Travel

The Ultimate Guide to the Top 5 Gò Quao (Kiên Giang) Travel Destinations for Newbies

Gò Quao is a renowned tourist destination in Kien Giang Province, offering a plethora of attractions to explore. Uncover the allure of these 5 captivating and renowned tourist spots in Gò Quao, each promising an unforgettable journey.

Administrator

23 July, 2024

Go Quao is an enchanting district located in Kien Giang Province, Vietnam, nestled in the lush Mekong Delta. With its pristine natural beauty and captivating attractions, Go Quao is emerging as a captivating destination for travelers. For those new to the region, here is a list of the top 5 must-visit destinations in Go Quao.

1. An Overview of Go Quao

Go Quao is a district nestled in the heart of Kien Giang Province, where the Khmer people account for 31.29% of the population, with 10,441 households. This land embraces a beautiful multicultural and religious tapestry, with most Khmer people following Buddhism of the Theravada sect.

The lives of the people of Go Quao have long been intertwined with the vast rice fields, the purple-hued pomelo orchards, and the bountiful fruit gardens. It is a peaceful rural area where the warmth and hospitality of the local government, the kindness of the monks, and the friendliness of the hardworking farmers prevail. Go Quao is embraced by the gentle Hau and Cai Lon rivers, creating a breathtakingly beautiful and serene landscape.

Go Quao is a must-visit destination for travel enthusiasts passionate about experiencing Vietnamese culture. It is renowned for its vibrant festivals and the preservation of many traditional Khmer cultural practices. Annual festivals feature lively activities such as Khmer cultural performances, beautiful aquatic float competitions, and trade fairs. Additionally, sporting events such as dragon boat races, traditional boat races, Taekwondo tournaments, football and volleyball matches, and canoe races further attract the curiosity and interest of visitors.

An Overview of Go Quao

2. 5 Captivating Destinations in Go Quao

Bửu Quang Pagoda

Quality Rating: 4.5/5 (Google Rating)

Address: Vinh Hoa Hung Nam, Go Quao, Kien Giang.

Entry Fee: Free

Opening Hours: Open daily

Phone Number: N/A

Facebook: N/A

Pros: Ideal sightseeing spot, majestic architecture, spacious and serene surroundings.

Cons: Can get crowded during holidays and festivals.

Bửu Quang Pagoda, located in Vinh Hoa Hung Nam, captivates visitors with its majestic architecture and intricate sculptures. As you enter, you’ll be greeted by a vast square adorned with rows of Bodhisattva statues and a lotus pedestal. The statue of Quan The Am Bodhisattva stands gracefully, exuding a sense of serenity and warmth.

The main hall of the pagoda is spacious and adorned with statues of Buddha and various Bodhisattvas, creating an atmosphere of reverence and devotion. You’ll also find numerous statues scattered throughout the pagoda’s grounds, adding to its aesthetic appeal. The surrounding landscape of Bửu Quang Pagoda further enhances the sense of tranquility and peace, making it an ideal place for worship and reflection.

Bửu Quang Pagoda

Soc Ven Moi Pagoda

Quality Rating: 4.3/5 (Google Rating)

Address: TT. Go Quao, Go Quao, Kien Giang.

Entry Fee: Free

Opening Hours: Open daily

Phone Number: N/A

Facebook: N/A

Pros: Unique architecture, vibrant colors, cultural activities.

Cons: Can get crowded during major holidays and festivals.

Soc Ven Moi Pagoda is one of the most famous pagodas in Go Quao, Kien Giang. Similar to other Kien Giang pagodas following the Theravada Buddhist tradition, the entrance features unique and colorful architectural designs. Outside the pagoda, you’ll find symbols such as the Naga snake, the goddess Keynor, the Garuda bird, and the Yeak demon, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the Khmer people.

Inside the main hall, artisans have skillfully depicted Buddha in a meditative posture, creating an atmosphere of tranquility and serenity. The interior walls are adorned with intricate reliefs and motifs, including the Garuda bird and the goddess Kaynor, symbolizing protection and blessings for the pagoda.

Over its 66 years of existence, Soc Ven Moi Pagoda has been a sacred place for the local Buddhist community. The abbot, Venerable Danh Hanh, shared, “The inauguration of the main hall of Soc Ven Moi Pagoda is a joyous and blessed occasion for us. Not only Khmer Buddhists but also Kinh and Hoa people have come together to share this sacred moment, strengthening the bond and cultural exchange between these three fraternal ethnicities.”

Soc Ven Moi Pagoda

Thanh Gia Pagoda

Quality Rating: 3.8/5 (Google Rating)

Address: Dinh Hoa, Go Quao, Kien Giang.

Entry Fee: Free

Opening Hours: Open daily

Phone Number: N/A

Facebook: N/A

Pros: Religious and cultural center for the Khmer community.

Cons: Tourism potential yet to be fully explored.

Thanh Gia Pagoda, also known as Duong Xuong Moi Pagoda, is located in Hoa Thanh hamlet, Dinh Hoa commune, Go Quao district, Kien Giang province. This well-known pagoda was established around 1910 by Mr. Kom Chhun and the local community on a plot of land spanning over 2 hectares. Over its 110-year history, the pagoda has endured destruction and undergone multiple restorations.

Similar to many other Khmer pagodas in the Mekong Delta, Thanh Gia Pagoda serves as a religious and cultural hub for the local community. Surrounded by ancient trees, such as sao and dau, the pagoda also provides a sanctuary for birds, including hundreds of storks that build their nests and raise their young here, considering the pagoda a safe haven.

Thanh Gia Pagoda, Go Quao

Thuy Lieu Pagoda

Quality Rating: 4.3/5 (Google Rating)

Address: Thuy Lieu, Go Quao, Kien Giang.

Entry Fee: Free

Opening Hours: Open daily

Phone Number: N/A

Facebook: Thuy Lieu Pagoda

Pros: Ideal sightseeing spot, unique architectural design, vibrant festival activities.

Cons: Can get crowded during major holidays.

Thnol Chum Pagoda, also known as Thuy Lieu Pagoda, is one of the oldest pagodas in the Khmer community of Kien Giang Province. Established in 1565, the pagoda has witnessed 26 generations of abbots. Thuy Lieu Pagoda has played a significant role in the country’s development and has been a crucial site in the struggle against foreign invaders and the protection of the nation.

When visiting Thuy Lieu Pagoda, you’ll be captivated by its traditional architectural style, intricate Buddhist motifs, and delicate Khmer patterns. The pagoda also serves as a leading cultural and religious center in the region. During festivals and holidays, you’ll have the opportunity to participate in various festive activities and meaningful charitable events.

Thuy Lieu Pagoda

Ca Nhung Pagoda

Quality Rating: 4.5/5 (Google Rating)

Address: Dinh Hoa, Go Quao, Kien Giang.

Entry Fee: Free

Opening Hours: Open daily

Phone Number: 02973826471

Facebook: N/A

Pros: Cultural, religious, and educational center for the Khmer community, aesthetically pleasing religious architecture.

Cons: Can get crowded during holidays and festivals.

Siriganga Ca Nhung Pagoda, established on June 20, 1790, follows the Theravada Khmer sect. The Venerable Tang Ok, along with local Buddhists, contributed to the establishment of this pagoda. During the resistance wars against the French and Americans, Ca Nhung Pagoda served as a shelter for revolutionaries and a gathering place to encourage young people to stand up against the enemy. Today, the pagoda plays a crucial role in guiding and providing vocational training for many Khmer youths in the area.

Ca Nhung Pagoda is recognized as a masterpiece of religious architecture, showcasing the unique cultural characteristics of the Khmer people in the Southern region, particularly in Kien Giang. The pagoda seamlessly integrates various architectural elements, creating a harmonious whole. It serves not only as a religious and cultural education center for the Khmer people but also as a community gathering place for local residents.

Ca Nhung Pagoda

These are the top 5 must-visit destinations in Go Quao, Kien Giang, for newcomers to the area. Plan your trip and explore these fascinating sites to create memorable travel experiences.

Frequently asked questions

The top 5 destinations in the area for newcomers are: Ha Tien, Rach Gia, Phu Quoc Island, Kien Luong, and Hon Chong – Ba Hon.

Ha Tien is a coastal town known for its beautiful beaches and historic sites. It offers a great blend of culture and nature with attractions like the Mac Cuu Family Tombs, Dong Ho Lake, and Mui Nai Beach.

Rach Gia is a vibrant city with a lively atmosphere. It’s home to the iconic Nguyen Trung Truc Temple, Rach Gia Cathedral, and the picturesque Rach Gia Beach. The city also offers a range of delicious seafood dishes and a vibrant nightlife.

Phu Quoc Island is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning beaches and natural landscapes. Visitors can enjoy activities like snorkeling, scuba diving, and exploring places like Sao Beach, Dinh Cau Rock, and Suoi Tranh Waterfall.

Kien Luong is a district known for its pristine beaches and scenic beauty. It’s home to beautiful destinations such as Hon Chong Beach, Nghe Beach, and Bai Nom Beach. Kien Luong also offers a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere for visitors seeking a tranquil getaway.

Hon Chong – Ba Hon is a stunning archipelago known for its unique rock formations and pristine beaches. It’s a great place for swimming, sunbathing, and exploring the natural wonders of the area. The archipelago also offers a peaceful escape from the more crowded tourist destinations.