Lu Gia Xeo Nhum Ecological Garden: A Rustic Soul of Phong Dien

Hải Yến
Posted by: Hải Yến
Moderated by: Trần Thanh Thái
January 17, 2026 | January 19, 2026

Lu Gia Xeo Nhum Ecological Garden is one of the most pristine green sanctuaries in the “green lung” of Phong Dien, where the rush of modern life gives way to birdsong and the scent of alluvial soil. This comprehensive guide explores the rustic beauty, agricultural wisdom, and authentic eco-tourism experiences of Lu Gia Xeo Nhum Ecological Garden, providing an essential overview for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the vibrant living heritage and resilient spirit of Phong Dien with Mekong Smile.

At Mekong Smile, we believe that happiness is found in the simplest things. Located in the heart of Phong Dien District, Lu Gia Xeo Nhum Ecological Garden is a premier destination for travelers seeking a “transformative journey” to recharge their energy and understand the cultural depth of the Southern Vietnamese orchard lifestyle.

Lastest update by Hai Yen Nguyen at Mekong Smile | Official Can Tho Travel Guide

Lu Gia Xeo Nhum Ecological Village in Can Tho
Experience local life and river activities at Lu Gia Xeo Nhum Ecological Village

Overview of Lu Gia Xeo Nhum Ecological Garden

A Glance at Lu Gia Xeo Nhum Ecological Garden

  • Location: Nhon Loc 1 Hamlet, Phong Dien Town, Phong Dien District, Can Tho City.
  • Site Type: Community-based Eco-tourism and Fruit Orchard Garden.
  • Significance: Preserves the ancient toponym “Xeo Nhum” and maintains a traditional orchard model integrated with experiential tourism.
  • Atmosphere: Spacious and shaded by lush greenery, featuring architecture made from natural materials like bamboo and palm leaves.
  • Key Highlights: Diverse orchards (rambutan, mangosteen, star apple), traditional water games, and “garden-to-table” culinary experiences.
  • Average Visit Duration: 2 – 4 hours (ideal for weekend retreats).

Understanding Lu Gia Xeo Nhum Ecological Garden: Life from an Ancient Name

The name “Lu Gia Xeo Nhum Ecological Garden” carries the deep echoes of ancient Southern Vietnam. “Xeo” refers to small rivulets, and “Nhum” is a type of palm tree that once grew abundantly here. The owner of the garden was determined to keep this name as a way to preserve the “vibrant living heritage” of their homeland. Instead of concrete structures, the site is designed to maintain the “rhythmic life” of a traditional garden, where visitors are not just observers but part of the ecosystem.

Aerial view of Lu Gia Xeo Nhum Ecological Village in Can Tho
A peaceful aerial view of Lu Gia Xeo Nhum Ecological Village

Video: The Melody of the Orchards

To feel the breath of the wind through the leaves and hear the laughter of traditional games, watch a short cinematic tour of Xeo Nhum:

What Makes Lu Gia Xeo Nhum Ecological Garden Special?

Lu Gia Xeo Nhum Ecological Garden is the soul of rustic eco-tourism in Phong Dien. It is not a modern amusement park; it is a peaceful sanctuary honoring the “resilient spirit” of the Mekong farmer.

Today, the garden stands as a testament to the harmony between tourism and environmental protection. Visitors can observe how locals utilize every inch of land for seasonal intercropping. Hand-pouring “Bánh Xèo” or mud-fishing highlights the deep connection between traditional skills and the joy of physical labor.

“With Mekong Smile experts, you will recognize the true value of the Traditional Integrated Orchard (Vườn tạp) at Xeo Nhum. We will explain how the locals regulate water through the canal system to maintain soil moisture and how they choose the peak harvest time for the best flavor.” – By Mr. Jimmy, Business Development at Mekong Smile

Visitors enjoying a traditional boat ride at Lu Gia Xeo Nhum Ecological Village
A relaxing boat ride through green canals at Lu Gia Xeo Nhum Ecological Village

Planning Your Visit

Location and Directions

The garden is located in the ecological core of Phong Dien District, far enough from the center to be secluded but still easily accessible.

  • Exact Address: Nhon Loc 1, Phong Dien, Can Tho.
  • Distance: Approximately 12km from Ninh Kieu Wharf (city center).

How to Get There

  • By Motorbike/Car: Traveling via the extended Nguyen Van Cu Street or the “Lo Vong Cung” heritage route (Province Road 923) offers the most scenic drives.
  • By Bicycle: For a “green” transformative journey, cycle through the shaded village lanes to reach the garden.

Best Time to Visit

  • Opening Hours: 07:00 AM – 05:00 PM (Daily).
  • Fruit Season: May to August is the most vibrant time, with rambutan, “Ha Chau” Burmese grapes, and mangosteens in full bloom.
Traditional garden houses surrounded by tropical plants at Lu Gia Xeo Nhum Ecological Village
Traditional garden houses surrounded by lush greenery

Product & Service Pricing

Item / Service Estimated Price (VND) Estimated Price (USD)
Entrance Fee (Including garden tour) 30,000 - 50,000 VND $1.20 - $2.00
Mud-fishing Experience Package 150,000 - 250,000 VND $6.00 - $10.00
Traditional Cake Workshop 100,000 - 150,000 VND $4.00 - $6.00
Garden Set Menu Lunch 120,000 - 200.000 VND $5.00 - $8.00

Note: Prices support fair-trade for local gardeners. For an all-inclusive experience, consider contacting Mekong Smile.

The Experience at Lu Gia Xeo Nhum Ecological Garden

Mud-fishing and Grilling in the Garden

Shed your modern clothes for the traditional black “Ba Ba” suit, wade into the mud, and catch plump snakehead fish by hand. Afterward, enjoy the smoky, fragrant “Grilled Snakehead Fish” cooked with straw right by the pond—an unforgettable “touch of identity” experience.

Tourists joining hands-on rural activities at Lu Gia Xeo Nhum Ecological Village in Can Tho
Visitors enjoy hands-on rural activities at Lu Gia Xeo Nhum Ecological Village

Learning Traditional Southern Cakes

Under the guidance of local “mothers” and “sisters,” you will learn to grind rice with stone mills, pour crispy “Bánh Xèo,” or wrap “Bánh Ít.” The sizzle of the hot pan and the aroma of coconut milk create a “stork symphony” of the Mekong’s culinary soul.

Local hosts presenting traditional Mekong dishes at Lu Gia Xeo Nhum Ecological Village, Can Tho
Friendly hosts and authentic Mekong Delta cuisine

Walking through bamboo groves and Monkey Bridges

Stroll along paths covered by verdant bamboo groves or challenge your balance on the wobbly “monkey bridge” (cầu khỉ). This is where you feel the slow and peaceful “rhythm of life” of the countryside most clearly.

Wooden walking paths and canals inside Lu Gia Xeo Nhum Ecological Village
Quiet wooden paths winding through canals

Savoring Seasonal Specialties

Don’t miss the rich Fermented Fish Hotpot (Lẩu mắm), free-range chicken, or boiled vegetables dipped in caramelized fish sauce (kho quẹt). At Xeo Nhum, ingredients are always fresh as they are harvested directly from the garden, ensuring a sustainable “garden-to-table” spirit.

Traditional Mekong Delta dishes served at Lu Gia Xeo Nhum Ecological Village in Can Tho
Fresh local dishes showcasing Mekong Delta flavors

Combining Lu Gia Xeo Nhum Ecological Garden with Other Gems

Phong Dien is a paradise for agricultural and cultural heritage. Start your morning with the authentic atmosphere of the Phong Dien Floating Market, where the river’s trade remains intimate and local. After your time at Xeo Nhum, visit the Muoi Cuong Cacao Garden to learn about artisan chocolate or the Sau Hoai Rice Noodle Factory to see the famous “rice noodle pizza.” For a moment of spiritual peace, head to the Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery or explore the mystical Gian Gua Relic, an ancient Banyan tree complex steeped in local legend. If you want more festive energy, My Khanh Tourist Village is just minutes away.

To complete your stay, check our list of top hotels in Can Tho and top restaurants in Can Tho. This combination ensures a journey that captures the full spectrum of the Delta’s spiritual, historical, and ecological soul.

Traditional Mekong Delta dishes served at Lu Gia Xeo Nhum Ecological Village
A calm riverside scene surrounded by palm trees

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    Frequently Asked Questions about Lu Gia Xeo Nhum Ecological Garden

    Why should I visit Lu Gia Xeo Nhum Ecological Garden with Mekong Smile?

    We don’t just take you to a garden; we connect you with the owners, share historical stories about the area, and ensure an “authentic” experience far from mass-market tourism.

    Is Lu Gia Xeo Nhum Ecological Garden suitable for families with children?

    Absolutely! It is a great educational space for kids to learn about food sources and enjoy healthy folk games they rarely see in the city.

    Do I need to bring a change of clothes for water games at Lu Gia Xeo Nhum Ecological Garden?

    Yes, you should bring a comfortable set. However, Xeo Nhum and Mekong Smile also provide “Ba Ba” outfits for a true Western-style experience.

    Is Lu Gia Xeo Nhum Ecological Garden worth visiting during the rainy season?

    Rainy season in the Mekong is usually quick showers. Sitting in a thatched hut, listening to the rain, and eating hot pancakes is a poetic experience we highly recommend.

    Is the food at Lu Gia Xeo Nhum Ecological Garden hygienic?

    Mekong Smile carefully audits and selects partners who commit to clean ingredients and high preparation standards for international guests.

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