The Hidden Mountain Retreat: A Tranquil Escape to Thanh Long Stream
Embark on a journey to Thanh Long Stream and you’ll be greeted by the refreshing chill of its clear waters. Whether you’re looking to unwind with a relaxing picnic or an adventurous camping trip, this hidden gem offers the perfect backdrop for a serene escape. Immerse yourself in the soothing sounds of the cascading waterfall and explore the surrounding natural wonders. For those seeking tranquility and a unique check-in point, Thanh Long Stream is a must-visit destination.
As June (lunar month) approaches, the streams of the mountain come alive with the melodic trickling of water, creating a symphony amidst the lush forests.
To access Thanh Long Stream, visitors can choose between a 45-60 minute invigorating hike up the stairs or an alternative route by motorbike to Cao Dai Tu, followed by a 15-minute walk along the stream. Both options offer a unique opportunity to connect with nature and discover the pristine beauty of Thanh Long.
Swimming in the stream is a beloved activity for both locals and visitors to Thanh Long.
The main attraction at Thanh Long Stream is the opportunity to immerse yourself in the refreshing waters. The stream meanders through rocky crevices, creating a soothing backdrop of gentle ripples. Large boulders provide resting spots and serve as ideal meditation spots or simply a place to admire the gentle flow of the water.
For those seeking a deeper connection with nature, camping by the stream is a tranquil experience. However, it’s important to prioritize safety by avoiding swimming during rainy days and exercising caution when traversing the potentially slippery paths and rocks.
During the rainy season, the mountain’s waters rush down, creating a picturesque sight. Standing amidst the rushing waters makes for a unique and captivating photo opportunity.
In addition to Thanh Long Stream, Mount Cam boasts other renowned streams such as Ô Tứk Sa and Thuy Liêm. The mountain is also home to spiritual landmarks like the colossal Buddha statue—one of the largest in Southeast Asia—and the serene Van Linh Pagoda. The modern cable car adds another dimension to the exploration of Mount Cam, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the lush landscapes.
With its harmonious blend of natural beauty and spiritual culture, Mount Cam is a must-visit destination for those seeking a relaxing getaway infused with rich cultural experiences.
Cuisine Delights at Mount Cam: A Taste of Authentic An Giang
When visiting Mount Cam in An Giang, you’re not only immersed in the majestic beauty of nature but also treated to a culinary journey through the flavors of the Mekong Delta. The region’s cuisine is deeply intertwined with its cultural and spiritual heritage, offering a unique dining experience.
Banh Xeo: A Local Favorite
One of the most famous dishes in the area is Banh Xeo, a Vietnamese pancake. Unlike its counterparts in Central and Southern Vietnam, the Banh Xeo of Mount Cam features a simpler filling of river shrimp and bean sprouts, sometimes accompanied by crushed mung beans. However, the true star of this dish is the accompanying forest herbs.
An Giang’s Banh Xeo is served with a unique assortment of forest herbs, enhancing the flavors of this humble dish.
Freshly plucked each morning, the forest herbs can include up to 20 varieties such as star gooseberry leaves, purple leaf terminalia, fiddlehead ferns, yellow jewel, and orchid leaves, each contributing a distinct flavor profile of bitterness, sourness, and sweetness. When wrapped with the crispy pancake and dipped into a slightly sweet and sour fish sauce, the result is a harmonious explosion of flavors that defines the essence of Mekong Delta cuisine.
Grilled Chicken with Chúc Leaves: A Fragrant Delight
Another signature dish of the region is grilled chicken marinated in chúc leaves. Chúc leaves impart a strong fragrance and a distinctive sour taste to the chicken. Free-range chicken is chosen for its firm texture, marinated with finely chopped chúc leaves, lemongrass, chili, and salted mustard seeds, and then grilled over charcoal for over an hour.
The chicken, grilled to perfection, boasts a golden-brown color and an irresistible aroma from the chúc leaves.
The result is a mouthwatering dish with a golden-brown exterior and an irresistible aroma. The chúc leaves not only enhance the fragrance but also neutralize any unpleasant odors, resulting in tender, flavorful meat. Typically served with salted chili or pepper lime dip, this dish is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Mắm Hot Pot: A Hearty and Flavorful Experience
The Mắm Hot Pot is another iconic dish of An Giang, showcasing the region’s bold and captivating flavors. Unlike hot pots from the North or Central regions, the Mắm Hot Pot is characterized by its robust and alluring taste. The broth is crafted from either Linh fish sauce or Sac fish sauce, two renowned specialties of An Giang, slowly cooked to infuse the flavor of the fish into the broth. The broth is then carefully strained to ensure a clear and fragrant soup.
The Mắm Hot Pot is a flavorful and aromatic experience, showcasing the unique tastes of the Mekong Delta region.
A variety of local vegetables accompany the hot pot, including yellow flower herb, water spinach, shredded banana blossom, eggplant, Limnophila aromatica, and bean sprouts. The hot pot is commonly enjoyed with shrimp, squid, basa fish, and pork belly, along with Napa cabbage, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. As the ingredients are cooked in the fragrant broth, the aroma of the fish sauce and vegetables fills the air, tantalizing the taste buds. The Mắm Hot Pot is more than just a delicious meal; it’s a symbol of community, often enjoyed during family gatherings in the serene setting of the mountains, fostering a sense of warmth and connection to the homeland.
Thốt Nốt Sweet Porridge: A Sweet Finale
No meal in the Seven Mountains region is complete without tasting the local specialty, Thốt Nốt sweet porridge. Thốt Nốt is a tree unique to An Giang, bearing sweet and refreshing fruits. The porridge is crafted from fresh Thốt Nốt rice, Thốt Nốt syrup, and coconut milk, resulting in a delightful dessert.
Thốt Nốt sweet porridge is the perfect sweet treat to conclude a hearty meal, offering a refreshing finish during the hot summer days.
When savored, the porridge delivers a delicate sweetness, complemented by the subtle richness of coconut and the chewy texture of Thốt Nốt rice. It’s the perfect conclusion to a meal at Mount Cam, leaving a lasting impression of the region’s culinary delights.
The Forgotten Fruit: A Tasty Treat Rediscovered
Sour in taste, this fruit is a culinary staple in the An Giang province, used as a key ingredient in many specialty dishes. In recent years, it has gained popularity beyond the region, finding its way into restaurants and eateries, and capturing the taste buds of near and far.
The Ultimate Snack Guide to Phu Yen: 6 Delicious and Affordable Treats You Can’t Miss
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Chasing the Sea of Clouds and a Refreshing Dip in the Mountain’s Cool Springs
From June to September each year, a large number of tourists flock to Nui Cam to explore the ancient relics and experience the unique cloud-hunting and bathing in the Thanh Long stream.
The Ultimate Guide to Mastering Crispy Vietnamese Pancakes at Home: Achieve the Perfect Crunch Without the Mess
With just one simple ingredient that you likely already have in your kitchen, you can create delicious and crispy Vietnamese savory pancakes, also known as “Banh Xeo”, from the comfort of your own home.
The Ultimate Guide to Perfect Bánh Xèo Batter: Achieving Golden, Crispy Perfection
The art of making Vietnamese savory pancakes, or “banh xeo,” hinges on a delicate balance of ingredients and technique. The perfect batter is a delicate dance, and mastering this mix is the key to a crisp, delicious pancake. Get it right, and you’re on your way to a mouthwatering treat that’s sure to impress.
