Soc Trang Travel Guide: Discover the Cultural Heart of the Mekong Delta

Soc Trang, a vibrant cultural hub in the Mekong Delta, now part of the expanded Can Tho City administrative region, is a captivating destination 230 km from Ho Chi Minh City. Renowned for its harmonious blend of Khmer, Vietnamese (Kinh), and Chinese heritage, Soc Trang attracts over 3 million visitors annually with its ancient pagodas, bustling floating markets, and vibrant festivals like Ooc Om Bok. This land of serene rivers, lush orchards, and unique cuisines, such as Bún Nước Lèo, offers an immersive escape into the Mekong Delta’s soul. Soc Trang’s commitment to sustainable tourism, through the “Mekong Green” initiative, ensures eco-friendly experiences. Legend Travel Group, a leading local tour operator, curates sustainable eco-tours to showcase Soc Trang’s treasures. 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 natural stories. Supporting communities in Soc Trang’s central ward and Nga Nam, 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 travel experience. Book our eco-tours via the links on this page and explore Soc Trang 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—Soc Trang’s attractions, from Kh’leang Pagoda to Hồ Bể Eco-Area, are easily accessible, offering a perfect blend of cultural and eco-tourism exploration.

Soc Trang, nestled in the Mekong Delta, spans 3,312 km² with a population of over 1.3 million, where the Khmer community forms a significant 30%. Its fertile lands, crisscrossed by the Hậu River and 1,200 km of canals, support rice farming, fruit orchards, and fisheries, contributing to its vibrant economy. Soc Trang’s cultural tapestry, woven by Kinh, Khmer, and Chinese communities, shines through its 11 national historical sites, including Bat Pagoda, and festivals like Ooc Om Bok, recognized as national intangible heritage in 2015. The region’s natural beauty, from Tân Long Stork Garden to Cồn Mỹ Phước’s orchards, complements its spiritual depth, with over 90 Khmer pagodas showcasing intricate architecture. Soc Trang’s sustainable tourism initiatives, like eco-friendly markets and green transport, make it a must-visit for authentic, responsible travel.

Soc Trang’s attractions blend cultural richness, natural serenity, and vibrant traditions, offering diverse experiences for travelers.

Cultural and Historical Attractions

• Kh’leang Pagoda (Ward 6, 71 Mậu Thân Street): Soc Trang’s oldest temple, built in 1532, is a national relic with a three-tiered main hall (rebuilt 1918) housing 45 Shakyamuni statues. Its Khmer-Chinese-Vietnamese motifs and cultural school make it a spiritual hub. Free entry; donations $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND). Best during Ooc Om Bok (October–November).

• Bat Pagoda (Chùa Dơi, Ward 3, 73B Le Hong Phong Street): A 456-year-old Khmer temple, home to over 1,000 fruit bats and five-clawed pig tombs, recognized as a national relic in 1999. Its vibrant architecture captivates. Free entry; donations $1–$2. Visit at dusk for bat flights.

• Clay Pagoda (Chùa Đất Sét, Ward 5, 286 Tôn Đức Thắng Street): Famous for 1,900 clay Buddha statues, dragon sculptures, and six giant candles burning for decades, this 1929 temple blends art and spirituality. Free entry; donations $1–$2.

• Chén Kiểu Pagoda (Ward 2, 144 Tôn Đức Thắng Street): Known for its intricate Chinese ceramic designs and seven-story tower, this 1815 temple is a national relic. Free entry; donations $1–$2.

• Khmer Museum (Ward 6, 23 Nguyễn Chí Thanh Street): Built in 1938, it houses over 13,000 artifacts showcasing Khmer life, with palm-leaf scriptures and traditional costumes. Free entry; guided tours $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

Natural and Eco-Tourism Sites

• Nga Nam Floating Market (Nga Nam Ward, 30 km from central Soc Trang): A vibrant riverine market where five rivers meet, bustling from 4:00 AM–8:00 AM with boats selling fruits and snacks. Boat rentals $10–$20/hour (250,000–500,000 VND). Best at dawn.

• Tân Long Stork Garden (Long Bình Commune, Nga Nam Ward): A 1.5-hectare sanctuary hosting thousands of storks, offering serene views at dawn or dusk. Entry $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).

• Cồn Mỹ Phước Islet (Nhơn Mỹ Commune, Kế Sách Ward): A Hậu River islet with orchards of mangoes, durians, and longans, vibrant during the Mid-Year Festival (May, lunar calendar). Boat crossing $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND); fruit-picking $2–$5/kg (50,000–125,000 VND).

• Hồ Bể Ecological Tourism Area (Vĩnh Hải Commune, Vĩnh Châu Ward): A pristine coastal site with white sand beaches and affordable seafood ($2–$10 or 50,000–250,000 VND). Free entry; camping $5–$10/night (125,000–250,000 VND).

• Binh An Ecological Tourism Area (Ward 2, 71 Mậu Thân 68 Street): A 5-hectare eco-park with lotus ponds, cycling, and Khmer performances. Entry $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND); activities $2–$10 (50,000–250,000 VND).

Festivals

• Ooc Om Bok Festival (October–November, lunar calendar): A national intangible heritage event with moon-worshipping, Ngo boat races, and lantern releases along the Maspero River. Free entry; premium seats $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

• Khmer New Year (Chol Chnam Thmay, mid-April): Features temple rituals, traditional dances, and communal feasts. Free entry; donations $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).

Soc Trang’s cuisine is a delicious reflection of its Khmer, Vietnamese, and Chinese influences, offering bold flavors and fresh ingredients. Here are must-try dishes:

• Bún Nước Lèo: An Asian Record dish (2023), this rice vermicelli soup features a spicy, clear broth with snakehead fish, shrimp, and herbs like banana blossom. Try it at Quán Quế Nhi (44 Phú Lợi, Ward 2) for $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND). Cooking classes $25–$45 (625,000–1,125,000 VND).

• Bánh Cóng: A crispy Khmer fried cake with rice flour, mung beans, pork, and shrimp, served with herbs and sweet-sour fish sauce. Available at Quán Cô Lý (25 Lê Lợi, Ward 2) for $0.50–$1.50 (12,500–37,500 VND).

• Bánh Pía: A flaky pastry with mung bean, salted egg yolk, and durian, a Chinese-Khmer treat. Buy at Tân Huê Viên (149/8 Mậu Thân 68, Ward 2) for $1–$3/pack (25,000–75,000 VND).

• Bún Gỏi Dà: A refreshing vermicelli salad with shrimp, pork, peanuts, and tamarind-soybean broth, perfect for breakfast at Quán Cô Hằng (13 Nguyễn Văn Hữu, Ward 1) for $1–$2.50 (25,000–62,500 VND).

• Bánh In: A sticky Khmer glutinous rice cake with mung bean filling, offered during Ooc Om Bok at Soc Trang Central Market for $0.50–$1.50 (12,500–37,500 VND).

Where to Eat: Soc Trang Central Market (Ward 2) and Nga Nam Floating Market offer authentic street food from 6:00 AM–6:00 PM and 4:00 AM–8:00 AM, respectively. Vĩnh Châu Night Market (Vinh Chau Ward) is ideal for evening snacks (5:00 PM–10:00 PM). Pair dishes with lotus tea ($0.50 or 12,500 VND) for a traditional touch.

• By Air: Fly to Can Tho International Airport (VCA), 60 km away, 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). Eco-van transfers to Soc Trang cost $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND, 1–1.5 hours).

• By Bus: From Ho Chi Minh City (5–6 hours, $6–$15 or 150,000–375,000 VND) via Phuong Trang (Futa Bus) from Mien Tay Bus Station. From Can Tho (1–1.5 hours, $3–$6 or 75,000–150,000 VND). Book via Baolau or Vexere.

• By Car/Motorbike: Drive 230–250 km from Ho Chi Minh City via National Highway 1A (3.5–5 hours, fuel $15–$30 or 375,000–750,000 VND) or the ferry route through Ben Tre and Trà Vinh (4–6 hours, ferry $1–$4 or 25,000–100,000 VND).
  Tip: Book eco-vans via Legend Travel Group for sustainable travel; use Maps.me for navigation.

The dry season (November–April, 25–34°C or 77–93.2°F) is ideal for exploring markets, pagodas, and eco-areas, with February–April perfect for Khmer New Year. The rainy season (May–October, 22–30°C or 71.6–86°F) offers lush greenery and 15–25% discounts, but August–October flooding may affect rural sites. Ooc Om Bok Festival (October–November) is a cultural highlight, with accommodation prices rising 10–20%. Visit markets early (6:00 AM–9:00 AM) or eco-areas at dusk (5:00 PM–7:00 PM) for optimal experiences. Check AccuWeather for forecasts.

Attractions:

• Pagodas, Museums: Free; donations $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).

• Tân Long, Binh An, Hồ Bể: $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).

• Nga Nam Market: Boat rentals $10–$20/hour (250,000–500,000 VND).

• Cồn Mỹ Phước: Boat $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND); fruit $2–$5/kg (50,000–125,000 VND).

• Guided Tours: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

• Workshops/Cooking Classes: $10–$45 (250,000–1,125,000 VND).

Transport in Soc Trang:

• Taxi/Grab (1–5 km): $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND).

• Motorbike Rental: $5–$10/day (125,000–250,000 VND); fuel $1–$2/liter (25,000–50,000 VND).

• River Boat: $10–$20/hour (250,000–500,000 VND, shared).

• Bicycle Rental: $1–$2/day (25,000–50,000 VND).

Dining:

• Street Food (e.g., Bún Nước Lèo, Bánh Cóng): $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 (Ward 2/3):

• Homestays/Guesthouses: $10–$25/night (250,000–625,000 VND).

• Hotels: $20–$80/night (500,000–2,000,000 VND).

• Resorts: $120–$300/night (3,000,000–7,500,000 VND).

Total Daily Cost (Excluding Tours):

• Budget: $15–$40 (homestay, street food, bike rental).

• Mid-range: $40–$80 (hotel, dining, taxi).

• Luxury: $80–$150 (upscale hotel, premium dining, eco-van).

Tip: Use ATMs in Soc Trang Central Ward; carry VND for small transactions. Book early for festivals to save 15–20%.

• Book Early: Reserve flights, hotels, and tours 3–5 weeks in advance via Legend Travel Group (+84 938 987 654) or platforms like Booking.com for peak seasons like Ooc Om Bok.

• Navigation: Download offline maps (Maps.me) or MyCanTho app. Central wards are walkable; use bikes for rural sites like Nga Nam (30 km).

• Sustainability: Choose bicycles or electric boats; buy from local vendors; use reusable bags and bottles to align with Mekong Green initiatives.

• Cultural Respect: Dress modestly at pagodas (covered shoulders, knees); say “cảm ơn” (thank you); tip vendors/guides ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND); avoid touching artifacts or wildlife.

• Health Precautions: Apply mosquito repellent for rural sites; bring sunscreen (SPF 50+); stay hydrated during festivals.

• Safety: Secure valuables in crowded markets or festivals; avoid flooded rural routes in August–October.

Discover Soc Trang with our sustainable tours, designed to complement your visit:

• Soc Trang Cultural Tour ($55–$75/person): Kh’leang Pagoda, Bat Pagoda, Khmer Museum, calligraphy workshops. Includes bike rentals, eco-transfers, and snacks.

• Mekong River Adventure ($60–$80/person): Nga Nam Floating Market, Cồn Mỹ Phước, Hậu River cruise. Includes electric boat transfers and lunch.

• Soc Trang Nature Tour ($65–$85/person): Tân Long Stork Garden, Hồ Bể, Binh An Eco-Area. Includes eco-transfers and meals.

• Soc Trang Festival Tour ($70–$90/person, October–November): Ooc Om Bok Festival, Ngo boat races, Bánh In tastings. Includes eco-transfers and dining.

• Soc Trang Foodie Tour ($50–$70/person): Soc Trang Central Market, Bún Nước Lèo, Bánh Pía, cooking classes. 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

Soc Trang Region, Can Tho City, a Mekong Delta treasure located 230 km from Ho Chi Minh City, captivates with its blend of Khmer pagodas, vibrant markets, and delectable cuisines, drawing thousands yearly. From the spiritual serenity of Kh’leang Pagoda, a 16th-century Khmer relic, to the lively Ooc Om Bok Festival with its Ngo boat races and moon worship on the 15th day of the 10th lunar month, and the tangy flavors of Bún Gỏi Dà (rice noodle salad with fish sauce, $1–$2 per bowl, 25,000–50,000 VND), Soc Trang offers a rich cultural and natural experience. Legend Travel Group’s Soc Trang Tours guide you sustainably through this vibrant region, ensuring a green Soc Trang Travel journey with eco-friendly practices like low-emission transport and community-led conservation, alongside visits to Nga Nam Floating Market and Bat Pagoda. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your eco-friendly adventure today!
Ready to explore Soc Trang’s cultural wonders? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable journey in the Mekong Delta!

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:

• Soc Trang Information: vietnam.travel, vietnamtourism.org.vn, mekong-delta-tours.com, vemekong.com, vietnamoriginal-travel.com