Discover La Han Pagoda in Soc Trang with our expert guide! Explore its unique Chinese-Khmer architecture, costs, and eco-tours. Book your sustainable journey with Legend Travel Group today!
Capture the spiritual beauty of Soc Trang’s cultural gem (Source: Internet)Located on Dien Bien Phu Street in Cau Den Hamlet, Ward 8, Soc Trang, now part of the expanded Can Tho City administrative region, La Han Pagoda (Chùa La Hán) is a cultural and spiritual gem in the Mekong Delta, just 230 km from Ho Chi Minh City. Founded in the early 20th century by Chinese immigrants, this pagoda is renowned for its vibrant depictions of the 18 Arhats, blending Chinese and Khmer architectural influences. Attracting thousands of visitors annually, it offers a tranquil retreat with its lotus ponds, dragon statues, and lush gardens. Soc Trang’s commitment to sustainable tourism, through the “Mekong Green” initiative, makes it an ideal destination for eco-conscious travelers. Legend Travel Group, a leading local tour operator, crafts eco-friendly tours to explore this sacred site and its surroundings. Contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com to book your spiritual 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 and spiritual stories. Supporting communities in Ward 8 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—La Han Pagoda is easily accessible, offering a perfect blend of spirituality and eco-tourism.
Photograph the historic allure of Soc Trang’s heritage (Source: Internet)Situated in the heart of Soc Trang’s central ward, La Han Pagoda, also known as Arhat Pagoda, was established by Chinese settlers seeking blessings for peace and prosperity. Named for its striking images of the 18 Arhats—enlightened disciples of Buddha—the pagoda evolved from a simple worship tent to a grand brick structure after a 1956 storm. Expanded in 1990, it now features a two-story main hall, lush gardens, and intricate statues, blending Chinese Mahayana Buddhist elements with Khmer motifs. Recognized as a provincial cultural relic, La Han Pagoda is a serene haven for meditation, cultural exploration, and architectural appreciation, drawing both pilgrims and tourists.
According to legend, Chinese immigrants in Soc Trang built a tent in the early 20th century to worship Buddha, praying for favorable weather and successful livelihoods. The tent housed vivid drawings of the 18 Arhats, inspiring the pagoda’s name. In 1956, a powerful storm destroyed the tent, prompting local Buddhists and residents to fund a brick pagoda. By 1990, the temple was expanded with a spacious two-story main hall, additional worship areas, and a landscaped campus featuring a lotus pond and Pho Da mountain. Today, La Han Pagoda stands as a testament to Soc Trang’s multicultural heritage, blending Chinese, Khmer, and Vietnamese influences, and serves as a spiritual anchor for the community.
Experience Soc Trang Tours with sustainable adventures (Source: Internet)La Han Pagoda is centrally located in Soc Trang’s Ward 8, 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 La Han Pagoda (2 km): Located on Dien Bien Phu Street, options include:
Walking: 15–20 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.
Admire the two-story main hall, where the upper floor houses Buddha Shakyamuni, 18 Arhats, and Thai Thuong Lao Quan statues, adorned with intricate carvings. The lower floor worships Thien Hau Nuong Nuong, Bach Hau Cong, and Quan Yin, reflecting Chinese influences.
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).
Wander the spacious grounds featuring a lotus pond, Pho Da mountain, octagonal lamp, dragon-phoenix statues, unicorn carvings, and a turtle lake, creating a 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).
Join meditation sessions in the garden or main hall, guided by monks, to find inner peace and connect with the spiritual world.
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).
Participate in annual events like Tet (January–February, lunar calendar) or Vu Lan (7th lunar month, typically August), featuring lantern releases, prayers, and cultural performances.
Cost: Free; donations appreciated.
Hours: Event-dependent, typically 8:00 AM–8:00 PM.
Tip: Book tours early for festival dates. Included in our Soc Trang Festival Tour ($70–$90).
Engage in calligraphy or Buddhist scripture readings with monks, learning about Mahayana traditions and Soc Trang’s Chinese-Khmer heritage.
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).
Start your Soc Trang Travel with peaceful vibes (Source: Internet)The dry season (November–April, 25–34°C or 77–93.2°F) is ideal, with mild weather perfect for exploring the pagoda’s gardens and nearby attractions like Nga Nam Floating Market. February to April offers clear skies and comfortable temperatures. 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 or workshops, though August–October may bring flooding. Key festivals like Tet (January–February) and Vu Lan (August) enhance visits with cultural vibrancy, but expect higher accommodation prices (10–20% increase). Check AccuWeather for real-time forecasts.
Tip: Book 3–5 weeks in advance for November–April or festivals to secure better rates. Visit early morning for a tranquil experience.
Entrance Fees:
La Han Pagoda: Free; donations $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).
Cultural 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 Xèo): $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).
Restaurants: $3–$10 (75,000–250,000 VND).
Drinks: $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND).
Accommodation (Soc Trang Central Ward):
Hostels/Guesthouses: $10–$25/night (250,000–625,000 VND).
Hotels: $30–$50/night (750,000–1,250,000 VND).
Resorts: $75–$200/night (1,875,000–5,000,000 VND).
Total Daily Cost:
Budget: $10–$35 (free entry, street food, bike rental).
Mid-range: $35–$65 (guided tours, meals).
Luxury: $65–$120 (private tours, upscale dining).
Tip: Use ATMs in Soc Trang Central Ward; carry VND for donations and vendors. Book accommodations early for festival seasons to save up to 20%.
Book Early: Reserve flights, hotels, and tours 3–4 weeks in advance via Legend Travel Group (+84 987 654 321) or Klook for peak seasons (November–April, Tet, Vu Lan).
Navigation: Download offline maps (Maps.me) or MyCanTho app. The pagoda is walkable or bike-friendly from downtown Soc Trang.
Sustainability: Use bicycles for short trips; carry reusable water bottles; support local vendors to align with Mekong Green initiatives.
Cultural Respect: Dress modestly (covered shoulders, knees); say “cảm ơn” (thank you); tip monks or guides $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND); remove shoes in worship areas.
Health Precautions: Apply mosquito repellent for gardens; bring sunscreen (SPF 50+) for outdoor areas; stay hydrated during festivals.
Safety: Secure valuables in crowded festival settings; avoid flooded streets in August–October.
Explore La Han Pagoda and Soc Trang with our sustainable tours:
Soc Trang Cultural Tour ($55–$75/person): La Han Pagoda, Chen Kieu Pagoda, Clay Pagoda. Includes bike rentals, eco-tours, and snacks.
Mekong Heritage Journey ($60–$80/person): La Han Pagoda, Nga Nam Floating Market, Khmer Museum. Includes electric boat transfers and lunch.
Soc Trang Spiritual Retreat ($50–$70/person): La Han Pagoda meditation, calligraphy workshops, and local markets. Includes eco-transfers and meals.
Soc Trang Nature & Culture Combo ($65–$85/person): La Han Pagoda, Tan Long Stork Garden, Vinh Chau Mangrove Forest. Includes eco-transfers and meals.
Soc Trang Festival Tour ($70–$90/person, January–February or August): La Han Pagoda, Tet or Vu Lan celebrations, cultural performances. 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!
La Han Pagoda in Soc Trang is a serene spiritual haven, blending Chinese-Khmer architecture with lush gardens and vibrant festivals. From meditating amidst Arhat statues to exploring its cultural heritage, this pagoda offers a profound experience. Legend Travel Group’s Soc Trang Tours guide you through La Han Pagoda, ensuring a sustainable Soc Trang Travel experience that supports local communities and preserves Soc Trang’s legacy. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your La Han Pagoda adventure today! Contact sales@legendtravelgroup.com for personalized itineraries.
Ready to find peace at La Han Pagoda? Reserve your eco-friendly tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on a soulful journey in Soc Trang!
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.
Favorite experiences booked by travelers
