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Vietnam Architecture: Hanoi Opera House

Located in the heart of Hanoi, in a beautiful intersection downtown meets five main city roads, is a huge building called Hanoi Opera House, or the Grand Opera House (Vietnamese: Nhà Hát Lớn Hà Nội). Standing with times over 100 years, Hanoi Opera House has become a witness of Hanoi’s history. This historic building hosts to shows by many of cultural entertaining performances, contemporary dance, bamboo cirque, orchestra concerts and government events.

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The beautiful Hanoi Opera House was built from 1901 to 1911 by the French government, during the period French occupied Vietnam. Initially, Opera House’s position used to be a wetland area belonging to two villages, Thach Tan and Tay Luong. Thus, the construction is a strenuous work. It was designed by two French architects V. Harley and Broyer, inspired by ancient Greek architecture styles and the Opéra Garnier de Paris. The design was under much modification due to comments of many other architects and required a huge workforce and materials: 300 workers; 35,000 bamboo poles and concrete blocks of 0,9m thick; 12,000m3 of materials with 600 tons of iron and steel on the total area of 2600 square meters are amazing figures for any construction. It’s an outstanding piece of neo-classical French architecture featuring Gothic themes on the doors and domes with pillars, shuttered windows, balconies and a glass room. The interior design of Hanoi Opera surprises visitors with T-shape white marble staircase right in the center decorated with red carpet centered, crystal chandeliers, large wall mirrors, Corinthian columns and colorful dome by colorful murals and reliefs. The auditorium is 24 x 24 meters in size with three sitting floors including 589 velvet chairs. The second and third floors are reserved for separate box seats. The building also has a meeting room called “Mirror Room”, 18 dressing rooms, two rooms for voice training and a library at the back.

There are three grand opera theatres built by French in Vietnam: Hanoi Opera House, Hai Phong Opera House and Saigon Opera House. Hanoi Opera House is the biggest one of three and speaks volumes as historical and cultural evidence of Vietnam under French rule. In 1899, the city council held a meeting chaired by Richard – envoy of Hanoi, and he proposed to build the Theater with the purpose of entertaining for French colonialists. Vietnamese elites were allowed to attend these performances but they had to be well-dressed and paid much money for tickets.

After the August Revolution in 1945, the Opera House was changed from entertaining the French elite to becoming the center of major historical events including the first session of the National Assembly of Vietnam Democratic Republic. In 1995, the building was restored to prepare for the La Francophonie summit in 1997, with nearly 14 million US dollars for renovation. Nowadays, conferences, seminars and press conferences under the plans of Ministry of Culture Sport and Tourism are taken place in the Opera House as well.

Not only it is a symbol of Hanoi in many aspects but Hanoi Opera House is also the stage of flourishing art. Invited to perform in the stage is the dream of all Vietnamese artists because it’s such a way to recognize their talent and contribution to art of Vietnam. The auditorium offers a superb setting in which to see any live show. The stage is three metres high and there are three storeys in total to guarantee wonderful experiences regardless of your seating arrangements. Musicians, actors and dancers play to a 600-strong audience delivering powerful operatic and classical performances, making it a very popular theatrical attraction.

Hanoi Opera House has the own significances that are worthy of standing in the list of the world’s classics. In terms of its values of architecture and landscape, the Opera House is still the most important artistic art form and most suitable for high-quality art programs and meets requirements of international performances.

Interesting facts and figures:
– The building took 10 years to be completed from 1901 to 1911.
– The building is 34 meters above the ground and carried out in a total area of 2600 square meters with the 87-meter length and 30-meter width.
– The auditorium is 24 x 24 meters with three seat floors that include 589 velvet seats.
– In 1995, the government spent nearly 14 million US dollars to restore the opera house.
– The building was acclaimed as Nation Relic, on its 100th birthday, December 9th 2011.

Hanoi Opera Hotel is just a few minutes walking from Hilton Hotel, Hotel de l’Opera Hanoi – Mgallery, Sofitel Legend Metropole Hotel, Conifer Boutique Hotel, The Lapis Hotel, Apricot Hotel and many others in the Old Quarter. Hoan Kiem Lake and Vietnam National History Museum are also nearby. Visitors can see the imposing colonial architecture of the Hanoi Opera House from the outside. Wander around the sprawling gardens and admire the huge building features many elements of Gothic and neoclassic architecture. To see the inside, visitors will need to book a seat for a performance. While it is interesting with the architecture, the true highlight is of course seeing a show in this grand setting. The Hanoi Opera House hosts both classic French and Italian opera and also traditional Vietnamese performances. This city landmark is also included in most of our Hanoi Tours. If you don’t find it in your city tour itinerary, please ask your travel consultant to fill in.

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15 Most Incredible Pagodas & Temples in Vietnam

Vietnam temples play an important role in spiritual life of local people. Temples in Vietnam is dedicated to the Saints of the Nation or the Heroes who were respected as the Saint. We listed the most famous temples that you could be able to access in Vietnam with brief information and updated photos. During your Vietnam visit, you should visit these sites if your time is permitted to get to know more about Vietnam Culture and religious life in this Communist country.

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1. Quan Thanh Temple, Hanoi

Located by West Lake Hanoi, Quan Thanh Temple is worshiping Tran Vu guardian spirit – one of four guardian spite in protect Thang Long (later is Hanoi) in the early time. In 1677 during the reign of King Le, artisans from the nearby Ngu Xa village offered the Temple a very large statue of Tran Vu in black bronze, which remains today. This statue is measured 3.96 metres (13.0 ft) in height, weight around 3,600 kilograms (7,900 lb) and depicts Tran Vu as a deity with his two symbolic animals, the serpent and the turtle. Considered a masterpiece of Vietnamese bronze casting and sculpture, it is the second biggest bronze statue in Vietnam. This artwork is evidence of the advanced technical standard of bronze casting and sculpture of Vietnamese artisans in the 17th century. Legend has it that Quan Thanh Temple was established during the reign of Emperor Ly (reigned 1010–1028. Nowadays it become one of the leading tourist attractions in Hanoi.

2. Tran Quoc Pagoda, Hanoi

This is the oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi, is located on a small island near the southeastern shore of Hanoi’s West Lake (Ho Tay)

Tran Quoc Pagoda was originally constructed in the sixth century during the reign of Emperor Lý Nam Đế (from 544 until 548), thus giving it an age of more than 1,450 years. When founded the temple was named Khai Quoc (National Founding) and was cited on the shores of the Red River, outside of the Yen Phu Dyke. When confronted with the river’s encroachment, the temple was relocated in 1615 to Kim Ngu (Golden Fish) islet of Ho Tay (West Lake) where it is now situated. A small causeway links it to Thanh Nien Road. There are more local people visit the pagoda in the first and 15th of lunar month. This is one of most famous temple in Hanoi and the must see in the City Tour Itinerary of Hanoi.

3. Temple of Literature, Hanoi

Van Mieu was dedicated to Confucius in Hanoi. The temple also hosts the Imperial Academy – Vietnam’s first national university. The temple was built in 1070 at the time of Ly Emperor. It is one of several temples in Vietnam which is dedicated to Confucius, sages and scholars. The temple is located to the south of the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long. The various pavilions, halls, statues and stelae of doctors The temple was reconstructed during the Tran dynasty (1225–1400) and in the subsequent dynasties. For nearly two centuries, despite wars and disasters, the temple has preserved ancient Vietnamese temple architecture of many dynasties as well as precious relics. Major restorations have taken place in 1920, 1954 and 2000. The Temple is an important stop when visit Hanoi City.

4. Ngoc Son Temple, Hanoi

Ngoc Son Temple translates to English “The Jade Mountain Temple” is located on a small islet on Hoan Kiem lake, Hanoi. The temple is dedicated to Confucian and Taoist philosophers and General Tran Hung Dao – a hero in Vietnam in Tran dynasty. Inside the temple, there is a dry remains of Old Turtle which related to the legend of Hoan Kiem Lake. Ngoc Son temple is connected to the Ten Shape Tower by a Red wooden bridge. It became one of the top tourist attractions in Hanoi.

5. Perfume Pagoda, Ha Tay, Hanoi

Perfume Pagoda (Chua Huong) lies in Huong Son commune, My Duc district, Hanoi (Former Ha Tay). The Pagoda is the site of a religious festival which draws large numbers of pilgrims up to 4 thousand a day during March. My personal experience, you should visit this temple in the rest of the year and avoid this festival time so the trip will be more relaxing in slow pace and you could enjoy the beauty of this sacred temple and the tranquillity of a mountainous area which is only 90 minutes’ drive from Hanoi.

During the day trip to Perfume pagoda. You could take an hour of rowing sampan along Yen River to Ben Yen and visit Thien Tru pagoda. As a foreign traveller, you should skip Den Trinh (Reception Temple) which normally for local. Next you will continue your hiking to Tien Son cave and visit a temple inside the cave. Then continue to Huong Tich Pagoda. Another bigger Temple inside the cave with stalagmite and stalactite hanging from the ceilings. On the way out, you may stop to visit Giai Oan temple if your time is permitted otherwise, you could go back straight to boat station for the trip back to your car parking.

The most beautiful part of the trip is the hiking to Huong Tich and the most beautiful temple of Huong compound is Thien Tru Pagoda. The current site of Thien Tru which existed during Le reign dated in 15th century. Legend claims that the site was discovered over 2000 years ago by a monk meditating in the area, who named the site after a Tibetan Mountain where Lord Buddha practiced asceticism

Parts of the pagoda was destroying during Vietnam Wars, and it was restored several times in 1986 and 1994. Vietnam Travel organize the day trip to Perfume pagoda, more information & the best deals, please contact their travel consultant.

6. But Thap Pagoda, Bac Ninh

But Thap Pagoda is a Buddhist temple located by the dyke of the Duong River in Bac Ninh Province just an hour drive from Hanoi.

The temple was built in the 13th century. The temple houses the biggest Buddha statue with a thousand eyes and a thousand arms. But Thap Temple is one of the most famous pagodas in Viet Nam. Inside, there are various valuable ancient objects and statues, which are Vietnamese masterpieces of 17th-century wood carving. During the same time the temple had become famous for the venerable abbot and Zen Buddhist master

The pagoda has 10 buildings spreading for 100 meters from the three-entrance gate to the belltower and back house. Inside the temple are more than 50 statues of different sizes including the Triad Buddha, Manjusri (Van Thu) on a blue lion and Samanta Bhadra (Pho Hien) on a white elephant. The most remarkable is the thousand-handed and thousand-eyed Guanyin, which is described as a sculptural masterpiece of Vietnam. The architecture, sculpture and decoration of the temple were exclusively confined to the 17th century, so it was the best intact and typical example of Vietnam’s classical Buddhist art. Travelers should visit But Thap Pagoda in the half day trip of Vietnam Travel or you will combine But Thap Pagoda with Dong Ho Village and Bat Trang Village in a day vicinity tour from Hanoi.

7. One Pillar Pagoda, Hanoi

The One Pillar Pagoda is located near HCM museum in Hanoi. The temple was built by Ly Emperor in 11th century. The pagoda has only One pillar as the shape of a lotus flower with a stem. The building related to the dream of Ly King who was granted a child from Buddha on lotus blossom. Later his dream come true, and a Monk advise him to build pagoda with a pillar in the middle of a lotus pond, similar to the one he saw in the dream.

The temple was first built of wood on a single stone pillar 1.25 m in diameter and 4 m in height, and it is designed to resemble a lotus blossom, which is a Buddhist symbol of purity, since a lotus blossoms in a muddy pond. In 1954, the French Union forces destroyed the pagoda before withdrawing from Vietnam after the First Indochina War. It was restored afterward. One Pillar pagoda is one of the must see in Hanoi today.

8. Tran Temple in Nam Dinh

Tran Temple Complex is located in Nam Dinh province about 2-and-a-half-hour drive from Hanoi. The Temple is dedicated to national hero Tran Hung Dao who led Vietnamese fight off Northern evasion in 13th Century. Many local people visit Tran Temple after the TET. Traveler should visit Tran temple when you travel from Ninh Binh to Hai Phong or Halong Bay. A shot visit of 30 minutes to an hour is good enough to see the beautiful statues and sacred objects was displayed in these 3 nice buildings.

9. Bai Dinh pagoda, Ninh Binh

Bai Dinh Temple Spiritual and Cultural Complex is a complex of Buddhist temples on Bai Dinh Mountain in Ninh Binh Province, about 2-hour drive from Hanoi. The compound consists of the original old temple and a newly created larger temple. It is considered the largest complex of Buddhist temples in Vietnam and has become a popular site for Buddhist pilgrimages from across the country. You should combine the trip to Bai Dinh with visit to Hoa Lu ancient Citadel, Tam Coc or Cuc Phuong National Park… which all located in Ninh Binh province.

10. Hung Temple, Phu Tho

Hung Temple is in Phong Chau District, Phu Tho province about 2 hour drive from Hanoi.

It is the most sacred of the historic sites by the Vietnamese. The complex consisting of several temples dedicated to the cult of Hung King – the first descendants the mythological founders of the Vietnamese.

Legend recounts that in his search for a site for his court, Hung King I travelled to 99 places but found none to his satisfaction. Upon reaching the village of Hy Cuong, The King’s mount abruptly stopped and whinnied. The king climbed the highest peak Mount Nghia Linh nearby where he scanned the four directions. It was then that he proclaimed the site as fitting of his capital.

The festival of Hung Temple is in April, and it is National holidays in Vietnam. During the festival thousands of local people visit the Temple and pay respect to the King as the Ancestor of nation.

11. Thien Mu Pagoda, Hue

Thien Mu is iconic seven-story pagoda is regarded as the unofficial symbol of Hue. The pagoda sits on ha Khe hill about 5 km from central of Hue by the bank of Perfume River. Visitor could access Thien Mu pagoda by boat or by car.

Built in 1601, it was related to the dream of Nguyen Lord. According to the royal annals, First Nguyen Lord while traveling the vicinity, was told of the local legend in which an old lady, known as Thien Mu (in Vietnamese “Celestial Lady”), dressed in red and blue sat at the site, rubbing her cheeks. She foretold that a lord would come and erect a pagoda on the hill to pray for the country’s prosperity. She then vanished after making her prophecy. Upon hearing this, First Nguyen Lord ordered the construction of a temple at the site, so it became the pagoda we visit today. Thien Mu pagoda is one of the must see when you visit Hue City.

12. Truc Lam Zen Monastery

Truc Lam temple is a Zen Buddhist temple located on the top of Phuong Hoang hill in vicinity of Da Lat

Truc Lam bell tower is clearly seen from far distance. The tiled roof of the pagoda is also prominent, contrasting against the green of surrounding pine woods. The entrance of the temple is somewhat isolated, so there is a direct entrance to the temple with 61 steps or climbing, or the person can go directly past the Lake and then climb 222 steps past the triple gated entrance to enter the main courtyard in front of the temple. Truc Lam monastery is in the list of sites to visit in Da Lat.

13. Vinh Nghiem Pagoda, HCM City

Vinh Nghiem Pagoda is the biggest pagoda in HCM City. The pagoda covers an area of 6,000 square metres (65,000 sq ft) in District 3 about 30 minutes’ drive from city center. This is the first concrete built pagoda in Vietnamese traditional architecture with is the 7-story, 40-metre-high (130 ft) tower. This pagoda houses and worship of one Buddha and two bodhisattvas. In 1964, two monks originally from the North came South Vietnam from North Vietnam to spread Buddhism started the construction of Vinh Nghiem Pagoda. Nowadays, Vinh Nghiem pagoda is one of the must see in HCM City.

14. Cao Dai Temple, Tay Ninh

Cao Dai temple is headquartering of the newest religion in Vietnam. Caodaism is a monotheistic syncretic religion officially established in the city of Tay Ninh in 1926.  Cao Dai Temple is 2-hour drive from HCM City. The 30 minutes celebration at noontime (Starts exactly at Noon time, so you should manage the time and don’t miss it). The symbol of the faith is the Left Eye of God, representing the yang (masculine, ordaining, positive and expansive) activity of the male creator, which is balanced by the yin activity of Mother Goddess, the Queen Mother of the West, the feminine, nurturing and restorative mother of humanity. Statistics in 2015. There are about 2.5 million Cao Dai followers. You should combine the visit to Cao Dai temple with Cu Chi tunnels in the full day trip from HCM City.

15. Ba Chua Xu Temple, An Giang

Ba Chua Xu Temple is located in Chai Doc city, An Giang province. Ba Chua Xu translated to Vietnamese is “Holy Mother of the Realm” is a prosperity goddess of southern Vietnam. She is a tutelary of business, health, and a protector of the Vietnamese border. She is considered prestigious and is worshipped in her temple in Vinh Te village at the foot of Sam Mountain about 5km from Chau Doc.

The festival at this temple last for 3 days is held in the village at the beginning of the rainy season, beginning on the twenty-third day of the fourth lunar month, in her honor.  Travelers could reach to Ba Chua Xu Temple when you visit Chau Doc City.

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Tay Ninh: one of the best attractive destinations in Vietnam

Are you wondering where is Tay Ninh in Vietnam? Look no further than this Tay Ninh Vietnam map, which will also show you the many attractions in this southern province.

If you are planning a Vietnam travel adventure, the Tay Ninh Vietnam map should definitely be on your radar! Located in South Vietnam, Tay Ninh is known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes. From the majestic Ba Den Mountain to the magnificent Cao Dai Temple, there is a wealth of attractions to discover during your trip in this province.

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1. Where is Tay Ninh in Vietnam? How many districts are there on the Tay Ninh Vietnam map?

Tay Ninh, a province situated in South Vietnam, is nestled in the southeastern region. It borders Binh Duong and Binh Phuoc to the east, Ho Chi Minh City and Long An to the south, and shares a 240-kilometer-long border with Cambodia to the west and north. Besides the city of Tay Ninh, the province comprises 8 districts, including Tan Bien, Tan Chau, Duong Minh Chau, Chau Thanh, Hoa Thanh, Ben Cau, Go Dau, and Trang Bang.

Vietnam Tay Ninh promises a captivating journey for all travellers. This Tay Ninh Vietnam map will reveal the diverse landscapes and cultural wonders that this place has to offer.

2. Which places on the Tay Ninh Vietnam map are worth visiting for tourists?

2.1. Ba Den Mountain – one of the top attractions near Ho Chi Minh City

Situated just 11 kilometres away from the center of Tay Ninh City, Ba Den Mountain holds a significant place on the Tay Ninh Vietnam map. This Tay Ninh Mountain stands as the “roof” of South Vietnam, soaring to a height of 986 meters and covering an area of 24 square kilometres. It captivates visitors with its rich history and breathtaking landscapes. Ascending Ba Den Tay Ninh Mountain ensures an unforgettable adventure for both seasoned climbers and newcomers alike, regardless of the path you choose.

2.2. Tay Ninh Holy See (Cao Dai Temple)

Tay Ninh Holy See, also known as Cao Dai Temple, serves as the spiritual heart of Caodaism in Vietnam. Situated just 5 kilometres away from the center of Tay Ninh City, this temple showcases a unique blend of Eastern and Western architectural styles. As the largest Cao Dai religious site on the Tay Ninh Vietnam map, it attracts both pilgrims and tourists alike. The captivating ambiance and profound spiritual significance here make it a must-visit on any journey to Tay Ninh.

2.3. Dau Tieng Lake

Dau Tieng Lake, the largest man-made lake in Vietnam, spanning an impressive 27,000 hectares, is a picturesque reservoir stretching across the provinces of Tay Ninh, Binh Duong, and Binh Phuoc. The majority of its expanse lies within the Tay Ninh Vietnam map. Many visitors flock here for camping trips, where they can witness breathtaking sunrises and sunsets or even spend a memorable night for a delightful picnic.

2.4. Lo Go – Xa Mat National Park

Tay Ninh Province Vietnam is home to a remarkable natural treasure named Lo Go – Xa Mat National Park. Situated on the Tay Ninh Vietnam map, covering an extensive area of 18,765 hectares, this park serves as a transitional zone between the Central Highlands and the southeastern region.

As one of the noteworthy Vietnamnational parks, Lo Go – Xa Mat is dedicated to conserving a wide variety of rare and precious flora and fauna. Thanks to its diverse terrains, visitors can indulge in a plethora of fascinating activities, including forest trekking, cycling through lush landscapes, camping, picnicking by the picturesque Da Ha Waterfall, and taking a boat ride along the scenic Vam Co Dong River.

2.5. Truc Stream

Truc Stream, a hidden gem on the Tay Ninh Vietnam map, is one of the delightful attractions near Ho Chi Minh City that will enchant nature enthusiasts. This serene stream offers a refreshing respite from the hectic pace of city life. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in the tranquility of the surroundings while taking leisurely strolls along the banks or simply basking in the peaceful ambiance. The crystal-clear water of Truc Stream invites you to dip your feet, providing a soothing escape on a hot day.

2.6. Chot Mat Tower

Chot Mat Tower (also known as Chop Mat) stands as one of the few remaining ancient towers in South Vietnam. This tower is a significant relic of the Oc Eo civilization, bearing witness to the rich cultural heritage of the area. Historians estimate that this tower was constructed in the 8th century, yet it was not until the mid-19th century that French archaeologists discovered it. As a mysterious piece of history on the Tay Ninh Vietnam map, Chot Mat Tower invites visitors to delve into the intriguing past of Tay Ninh South Vietnam, offering a glimpse into the ancient civilization that once flourished in the region.

2.7. Rocky Mountain Lake

Rocky Mountain Lake, also known as Ho Nui Da, is an essential stop on your Tay Ninh Vietnam map. Situated in Ba Den Mountain, a visit to this place allows you to engage in various activities with friends and family, such as trekking along the trails leading to the lake, camping, and participating in team-building games. The best time to visit Rocky Mountain Lake is during the dry season, from December to April. So, plan your Tay Ninh tour accordingly to enjoy the enchanting beauty of this natural gem.

2.8. Go Chua Fruit Garden

On the Tay Ninh Vietnam map, if you seek a tranquil natural space where you can indulge in an abundance of delicious fruits, Go Chua Fruit Garden is a must-visit. Often overlooked by many, this hidden gem is a perfect retreat for relaxation and fruit feasting. Fruit enthusiasts will be delighted by the abundant selection available here. So, make sure to come and savor the delights of this lesser-known gem during your Tay Ninh Vietnam trip.

2.9. Go Ken Pagoda

Amidst the tranquil beauty of Tay Ninh, you will discover Go Ken Pagoda, a hidden treasure among the enticing Tay Ninh Vietnam attractions. With a history spanning over a hundred years, this ancient pagoda exudes a serene ambiance and spiritual charm. Within the pagoda’s grounds lie various sacred structures, including a 25-meter-tall statue of Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva standing amidst a lotus pond, a statue of Buddha, and a nine-story Stupa. Go Ken Pagoda is a true gem among Vietnamese pagodas, and a visit here promises to enrich your spiritual journey.

2.10. Ma Thien Lanh Valley

Ma Thien Lanh Valley is a mesmerizing landscape shaped by the convergence of Ba Den Mountain, Phung Mountain, and Heo Mountain. From the summit of Ba Den Mountain, the valley seems to unfold like a tranquil basin, adorned with hidden caves and serene lakes. Undoubtedly, Ma Thien Lanh Valley promises to be an enthralling attraction for any Tay Ninh Vietnam trip. This natural wonderland offers a range of beloved activities, such as trekking, camping, or simply enjoying a leisurely picnic.

Tay Ninh Province Vietnam beckons curious travelers with its alluring charm. As you traverse the Tay Ninh Vietnam map, you will uncover not only cultural treasures but also natural wonders like the mystical Ba Den Mountain and the serene Dau Tieng Lake. Each stop on the map promises a new adventure, making your Tay Ninh tour unique and memorable.

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        Ninh Thuan: beyond Sun, Wind and Beach.

Stunning beaches and sand dunes, lush green mountains, and vibrant culture are all glowing words whenever people mention Ninh Thuan, a beautiful province in the south-central region of Vietnam. Whether you are looking for a beach break or an adventurous trekking trip up the hill, Ninh Thuan is sure to satisfy every craving heart in the world.

Ninh Thuan is a cradle full of surprises. Being sandwiched between the world-famous beach resort towns of Nha Trang and Mui Ne, it is also home to a world biosphere reserve, Cham heritage site and UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding.

As mentioned, Ninh Thuan located in the South-Central region, the provincial capital is Phan Rang – Thap Cham city, 340 km from Ho Chi Minh City, bordering Khanh Hoa to the north and Binh Thuan to the south. With its special location, Ninh Thuan is the host to some of the country’s most stunning natural wonders. From its pristine beaches to its lush forests, Ninh Thuan offers a wealth of opportunities for exploration and discovery.

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Best time to visit Ninh Thuan

Despite being hot all year round, Ninh Thuan is, obviously, a hotspot drawing tourists. For those who fancy blue sea, white sand and crispy sunshine, travelling from May to August will be the perfect time to enjoy beaches in Ninh Thuan. It is not the peak season so you can have a peaceful heart, mind and soul.

August to October screaming festival time. The province is its busiest, culturally, with unique festivals of the Cham people, including the “Kate Festival” held late September and early October to mark the end of one harvest season.

There are several means of transport to reach Ninh Thuan. If you take the train, you get off at Thap Cham Station. If you take a plane, the nearest airport is Cam Ranh (Khanh Hoa), nearly 70 km from Phan Rang – Thap Cham city. Other vehicles such as cars or motorbikes can access via National Highway.

Looking for a shelter? Ninh Thuan offers a wide range of accommodations from motels, hotels to camping tents.

What to explore

Nui Chua National Park

About 30 minutes driving from Phan Rang-Thap Cham City, this UNESCO’s biosphere reserve shelters 765 animal species, of which 46 are on the Red List of the International Union for Conservation of Nature, including the red-shanked douc langurs. Trekking and camping are few tourism activities allowed in the national park. Visitors can trek through towering mountains, fast-flowing streams, giant rocks, mountain cliffs, and dense jungles. The most popular trek is a three-day trekking route from Hang Da Hamlet to O Liem River. During the trekking, visitors can pitch a camp in the heart of the forest, if lucky enough, visitors can have an opportunity to learn traditional wet rice farming methods of the Raglai ethnic minority community and many unique cultural practices. Register in advance with the management board of the park to ensure your safety.

Rai Cave

Nestled in the Nui Chua Biosphere Reserve, Rai Cave owns a system of beautiful, extraordinary caves, a masterpiece of nature and otter habitat. This is also the place with the most beautiful coral reef in the region, stretching for kilometres, with many species and colours creating a colourful picture. There are no tourism services here, but visitors can bring their own tents to camp overnight.

Vinh Hy Bay

 It is no doubt to say Ninh Thuan Province is a paradise for beach lovers since it is well known for stunning beaches, white sand, crystal clear waters and lush vegetation. Being known as one of the 4 most beautiful bays in Vietnam, Vinh Hy Bay is an unmissable place in Ninh Thuan. Close to Nui Chua National Park, the Bay has its wild, natural and primitive beauty. Added some fun to swimming and watersports by the Bay, renting a glass-bottom boat to watch the marine life and colourful coral reefs is a great experience.

The sea route

Phan Rang – Vinh Hy – Cam Ranh and Phan Rang – Binh Thuan are two sea routes with gorgeous views of nature. From Phan Rang – Thap Cham City, following the coastal road to the North and South, the scenery of green beaches, white salt fields, sheep grazing fields, vineyards… open up in visitors’ eyes. A part of Nui Chua Biosphere Reserve also lies in this route.

Bau Truc Pottery Village

About 10 km from Phan Rang-Thap Cham City, lies the Bau Truc Pottery Village, with the Art of pottery-making of Chăm people, a UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding, and one of the two most ancient pottery villages in Southeast Asia. All ceramic products in Bau Truc are handmade as artisans do not use a potter’s wheel to shape the clay. Come and experience the crafting of beautiful ceramic products to bring as gifts.

Nam Cuong sand dune

Being dubbed as a miniature desert of Ninh Thuan, the dunes change colours depending on the angle of the sun and cloud. Visitors to this miniature desert can see the sight of Cham women in their traditional attires, silhouetting on the soft sand, carrying jars of water on their heads. The best time to admire the beauty of the sand dunes is between 5am and 7am, when sunshine makes the sands glow golden.

Po Klong Garai Tower

About 7 km from Phan Rang-Thap Cham City, lies the most majestic tower complex of the Cham People, the Po Klong Garai. This architectural masterpiece is a place to perform the worshipping. Cham people garther here to celebrate the “Kate Festival,” praying for a good harvest every October. The week-long festival marks the Cham calendar’s de facto New Year at the onset of a new harvest.

An Hoa Sheep farm

With the year-round hot and sunny weather, Ninh Thuan is considered as the “holy land” of sheep. Many of Ninh Thuan’s shepherds belong to the Cham ethnic minority. Local shepherds usually take their flocks at around 8 a.m to nearby hills where they graze on wild grass. This is the ideal time to watch the sheep and take arresting photographs.

Vine yards

Despite the year-round hot weather, Ninh Thuan is an ideal land for grapes and apples growing. Ninh Thuan people also grow black grapes used to make wine besides green and red ones. On the Ninh Thuan – Nha Trang route, visitors can pass by vineyards of An Thai, Ba Moi… to take a photo, picking and buying grape products.

What to eat

Banh Can (mini pancakes) is a common food of the Cham people in Ninh Thuan. Other must-try dishes in Ninh Thuan can be named: Banh canh cha ca (fish cake noodles); chicken rice; Jellyfish noodle soup; Vietnamese white sardine salad …

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Some Experiences You Need to Do in Cao Bang

Tucked away in a remote area of Northern Vietnam, Cao Bang Province is bursting with beautiful geo-cultural sites. With five major river systems and 47 lakes, water plays a vital role in shaping the landscape and local life. Much of Cao Bang is protected as UNESCO Global Geopark. The province’s extraordinary diversity makes it a spectacular place to explore, especially for adventure travellers. Here are seven stops in Cao Bang you must not miss.

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Bản Giốc Waterfall

Located on the border between China and Vietnam, Bản Giốc is the fourth largest waterfall in the world. Measuring 300 meters wide, the falls are absolutely breathtaking in size. The vast area and range of different falls and pools within the park is captivating. Set in a striking valley and surrounded by lush jungle, Bản Giốc feels like a paradise of its own. 

TIP: The best time to visit is during the dry season from October to April. At the end of the dry season, a daily release of water from the dam-controlled Quây Sơn River takes place between 10:30am and 1:00pm, bringing the falls up to their full flow.  

Trúc Lâm Phật Tích Pagoda

A short but steep walk brings you to this traditional Vietnamese-style temple. The design of Trúc Lâm pagoda fits perfectly into the hillside. As you climb higher to the main temple area, a valley filled with karsts unfolds below. A stunning spot not far from Bản Giốc Waterfalls, Trúc Lâm Pagoda can easily be visited in the same day.

Ngườm Ngao Cave

The Ngườm Ngao cave system has some of the most unique stalactite formations in Southeast Asia. As you step foot into the cave, the formations change with each new cavern. The entire cave system is 2,144 meters long, but local authorities have only opened 948 meters to visitors to preserve its natural beauty.

TIP: Don’t forget to bring drinking water for this trip: the one-kilometre walk can easily take an hour or more. 

Thang Hen Lake System

The Thang Hen Lakes are made up of 36 miniature lakes that are all connected through caves and underground passageways. In the rainy season, water levels rise to form a single lake, which meanders through a valley of karst peaks for over 300 kilometres. While the lake is picturesque, it’s the rock formations and scenes of daily life that make Thang Hen worth visiting. 

TIP: Hire a local guide to bring you to Tuyệt Tình Cốc, also known as The Mountains Eye. This single karst peak is home to a cave that runs through one side to the other, forming a giant hole in the mountain.  

Ethnic minority groups

Cao Bằng Province has over nine ethnic groups, which have lived in these valleys for centuries. The Tày, Nùng, Dao, and H’mong are some of the most well-known, and each minority has its own special crafts and way of living. To experience ethnic culture, visit a minority craft village with one of the local guides, or book an ethnic homestay during your trip.

Cao Bằng City

Anchored around the Sông Bằng River, Cao Bằng City has grown into a bustling centre of development. With a small but contemporary selection of hotels, shops, and restaurants, it’s the perfect base for exploring the rest of the province. You’ll find many northern specialities to try in town, such as Phở Chua (sour noodle soup) and Bánh Cuốn (steamed rice rolls). Cao Bang City also has several festivals which are unique to the region. 

Pác Bó Historical Complex

Pác Bó Historical Complex is a memorial and museum founded on the site where Hồ Chí Minh began his revolution. Here you can take a look at the cave where Ho Chi Minh lived in hiding, and the river where he fished and wrote poetry. This tasteful tribute to the life and work of Ho Chi Minh is an important pilgrimage spot for the Vietnamese.

Cao Bang Travel Tips

Transport to Cao Bang

The distance from Hanoi to Cao Bang City is around 280 kilometres. Travel time can be around eight hours depending on type of transportation. Day and overnight buses are available from Hanoi to Cao Bang. Buses leave from the My Dinh Bus Station. Private charter and group tours to Cao Bang are also available. Local and online travel agencies can help you book your trip.

When to Visit Cao Bang

The best time to visit Cao Bang is during the dry season, from October to April. It’s worth noting that North Vietnam can get quite cold during the winter months, from November to February, so pack accordingly. Rainy season — from May to September in North Vietnam — can be beautiful, just be prepared for hot and humid weather.   

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Ha Giang: markedly different geography and culture makes a difference

Ha Giang is just 300 kilometres from Hanoi, but the life that unfolds in the province is a world apart from most other places, given its topography and ethnic diversity.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

Between September and November is the most ideal time to visit Ha Giang with dry climate and cool weather with average temperatures of 28 degrees Celsius.

From the end of September to early October marks the ripening of its terraced rice fields, which are a spellbinding sight.

Buckwheat flowers blooming in November is another unique sight in the northern highland’s province.

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WHAT TO EXPLORE

Nestled in the middle of a valley, the Dong Van Old Quarter, also called Dong Van Old Town, is a unique gem in Vietnam’s final frontier that is surrounded by high Rocky Mountains and limestone formations.

The old town was formed in the early 20th century with a few Hmong, Tay and Chinese families settling down here.

Now, the town has 40 two-storied houses with a touch of Chinese architecture such as yin-yang tiled roofs, yellow walls and red lanterns hung on the gables.

Since 2006, the town has attracted tourists by organizing a lantern festival on the 14th, 15th and 16th days of each lunar month, around the full moon time. All the local families hang red lanterns, display their special product – ethnic brocade – and sell their traditional food to boost tourism, somewhat like what the more famous Hoi An ancient town has been doing.

A cup of coffee at the Pho Co Café, one of the few places that have retained its Chinese-Vietnamese architecture, is a highly recommended experience.

Another cultural-commercial highlight of the town is its flea market, held every Sunday morning. It is a place to shop for local products made by ethnic minorities such as the Mong, Dao, Giay, and Tay and a place for young women to hang out with friends in their colorful traditional costumes, shopping and having fun.

Located in Sa Phin Valley of Dong Van District, the Hmong King’s Palace, the seat of the H’mong kings Vuong Chi Thanh and Vuong Chinh Duc, who ruled over the region during the French colonial era up until Vietnam regained independence in 1945, takes visitors to another age.

The palace consists of six two-storied houses with a total of 64 rooms, all connected to each other. The architecture features the Qing Dynasty style, with green pebbles, pine woods and terra-cotta tiles as the main building materials.

Admission fees cost VND20,000 per person.

Leaving Dong Van Town, a 25-kilometer road through steep paths and rugged mountains leads to the Lung Cu Flag Tower, which proclaims the nation’s territory and sovereignty, and is mark of pride for all Vietnamese citizens.

Built at the summit of Rong Mountain at the height of 1,700 meters above sea level, the octagonal monument is 33 meters tall and on top of the tower flies a 54-square-meter flag that represents 54 ethnic groups in Vietnam.

Visitors have to climb 389 stone steps and another 140 steps on a spiral iron staircase to get to the tower. A panoramic view of Ha Giang awaits those who reach the summit.

The Ma Pi Leng Pass is often described as one of the four most dangerous passes in Vietnam. Soaring over the pass is a mountain 2,000 meters high that is hugged tight by the Hanh Phuc (Happiness) Road connecting Ha Giang Town with the districts of Dong Van and Meo Vac.

The road was completed in 1965 after 11 years of construction mostly by workers belonging to the Hmong ethnic group.

Negotiating the pass is a tough task even for the most seasoned travellers and some foreign tourists have died driving off the pass.

“Ma Pi Leng pass is such a wonder of the world which lies right on the border of Vietnam and China. The pass offers breathtaking landscapes and exotic walking trails along the mount. Love this!” said Victor from Denmark.

“This might be one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been to. A bit dangerous, I suggest you pay for a service with a driver,” Zupanc Nina wrote on Tripadvisor.

Currently, some tour operators also offer one-day tours for inexperienced tourists to navigate Ma Pi Leng Pass. Experienced tour guides will take them through the rugged curves and steep cliffs.

A boat trip on the Nho Que River’s turquoise waters at the foot of Ma Pi Leng Pass is another highly recommended travel experience.

Hire a motorbike taxi (xe om) to reach the pier and pay VND100,000 per person for a 30-minute boat trip.

Visitors can also request special photo stops along their way down Tu San, known as one of Southeast Asia’s deepest canyons.

There are 23 tourist boats that transport thousands of visitors who come to admire this majestic wonder every year.

“Before the Covid-19 outbreak, this place was crowded with tourists during weekends and holidays. Now we only get tourists traveling in groups to ensure safety,” said boatman Trieu Chuong.

Along both sides of the river are rice fields planted by the Giay people.

Pho Tro, a small village on the outskirts of Pho Bang Town in Dong Van District, is characterized by traditional ‘trinh tuong’ houses with yin-yang tiled roofs.

As part of a rural renovation program, local authorities have improved infrastructure to develop tourism here. The village now has spacious headquarters and an elementary school. Cemented pathways provide easy access to every house. Households have received subsidies under the program to build bathrooms and indoor toilets.

As noted earlier, visiting Ha Giang from September until November is an opportunity to visit Hoang Su Phi District, famous for 3,000 hectares of terraced rice fields that form wavy, mesmerising golden yellow carpets.

There aren’t many places to stay in Hoang Su Phi, but homestays are available in villages or motels in Vinh Quang Town for VND250,000 to 550,000 ($10.68 to 23.50) a night.

It gets cold at nights and early in the morning, so taking a jacket along is a good idea when visiting Hoang Su Phi. Extra care has to be taken when driving on the road from Ha Giang Town to Hoang Su Phi because it’s narrow, winding and crowded with trucks.

WHERE TO STAY

Built atop a mountain in Yen Dinh Commune in Bac Me District, the P’apiu Resort is particularly favored by well-to-do couples who wish to enjoy a peaceful, secluded atmosphere and green landscapes.

The resort is also unique in that all its staff are local ethnic minority residents. Room prices start from VND9.8 million a night.

The Hmong Village resort in Quang Ba District, around 50 kilometers northeast of Ha Giang Town, has 25 bungalows surrounded by green trees and picturesque natural scenery.

Bungalows designed in the shape of rattan baskets that Hmong women sling on their backs to carry rice and other things are a distinctive feature of the resort.

It also has a community guesthouse that can accommodate up to 40 people at VND400,000 a night. A night’s stay in the bungalow’s costs from VND2.4 million ($105.31).

To gaze up on the rice terraced fields during the golden season from their windows, the Hoang Su Phi Lodge and Kinh Homestay in Nam Hong Village are ideal options.

Dong Van and Meo Vac districts offer budget-friendly homestays with prices ranging from VND100,000-230,000 per night.

WHAT TO EAT

Given the diversity of ethnic minority communities who live in Ha Giang, a culinary exploration of the province is a rewarding exercise.

The xoi ngu sac (five-colored sticky rice) – red, yellow, blue, purple and white – is made by using fruits, roots and leaves of plants. Glutinous rice is soaked in water for 6-8 hours and divided into five parts. Apart from the original white color, the other parts are dyed with a natural food coloring agent and steamed until tender.

The dish can be found at the weekly flea market in Dong Van Town.

From mid-October onwards, the Ha Giang rock plateau blooms with buckwheat flowers, a season which has already made the place a major tourist attraction. Residents use these flowers to make a signature dish – triangle buckwheat cake – that is difficult to find elsewhere.

The buckwheat seeds are harvested, dried and crushed into fine powder. The power is mixed with water to make flat round cakes that are then steamed for about 10 minutes. The cakes bought at the markets can be taken home as a special gift.

Tourists can buy this cake from street food vendors or food stalls in the Dong Van flea market.

Thang den is another signature dish made with glutinous rice flour in Ha Giang. It looks like banh troi, the cake with a sweet filling that is popular in Hanoi.

The thang den is made by mixing glutinous rice flour with sugar, shaped into balls and steamed. They are served with a syrup made with sweetened coconut milk and ginger. A bowl of thang den is topped with peanuts and/or black sesame seeds.

Though the steamed rice roll, banh cuon, is a popular dish in the north of the country, the version in Ha Giang is quite different. It is filled with pork/egg and mushroom, topped with dried shallots and served with a bowl of delicious bone broth flavored with fresh coriander, chopped scallions and Vietnamese pork sausage.

In Ha Giang’s chilly mornings, a bowl of hot broth with banh cuon makes for a great breakfast.

The most popular restaurants to try this dish are: Ms.Ha’s stall at 31 Dong Van Town; and Ms. Cuc’s stall opposite to Ha Giang Town’s social security center.

A special porridge favored by the Hmong people in Ha Giang is made of the root of the monkshood aconite plant, known as au tau, which grows on Ha Giang’s highest mountain peak, Tay Con Linh.

The process of cooking the porridge is very time-consuming, because the roots can be poisonous without being processed and cooked in the right manner.

After harvest, the roots are soaked in water for a night and then simmered on a fire for about four hours. They can then be turned into dough and mixed with glutinous rice and pork trotters.

The porridge is only sold at night and is served with fried minced pork, pepper, herbs and sour bamboo shoots.

You can find this treat at Ngan Ha Restaurant at 161 Tran Hung Dao Street.

The black chicken hotpot is a not-to-be-missed dish on a cold day in Ha Giang. It is normally had with cabbage, peas and other vegetables that make the hotpot sweeter.

Unlike ga ac, a kind of black chicken in the Mekong Delta, the Hmong variety is a rare breed found in the northwestern mountainous provinces of Son La, Lai Chau, Lao Cai and Bac Kan. It is a favorite of the Hmong people, who believe that it helps enhance human vitality, including libido, and is good medicine for heart disease.

The hotpot is served at Oanh Hieu Restaurant in Dong Van Town and at Phan’s Restaurant on Hai Ba Trung Street.

HOW TO GET THERE

Ha Giang Town is 300 kilometers from Hanoi and the most popular method of transportation is by overnight sleeper bus, for which tickets can be booked/bought at the My Dinh Bus Station. The journey of around six hours to reach Ha Giang Town costs VND200,000-350,000 ($8.54-15) per person.

On arrival, hiring a motorbike for VND150,000 a day is probably the best way to explore the undulating paths that embrace the province’s mountainous terrain.

With one’s own motorbike, take National Route 2 to Vinh Yen Town, turn into National Route 2C past Tuyen Quang and Viet Quang towns to reach Ha Giang. This is the easier route, though slightly longer.

Source: VNExpress International