Masjid Jamiul Azhar Mosque Guide: A Must-Visit Cultural Gem Near Chau Doc, An Giang

A Vibrant Symbol of Cham Heritage

Masjid Jamiul Azhar Mosque, located in Chau Phong commune near Chau Doc, An Giang Province, is one of Vietnam’s most beautiful and historic mosques, recognized as a cultural landmark of the Cham Muslim community. Far surpassing its outdated image as a photography spot, this mosque, built in 1959 and expanded in 2014, blends intricate Islamic architecture with the vibrant life of the surrounding Chau Phong Cham village. An Giang’s 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) enhances the scenic beauty of its white and turquoise facade under the Mekong Delta sky. The merger of Kien Giang into An Giang Province, effective July 1, 2025, adds coastal destinations like Ha Tien (95 km from Chau Doc), making it easy to combine mosque visits with eco-tourism. With over 3,500 Cham households in An Giang, this mosque attracts visitors for its cultural significance and sustainable tourism opportunities.

Legend Travel Group, a sustainable tourism leader since 2008, offers eco-friendly tours to Masjid Jamiul Azhar, using bicycles and electric boats to immerse you in Cham culture while preserving the environment. Contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com to book your journey.

Administrative Note

Use “Chau Phong, An Giang Province” or “Chau Doc, An Giang Province” for navigation. Masjid Jamiul Azhar is 7 km from Chau Doc Market via the Chau Giang ferry. Long Xuyen, An Giang’s administrative center, is 50 km away, and Ha Tien (Kien Giang ward) is 95 km from Chau Doc. The merger of Kien Giang into An Giang Province enhances regional connectivity.

With 17 years of expertise, Legend Travel Group serves 20,000 travelers annually across Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and Myanmar, prioritizing sustainable tourism. Our Chau Doc tours feature eco-friendly transport, English-speaking guides with deep cultural knowledge, and partnerships with Cham communities to preserve their heritage. 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, aligning with Vietnam’s sustainable tourism goals.

A Masterpiece of Islamic Architecture

Masjid Jamiul Azhar, located in Phum Xoai hamlet, Chau Phong commune, is a cornerstone of Cham Muslim culture in An Giang. Built in 1959 and expanded in 2014, the mosque features a striking white and turquoise facade, adorned with crescent moon and star symbols, Islamic calligraphy, and cylindrical minarets. Its courtyard, framed by a historic Muslim cemetery, adds a mystical charm, while the interior’s high domes and floral-patterned doorways reflect timeless Islamic design. Recognized as a religious symbol for An Giang’s Muslim community, the mosque hosts daily prayers at five times (before sunrise, before noon, late afternoon, evening, and before bed), drawing both worshippers and tourists. The surrounding Chau Phong village, with its stilt houses and traditional Cham attire (men in sarongs, women in hijabs or abayas), enhances the cultural experience. Sustainable tourism initiatives, supported by An Giang’s One Commune One Product (OCOP) program, promote eco-friendly visits and community livelihoods through cultural tours and local crafts.

Cultural and Historical Significance

The Cham, descendants of the Champa Kingdom, brought Sunni Islamic traditions to An Giang in the 19th century, establishing vibrant communities along the Hau River. Masjid Jamiul Azhar, one of An Giang’s largest mosques, serves as a spiritual and cultural hub, preserving Cham identity through daily rituals and festivals like Roja (10th Islamic month) and Ramadan (9th Islamic month). Its recognition as a national cultural site by Vietnam’s Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism underscores its importance, attracting photographers, historians, and cultural enthusiasts seeking authentic Mekong Delta experiences.

Immerse yourself in these cultural and sustainable activities:

• Guided Mosque Tour ($5–$15 or 125,000–375,000 VND): Explore the mosque’s architecture, learn about Cham Islamic traditions, and visit the historic cemetery. Takes 1–1.5 hours, led by local guides.

• Cultural Immersion in Chau Phong Village: Observe traditional Cham life, including stilt houses and daily activities, and try on Cham attire (sarongs or hijabs, $2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND) for photos.

• Brocade Weaving Workshop (1 km from mosque, $10–$25 or 250,000–625,000 VND): Learn to weave Cham sarongs or scarves at nearby workshops, supporting local artisans.

• Cham Cuisine Tasting: Savor Tung Lo Mo (beef sausage, $2–$6 or 50,000–150,000 VND) or Banh Bo Cham(palm sugar rice cakes, $0.50–$2 or 12,500–50,000 VND) at village eateries.

• Nearby Attractions:

  • Chau Doc Floating Market (7 km via ferry, $5–$25 or 125,000–625,000 VND for boat tours): Experience river trade and taste Bun Ca Chau Doc ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND).

  • Ba Chua Xu Temple (6 km, free entry): UNESCO-recognized spiritual site, vibrant during April/May festivals.

  • Tra Su Melaleuca Forest (30 km, $8–$20 or 200,000–500,000 VND): Biodiverse reserve for birdwatching, best August–November.

  • Mubarak Mosque (1 km, free entry): Another historic Cham mosque in Chau Phong, known for its riverside setting.

• November–April (Dry Season, 24–32°C or 75.2–89.6°F): Ideal for mosque tours, village exploration, and festivals like Chol Chnam Thmay (mid-April, 1,000+ visitors) and Ba Chua Xu (April/May, 10,000+ visitors). Moderate crowds (100–300 daily visitors). Book tours 1–2 weeks ahead.

• May–October (Rainy Season, 26–36°C or 78.8–96.8°F): Lush scenery and fewer crowds (50–200 daily visitors), ideal for budget travel and flood-season experiences like nearby floating markets. Bring rain gear ($3–$6 or 75,000–150,000 VND). Last-minute bookings often available.

• Festival Seasons:

  • Roja (10th Islamic month): Cham celebrations with community prayers, 500+ visitors.

  • Ramadan (9th Islamic month): Quieter visits during fasting periods; respect prayer times.

  • Prophet Muhammad’s Birthday (12th Rabi’ al-Awwal): Festive events with music, 500+ visitors. Book 1–2 weeks ahead.

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

• Timing Tip: Visit mornings (7:00–10:00 AM) for active village life and cooler weather; avoid prayer times (five daily) for non-Muslim tours to respect worshippers.

• From Chau Doc (7 km, 15–20 minutes):

  • Route: From Chau Doc Market (Le Loi Street), take the Chau Giang ferry (5 minutes, $0.20–$0.50 or 5,000–12,500 VND) across the Hau River to Phum Xoai hamlet, then walk or ride 1 km to the mosque.

  • Transport Options:

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

    • Motorbike: $3–$7/day (75,000–175,000 VND), requires International Driving Permit.

    • Cyclo: $1–$4/hour (25,000–100,000 VND), traditional and eco-friendly.

    • Xanh SM Electric Taxi: $3–$6 (75,000–150,000 VND), eco-friendly, book via app 1–2 days ahead.

  • Navigation Tip: Save “Masjid Jamiul Azhar, Chau Phong, An Giang Province” in offline maps (Maps.me). Ferries run every 15–30 minutes (6:00 AM–6:00 PM).

• From Long Xuyen (50 km, 1–1.5 hours):

  • Route: Take National Highway 91 to Chau Doc, then ferry to Chau Phong.

  • Transport Options:

    • Bus: $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND), hourly from Long Xuyen Bus Station.

    • Xanh SM Electric Taxi: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND).

• From Ho Chi Minh City (250 km, 5–6 hours):

  • Route: Bus from Mien Tay Bus Station to Chau Doc ($10–$20 or 250,000–500,000 VND), then ferry to Chau Phong.

  • Transport Options: Flight to Can Tho ($40–$80 or 1,000,000–2,000,000 VND) + bus ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND).

• Bicycle Rental: $2–$6/day (50,000–150,000 VND), sustainable for Chau Phong or Chau Doc.

• Motorbike Rental: $3–$7/day (75,000–175,000 VND), ideal for rural areas like Tri Ton (40 km).

• Cyclo: $1–$4/hour (25,000–100,000 VND), traditional in Chau Doc.

• Xanh SM Electric Taxi: $0.50–$1/km (12,500–25,000 VND), eco-friendly for longer trips.

• Public Bus: $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND) for urban routes.

• Tip: Book rentals or taxis 1–2 days ahead; confirm ferry schedules at Chau Doc Market.

Pack these essentials for a sustainable and respectful visit:

• Clothing: Lightweight attire, sturdy sandals, hat; waterproof poncho ($3–$6 or 75,000–150,000 VND) for rainy season; modest clothing (long sleeves, no shorts, headscarves for women) for mosque entry.

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

• Mosque Tour: $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).

• Weaving Workshop: $10–$25 (250,000–625,000 VND).

• Souvenirs: Brocade scarves or handbags ($5–$20 or 125,000–500,000 VND).

• Dining: Tung Lo Mo or Banh Bo Cham ($0.50–$6 or 12,500–150,000 VND).

• Transport:

  • Ferry: $0.20–$0.50 (5,000–12,500 VND).

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

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

  • Cyclo: $1–$4/hour (25,000–100,000 VND).

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

• Accommodation:

  • Budget Homestays (e.g., Chau Doc Eco Homestay): $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 (homestay, dining, bicycle).

  • Mid-Range: $40–$60 (mid-range hotel, guided tours).

  • Luxury: $80–$120 (luxury hotel, premium tours).

• Timing: Visit November–April for festivals like Chol Chnam Thmay (mid-April) and clear skies; May–October for lush scenery and fewer crowds (50–200 daily visitors). Avoid prayer times for non-Muslim visits; mornings (7:00–10:00 AM) are ideal for tours. Expect 500–1,000 visitors during Cham festivals.

• Booking: Reserve tours or workshops 1–2 days ahead through homestays or Legend Travel Group; festival tours need 1–2 weeks. Book accommodations 2–4 weeks ahead for festivals.

• Sustainability: Support Cham artisans with brocade purchases; use reusable totes. Choose bicycles or electric taxis for low emissions.

• Navigation: Save “Masjid Jamiul Azhar, Chau Phong, An Giang Province” in offline maps (Maps.me). Write “Chợ Châu Đốc” or “Phà Châu Giang” for ferry staff.

• Safety: Secure valuables (use money belts, $2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND); theft is a noted risk in crowded areas. Check for typhoons (June–December). Visit Chau Doc General Hospital (Le Loi Street) or dial 113 for emergencies.

• Cultural Respect: Dress modestly (long sleeves, no shorts, headscarves for women); avoid noise during prayers; ask permission before photographing locals or the mosque interior. Remove shoes before entering.

Discover Masjid Jamiul Azhar with our eco-friendly tour packages:

• Cham Cultural Adventure ($90–$130/person, 1 day): Tour Masjid Jamiul Azhar, join a weaving workshop, and taste Tung Lo Mo. Includes guide, eco-transport, meals.

• An Giang Cultural Immersion ($170–$230/person, 2 days): Visit Masjid Jamiul Azhar, Chau Doc Floating Market, and eco-homestays. Includes meals, guide, eco-transport.

• Mekong Delta Eco-Explorer ($420–$580/person, 4 days): Explore Masjid Jamiul Azhar, Tra Su Melaleuca Forest, and Ba Chua Xu Temple 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.

Masjid Jamiul Azhar Mosque, a stunning cultural landmark in Chau Phong, near Chau Doc in An Giang Province, 190 km from Ho Chi Minh City, blends Islamic architecture with the vibrant Cham heritage, drawing thousands yearly. This 17th-century mosque features intricate minarets, arabesque designs, and a serene prayer hall, offering guided tours ($1–$2, 25,000–50,000 VND) and weaving workshops ($5–$10, 125,000–250,000 VND) in the lively village. Legend Travel Group’s An Giang Tours ensure a responsible, immersive An Giang Travel experience, supporting Cham communities through eco-friendly practices like low-impact transport and cultural preservation, with visits to Ba Chua Xu Temple, Tra Su Melaleuca Forest, and culinary delights like bún cá Châu Đốc ($1.50–$3, 37,500–75,000 VND). Contact Legend Travel Group at www.legendtravelgroup.com, info@legendtravelgroup.com, or (+84) 825862222 to browse our featured tours and book your eco-friendly adventure today!
Ready to explore Masjid Jamiul Azhar and Chau Doc’s vibrant heritage? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable Mekong Delta adventure!

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:

• Masjid Jamiul Azhar Information: vietnam.travel, vietnamtourism.org.vn, fme.travel, vietnamamazingtours.com, scootersaigontour.com, angiang.gov.vn, mekongecotravel.com