractions like the Khmer Museum. February–April, especially during Khmer New Year, offers vibrant ceremonies and pleasant conditions. The rainy season (May–October, 22–30°C or 71.6–86°F) provides fewer crowds and 15–25% discounts, ideal for indoor activities like meditation, but August–October may bring flooding. Ooc Om Bok (October–November) aligns with lively festivals, though prices rise 10–20%. Visit early mornings (6:00 AM–8:00 AM) for tranquility or evenings (4:00 PM–6:00 PM) for festivals. Check AccuWeather for forecasts.
Tip: Book 3–5 weeks in advance for November–April or festivals to secure better rates.
Entrance Fees:
Kh’leang Pagoda: Free; donations $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).
Workshops: $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND).
Guided Tours: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).
Transport:
Bicycle Rental: $1–$2/day (25,000–50,000 VND).
Motorbike Rental: $5–$10/day (125,000–250,000 VND).
Taxi/Grab (within Soc Trang): $2–$3 (50,000–75,000 VND).
Eco-Van (VCA to Soc Trang): $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND).
Dining (Nearby):
Street Food (e.g., Bún Nước Lèo, Bánh Pía): $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):
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. Book early for festival seasons to save up to 20%.
Book Early: Reserve flights, hotels, and tours 3–5 weeks in advance via Legend Travel Group (+84 938 987 654) or Klook for peak seasons or festivals.
Navigation: Download offline maps (Maps.me) or MyCanTho app. The pagoda is a short walk or bike ride from downtown, opposite the Khmer Museum.
Sustainability: Use bicycles; carry reusable water bottles; support local vendors selling crafts ($2–$10 or 50,000–250,000 VND) to align with Mekong Green initiatives.
Cultural Respect: Dress modestly (covered shoulders, knees); say “cảm ơn” (thank you); tip monks or guides ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND); remove shoes in worship areas.
Health Precautions: Apply mosquito repellent for gardens; bring sunscreen (SPF 50+); stay hydrated during festivals.
Safety: Secure valuables in crowded festival settings; avoid flooded streets in August–October.
Explore Kh’leang Pagoda and Soc Trang with our sustainable tours:
Soc Trang Cultural Tour ($55–$75/person): Kh’leang Pagoda, Khmer Museum, Clay Pagoda, calligraphy workshops. Includes bike rentals, eco-transfers, and snacks.
Mekong River Adventure ($60–$80/person): Kh’leang Pagoda, Nga Nam Floating Market, Hau River cruise. Includes electric boat transfers and lunch.
Soc Trang Nature Tour ($65–$85/person): Kh’leang Pagoda, Tan Long Stork Garden, Vinh Chau Mangrove Forest. Includes eco-transfers and meals.
Soc Trang Festival Tour ($70–$90/person, October–November): Kh’leang Pagoda, Ooc Om Bok Festival, Ngo boat races. Includes eco-transfers and dining.
Soc Trang Foodie Tour ($50–$70/person): Kh’leang Pagoda, Soc Trang Central Market, Bún Nước Lèo tasting. Includes eco-transfers and meals.
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!
Kh’leang Pagoda, located on Ton Duc Thang Street in Soc Trang Region, Can Tho City, 230 km from Ho Chi Minh City, is Soc Trang’s oldest Khmer temple, dating back nearly 500 years (1533), offering a profound journey into the Mekong Delta’s cultural and spiritual heritage. Its majestic seven-story tower, intricate wood carvings, and sacred artifacts, including ancient Buddhist scriptures, draw thousands yearly to this cornerstone of Khmer identity. Experience vibrant festivals like the Ooc Om Bok Festival (14th–15th of the 10th lunar month) with Ngo boat races, supported by sustainable practices like eco-friendly temple maintenance and community-led preservation. Legend Travel Group’s Soc Trang Tours ensure a responsible, immersive Soc Trang Travel experience, blending pagoda visits with explorations of Bat Pagoda, Nga Nam Floating Market, and culinary delights like bún nước lèo ($1–$2, 25,000–50,000 VND). Contact Legend Travel Group at www.legendtravelgroup.com, sales@legendtravelgroup.com, or (+84) 825862222 for personalized itineraries and to book your eco-friendly adventure today!
Ready to discover Kh’leang Pagoda’s ancient wonders? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable cultural odyssey in Soc Trang!
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:
Kh’leang Pagoda Information: vietnam.travel, vietnamtourism.org.vn, vemekong.com, asiakingtravel.com, scootersaigontour.com, lonelyplanet.com, originvietnam.com, vietnamnet.vn, talkvietnam.com, tripadvisor.com
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