Soc Trang (Sóc Trăng) is a Khmer-influenced town in the southwest of Vietnam. It doesn’t have that much in the way of tourist appeal but makes a good daytrip from the likes of Ba Dong Beach.
Soc Trang is the capital of the province of the same name - one of the poorest provinces in the region as evidenced by the shabby town, the simple housing and the amount of begging kids on the streets. The city features dozens of pagodas along with a mostly ethnic Chinese populace.
The main pagodas to see in Soc Trang are Bat Pagoda (Chùa Dơi) and Soil Pagoda (Chùa Đất Sét). Bat Pagoda features many Buddha paintings and numerous huge bats in the trees outside. The Khmer Culture Museum is also worth a look in Soc Trang, located as it is in an old temple.
Getting There & Away
Soc Trang is over 200kms south of Ho Chi Minh City via Can Tho and highways 1 and 1A. Buses run to Can Tho from Ho Chi Minh City, from where connections can be made to Soc Trang. Can Tho has an airport although Ho Chi Minh City Airport is the main point of entry.
Things to Do
Soc Trang Attractions
- Chùa Dơi Bat Pagoda
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Originally built in the 16th century, the bat pagoda has been renovated a number of times and features an ancient buddha statue and loads of massive bats outside.