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Sóc Trăng has been emerging as a destination that beautifully blends spirituality, culture, and history. With its rich array of unique temples in Sóc Trăng, the province showcases 8 national historical and cultural relics, 41 provincial-level relics, and 8 national and international intangible cultural heritages, according to the Tourism Environment Magazine (Vietnam National Administration of Tourism).
Let’s explore this sacred land of the South, where temples, pagodas, and ancient architecture tell stories that go beyond centuries.
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Sóc Land – A Spiritual Region at the Southern Gate of the Hau River
Located 231 km southwest of Ho Chi Minh City, Sóc Trăng lies at the mouth of the Hau River, bordered by the sea to the east and southeast, and by Hau Giang, Bac Lieu, and Tra Vinh provinces on the other sides, offering travelers a chance to explore its unique temples in Sóc Trăng along with scenic landscapes.
The province is home to three major ethnic groups: Kinh, Khmer, and Hoa (Chinese-Vietnamese) living harmoniously together. This cultural blend has created a rich tapestry of festivals, folk traditions, and uniquely local spiritual architecture.
Sóc Trăng boasts over 200 temples, including 92 Khmer Theravada Buddhist temples, making it one of Vietnam’s most prominent spiritual destinations.
Kh’Leang Pagoda – The Timeless Khmer Temple
Among the many ancient Khmer pagodas in Sóc Trăng, Kh’Leang Pagoda stands out as a masterpiece of both artistry and faith.
According to ExoTrails’ research, the pagoda was originally built in 1533, first made of palm leaves before being rebuilt with brick and tile after multiple restorations. This historic site stands as one of the most unique temples in Sóc Trăng, with the major reconstruction in the late 1910s giving Kh’Leang its iconic form today.
At the entrance, two Yeak (giant guardian demon) statues stand proudly, believed to ward off evil spirits. In Khmer legends, Yeak symbolizes evil that has been enlightened and reformed by Buddha — a visual reminder of compassion and transformation.
- Kh’Leang Pagoda: https://exotrails.page.link/N8tU
The architecture of Kh’Leang blends Khmer, Chinese, and Vietnamese influences — evident in the Han characters carved on wooden columns and beams, intertwined with traditional Vietnamese patterns.
Peam Buôl Thmây Pagoda – The Golden Royal Gem of Sóc Trăng
Another Khmer pagoda, Peam Buôl Thmây, radiates an almost regal beauty. Its gold-coated architecture shines like Khmer jewelry — reminiscent of the lavish traditional outfits worn during grand ceremonies, making it one of the most unique temples in Sóc Trăng and a captivating glimpse into Khmer cultural identity.
Like other Khmer temples, the rooflines are adorned with dragon motifs, and Buddha statues feature the distinct one-shouldered robe style. The walls are intricately carved with deities and mythical beings, all hand-painted in vivid, shimmering colors.
- Peam Buôl Thmây Pagoda: https://exotrails.page.link/rXww
Though modest in size, the pagoda’s upper level offers a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape, endless rice fields, clusters of palm trees, and the distant melody of a bamboo flute. This serene spot is part of the charm of the unique temples in Sóc Trăng, embodying simplicity, peace, and the unmistakable essence of southern Vietnam.
Wat Pătum Wôngsa Som Rông (Som Rong Pagoda) – The Symbol of Sóc Trăng
Right in the heart of Sóc Trăng city stands Som Rong Pagoda, one of the province’s most iconic spiritual landmarks. Many visitors pause in awe at the sight of its massive reclining Buddha statue — a breathtaking symbol of peace, and a highlight among the unique temples in Sóc Trăng.
Known in Khmer as Wat Pătum Wôngsa Som Rông, the pagoda has a history spanning over 600 years and 12 generations of abbots. Like Kh’Leang, it began as a humble bamboo and leaf structure, later transformed into an elegant and grand spiritual haven.
- Wat Pătum Wôngsa Som Rông: https://exotrails.page.link/oZhd
Ông Bổn Temple – The Sacred Chinese Sanctuary of Sóc Trăng
Beyond Khmer temples, Sóc Trăng is also home to Ông Bổn Temple, a sacred site for the local Chinese community. Always bustling with worshippers, Ông Bổn Temple is designed in traditional Chinese style, with intricate Han inscriptions and detailed wood carvings adorning its halls — another gem among the unique temples in Sóc Trăng.
Here, different deities are worshipped in separate chambers. The front hall honors Azure Dragon and White Tiger, mythic guardians protecting the temple from evil. The main altar venerates Grand Emperor Trịnh Ân of the Song Dynasty, flanked by Duke Phó Đức Chính and Goddess Mazu (Thiên Hậu Thánh Mẫu) — all revered figures in Chinese history and spirituality, making it a standout among the unique temples in Sóc Trăng.
- Ông Bổn Temple – Hòa An Assembly Hall: https://exotrails.page.link/xA8S
Ông Bổn Temple is famous for its vibrant festivals — from full-moon celebrations and A Côn offerings to dragon-lion dances and the traditional lantern auction charity event. Each celebration pulses with the cultural pride of the local Chinese-Vietnamese community.
Final Thoughts
When you visit Sóc Trăng, take time to explore these sacred sites. Whether you come seeking blessings or simply to admire the artistry, each one tells a story — of faith, culture, and the spirit of the southern land, highlighting the charm of unique temples in Sóc Trăng.
If you’re a traveler who loves history and architecture, these temples are not just places of worship — they’re living museums of belief and heritage. Isn’t that truly fascinating?
About Nguyen Tuyet Nhung:
A wanderer forever kissed by the sun — that’s me.
I travel not to race for check-ins, but to experience, to listen, and to feel — every landscape, every person, every culture. I love each place not just in its best season, but also when it’s quiet, raw, and imperfect.
I deeply value preserving natural and cultural beauty. While I love sharing these places with others, I also hope we all do our part to protect them — so that future travelers can stand in the same awe we once did.
This article was compiled by Nguyen Tuyet Nhung, member of Stories of the Trails, an outdoor community managed by ExoTrails — Vietnam’s leading navigation and mapping app.
And beyond these four temples, ExoTrails also features hundreds of spiritual destinations — pagodas, shrines, temples, and tombs across Vietnam.
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