In the dry season, the lake covers an area of 200-300ha wide and 4m deep. But it is directly affected by the the hydrographic system of the Mekong River and thus the width triples in the rainy season, with the depth increasing up to seven meters.

In the flood season in Mekong Delta, most of rivers in the area are muddy with alluvium, but the water of Bung Binh Thien still remains clear and blue; a beautiful landscape endowed with the highest biological diversity in An Giang.

Being home of many ethnic Cham people, Bing Binh Thien appeared shelters of those Cham people living along its bank. However, they are engaged in the modern world, developing businesses and participating in cultural and artistic activities in community.

Bung Binh Thien is a place of tranquility where visitors can stay away from the stresses of city life and discover the poetic landscapes of the area, with water-lilies and lotus swaying in the wind on the lake, and the bustle of creatures such as fish, shrimp, snakes and turtles under water.

Chau Doc locals are known for being very warm and approachable -- even the xe dap loi drivers, as pestering as they are, are friendly. English is spoken in most of the foreigner-targeted guesthouses and hostels.

The most exciting activities of a visit to Chau Doc is a boat trip on one of the small wooden boats that park near the western end of the park. You will have a chance to discover many floating raft houses and fish farms with a very cheap price, only few dollars an hour. Doing this at dawn can be very photogenic and rewarding.

A second attraction, just outside Chau Doc, is Sam Mountain more of a hillock in fact - which has reasonable views over the surrounds. The views are pretty rather than spectacular, though when combined with a visit to the pagodas around the hills base, this makes a worthwhile afternoon jaunt.

Chau Doc is also the closest large town to the Vietnamese/Cambodian river border crossing. If you are heading to or from Phnom Penh by boat, you will pass through Chau Doc, so try to allow for an overnight stay.