Mekong Tour to visit Dao Dua Relic Site: One of the richest cultural and spiritual heritages in Vietnam, founded in the 1960s by Nguyễn Thành Nam, this site is characterized by unique architecture made of coconut shells, bamboo, and palm leaves that reflect a mix between Buddhism, Christianity, and local folklore.
It provides an inside view into the culture and history of the Mekong Delta, which includes knowledge about the Coconut Religion, natural beauty, and hospitality.
Activities Highlights in My Tho-Ben Tre: Mekong Tour visiting Dao Dua Relic Site
Ben Tre
Highlights of Activities in My Tho – Ben Tre: Mekong Tour to Visit Dao Dua Relic Site
Overview of Key Activities and Attractions for the Mekong Tour to visit Dao Dua Relic Site
Our full-day My Tho-Ben Tre excursion is full of exciting, enriching activities that express the best of the Mekong Delta. From making traditional candies to serene rides on boats and engaging in cultural interactions, this tour will remain in your memory forever.
Visiting Traditional Candy-Making Facilities
One of the many high points of this trip is to visit a local coconut candy workshop. Here, you:
- Beginning from cracking coconuts to wrapping up the finished products, see the whole stage of coconut candy making.
- Engage in some practical activities like mixing and shaping the confectionery.
- Sample freshly made coconut candy and other coconut-based confections.
Boat Tours and Scenic Views
A major part of the tour is exploring the Mekong Delta waterways by boat. You will:
- Take a breathtaking boat ride along the pitch-black waters of the Mekong River, troubled only by the passing of lush green islands and vibrant floating markets.
- Become enveloped in the tranquility of the delta—look out for local wildlife and beautiful vistas.
- Take a ride on a triple-leaf boat during which you will be able to negotiate some narrow canals shaded by water coconut palms that give you closer views of the delta’s natural environment
Interaction with Local Culture and Traditions
Also core to the tour is immersion in local culture. Activities include:
- Homestays and orchard visits to experience local life in the delta.
- Taste the local honey tea, and learn about old beekeeping customs.
- Take a horse-pulled carriage through green orchards and have time to appreciate the countryside views while mingling with friendly locals.
- Listening to Đờn ca tài tử: traditional southern Vietnamese folk music, performed by local artists. This UNESCO-recognized genre is an immaterial cultural heritage that tenderly brings a soulful peek into the region’s artistic traditions
My Tho – Ben Tre: Mekong Tour to visit Dao Dua Relic Site
07:15 – Departure from Ho Chi Minh City
Good morning, everyone! On behalf of IMPRESS TRAVEL Co., Ltd, let me welcome you to the My Tho-Ben Tre: Mekong Tour to visit the Dao Dua relic site. Today, I am your tour guide, and it’s my honor to take you on this journey throughout the heart of the Mekong Delta.
We will begin the adventure by leaving Ho Chi Minh City at 07:15. You will be collected at your enrolled location in our comfortable air-conditioned bus. Make sure to bring everything you need for the day, including your camera, since many beautiful moments will happen today.
09:00 – Rest Stop at Mekong Tien Giang
On the way, we will stop at the Mekong Tiền Giang Rest Stop en route for about an hour and a half. This will be the perfect opportunity to stretch your legs go to the bathroom, and also have a quick snack. You stay here if you want to see what goods are sold as souvenirs and local specialties. This rest stop caters to local handicraft and delicacy needs, offering a good opportunity to acquire gifts and souvenirs to take back a little of the Mekong Delta home with you
10:00 – Arrive at Chương Dương Pier – My Tho City
En route, we will further advance to Chương Dương Pier in My Tho City. On arrival, we will embark on the aboard boat to start cruising on the Tiền River. Scenic cruiseward vista on the river and countryside on many Violet islands, Long, Lân, Quy, Phụng …. In the sail, you will admire the grandiose Rạch Miễn Bridge, which is the first cable-stayed bridge in the country designed and constructed by Vietnamese engineers themselves
10:30 – Visit Coconut Candy Workshop
Coconut Candy Workshop
We are going to start at a local workshop where the famous coconut candies are produced. Observe how coconut candy is produced, from cracking the coconuts to packaging these sweet delights. Next, you will have a chance to try your hand at making your candy under the guidance of skillful artisans. Such sage hands-on experience with this local well-liked treat will leave you truly appreciative
11:00 – Enjoy Honey Tea and Explore the Orchard by Horse-Drawn Carriage
En we’ll head towards Thới Sơn Island, where you’re going to get refreshed with a nice cup of honey tea made from local honey. With its lush orchards and removed atmosphere, it is an island famous for its chilling vibe. We will take a leisurely horse-drawn carriage ride through the orchard, allowing you to soak up the serene countryside and hear about the different fruits grown here
11:30 – Three-Leaf Boat Ride and Traditional Music Performance
Next, we will get on traditional three-leaf boats and paddle through the narrow canals lined by water coconut palms that help make this a peaceful boat ride to get closer to the natural beauty of the Mekong Delta. While paddling through canals, you will be enveloped with scenes and sounds from the vibrant ecosystem of the delta.
On the way there, stop to taste some fresh tropical fruits and be serenaded with Đờn ca tài tử – Southern Vietnamese folk music. Being listed by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage, the music offers a soulful and genuine view of the artistic customs in the region.
12:30 – Explore Cồn Phụng and Dao Dua Relic Site
We are going to Cồn Phụng to visit the Dao Dua Relic Site. The place is rather unusual and interesting, hence it is also known as the Coconut Religion Sanctuary. Founded by Nguyễn Thành Nam in the 1960s, the Coconut Religion is a syncretic religion that encompasses Buddhism, Christianity, and folk beliefs.
You will see a lot of buildings made from such natural materials as coconut shells, bamboo, and palm leaves at the Yao Dua Relic Site. Its central area is unique in structure and conveys a feeling about the simplicity of religious philosophy and living according to nature. Other learning points include details about his life, and teachings of Nguyễn Thành Nam, alias Coconut Monk, who preached meditation, vegetarian diets, and proximity to nature at this site
13:00 – Lunch at Cồn Phụng
Following the visit to the Dao Dua Relic Site, we will further satisfy your appetite with a lunch of local specialties at a restaurant in Cồn Phụng. You can taste a little of the Mekong Delta through these regional specialties, fresh ingredients, traditional recipes, and what make for a great lunch.
After lunch, you’re going to have a little time on your hands to go around Cồn Phụng by yourself. You can take some strolls in this nice scenery, take some photos, or join the locals to launch activities such as crossing the monkey bridge and feeding fish.
14:30 – Visit Vĩnh Tràng Pagoda
Vinh Trang Pagoda
Stopping next, we will visit Vĩnh Tràng Pagoda, which is one of the biggest and most beautiful pagodas in the Mekong Delta. It is highly famed for its unique architecture, mixing Asian and European design styles into one work. There are three large Buddha statues inside the pagoda, with each reflecting another stage in Buddha’s life.
Inside the pagoda, you will be able to discover more about the history and meaning of it in Vietnamese Buddhism. Serene gardens and intricate carvings give Vĩnh Tràng Pagoda a perfect setting for reflection and calmness.
16:00 – Return to Ho Chi Minh City
Envelope ourselves back in our bus and start driving back to Ho Chi Minh City after visiting Vinh Trang Pagoda. We will probably be back in town by 18:00 and drop you at each passenger’s pick-up point.
Local Specialties to Buy as Souvenirs for the Mekong Tour to visit Dao Dua Relic Site
Hello all! As we go around the wonderful spots in My Tho and Ben Tre, you will find just the right place to grab some local specialties that you can bring home for friends and family. Nobody will ever say no to these gift items, and therefore, you will be sharing with your loved ones a manifestation of the rich culture and flavors of the Mekong Delta
Coconut Candy
First on the list is the famous coconut candy. The sweet treat is concocted with fresh coconut and caramel for that greatest of treats; a melt-in-your-mouth candy experience. You will also see different flavors like durian, pandan, or even peanut. Just watching these local artisans at work is a spectacle worth seeing alone, and some of these candies have got to go home with you!
Bánh Tráng Mỹ Lồng
Next is the Bánh Tráng Mỹ Lồng, a crispy rice paper with sesame seeds and coconut milk. This local specialty is perfect for wrapping up or just as a snack. The blend of coconut milk into it gives it a unique flavor that you won’t find anywhere else.
Bánh Phồng Sơn Đốc
Another specialty that you should not miss is Bánh Phồng Sơn Đốc: a traditional puffed rice cake. The light sweet treat made of glutinous rice and coconut milk will make you feel totally in full indulgence of the Mekong Delta area
Banh Phong Son Doc
Other Local Delicacies and Crafts for the Mekong Tour to visit Dao Dua Relic Site
Beyond these, it’s the local delicacies and crafts: coconut oil, coconut wine, handmade souvenirs: the list is endless. It’s all here. These things stand not only for the culture and handiwork of this place but also provide great keepsakes from your Mekong Tours
Tips and Useful Information for the for the Mekong Tour to visit Dao Dua Relic Site
Below are some handy tips along with useful information to ensure the best experience for your Mekong tour to visit the Dao Dua relic site:
Best Times to Visit
Mekong tours are at their finest during the dry season—intermittent periods from November to April when the climate is agreeable and dry, which decorates the perfect setting backdrop for outdoor activities
What to Bring and Wear for the Mekong Tour to visit Dao Dua Relic Site
- Clothing: Light, comfortable clothing should be worn given the tropical climate. Don’t forget a hat and sunglasses to protect from the sun
- Footwear: One must have comfortable walking shoes to go around the site.
- Essentials: Sunscreen, insect repellent, and a refillable water bottle to keep hydrated
Cultural Tips and Etiquette
- Respect Local Customs: Observe the local customs, for to you, they’ll add meaning to your journey; to them, you will be acting respectfully, especially at religious sites. Dress modestly. Remove shoes at most of the temples.
- Politeness: Greet locals with a smile, and be courteous. A few basic Vietnamese phases will do wonders in endearing you to the local population.
Safety Tips and Recommendations for the Mekong Tour to visit Dao Dua Relic Site
- Stay with the Group: Never go off, always stay with the group, and follow the guide’s instructions.
- Personal Belongings: Take good care of your belongings, especially in larger crowds and on the boat.
- Health Precautions: In case of any health conditions or diet restrictions, please tell your guide at the beginning of the tour.
Impress Travel – Your Trusted Mekong Tour Provider
Impress Travel – your trusted partner for unforgettable Mekong Tours. With years of experience and a passion for travel, we are dedicated to providing top-notch service, ensuring that every journey is memorable. Our team of knowledgeable guides, comfortable transportation, and carefully curated itineraries guarantee an exceptional travel experience. Whether it’s exploring cultural heritage sites, indulging in local delicacies, or enjoying scenic boat rides, we ensure your comfort and satisfaction every step of the way.
Impressive Travel is your trustworthy partner for an unforgettable Mekong tour. With years of experience and a passion for traveling, our commitment to the provision of top-notch service ensures that every journey becomes memorable. A well-trained team of guides, comfortable transport, and thoughtfully designed itineraries ensure an exceptionally hassle-free journey. If one wishes to roam around the cultural heritage sites, gorge on regional food delicacies, or simply prefer leisure time spent while enjoying boat rides, you are assured of comfort and satisfaction throughout your journey
Get in Touch:
- Hanoi Office: 125 Hoang Ngan, Hanoi | Tel: (+84) 912 379 189 | Email: hanoi@impresstravel.com
- Saigon Office: 155 Ben Van Don, Rivergate, District 4, HCMC | Tel: (+84) 961675566 | Email: saigon@impresstravel.com
Conclusion
This has been a Mekong tour to visit Dao Dua relic site as a cultural and natural wonder. From the fascinating past of the relic site, from Dao Dua to leisurely boat rides or exquisite culinary delights of this region, we have explored the best there is to see in this wonderful land. We hope you will have enjoyed a deeper appreciation of the unique heritage and beautiful landscapes of the Mekong Delta through our participation in this tour.
Are you ready to explore this unforgettable adventure? Not only does Impress Travel give you great opportunities to discover the Mekong Delta, but you will also visit the Dao Dua relic site to raise memoirs for life. Book your Mekong tour to visit Dao Dua relic site right now! Just visit our website or contact our friendly team to reserve your spot today! We look forward to welcoming you on board and sharing this incredible journey with you! Don’t forget to regularly follow our IMPRESS TRAVEL for more interesting information about traveling Mekong to and to book Mekong Tours at the best prices.