Chau Doc - Explore the Gateway between Vietnam and Cambodia

Chau Doc is one of the cities of An Giang with an important location for the economic development of Mekong Delta. Chau Doc has the international border crossing of Tinh Bien which associates the two countries - Vietnam and Cambodia. With the convenient location, the city has become an interesting destination for those who wish to visit Vietnam and extend their journey to Cambodia on Vietnam to Cambodia river cruises.

Things to see and do in Chau Doc

1. Floating village

The most fascinating attraction in Chau Doc is floating village - a unique culture of locals in the water area. Canoes and junks are the main means of transport of each family in this floating village. Here, each raft is just like a house connected together spreading along the river banks. You could enjoy a boat ride to glide along the river and get a true insight into the local way of life.

» Read More: 5 Famous Floating Markets in Mekong Delta

You will cross Chau Giang ferry port to get Con Tien where you can see the community of Cham people living in An Giang. The village is tranquil with Mosques and many unique traditional stilt houses. Visiting Cham village, you have the chance to learn more about local culture and enjoy unique cuisine of the region.

2. Tay An Pagoda

Tay An is a famous ancient pagoda in An Giang with the high value of history and architecture. The design of the pagoda is influenced by Indian and Muslim art combined with Vietnamese old architecture. Tay An Pagoda is not only a pilgrimage place but also a famous attraction of An Giang.

3. Sam Mountain

Located 284 meters at the plain area, Sam Mountain along with other mountains in Bay Nui region are highlights creating charming views of the Southwestern. You could take a walk while enjoying the beautiful views along the mountain slope.

4. Hang Pagoda

Located on the slope of Sam Mountain, Hang Pagoda is a tourist attraction of An Giang. It is situated in a peaceful area, separately from Sam Mountain relic complex. From the inherent beauty of nature as well as the construction of human beings, Hang Pagoda has become an interesting attraction for tourists. In addition, there are many other interesting attractions in Chau Doc you should visit such as Cam Mountain or Tra Su cajuput forest.

Best time to visit Chau Doc

Like other areas in the western of Vietnam, Chau Doc features tropical climate with 2 rainy seasons and 2 sunny seasons. The weather in Chau Doc, in general, is suitable to visit all year round.

In the rainy season from May to October, the level of water rises. If you travel in this season, you can get an authentic way of life of the locals in the water region. The rest of the year, it is often hot but it is not a problem to visit the city.

• Consider one of our river cruises from Vietnam to Cambodia and get chance to discover Chau Doc

How to get to Chau Doc

1. By Coach

From Ho Chi Minh City, it takes you around 6 hours to get to Chau Doc. You can easily get the ticket at Mien Tay Coach Station. From neighboring cities such as Da Lat, Nha Trang, Vung Tau, Phan Thiet, if you want to travel to Chau Doc, you need to take a coach from these cities to Ho Chi Minh City and then continuing onto Chau Doc by coach.

From Da Nang, Ha Noi: You could book a plane ticket to Ho Chi Minh City or take a train to this city and then travel by coach to Chau Doc.

2. By Motorbike

If you are an adventure lover, you could get to Chau Doc by motorbike. Your journey will start from Ho Chi Minh City, driving along 1A Highway towards Tien Giang. After crossing My Thuan Bridge, continue along Highway 80 to get to Sa Dec. You will then past Vam Cong ferry port to Long Xuyen City, going along 90 Highway to reach Chau Doc.

How to get around in Chau Doc

• Bicycle: You could ask to hire bicycles at your hotel or at travel agencies located in the center of Chau Doc. Exploring this beautiful city by bicycle is an interesting experience you should try.
• Trishaw: You could also enjoy your journey with a unique experience on trishaw - a typical vehicle in western cities. You could hire a trishaw at the center, the area near the market or in front of your hotel.
• Bus: There is a bus route in Chau Doc from the center to Sam Mountain, Tinh Bien, so you can experience this kind of vehicle to explore these sights.
• Taxi and motorbike: Like in other cities, you could hire a motorbike at travel agencies in the center. If you wish, you can take a taxi to explore the city.
• Boat and ferry: To visit some places such as floating villages or the Cham village, you should take a ferry or hire a boat at Chau Doc Travel Port to enjoy the stunning tour on the water.