Discover the Oc Eo – Ba The Relic in An Giang, a UNESCO-nominated site of the ancient Phu Nam Kingdom. Book eco-friendly tours with Legend Travel Group for a cultural Mekong Delta adventure.
Capture the historic essence of Oc Eo – Ba The’s archaeological gem (Source: Internet)The Oc Eo – Ba The Relic, located in Thoai Son commune, An Giang Province, is a remarkable archaeological site that unveils the rich history of the Phu Nam Kingdom (1st–8th century), a powerful Southeast Asian civilization. Far surpassing its outdated image as a niche historical site, this 433-hectare special national monument, recognized by Vietnam’s Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, offers a profound glimpse into ancient trade, architecture, and culture. 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 lush surroundings, with the merger of Kien Giang into An Giang Province adding coastal destinations like Ha Tien (120 km from Oc Eo). As An Giang pushes for UNESCO World Cultural Heritage status, Oc Eo attracts history enthusiasts, archaeologists, and travelers seeking sustainable cultural experiences near Chau Doc.
Legend Travel Group, a sustainable tourism leader since 2008, offers eco-friendly tours to Oc Eo, using bicycles and electric vehicles to connect you with this ancient legacy while preserving the environment. Contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com to book your journey.
Use “Thoai Son, An Giang Province” or “Chau Doc, An Giang Province” for navigation. Oc Eo – Ba The Relic is in Thoai Son commune, 25 km from Chau Doc and 35 km from Long Xuyen, An Giang’s administrative center. Ha Tien (Kien Giang ward) is 120 km away. The merger of Kien Giang into An Giang Province, effective July 1, 2025, 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 Oc Eo tours feature eco-friendly transport, English-speaking guides with deep archaeological knowledge, and partnerships with local communities to preserve cultural 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 the province’s 10 million visitor goal.
Photograph the timeless allure of Oc Eo – Ba The’s legacy (Source: Internet)Discovered in 1944 by French archaeologist Louis Malleret, the Oc Eo – Ba The Relic is a sprawling 4,500-hectare site at the foot of Ba The Mountain, showcasing the Phu Nam Kingdom’s advanced urban planning, trade networks, and religious architecture. Known as the “Oc Eo city,” it was a bustling port connecting ancient Vietnam with India, Malaysia, and Rome, as evidenced by artifacts like gold jewelry, terracotta statues, and Roman coins. The site includes 84 Oc Eo cultural relics across An Giang, with highlights like Linh Son Pagoda, Nam Linh Son Temple, and the Oc Eo Cultural Exhibition House, displaying over 1,000 artifacts from 12 excavated wells and tombs. Recognized as a Special National Relic in 1998, Oc Eo is under consideration for UNESCO World Cultural Heritage status, reflecting its global historical significance.
Sustainable tourism initiatives, supported by An Giang’s Trade and Investment Promotion Center, ensure preservation through eco-friendly infrastructure and community involvement. In 2023, the site welcomed over 27,000 visitors, a number growing as archaeological tourism gains popularity among domestic and international travelers, including delegations from the US, Korea, and Thailand.
The Phu Nam Kingdom, thriving from the 1st to 8th centuries, was a maritime powerhouse with sophisticated irrigation systems, evidenced by the Vinh Te Canal, and a blend of Hindu-Buddhist influences seen in temple ruins and statues. Oc Eo’s artifacts—gold, copper, stone, and terracotta—reveal a society skilled in metallurgy and trade, with cultural exchanges across Southeast Asia. The site’s preservation, backed by An Giang University and the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism, educates visitors on ancient Mekong Delta life, fostering pride in Vietnam’s heritage and responsibility to protect it.
Immerse yourself in these archaeological and cultural activities:
Oc Eo Cultural Exhibition House Tour ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND): Explore artifacts like gold jewelry, terracotta statues, and Roman coins, with guided explanations of Phu Nam’s trade networks. Takes 1–2 hours.
Archaeological Site Exploration ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND): Visit excavated wells, tombs, and temple ruins at Ba The Mountain, guided by local experts. Includes insights into Phu Nam’s urban planning.
Linh Son Pagoda and Nam Linh Son Temple (free entry): Discover Hindu-Buddhist influences in ancient architecture, ideal for photography and reflection.
Local Cuisine Tasting: Savor An Giang specialties near Thoai Son Market, like Bun Ca Chau Doc ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND) or Banh Bo Cham (palm sugar rice cakes, $0.50–$2 or 12,500–50,000 VND).
Nearby Attractions:
Chau Doc Floating Market (25 km, $5–$25 or 125,000–625,000 VND for boat tours): Experience river trade and taste local dishes.
Ba Chua Xu Temple (20 km, free entry): UNESCO-recognized spiritual site, vibrant during April/May festivals.
Tra Su Melaleuca Forest (25 km, $8–$20 or 200,000–500,000 VND): Biodiverse reserve for birdwatching, best August–November.
Chau Phong Weaving Village (30 km via ferry, $5–$15 or 125,000–375,000 VND for tours): Learn Cham brocade weaving.
Experience Oc Eo – Ba The Tours with sustainable adventures (Source: Internet)November–April (Dry Season, 24–32°C or 75.2–89.6°F): Ideal for outdoor exploration, archaeological tours, and festivals like Ba Chua Xu (April/May, 10,000+ visitors) and Chol Chnam Thmay (mid-April, 1,000+ 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 greenery and fewer crowds (50–200 daily visitors) make it budget-friendly. Best for flood-season experiences like Tra Su Melaleuca Forest. Bring rain gear ($3–$6 or 75,000–150,000 VND). Last-minute bookings often available.
Festival Seasons:
Ba Chua Xu Festival (April/May): Combines temple visits with Oc Eo tours, 10,000+ visitors. Book 2–4 weeks ahead.
Khmer Cow Racing Festival (Late September): In Tri Ton (15 km), features local crafts, 2,000+ visitors. Book 1–2 weeks ahead.
Timing Tip: Visit mornings (7:00–10:00 AM) for cooler weather and active guided tours; afternoons for relaxed exploration.
From Chau Doc (25 km, 30–45 minutes):
Route: From Chau Doc Market (Le Loi Street), take National Highway 91 to Provincial Road 943, then follow signs to Oc Eo town and Ba The Mountain.
Transport Options:
Motorbike: $3–$7/day (75,000–175,000 VND), requires International Driving Permit.
Bicycle: $2–$6/day (50,000–150,000 VND), sustainable but slower (1.5–2 hours).
Xanh SM Electric Taxi: $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND), eco-friendly, book via app 1–2 days ahead.
Private Minivan: $8–$15 (200,000–375,000 VND) via tour operators, ideal for groups.
Navigation Tip: Save “Oc Eo, Thoai Son, An Giang Province” in offline maps (Maps.me). Roads are paved but narrow; watch for livestock.
From Long Xuyen (35 km, 45–60 minutes):
Route: Take National Highway 91 to Provincial Road 943 to Oc Eo.
Transport Options:
Bus: $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND), hourly from Long Xuyen Bus Station.
Xanh SM Electric Taxi: $12–$20 (300,000–500,000 VND).
From Ho Chi Minh City (220 km, 5–6 hours):
Route: Bus from Mien Tay Bus Station to Thoai Son ($10–$20 or 250,000–500,000 VND), then motorbike taxi ($2–$4 or 50,000–100,000 VND) to Oc Eo.
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).
Start your Oc Eo – Ba The Travel with tranquil vistas (Source: Internet)Bicycle Rental: $2–$6/day (50,000–150,000 VND), sustainable for Thoai Son or Chau Doc.
Motorbike Rental: $3–$7/day (75,000–175,000 VND), ideal for rural areas like Tri Ton (15 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), sustainable 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; use Tìm Buýt app for bus schedules.
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 for cultural sites.
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).
Learn Oc Eo – Ba The’s heritage with expert insights (Source: Internet)Site Entry and Tours:
Exhibition House: $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND).
Archaeological Tour: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).
Dining:
Bun Ca Chau Doc at Thoai Son Market: $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND).
Coffee at local stalls: $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND).
Transport:
Bicycle Rental: $2–$6/day (50,000–150,000 VND).
Motorbike Rental: $3–$7/day (75,000–175,000 VND).
Xanh SM Electric Taxi: $0.50–$1/km (12,500–25,000 VND).
Private Minivan: $8–$15 (200,000–375,000 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 during the dry season (November–April) for clear skies and festivals like Ba Chua Xu (April/May). Rainy season (May–October) offers lush scenery; bring rain gear. Morning tours (7:00–10:00 AM) are cooler; afternoons for relaxed exploration. Expect 50–200 daily visitors, peaking during festivals (1,000+).
Booking: Reserve tours 1–2 days ahead through Legend Travel Group; festival tours need 1–2 weeks. Accommodations require 1–2 weeks for dry season, 2–4 weeks for festivals.
Sustainability: Support local vendors with purchases like mam (fish paste, $2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND). Use reusable totes; choose bicycles or electric taxis for low emissions.
Navigation: Save “Oc Eo, Thoai Son, An Giang Province” in offline maps (Maps.me). Write “Di tich Oc Eo – Ba The” in Vietnamese for locals.
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 Thoai Son Hospital (5 km) or dial 113 for emergencies.
Cultural Respect: Greet with “xin chào”; dress modestly at pagodas (long sleeves, no shorts); ask permission before photographing artifacts or locals.
Discover Oc Eo with our eco-friendly tour packages:
Oc Eo Cultural Adventure ($90–$130/person, 1 day): Explore the Oc Eo Cultural Exhibition House, Ba The Mountain ruins, and taste Bun Ca Chau Doc. Includes guide, eco-transport, meals.
An Giang Cultural Immersion ($170–$230/person, 2 days): Visit Oc Eo, Chau Doc Floating Market, and Chau Phong Weaving Village with eco-homestays. Includes meals, guide, eco-transport.
Mekong Delta Eco-Explorer ($420–$580/person, 4 days): Explore Oc Eo, 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.
Oc Eo – Ba The Relic in An Giang’s Thoai Son commune, near Chau Doc, is a captivating portal to the Phu Nam Kingdom’s ancient legacy, offering archaeological tours, cultural exhibits, and sustainable exploration. With its UNESCO nomination and vibrant Mekong Delta setting, it’s a must-visit for history lovers. Legend Travel Group’s An Giang Tours guide you through this archaeological treasure, ensuring a sustainable An Giang Travel experience that supports local communities and preserves An Giang’s heritage. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your eco-tour today to uncover this Mekong Delta treasure!
Ready to explore Oc Eo – Ba The Relic and Chau Doc’s vibrant culture? Reserve your eco-tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable Mekong Delta adventure!
Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights and guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.
Sources: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group.
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