(Ben Tre) Phung Islet

Phung Islet is on Tien River in Tan Thach, Chau Thanh, and only 12km from the center of Ben Tre City. The islet is famous for its lush array of fruits, especially the coconuts, but also for the delicious specialty dishes of south eastern Vietnam. Visitors can reach the islet by boat.  After taking their time on the islet, they can continue to ride along the river, visiting the handicraft and coconut candy factories, and disembark to catch a coach ride to tropical gardens. Here they can rest under a canopy of coconut leaves, sip tea with fresh honey and blueberries, while listening to the beautiful melodies of traditional music.

Phung Islet Ben Tre view

Phung Islet is also known for holding the Relic of the Coconut Religion, which once spread over 1,500 km2 of Ben Tre. The Coconut Religion (or Moderate religion) was created in the 1940s by Nguyen Thanh Nam. The main policy of this belief was to combine the essences of different religions such as Buddhism and Christianity, and pray for the good of all peoples and nations. Fortunately, the relic remains intact on the 9 Dragons Ground, where cardinals would give speeches. There is also an enigmatic tower made from the pieces of broken plates, bowls and cups of the followers.

Phung Islet Ben Tre overview

Another special point about Phung islet is that the daily lives of residents are centered around making handicrafts from the coconut tree. Visitors who come here can witness the process of making coconut candies and other souvenirs, and pick something to take home as a present. Due to the high quality and specialty of coconut products on Phung Islet the prices are a bit higher than elsewhere, but this quality cannot be found anywhere else.  If travelers feel hungry, they can eat with local residents who will serve their everyday meal of simple but delicious foods. Weary travelers can also have a nap under the shadow of garden trees, or take part in exciting activities like photographing ostriches or crocodile fishing!