Sa Đéc

Sa Đéc, formerly known as Sa Đặc, is a small, tranquil town in Đồng Tháp Province, Vietnam. It serves as the initial setting for Marguerite Duras’ autobiographical novel “The Lover.” Visitors are often impressed by its beauty, which has been likened to “A Hidden Gem in the Mekong Delta.” The bustling market near the river, notable architecture, ancient mansions, and merchant houses all contribute to this charm.

As a vibrant local market, Sa Đéc is often referred to as the “Granary of Vietnam.” Situated near the river, it’s an excellent choice to explore the local market by boat and enjoy the picturesque views along the water.

Another must-visit destination is the Sa Đéc Flower Village, located near the Tiền River. This village is renowned for its unique and colorful flowers. Over the past century, Sa Đéc has become even more beautiful, with a diverse array of flowers to delight people across the country.

The village features various exotic flowers and herbs, including betel leaves, roses, and orchids, creating an enchanting and fragrant atmosphere. Additionally, the Huỳnh Thủy Lê Ancient House is a prominent attraction in town, just a 20-minute journey away.

This house served as the backdrop for Jean-Jacques Annaud’s film “The Lover.” For those seeking a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh City, a visit to Kim Huệ, where you can enjoy the soothing sounds of wooden bells and gentle wind chimes, is highly recommended.

Sa Đéc is also home to one of the region’s most famous pagodas, which has stood for over a century. Located in the outskirts of the city, this pagoda was once a Buddhist school for local monks in the Mekong Delta. Notably, the area also boasts picturesque lotus ponds that are hard to find elsewhere in the Southern part of Vietnam.

This is an opportunity for photographers worldwide to capture the most beautiful photos of lotus flowers, which are one of Vietnam’s iconic symbols. Moreover, when visiting Sa Đéc, travelers shouldn’t miss out on the authentic dishes of the Mekong Delta, such as crab hotpot made with fresh local crabs, fragrant herbs, and various nutritious vegetables. And for those who love hủ tiếu (a type of noodle soup), don’t skip Bún Cá or Bánh Canh Hủ Tiếu.