Rice Steamed in Lotus Leaves: A Flavorful Delicacy of Dong Thap’s Mekong Delta

Nestled in the lush Mekong Delta, now part of Tien Giang Province, Dong Thap Ward is celebrated for its iconic Rice Steamed in Lotus Leaves (Cơm Hấp Lá Sen), a fragrant, colorful dish that captivates food enthusiasts worldwide. Known as the “Land of Pink Lotus,” this region produces a unique culinary masterpiece using sticky rice, lotus seeds, and local ingredients wrapped in lotus leaves, drawing thousands of visitors annually. Legend Travel Group, a leading sustainable tour operator, enhances your culinary journey with eco-friendly food tours, connecting you to Dong Thap’s rich traditions and local communities. Book your adventure via links throughout this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com!

Administrative Update

As of July 1, 2025, Dong Thap Province has merged into Tien Giang Province, with My Tho as the administrative center. Dong Thap is now a ward, but its culinary fame, particularly for Cơm Hấp Lá Sen, remains vibrant, supported by upgraded infrastructure like cycling paths, electric boat networks, and a VND600 billion flood control project, ensuring easy access to dining and eco-tourism sites.

With 17 years of expertise, Legend Travel Group is Southeast Asia’s premier sustainable tourism operator, dedicated to preserving Vietnam’s culinary and cultural heritage. Our Dong Thap food tours pair Cơm Hấp Lá Sen tastings with eco-friendly activities like cycling and electric boat rides, guided by local experts who share the region’s traditions and sustainable practices. Supporting communities in Dong Thap, My Tho, and Sa Dec, we align with Tien Giang’s “Green Delta” initiative. Enjoy transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support. Book our tours via links on this page for an authentic, eco-conscious culinary experience!

Located in the Dong Thap Muoi region, 160 km southwest of Ho Chi Minh City, Dong Thap Ward is renowned for Cơm Hấp Lá Sen, a dish that embodies the area’s lotus-centric culture. The region’s tropical monsoon climate features a dry season (December–April, 25–34°C or 77–93.2°F) and a rainy season (May–November, 22–30°C or 71.6–86°F, with peak rainfall of 100–400 mm in August–October). This delicacy, made with glutinous rice, lotus seeds, green beans, and black sesame, is steamed in lotus leaves for a fragrant, nutty flavor, making it a must-try for visitors seeking authentic Mekong Delta cuisine.

Cơm Hấp Lá Sen stands out for its unique qualities:

• Distinctive Flavor: The lotus leaves impart a subtle, aromatic flavor to the sticky rice, complemented by nutty lotus seeds, green beans, and sesame, creating a rich, earthy taste.

• Visual Appeal: The vibrant green lotus leaves unwrap to reveal colorful ingredients, often topped with minced pork or shrimp for added flair.

• Cultural Significance: A traditional dish of the Dong Thap Muoi region, it reflects the area’s lotus-based agriculture and is a staple at festivals like Thap Muoi Lotus Festival.

• Sustainable Ingredients: Locally sourced lotus leaves and seeds from nearby fields support eco-friendly farming practices.

• Versatile Pairings: Served with lotus tea, fresh herbs, or fish sauce, it’s a versatile dish enjoyed as a main course or snack.

1. Savor Cơm Hấp Lá Sen at Local Eateries

Taste this fragrant dish at renowned spots like Sen Le Bo Ecotourism Area or Nha Hang Sen Viet, paired with lotus tea or local rice wine.

• Cost: $3–$10 (75,000–250,000 VND) per portion; drinks $0.50–$3 (12,500–75,000 VND).

• Hours: Typically 8:00 AM–8:00 PM daily.

• Highlights: Lotus-wrapped rice with shrimp topping, fresh herb sides.

• Tips: Try with chili fish sauce for extra flavor; included in our Dong Thap Foodie Tour ($65–$85).

2. Join a Cooking Class

Learn to prepare Cơm Hấp Lá Sen in workshops led by local chefs, using fresh lotus leaves and regional ingredients.

• Cost: $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND).

• Hours: 8:00 AM–4:00 PM daily.

• Highlights: Hands-on steaming, wrapping techniques, tasting your creation.

• Tips: Book through local cooperatives; included in our Dong Thap Foodie Tour ($65–$85).

3. Visit Lotus Fields

Explore lotus fields in My Hoa or Tan Quy Dong to see where the leaves and seeds are sourced, often combined with eco-friendly boat tours.

• Cost: Tours $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND); entry free.

• Hours: 7:00 AM–5:00 PM daily.

• Highlights: Vibrant lotus blooms, farmer interactions.

• Tips: Visit in August–October for peak blooms; included in our Dong Thap Eco-Tour ($70–$90).

4. Experience Local Markets

Sample Cơm Hấp Lá Sen at Cao Lanh Market or Sa Dec Night Market, alongside other specialties like Nem Lai Vungand tangerines.

• Cost: $2–$6 (50,000–150,000 VND) per portion; snacks $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

• Hours: 5:00 AM–10:00 PM daily (peak 6:00–8:00 PM for night markets).

• Highlights: Freshly prepared dishes, vibrant stalls.

• Tips: Arrive by 7:00 AM for freshest offerings; included in our Dong Thap Foodie Tour ($65–$85).

5. Combine with Eco-Tourism Attractions

Pair your culinary experience with visits to Tram Chim National Park (40 km), Sa Dec Flower Village (30 km), or Huynh Thuy Le Ancient House (30 km).

• Cost: Boat tours $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND); bike rentals $2–$4/day (50,000–100,000 VND).

• Highlights: Sarus Cranes, floral markets, historical relics.

• Tips: Book through Sa Dec River Tours (+84) 930 234 789; included in our Dong Thap Eco-Tour ($70–$90).

• By Bus:

  • Ho Chi Minh City (Mien Tay Bus Station) to Cao Lanh/Sa Dec: $10–$18 (250,000–450,000 VND, 3–4 hours).

  • My Tho to Cao Lanh/Sa Dec: $4–$7 (100,000–175,000 VND, 1–1.5 hours). Providers: Phuong Trang (+84) 1900 6067.

• By Car/Taxi:

  • Ho Chi Minh City to Cao Lanh/Sa Dec: $30–$50 (750,000–1,250,000 VND, 3–4 hours). Route: Ho Chi Minh City–Trung Luong Expressway–National Highway 1A–National Route 80.

  • My Tho to Cao Lanh/Sa Dec: $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND, 1–1.5 hours). Providers: Mai Linh Taxi (+84) 2773 686 868, Grab app.

• By Motorbike:

  • Ho Chi Minh City to Cao Lanh/Sa Dec: $6–$12/day (150,000–300,000 VND, 3–4 hours). Rent at Mekong Moto Rentals (+84) 938 456 789.

• Tips:

  • Book buses online via VeXeRe or Baolau; use offline maps (Maps.me) with Cao Lanh Market as a landmark.

  • Transfers included in our Mekong Delta Immersion ($300–$450).

• Rainy Season (May–November): Ideal for lush lotus fields, especially August–October during the floating season when fresh lotus leaves are abundant; 15–25% tour discounts.

• Dry Season (December–April): Perfect for dining and Tet festivals (January–February); book 3–4 weeks in advance.

• Tips: Visit in August for peak lotus harvests; check AccuWeather for rainy season updates.

• Sen Le Bo Ecotourism Area (My Hoa, 30 km from Cao Lanh): Lotus-wrapped rice with shrimp or pork. $3–$10 (75,000–250,000 VND). Address: My Hoa Commune, Thap Muoi. Open: 9:00 AM–7:00 PM. Tel: (+84) 918 107 132.

• Nha Hang Sen Viet (Sa Dec, 30 km): Cơm Hấp Lá Sen with lotus tea. $4–$15 (100,000–375,000 VND). Address: 85 Nguyen Hue, Sa Dec. Open: 10:00 AM–9:00 PM. Tel: (+84) 927 345 678.

• Sa Dec Night Market (Sa Dec, 30 km): Street stalls with affordable lotus rice. $2–$6 (50,000–150,000 VND). Address: Tran Hung Dao Street. Open: 4:00 PM–10:00 PM.

• Hotels and Homestays:

  • Lotus Haven Homestay: Tan Quy Dong, Sa Dec (30 km). $15–$30/night (375,000–750,000 VND). Tel: (+84) 939 123 456.

  • Mekong Charm Hotel: 120 Tran Hung Dao, Sa Dec (30 km). $25–$60/night (625,000–1,500,000 VND). Tel: (+84) 927 345 678.

  • Sen Vang Resort: Cao Lanh (10 km). $90–$180/night (2,250,000–4,500,000 VND). Tel: (+84) 913 789 123.

• Restaurants:

  • Pho Sa Dec (Sa Dec, 30 km): Rice noodle soup, lotus rice sides. $3–$8 (75,000–200,000 VND). Open: 7:00 AM–8:00 PM.

  • Tam Nong Local Eatery (Tam Nong, 40 km): Rustic lotus rice dishes. $3–$10 (75,000–250,000 VND). Open: 8:00 AM–8:00 PM.

• Cafes:

  • Sa Dec River Cafe (Sa Dec, 30 km): Riverside views, coffee $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND). Open: 7:00 AM–10:00 PM.

  • Tam Nong Lotus Cafe (Tam Nong, 40 km): Lotus tea, coffee $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND). Open: 8:00 AM–8:00 PM.

Tip: Support local eateries using organic lotus leaves; carry VND for small vendors.

Pack these essentials for a sustainable culinary visit:

• Clothing: Lightweight attire for dry season; waterproof jacket ($3–$6 or 75,000–150,000 VND) for rainy season. Modest clothing for cultural respect.

• Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat.

• Travel Essentials: Mosquito repellent, reusable water bottle, compact umbrella.

• Tech Gear: Smartphone for photos; portable charger for market visits.

• Documents: Passport, travel insurance, tour confirmations, VND (50,000–200,000 notes).

• Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote bag for souvenirs, straw to support sustainability.

Tip: Use a small backpack for convenience; carry VND for market vendors.

• Dining:

  • Cơm Hấp Lá Sen: $2–$10 (50,000–250,000 VND) per portion.

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

• Activities:

  • Cooking classes: $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND).

  • Lotus field tours: $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).

  • Market visits: Free entry; snacks $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

• Accommodation:

  • Homestays: $15–$30/night (375,000–750,000 VND).

  • Hotels: $25–$60/night (625,000–1,500,000 VND).

• Transport to Dong Thap:

  • Bus from Ho Chi Minh City: $10–$18 (250,000–450,000 VND).

  • Taxi from My Tho: $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND).

Total Daily Cost:

• Budget: $20–$50 (homestay, market dining, local transport).

• Mid-range: $50–$100 (hotel, cooking classes, dining).

• Luxury: $100–$200 (hotel, private tours, upscale dining).

Tip: Carry VND for small transactions; ATMs are available in Cao Lanh and Sa Dec.

• Book Early: Reserve tours via Legend Travel Group (WhatsApp: +84825862222, email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com) 3–4 weeks in advance, especially for Tet or peak season (December–April).

• Seasonal Tips:

  • Dry Season: Ideal for dining and market visits; pack sunscreen.

  • Rainy Season: Lush lotus fields; bring waterproof gear.

• Sustainability: Support restaurants using local lotus leaves; avoid single-use plastics.

• Navigation: Download offline maps (Maps.me); save Sen Le Bo as a landmark.

• Safety: Secure valuables at busy markets; confirm prices before ordering.

• Cultural Respect: Greet vendors with “xin chào” (hello); tip chefs or guides $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

• Health: Stay hydrated ($0.50 or 12,500 VND per bottle); apply mosquito repellent near lotus fields.

Our eco-friendly tours showcase Cơm Hấp Lá Sen and beyond:

• Dong Thap Foodie Tour ($65–$85/person): Taste Cơm Hấp Lá Sen at Sen Le Bo, visit Sa Dec Night Market, join a lotus rice cooking class. Includes eco-transfers, meals, guide.

• Dong Thap Eco-Tour ($70–$90/person): Enjoy lotus rice, cycle through Sa Dec Flower Village, take an electric boat tour in Tram Chim National Park. Includes transfers, snacks, guide.

• Dong Thap Cultural Tour ($60–$80/person): Pair lotus rice dining with visits to Huynh Thuy Le Ancient House, Thap Muoi Lotus Festival. Includes eco-transfers, lunch, guide.

• Mekong Delta Immersion ($300–$450/person, 2–3 days): Savor lotus rice, explore Xeo Quyt, stay at homestays ($15–$30/night). Includes meals, activities, eco-transfers.

Prices include English-speaking guides, eco-transfers, and fees. Get 10% off for groups of 8+ or seasonal promotions. Book via links around this page!

Cơm Hấp Lá Sen in Dong Thap’s lotus fields is a fragrant, colorful delicacy that embodies the Mekong Delta’s lotus-centric heritage. Legend Travel Group’s Dong Thap Tours guide you to savor this iconic dish, ensuring a sustainable Dong Thap Travel experience while exploring vibrant markets and eco-tourism sites responsibly, supporting local communities. Don’t miss out—plan your culinary adventure with our guide and book your eco-conscious tour today!
Ready to taste the aromatic Cơm Hấp Lá Sen in Dong Thap’s lotus fields? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and immerse in the Mekong Delta’s culinary charm!

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.

Source: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group