Cho May is an occasional market, typically coinciding with major festivals or weekends when tourists flock to the area. Its name, which translates to ‘Cloud Market’, originates from its unique location, where misty clouds envelop the area, creating a sense of shopping in a market amidst the heavens.
Nestled near Thuỷ Liêm Lake, across from the renowned Phật Lớn Temple, home to the largest Buddha statue in Asia, Cho May comes alive between 4 and 9 am. To experience this market, one must embark on a journey up the mountain the night before, equipped with warm clothing to brave the chilly, foggy morning air.
Cho May exudes a ‘pop-up’ market vibe, devoid of permanent stalls. The vendors, predominantly Khmer women, carry their goods up the mountain, laying them out on grass mats or roadside pavements. The assortment of products is impressive, ranging from fresh produce like forest vegetables, bamboo shoots, and mountain snails to unique delicacies such as young jackfruit buds and tender bamboo shoots. Additionally, the market caters to pilgrims with offerings like incense, lamps, and items for ritual release.
The friendliness of the traders is remarkable; they do not inflate prices and are eager to share their culinary expertise with visitors. This market experience encapsulates the warm hospitality of the Mekong Delta region.
The traders of Cho May endure a challenging journey, departing as early as 3 am to ascend the mountain, often carrying their goods over rocky paths or hiring motorbike taxis for the steeper sections. Despite the arduous trek, they maintain their smiles and enthusiasm, fostering a warm and inviting atmosphere. The market also serves as a hub for supplying goods to mountain residents and tourists, with items like incense, lamps, and ritual release objects in high demand.
To fully immerse yourself in this market, it is ideal to arrive by 4 am, embracing the fresh mountain air and witnessing the early morning mountain life. Don’t forget to bring a warm jacket and sturdy shoes for comfort and ease of movement. And, of course, indulge in the local cuisine, prepared with ingredients sourced from the mountain forests by the locals themselves.
Cho May is more than just a market; it is a cultural experience, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of those residing atop Mount Cam. Here, nature, spirituality, and humanity converge, creating an unforgettable journey.
For a truly magical experience, visit Cho May in the early morning hours, when the mist still lingers and the cool air adds a touch of wonder to the surroundings.
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