Doi Pagoda
Doi Pagoda
Doi Pagoda
Doi Pagoda
An ancient Buddhist temple in the Mekong Delta, famous for its giant bat colonies.
Sóc Trăng
Buddhist Temple
Cultural Heritage
Doi Pagoda (known in Khmer as Serh Techo Mahatup) is a unique architectural and cultural heritage site founded in 1569. The temple attracts visitors not only with its authentic Khmer architecture and rare palm-leaf manuscripts, but also with an unusual natural attraction: thousands of giant bats inhabit the trees surrounding the pagoda.
- Visit duration
2–3 hours
- Average budget
from $10
- Admission
Free
- Best months
Oct – Apr
- Local language
Vietnamese, Khmer
What you need to know
The pagoda was founded in 1569 and has been restored multiple times since then. In 1999, it was officially recognized as a national architectural monument. The main hall of the pagoda is decorated with Khmer design elements: roofs with curved naga corners and columns featuring images of Khetumar celestial maidens.
Inside the temple, you can see statues of the Buddha, including a rare composition with the serpent king Muchalinda, as well as walls painted with scenes from the Buddha's life. One of the site's mysteries is the folklore tradition of burying "five-toed pigs," which were considered the embodiment of human souls.
Bat colony: The area is famous for its giant fruit bats with wingspans of up to 1.5 meters. The best time to watch them fly out is during the hour before sunset. The animals are harmless and feed on fruit outside the temple grounds.
The dry season provides the most comfortable conditions for walking around the grounds and observing bats on clear evenings.
On site
- How to get there
Taxi or motorbike from downtown Sóc Trăng
- On-site activity
Walking tours
- Cash
Recommended for donations
- Dress code
Covered shoulders and knees