Anchored in the north of the Mekong Delta, Tien Giang covers an area of 2,510.5 km² and stretches 120 km along the Tien River. It is bordered to the north by Long An province, to the south by Ben Tre, to the west by Dong Tap, and to the east by the South China Sea. Blessed with a magnificent natural heritage and a rich ecosystem, this coastal province has continued to attract countless visitors. Moreover, the region benefits from two major transport networks that facilitate access to Tien Giang: road and waterway routes.

Tien Giang also hosts the Tu Kiet Festival or Festival of Four Heroes, a festive celebration held on the 15th and 16th days of the 8th lunar month. The celebration honors four fighters—Duoc, Long, Rong, and Than—who demonstrated acts of bravery during the resistance against the French.

History

Once, Tien Giang resembled a desolate zone infested with dangerous animals. In the early 17th century, numerous Vietnamese migrants from Ngu Quang gradually settled in the region. Over the years, prosperous villages emerged, surrounded by vast rice paddies and lush orchards.

Today

The Tien, Go Cong, and Gia Dinh rivers, coupled with an extensive network of canals, have significantly increased fluvial transport through the province. On the other hand, Tien Giang serves as the true granary of the Mekong Delta thanks to its fertile fields. The abundance of fruit trees, particularly coconut palms, plays an important role in the economic sector and contributes substantially to community development. Furthermore, the province boasts over 30 km of coastline rich in fish and aquatic products.

What to See in Tien Giang Province?

If you're considering a visit to Tien Giang, make the most of the destinations we suggest below.

Vinh Trang Pagoda

Located approximately 5 km from My Tho city, the majestic Vinh Trang Pagoda rises within a large garden in My Phong commune. The sanctuary was founded in the early 19th century by the spouses Bui Cong, who placed the Buddhist priest Hue Dang (from the Giac Lam pagoda) at the head of administration. All the buildings reveal a structure blending Eastern and Western architectural styles. Surrounding it stretches a natural landscape of lush gardens, lotus ponds, and shaded trees.

Cai Be Floating Market

The day begins with the tumultuous atmosphere among hundreds of boats anchored on the river. From dawn until dusk, the river transforms into a genuine open-air market, brimming with fresh seasonal fruits, spices, vegetables, and all manner of merchandise. On other boats, vendors call out to you for a bowl of noodles or a cup of aromatic coffee. You'll also have the chance to discover the largest orchard in the Mekong Delta, that of Cai Be. It represents a tourist stop renowned for its abundance of tropical fruits (mango, apple, mandarin, guava, grapefruit…).

Dong Tam Snake Farm

Located 9 km from My Tho, this site features a breeding center for several snake species kept in captivity to extract venom for export. Here, you'll learn much about the study and treatment of snake bites. The facility also cultivates medicinal plants. The grounds also house other animal species such as crocodiles, ostriches, yellow tortoises, and various bird varieties.

Thoi Son Island

Situated in Chau Than district, the site can be visited during a boat cruise on the Mekong River. Thoi Son Island quickly becomes the dream destination for many travelers. Dotted with lush orchards of tropical fruit trees such as plum, mango, and longan, the place radiates charm. The locals will give you a warm welcome, inviting you to enjoy a cup of honey tea, accompanied by the melodious strains of traditional music. Nearby stands Con Phung Island, where you'll likely be offered coconut candy or preserves.

Go Công Tiên Giang

"The urban village"—such is the nickname given to this town in the southern province of Tien Giang. The place houses nearly 350 ancient houses, two-thirds of which are grouped in Go Cong. Once built by settlers from the northern and central regions, the buildings bear no trace of concrete. During a visit, you can witness their ancient construction techniques, which combine molasses, bricks, and sticky material extracted from certain plants.

Tan Thanh Beach

Approximately 50 km east of My Tho city, in Go Cong Dong district, lies Tan Thanh Beach. It ranks among the most magnificent black sand beaches in Vietnam, though it's not ideal for swimming. Its distinctive feature? It feels like walking on velvet when you step on it during a stroll.

A Taste of Local Cuisine

A visit to Tien Giang reveals itself through its many culinary specialties. Among the most savory, here are some dishes you should try during your stay or passage through the region.

Banh Beo

This is a renowned specialty of My Tho, found at Hang Bong Market. Banh beo comes in two variants. Sweet banh beo is prepared with fresh coconut milk and served most often with chili sauce. The savory version consists of mung beans, fried bread, aromatic fried onions, and pork chops sliced into strips.

My Tho Noodles

Endowed with exceptional flavor, this soup contains a blend of soy accompanied by its sauce, meat, light broth, lemon, chili, and vegetables. It costs just 30,000 VND, or approximately 1.9 €, to taste it.

Mam Tom Go Cong (Go Cong Shrimp Sauce)

You won't leave Tien Giang without savoring a dish accompanied by this delicious shrimp sauce. As its name indicates, this specialty is produced in Go Cong village, which is home to more than twenty factories ensuring its production.

Practical Information

Climate

Tien Giang is under the influence of tropical monsoon patterns, marked by high and stable temperatures throughout the year. In this region, the climate divides into two distinct seasons. A dry period occurs between December and April, caused by winds from the northeast. The second period features rainy days from May to November, this time caused by the southwest monsoon.

Given its easy accessibility, here are the most common means of transport to reach Tien Giang province.

Bus

Certain lines continuously operate connections between several cities in the Mekong Delta. Always verify the route and price before boarding the bus.

Boat

Take a speedboat from Ho Chi Minh City to My Tho.

Motorcycle

It is the most popular mode of transport in Vietnam. The journey is entirely possible for adventurers wishing to attempt the experience.

There's nothing easier than traveling by scooter to explore the region. But you can also board a boat to travel from one locality to another. Furthermore, bus lines serve much of Tien Giang.