Nhon Trach

Nhon Trach is a district in southern Đồng Nai province, located along the Đồng Nai River about 30 km southeast of Ho Chi Minh City. It is an area of rapid industrialisation, home to the Nhon Trach Industrial Parks, which have attracted numerous manufacturing and logistics companies. Despite the industrial growth, the district retains significant agricultural and riverside areas.

The district comprises a mix of urbanised areas near the industrial zones and traditional farming communities along the river. Nhon Trach is known for its orchards, particularly pomelo and rambutan, and for its scenic river islands formed by the Đồng Nai River's braided channels.

The climate is tropical monsoon, with a dry season from November to April and a rainy season from May to October. Temperatures average 26–35°C.

By Plane

The nearest airport is Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City, approximately 40 km west. A taxi costs 350,000–500,000 dong and takes 50–70 minutes.

By Car / Road

Nhon Trach is accessible from Ho Chi Minh City via the Phu My Bridge and National Highway 51, or via ferry crossings from District 2 and District 9. The drive takes about 40–60 minutes. Local buses connect Nhon Trach to Bien Hoa and Ho Chi Minh City.

The main town area is small enough to walk. Taxis and xe om cover the district. The river islands are best explored by renting a motorbike and taking local ferries. Bicycle rentals are available for exploring the countryside.

Đồng Nai River Islands — A series of river islands accessible by ferry, offering rural landscapes, fruit orchards, and traditional villages.

Phước Khánh Temple — A historic temple on the riverbank with architectural elements dating to the 19th century.

Nhon Trach Industrial Parks — A unique glimpse into Vietnam's manufacturing economy, with factories and logistics centres lining modern boulevards.

Orchard Gardens — Family-run fruit farms where visitors can wander among pomelo, rambutan, and durian trees.

Take a ferry across the Đồng Nai River to explore the river islands and their orchard gardens. Visit during fruit season (May–August) for the best u-pick experiences. Cycle along the river dyke roads for scenic views of the water and countryside. Sample local river seafood at one of the floating restaurants.

Cá lóc nướng trui — Grilled snakehead fish wrapped in straw and cooked until crispy-skinned, served with rice paper and herbs, a riverside specialty.

Bánh xèo — Crispy Vietnamese pancakes filled with shrimp, bean sprouts, and herbs, available at local eateries for 20,000–35,000 dong.

Fresh river seafood — Shrimp, crab, and freshwater fish served at restaurants along the Đồng Nai River, especially at Bến Đò Nhon Trach.

Coconut water is widely available from street vendors. Vietnamese coffee is served at roadside cafés. The area is also known for nước ép trái cây (fresh fruit juices) made from locally grown fruits.

• Budget: Modest guesthouses near the market offer basic rooms from 120,000–200,000 dong.
• Mid-range: A few hotels catering to industrial park workers and visitors offer rooms from 300,000–500,000 dong.
• Upscale: Limited options; most visitors stay in Ho Chi Minh City or Bien Hoa.

Nhon Trach's markets offer fresh river fish, tropical fruits, and local vegetables. The district is known for its pomelos (bưởi) — large, sweet citrus fruits that make excellent gifts. Cashew nuts and dried seafood are also available.

Ho Chi Minh City (30 km, 40 min) — Vietnam's vibrant southern metropolis.

Bien Hoa (25 km, 30 min) — Đồng Nai's capital with ceramics village and pagodas.

Vũng Tàu (70 km, 1.5 hr) — Beach resort city with seafood and coastal attractions.

Cat Tien National Park (140 km, 3 hr) — Jungle trekking and wildlife in a vast protected area.