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33 Best Stops Between Mui Ne and Vientiane
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Wanderlog staff
Updated • updatedApr 7, 2023
Updated • updatedApr 7, 2023
How long is the drive from Mui Ne to Vientiane?
The direct drive from Mui Ne to Vientiane is 856 mi (1,378 km), and should have a drive time of 18 hrs 15 mins in normal traffic.
If you’re going on a road trip from Mui Ne to Vientiane, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Ho Chi Minh City, Vung Tau, and Udon Thani, as well as top places to visit like Jesus Christ Statue and Ngọn hải đăng Vũng Tàu, or the ever-popular Tà Cú Mountain.
Visiting Mui Ne or Vientiane? See our Mui Ne Trip Planner and our Vientiane Trip Planner.
856 mi
Total Distance
18 hrs 15 mins
Drive Time
33 stops
Cities / Attractions
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Top cities between Mui Ne and Vientiane
The top cities between Mui Ne and Vientiane are Ho Chi Minh City, Vung Tau, and Udon Thani. Ho Chi Minh City is the most popular city on the route. It's 3 hours from Mui Ne and 15 hours from Vientiane.
1
Ba Ria - Vung Tau
Ba Ria - Vung Tau, a province in Vietnam's Southeast region, includes the Côn Đảo islands. Formerly known as Phước Tuy, it is a pristine and romantic destination with a 192km coastline from Ca Na to Binh Chau. The average temperature of 26-27C makes it an ideal resort spot with golden sunshine and gentle sea breezes.
1% as popular as Ho Chi Minh City
24 minutes off the main route, 14% of way to Vientiane
2
Ho Chi Minh City
Sights & Landmarks
Points of Interest & Landmarks
Ho Chi Minh City, often referred to as Saigon, is a bustling metropolis and the most populous city in Vietnam, boasting around 10 million residents as of 2023. This vibrant urban landscape is interwoven with rivers and canals, notably the Saigon River that flows through its heart. The city offers an eclectic mix of experiences—from sipping coffee at charming cafes like Machiya Coffee to exploring historical landmarks such as the Notre Dame Cathedral and Ho Chi Minh City Museum.
Most popular city on this route
3 minutes off the main route, 17% of way to Vientiane
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Udon Thani
Udon Thani, a province in upper northeastern Thailand, is known for its vibrant cultural experiences and natural beauty. The area is bordered by several other provinces and offers a selection of Thai, Laos, and Chinese dishes. Udon Thani is home to the city of the same name, which serves as the capital of the province and boasts a population of approximately 430,000 people in its urban area.
1% as popular as Ho Chi Minh City
5 minutes off the main route, 92% of way to Vientiane
Best stops along Mui Ne to Vientiane drive
The top stops along the way from Mui Ne to Vientiane (with short detours) are War Remnants Museum, Cu Chi Tunnel, and Saigon Central Post Office. Other popular stops include Ben Thanh Market, Independence Palace, and Vat Phou.
1Carol S — Google reviewGraham S — Google reviewHan N — Google reviewYang K — Google reviewBình Đ — Google reviewThanh L — Google reviewNguyen N — Google review•
Tà Cú Mountain
Mentioned on
Mountain peak
Nature & Parks
Mountains
Tà Cú Mountain, located in Vietnam, is a revered site for Buddhists and a paradise for hiking enthusiasts. The peak boasts the largest reclining Buddha statue in Southeast Asia and offers both a challenging 2290-meter hiking trail and a more leisurely tram ride to the summit. As you ascend the mountain, you'll be surrounded by ancient trees and diverse ecological populations, creating a serene and meditative experience.
Very peaceful place filled with monks and dogs. Lots of amazing statues and pagodas at the top (Sleeping Buddha and many more).
Parking and entrance are cheap, especially if you take the cable car only one way or not at all.
We hiked to the top and took a cable car to get down.
Amazing hike, quite hard in humid, hot weather + the trail doesn't always contain steps (some parts are pure jungle).
Make sure you're healthy and bring a water bottle. :)
Mila — Google review
Beautiful place. You can either hike up the mountain (not an easy option) or take the cable car. We went with the cable car, which allowed us to take in and enjoy the stunning view!!! There is still a good climb and quite a lot of steps still to go even using the cable car but can take your time and take it all in. It is well worth a visit and the steps.
Incredible trip to the pagoda which you can walk to if you feel adventurous (pronounced "suicidal") enough, or you can take the cable cars and choose to live... Seriously it is a trek and it is warm! After the cable cars there is still a bit of climbing to get to the temple and lots of stairs but once you arrive it is worth it! Other reviews mention rubbish laying around but I can honestly say that I didn't see any! Beautiful place
This is a spiritual and tourist attraction. You can hike up the mountain (well-marked trail and not too difficult) or take the cable car to lead to the summit. There is a temple complex in the mountain with the longest reclining Buddha statue in Southeast Asia. Beatiful landscape!
Great hike up, around more than 1 hour if you do a quick hike. Wonderful view when being on top and take the cable car downhill.
A place where you can experience spacious space, fresh air, ancient trees, beautiful scenery and many wonderful spiritual works of Asia. That is the value of visiting when passing by Binh Thuan province.
During your visit, you should wear hats, sports shoes, or sandals with straps. Dress in polite and comfortable clothing that can absorb sweat well due to the steep and rugged terrain.
I recently had the most incredible experience at Tà Cú Mountain in Hàm Thuận Nam, and I'm still buzzing from it. This place isn't just a destination; it's a journey for the soul, and it's easily one of the best experiences I've had in Vietnam.
From the moment I arrived, I was struck by the sheer beauty and tranquility. The cable car ride up was a highlight in itself, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the lush green landscape stretching all the way to the sea. As we ascended, the world below seemed to melt away, and a sense of calm washed over me.
Once at the top, the atmosphere was magical. The air felt cleaner, and the scent of the forest was intoxicating. The main attraction, the reclining Buddha, is simply awe-inspiring. It's massive, but more than that, it's the peaceful and serene energy surrounding it that truly moved me. I spent a long time just sitting there, taking it all in, feeling a deep sense of peace and gratitude.
But Tà Cú Mountain is more than just the Buddha statue. The pagoda complex is stunning, with intricate architecture and a quiet, reverent atmosphere. I took my time exploring the different temples, each one offering a unique glimpse into the spiritual heart of the mountain. The climb to the top, though a bit challenging, was well worth it for the stunning views and the feeling of accomplishment.
What really made this experience a 5/5 for me was the overall feeling it left me with. It was deeply personal and emotional. Tà Cú Mountain felt like a spiritual retreat, a place to disconnect from the chaos of everyday life and reconnect with myself. It's a place that inspires introspection and a profound sense of wonder.
If you're looking for a destination that offers more than just pretty scenery, but a genuine, heartfelt experience, then Tà Cú Mountain is it. It’s a place that will stay with you long after you've left, and I can't wait to go back.
Great place for a short mountain climbing, too crowd and nice atmosphere
4.4
(972)
4.4
(413)
Thuận Nam, Hàm Thuận Nam District, Bình Thuận, Vietnam
2Avilash G — Google reviewMarcus I — Google reviewBaljeet S — Google reviewVincent T — Google reviewMichael M — Google reviewKatrina K — Google reviewChristian L — Google review•
Jesus Christ Statue
Mentioned on
Religious destination
Sights & Landmarks
Monuments & Statues
Perched on Mount Nhỏ, the Jesus Christ Statue in Vung Tau is a towering 32-meter structure, making it the largest of its kind in Asia. Visitors can reach the statue by climbing 800 steps or taking a motorbike taxi. The statue offers stunning panoramic views of Vung Tau's beaches and is often included in city tours.
🌟 Christ the King Statue - Vũng Tàu
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
An iconic spiritual and scenic landmark! The climb to the top is worth every step — around 800 stairs, but shaded by trees and with rest stops along the way. Once you reach the statue, you're rewarded with incredible panoramic views of the ocean and the city below.
The statue itself is majestic, standing 32 meters tall, with arms outstretched. If you're appropriately dressed (long pants and covered shoulders), you can go inside the statue and climb a narrow spiral staircase up to the arms — a unique experience with unforgettable photo ops.
💡 Tips:
Dress modestly to enter the statue.
Bring water for the hike.
Best to go early morning or late afternoon to avoid heat.
Free entry, but donations welcome.
A must-visit in Vũng Tàu whether you're spiritual or just love nature, views, and history.
Shanky B — Google review
Sort of a replica of the one in Rio. Been there as well few years back. So I must say that this is a good replica, actually. Nice climb through the stairs. Good exercise, if you love activity tourism. On a hot day though, it'll make you sweaty. So be prepared. I went on breezy day, with great weather. Great views along the climb and from the base level of the statue. The strong wind enhanced the views with more waves in the ocean and more wavering trees. You can go to the top of the statue for a 360° view as well. But that you are not allowed, if you're wearing shorts.
Clean washrooms. No tickets required. Not for the elderly, small children and people who can't climb stairs.
It’s free, so that’s always good. You can make your own donation if you like. The hike up is easy. Much harder on a hotter day of course. But it’s safe and there are railings and paved steps all the way. Many viewpoints to stop and take photos or a break etc. one advice please wear pants and appropriate clothing. I was denied entry into the statue because I wore shorts. Even it seems if it’s not short shorts. There’s also a place you can pray, it wasn’t crowded. A lot of older people and families came than backpackers or young people, Gen Z’s etc. Again it’s free so come.
I visited the Christ the King Statue on Núi Nhỏ (Small Mountain) in Vũng Tàu, and overall it was a very peaceful and meaningful experience — but a few things could be better maintained.
What’s great:
• The statue is 32 m tall, with arms spanning around 18.3–18.4 m, making it one of the largest Jesus statues in Asia. 
• To get there, you climb about 800+ stone steps through a lush, shaded path. 
• Inside the statue, there is a spiral staircase of 133 steps that takes you up to the shoulders, offering a bird’s-eye view of Vũng Tàu and the coastline. 
• Under the base of the statue, there’s a historic area with old cannons from colonial times, which adds a nice historical layer to the spiritual visit. 
• The spot is very serene — a great place for reflection, photos, and enjoying panoramic sea views. 
What could be improved:
• While the lower path and surrounding area are clean and well-kept, the top of the statue (near the arms) seemed less maintained. Some parts look worn, and I think they should invest more in restoration or upkeep.
• The climb is not easy: some stairs are very narrow, so it can be a bit challenging, especially for people not used to steep or tight staircases.
Tips if you go:
• Wear comfortable shoes and take your time walking up — there are resting spots along the way. 
• Try to go on a weekday or early morning to avoid crowds.
• Bring water or take advantage of rest stops, especially if you’re planning to climb all the way inside to the arms.
Overall: A very worthwhile visit — spiritually uplifting with beautiful views. But I hope the management gives more attention to maintaining the upper part of the statue.
Visited on 20 August late morning as part of my Vung Tau tour.
Took around 800 steps to climb up to see the Jesus Christ Statue. Great workout, spent around 20 minutes to climb up.
It is very narrow to climb up the shoulders of the statue, might be tough for those who are a bit bigger size. Need to take off your shoes before climbing up, they will give you a locker to keep your shoes.
Wow…I was honestly expecting a small statue, but this is a towering colossus on top of the mountain! It’s definitely worth making the trip for this. Not only is it quite a sight to behold, but you can also go inside of the monument and climb a staircase all the way to the top for arguably the best view of Vung Tau. There are a fair bit of stairs up to the monument and then also inside of it, but anyone in decent physical shape should be fine.
One quick note: Google maps doesn’t recognize the staircase as a legitimate route. As such, if you try to get walking directions to here, the only route it presents to you is to hike the mountain that the monuments sits atop, approaching from the rear and snaking your way slowly up the mountain. That path is fine, but be aware that if you start at the official Jesus Christ Statue Entrance (easily found on Google maps), you can just take a series of staircases directly up to the monument.
Additional note in case you do take the mountain (maybe more of a hill) hiking path like I did : for some reason, after you reach the top, they have the path blocked by several signs saying that they are doing construction work and you cannot go further. I was a bit disheartened, but since there’s no actual fence blocking the sides, I slipped through to see if the construction warning was legitimate. As soon as I went around the sign, I was at the main staircase leading up to the Jesus Christ Statue, with many tourists all around coming from the official entrance. Meaning that the sign is completely false…they tell you not to go beyond, but immediately past the sign is a public area allowed to be accessed by everyone 😂 I feel like they may have done construction many years ago and just forgot to remove the signs. Either way, I’ve included and image of them below for all of those accessing via the mountain: just go around the left side and you will be fine.
Beware!! Cover your shoulders and knees before entering or else they make you pay for a whole new outfit. You don’t have to pay for entry. Bring a hat. There are shops to buy drinks, ice cream and souvenirs.
The top was worth the climb of 1,000 stairs in 35 degree heat.
Free to enter
Intermediate hike, steps are very forgiving and many rest spots but combined with hot weather is challenging. make sure to have good sun protection and water. Make sure to go to toilet at bottom as there is no other toilets! Also, you may go to the Jesus statue but you will be refused entry inside of statue, as women have to wear pants, men may wear shorts as long as it fully covers knees.
4.6
(10032)
4.3
(874)
01 Bà Rịa, Phường 2, Vũng Tàu, Bà Rịa - Vũng Tàu 70000, Vietnam
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Ngọn hải đăng Vũng Tàu
Lighthouse
Sights & Landmarks
4.1
(247)
Phường 2, Vũng Tàu, Bà Rịa - Vũng Tàu, Vietnam
4Vincent T — Google reviewArun K — Google reviewLordd L — Google reviewGarth F — Google reviewJeanette F — Google reviewKali C — Google reviewPrathama M — Google review•
Vĩnh Tràng Pagoda
Mentioned on
Buddhist temple
Sights & Landmarks
Vinh Trang Pagoda, also known as Chua Vinh Trang, is a must-visit iconic temple located in Tien Giang Province. The pagoda's vast grounds cover an area of 2,000m2 and are adorned with beautiful trees and flower gardens. Built in 1849, the pagoda features a unique combination of European-Asian architecture that exudes splendor and solemnity.
Well maintained Buddhist temple with beautiful bonsai trees all over area of the pagoda. Several monks still stays there. The "happy" Buddha and "sleeping" Buddha statue is also one of the attractions of this place. The architect of pagodas is very unique, mix between western and eastern but the decorations inside and outside is Khmer culture affect.
Admission is free and you can see it on the way to the Mekong River.
Meet K — Google review
Visited on 18 August as part of my Mekong River tour, the temple has various Buddhist gods and deities, great to have the chance to take various photos. Also has 十八罗汉
When I visited, there were other local and international tourists who were present there as well.
Very peaceful and serene place to visit. This was our last stop on our bus tour for the day, and it was 20 mins well spent. The three buddha statues past (standing), present (laughing) and future (lying) were massive in size. Inside i saw giant pots with lotus planted with flower blossoming.
Vĩnh Tràng Pagoda was a lovely and peaceful place to visit. I really enjoyed the bonsai gardens, unique architecture, and calm surroundings. A relaxing and memorable stop on our Mekong Delta Tour
What beautiful gardens, the bonsai are incredible, all plants are well cared for and neatly kept. It was such a pleasure to see lotus flowers in bloom. Pagoda and Chinese and Indian Buddha well cared for. Loved seeing the dogs too.
What a magnificently kept Pagoda. The grounds, plants, bonsais and lotus flowers were magnificent.🪷 and very well cared for. The Buddha’s were beautifully presented. It warmed my heart to see the little dogs walking around too. There is a souvenir store and 🚾 (bring toilet paper.)
Beautifully preserved. Well maintained. Must see as an outing from Ho Chi Minh City. Please do maintain silence in respect to sentiments of Vietnam.
Vinh Trang Pagoda is a beautiful and peaceful Buddhist temple in the Mekong Delta. The architecture is a blend of Vietnamese, Chinese that make the place truly unique. The highlight of the pagoda is the giant Buddha statues, which give a sense of calmness and serenity as soon as you step inside.
The pagoda is surrounded by lush gardens, adding to its peaceful atmosphere. There is no entry fee, but a modest dress code is recommended as it’s an active place of worship. Parking is available nearby.
If you’re visiting the Mekong Delta, this pagoda is definitely worth a stop for both its cultural and spiritual significance.
4.6
(8941)
4.5
(220)
ấp Mỹ An, Mỹ Phong, Mỹ Tho, Tiền Giang, Vietnam
5Mary M — Google reviewPenny G — Google reviewJeanette F — Google reviewMinh P — Google reviewGarth F — Google reviewMalte D — Google reviewJ G — Google review•
Saigon Skydeck
Mentioned on
Observation deck
Sights & Landmarks
Observation Decks & Towers
Nestled on the 49th floor of the iconic Bitexco Financial Tower, Saigon Skydeck offers an unforgettable experience for those seeking breathtaking views of Ho Chi Minh City. Standing at a remarkable height of 178 meters, this glass-enclosed observation deck provides a stunning panoramic vista that captures both the vibrant cityscape and the serene curves of the Saigon River. Visitors can take advantage of six high-tech telescopes that allow for an immersive exploration of distant landmarks from various angles.
If you like watching city skylines at night. I would recommend it... The view is beautiful and colorful. It's best to go after 6pm when the building and bridge lights get turned on.
Dimitri S — Google review
Very cool! I went at 5:45 so when it was still light and then stayed till it got dark. There’s not anything overly that interesting to look at honestly. I mean the best part in my opinion is the bridge because it lights up in different colours at night time. But it Is always cool to see a city from up above! And they have a history of the area and a list of the tall buildings around the world.
Another good observatory deck in Saigon, a bit different to Landmark 81 but still good.
I keep getting trick because when you see this building from the distance, you can see the edge coming out of the building and I somehow assume that the Saigon Skydeck has that outdoor part you can go out onto.
The Saigon Skydeck observatory area is fully enclosed inside the glass. Free binoculars available around the viewing floor is good!
I find the list of tall buildings around the world that rated by design very interesting!
A little gallery about fashion with small screen in the dark room if you are interested to watch. The little art made from tooth stick were super impressive too! Beautiful city skyline just as the sky getting dark. Too cloudy to see the sun set 😶🌫️🫥 on the day we went.
This is a lovely way to see the city of Saigon with 360 degree views over the river and cityscape. The viewing area is air conditioned and enclosed. One reaches it via a lift. It is 49 floors up and the highest point in Saigon, situated in the Bitexco financial tower. It cost us VND240 per adult.
Use the bathroom before going up,there are many in the tower on the way up as there aren’t any at the top.
On the downside if you are wanting to take photos 2 things detract from that. The first is the bright lights of the information panels and shopping areas reflect on the glass obstructing your image. The second is the glass is dirty in many areas from visitors touching it.
I visited this place during my trip to Vietnam. Spend about 2 hours in there reading all the information on the tablet, taking videos and photos and looking at places using the scopes available for free. Also bought a Saigon SkyDeck hat as a souvenir. Definitely a great place to visit to see a panorama view of the city. The photo of BEN THANH MARKET was taken through the lenses of the scope.
A great place to get a 360 degree view of the city. We arrived just prior to sunset and stayed to see the lights come on which is spectacular. Unfortunately the souvenir shop and other lights reflect on the glass when photographing. There is alot of information about the tallest buildings of the world as well as the history of the building. Staff are very professional who run this. This is a must see when in Saigon.
We booked our tickets online, but at the reception the staff first said they didn’t recognize the provider and couldn’t scan our QR code. This caused some unnecessary hassle, and in the end they simply scanned the same QR code and it worked. After that, everything went smoothly: the elevator ride up was quick, and from the observation deck you get a 360° view over Ho Chi Minh City. The view was beautiful, especially at sunset, with floor-to-ceiling windows giving a wide perspective. The only drawback was the strong reflections from the interior lights on the glass, which made photos and videos difficult. The price is high for Vietnam, but the view makes it worth it.
Have visited many years ago during the day but this time went at night and it's definitely more beautiful
Must do at least once when visiting HCMC
4.4
(12068)
4.2
(6308)
36 Hồ Tùng Mậu, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
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6Paul J — Google reviewKaveh S — Google reviewYumz — Google reviewRaj M — Google reviewRon T — Google reviewJames M — Google reviewSuperb L — Google review•
Ben Thanh Market
Mentioned on
Market
Shopping
Ben Thanh Market is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Ho Chi Minh City. This bustling hub offers an authentic glimpse into Vietnamese daily life, showcasing a vibrant mix of handicrafts, clothing, and local delicacies. As one of the city's busiest markets, it’s the perfect spot to indulge in delicious street food while shopping for unique souvenirs and home goods. The lively atmosphere extends into the night market area, where visitors can savor popular dishes amidst the energetic buzz of city life.
Ben Thanh Market is one of the must-visit places Ho Chi Minh City. It is one of Vietnam’s most famous and historic markets. Built in 1914, it offers a vibrant mix of local goods—clothes, bags, shoes, dried food, nuts, fresh fruits, coffee powder, souvenirs, handicrafts, and street foods. The market’s bustling atmosphere makes it a lively and interesting place. Bargaining is necessary when you are buying something here.
CS C — Google review
You can spend a lot of time in the market and it can be intense and at close quarters with everyone keen to get your business. Prices are very negotiable. Its a great place to eat at a good price. The shopping is the surrounding streets is just as good and more enjoyable. There are some fixed price shops around which probably give a fair price although there can still be a bit of room to move. Generally at the other shops they will start at twice what they want. Of course if you have time it's best to try a few and you will usually get a good offer when you are walking away.
A nice market with a high energy vibe! There are many shops of many different kinds of products. There's also a food court for your heart's delight. The food was very inexpensive and good. There are many styles competing for your patronage so you will have many food options to choose from with highly reasonable prices. It's also shoppers paradise for cheap bargains. Notice I said bargains because the prices can be negotiated up to 70 to 80% at times 🤪🤪 that of course depends on the shop and the item not everyone is as lucky 😂 but overall it's an enjoyable experience window shopping for a bargain. Hope you enjoy!
ben thanh market is giving full sensory overload in the best way possible
THE SHOPPING SITUATION
this iconic spot is pure chaos but in a good way. the stalls are packed with everything from vintage ao dai to lacquerware that actually slaps. bargaining is expected, so bring your a-game.
THE FOOD COURT VIBES
the indoor food section is lowkey fire with stalls serving everything from proper pho to banh mi that hits different. it's the perfect place to sample multiple street eats without braving the heat.
THE LOCAL EXPERIENCE
yes it's touristy, but the energy here is next level. the constant buzz of vendors and shoppers creates this electric atmosphere that's uniquely saigon. come early to beat the crowds and heat.
THE FINAL CALL
if you want that classic market experience with all the sounds, smells, and flavors of hcmc, this is your move. embrace the chaos and you'll have a core memory in the making.
don't forget to ❤️.
I had high expectations for Ben Thanh Market, but the experience was disappointing. The place is extremely crowded and chaotic, making it hard to enjoy browsing. Many vendors are overly pushy and keep following you, which gets uncomfortable after a while. Prices are heavily inflated, and you really need to bargain hard — otherwise, you’ll end up paying far more than things are worth. The quality of some products also felt questionable. Overall, it felt more like a tourist trap than an authentic shopping experience.
Ben Thanh Market was not as enjoyable as I expected. The place is too crowded, and it’s difficult to move around comfortably. Most vendors are quite pushy, and prices seem much higher than normal unless you bargain very hard. The market feels more tourist-focused than authentic, which made the experience underwhelming.
My verdict: Ben Thanh market experience is not good, annoying vendors with forced sales, sophisticated inside, high price for tourist and arrogant people
Ben Thanh Market is definitely a well-known spot in Ho Chi Minh City, especially for tourists. If you are looking for souvenirs, small gifts or general tchotchkes to bring home, you will find plenty of options here. It is busy, colorful and full of energy, which some people might really enjoy.
For me personally, I did not find it particularly interesting. Most of the items felt very tourist oriented and not especially useful. Prices also start off quite high because it is a tourist-heavy area, so you are expected to negotiate. If you do not bargain, you will almost certainly end up overpaying.
If you are looking for better quality items or things you might actually use, I would recommend checking out Saigon Square instead. It has a wider range of products, more reasonable prices and a more practical selection overall. Ben Thanh Market is fine for a quick visit if you want the tourist experience, but there are better options in the city for real shopping.
This market is definitely worth seeing, but if you don’t mind wandering through the city you’ll find much better offers. You’ll notice the vendors are far more aggressive than other markets. Everyone is friendly though and they’re eager to sell. If you’re willing to bargain you can get really good deals. I’ll admit, I’m not so good at bargaining.
19 Oct 2025 - We're here.
Full of surprises, food, coffee and everything.
Be polite and friendly 😉. Good way to haggle good price.
Able to communicate in English, Mandarin and may even speak Cantonese. Kudos to a young gentleman who exhibit great communication at the beef pho stall.
4.0
(76013)
3.5
(13385)
Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
7John W — Google reviewClaudine C — Google reviewChris G — Google reviewAnujith V — Google reviewAkshat G — Google reviewRay M — Google reviewS. E — Google review•
Saigon Central Post Office
Mentioned on
Post office
Sights & Landmarks
Sai Gon Central Post Office is a monumental building completed in 1891, featuring a blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and French colonial design. The interior boasts spacious vaulted ceilings, metal arches, and beautiful patterned tile floors. Visitors can also meet Mr. Duong Van Ngo, who has been writing letters for nearly 30 years within the building.
The Saigon Central Post Office is truly a magnificent landmark that beautifully reflects the city’s rich history and French colonial charm. The building is grand and spacious, with stunning architecture, intricate details, and a timeless atmosphere that takes you back in time. Even if you’re not sending mail, it’s absolutely worth a visit to admire the design and soak in the heritage. Inside, you’ll find vintage phone booths, old maps, souvenir shops, and friendly staff who keep the place lively. Located right next to Notre Dame Cathedral, it’s one of those must-see spots in Ho Chi Minh City that perfectly blends culture, beauty, and history. 💛📮✨
Arthana A — Google review
A must-visit landmark when you’re in Ho Chi Minh City. Even though I’ve been here a few times before, the charm of the Saigon Central Post Office never seems to fade. This time I only came to buy a few stamps, but ended up staying much longer, once again drawn in by its timeless beauty.
The architecture is a real showstopper — French colonial with ornate detailing that gives the building an almost palace-like feel. The arched ceiling inside, painted in a mix of green and gold with iron support beams, is visually stunning. The mosaic floor tiles are equally beautiful and well preserved, adding another layer of character. At the far end, the large portrait of Ho Chi Minh watching over the bustling space gives the post office both cultural and historical weight.
There are also old French maps painted directly onto the walls, one showing Southern Vietnam and Cambodia, which is a unique historical touch. Despite being a working post office, it also feels like a museum — and it does get quite warm inside due to the constant stream of visitors.
If you haven’t considered visiting this building yet, definitely put it on your list. It’s both iconic and inspiring.
Wednesday 7:30 AM–6 PM
Thursday 7:30 AM–6 PM
Friday 7:30 AM–6 PM
Saturday 7:30 AM–6 PM
Sunday 8:00 AM–5 PM
Monday 7:30 AM–6 PM
Tuesday 7:30 AM–6 PM
Visited Saigon Central Post office as part of a tour, so we only made a quick stop. It was quite crowded when we arrived around 2:30 PM. Lots of postcards and cute souvenirs for sale inside and outside. There are tables and chairs where you can write your cards, just bring your own pen.
Postcards sold inside are a slightly pricey (25k–40k VND each). The nearby Book Market also sells similar ones. If you have time, get postcards at Ben Thanh Market instead. I got 3 for 20k VND, same quality and beautiful designs.
Postage costs around 22,500–33,500 VND depending on the destination. The staff are helpful and also sell stamps (mostly 4k, 8k, 15k denominations). Just leave your written and stamped postcards in the small basket near the counter.
Tip: Pre-write your postcards if you can, since it’s hot and crowded inside. Leave space for the stamps. Price for a postcard and enveloped greeting card are not the same. There’s Highlands Coffee right outside if you need a place to cool down. Notre Dame Cathedral is just across the street too.
Got my postcards after 6 weeks they arrived in great condition with a nice red “Par Avion” stamp.
The Saigon Central Post Office is a stunning blend of history and architecture. With its grand façade and intricate interior, it transports you back in time. The atmosphere is vibrant, filled with locals and tourists alike. Be sure to admire the detailed murals and the impressive wooden counters. It's not just a functioning post office; it's a cultural landmark that showcases the rich history of Ho Chi Minh City. A must-visit for anyone exploring the area!
The Saigon Central Post Office is an absolute must-see in Ho Chi Minh City, offering a gorgeous blend of functioning postal service and magnificent history. This iconic landmark, often credited to the genius of Gustave Eiffel, is a glorious testament to French colonial architecture, primarily in the Neo-Renaissance style.
Stepping inside is like entering a grand European railway station. The soaring, high-vaulted ceiling, the polished marble floors, the intricate wrought-iron details, and the antique wooden phone booths create a spacious, airy, and wonderfully nostalgic atmosphere. The large portrait of President Ho Chi Minh presiding over the hall, alongside the historical maps painted on the walls, beautifully juxtaposes the building's colonial heritage with Vietnam's modern identity.
But the best part? It's a fully operational post office! Taking the time to buy a postcard, write a note, and send it home is a charming, tangible way to engage with this living piece of history. It's a truly beautiful and calming respite from the city's heat and traffic.
We visited the Central Post Office on 7th July around 10:30 AM, and honestly, it completely exceeded our expectations. Many people might think, “It’s just a post office” — but trust me, it’s so much more than that.
The moment you step inside, you’re hit with this amazing mix of colonial architecture, elegant interiors, and a really lively vibe. The high ceilings, arched windows, and vintage design make it feel like you’ve stepped back in time. It’s not just a building — it’s a part of Vietnam’s living history.
Inside, there are lots of little shops where you can grab souvenirs, SIM cards, beauty products, and even some snacks. It’s surprisingly convenient and a nice mix of old-world charm and modern hustle.
It was definitely crowded when we were there — tourists, locals, school kids — but in a good way. It just shows how loved this place really is. Despite the crowd, it didn’t feel overwhelming at all; the atmosphere was warm and welcoming.
And here’s the part I loved the most — you can buy a postcard, write something personal, and send it to anyone in the world right from here. There’s something really beautiful about that — in a world of instant messages, writing and sending a real postcard from such a historic place just feels special.
All in all, don’t skip this place thinking it’s just another government building. It’s an experience — beautiful, nostalgic, and full of character. Definitely one of the highlights of our time in Ho Chi Minh City.
Visited the Saigon Central Post Office today, one of the most iconic landmarks in Ho Chi Minh City. It’s a stunning piece of French colonial architecture, and stepping inside feels like walking into a beautifully preserved time capsule.
On both the left and right sides of the hall, you’ll see old enclosed telephone booths — the kind people once used to call their friends and families in privacy. Today, they’ve been creatively transformed into instant photo booths, giving visitors a fun way to capture memories while still preserving the building’s nostalgic charm.
Inside, you’ll also find souvenir shops, old wooden details, and locals still sending real letters — something rare these days. It’s a simple place, yet full of history and warmth.
If you’re exploring the city, this is a quick and meaningful stop. Great for photos too.
#hochiminh #vietnam #saigoncentralpostoffice
Not as impressive as I wanted it to be.
Disorganized, and unfortunately as with many historical sights in Vietnam, everything has to be turned into a shopping mall for maximum profits. Still, not enough ground to skip this magnificent building from a bygone age.
4.4
(4898)
4.0
(17373)
02 Công trường Công xã Paris, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 70000, Vietnam
8Liam — Google reviewNn N — Google reviewAkshat G — Google reviewRichard F — Google reviewDavid L — Google reviewAugustin G — Google reviewHeather F — Google review•
Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon
Mentioned on
Catholic cathedral
Sights & Landmarks
Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon, also known as Duc Ba Cathedral, is a stunning 19th-century Catholic basilica located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City. Built between 1863 and 1880 by French colonists, this architectural marvel showcases unique French design with its red brick exterior and Romanesque bell towers reaching a height of 58 meters.
It’s a pity that it is currently under renovation. I hope that after completion it will continue to show its beautiful architectural appearance and continue to be one of the cultural landmarks in Ho Chi Minh City.
MTC — Google review
The church is currently being renovated, so don’t your expectations up. From the side you should be able to see a bit of the style, but it’ll take some time before you can witness the impressive front side.
Notre Dame Cathedral, Ho Chi Minh – Currently Underwhelming
Visited the Notre Dame Cathedral during my trip — unfortunately, it’s under renovation, so much of its charm is hidden behind scaffolding. In photos, it doesn’t quite capture the grandeur you’d expect.
Right now, it feels like just another cathedral to tick off the list rather than a highlight. Still worth a quick stop if you're nearby, but don’t set your expectations too high until the restoration is complete.
We visited this area in the morning. The Notre-Dame Cathedral is currently under renovation, and some locals nearby told us that the construction has been ongoing for quite a long time and is expected to finish around 2027.
But don’t worry — right opposite the cathedral is the Central Post Office, another major attraction in Ho Chi Minh City. Many people visit this historic building for its beautiful architecture and cultural value.
Also, this spot is where Ho Chi Minh City’s official tourist buses start their route. These buses cover all major sightseeing places across the city. You’ll usually find one or two buses parked here near the intersection, ready to take tourists around.
Even if the cathedral is under construction, this area still offers a lot to experience and makes for a great stop during your city tour.
My timing was a bit off when I visited Notre Dame in Ho Chi Minh. The famous basilica was undergoing a massive renovation and it was closed to the public. I just walked around it and took a pic of the lovely statue in front.
At this point, there’s no reason to go and try to see the cathedral at all. It’s completely covered with scaffolding to where you can’t even see the towers at all let alone get in.
When we visited there on 7 May 2025 it was raining slightly and renovation work was going on. So we couldn't explore it much more. This is a famous cathedral and landmark.
Would like to have given it more stars but we really didn’t get to see it except from the outside. We walked from the Palace to Notre Dame Cathedral and were disappointed to find that it was closed for tours due to renovation work being done. This would have been a great piece of history for us to experience but it will have to wait until our next visit to Saigon.
4.4
(26360)
3.7
(8577)
01 Công trường Công xã Paris, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 70000, Vietnam
9Rajneesh C — Google reviewRay M — Google reviewPedrito F — Google reviewShrey G — Google reviewVarghese T — Google reviewSJnMD — Google reviewPeter E — Google review•
Independence Palace
Mentioned on
Museum
Sights & Landmarks
Independence Palace, also known as Reunification Palace, stands as a significant historical landmark from the Vietnam War era. This architectural gem showcases South Vietnamese modernist design from the 1960s and offers visitors an immersive experience into its storied past. As you wander through its five floors, you'll encounter fascinating sights such as a recreation room and a bunker basement filled with vintage communication devices like phones and radios, alongside tactical maps that tell tales of strategic planning during tumultuous times.
Visiting the Independence Palace was a fascinating experience. Walking through the historic halls and rooms, I could really imagine about the important events that took place there. Addtional, i used to use the audio guide that was a really helpful experience. It gave me clear and detailed explanations, so I could understand the history and meaning behind them. The instructions were easy to follow, It felt like having a personal tour guide with me, and it made the visit more interesting and meaningful.
Nhi N — Google review
Visiting Independence Palace in Ho Chi Minh City was an eye-opening experience. This iconic site stands as a symbol of Vietnam’s journey through war, resilience, and unification. The palace itself is beautifully maintained — a perfect blend of 1960s architecture and historical significance.
Walking through the meeting rooms, war command centers, and underground bunkers gives a vivid picture of how pivotal this place was during the Vietnam War. The preserved interiors and vintage artifacts make history feel alive.
The palace grounds are peaceful, with detailed displays and helpful guides to explain the context behind key events. It’s not just a tourist attraction — it’s a powerful reminder of Vietnam’s past and its strength as a nation today.
Highly recommended for history enthusiasts and anyone who wants to understand the deeper story of modern Vietnam.
Yesterday marked my third visit to the Independence Palace, and each time, I uncover something new that deepens my appreciation for this historic place. It truly is a reminder that when we take the time to slow down and explore, we connect more meaningfully with the stories and memories preserved within its walls.
On this visit, I delved deeper into the rich history behind the palace, understanding why it has been so carefully preserved, the pivotal events that unfolded here, and glimpses into the lives and struggles of those who lived through that era. I took extra time to explore the lesser-known corners: the basement, the smaller rooms, and the poignant details, like the involvement of South Korean forces in conflicts far from their homeland and the harsh realities of war that ensued. It’s heartbreaking to reflect on the pain endured, but also reassuring to see how far Vietnam has come since those turbulent times.
This experience has given me a greater appreciation for the resilience and strength of the Vietnamese people. Even my kids enjoyed the visit, though they were a bit disappointed that the pianos in the palace aren’t available for visitors to play. All in all, the Independence Palace is truly a must-visit, a place to remember, reflect, and respect.
#vietnam #hochiminh #independencepalace
Visited the Independence Palace in Ho Chi Minh City and it was such a fascinating experience! 🇻🇳✨ The place is full of history and gives you a real sense of the country’s past. Everything is very clean and well preserved, and the staff were friendly and helpful throughout the visit.
It’s not just educational but also really impressive to walk through the different rooms and halls. Definitely a must-see when you’re in Ho Chi Minh City! 🌟
I recently visited Independence Palace, and I must say, the experience was quite memorable. The palace is absolutely huge much bigger than I had expected. It felt like I was walking through a never ending maze of grand halls, historic rooms, and long corridors. After a while, I actually started to feel tired from all the walking! If you’re planning to explore the entire palace, definitely wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to spend a good few hours there.
One thing I noticed and something that did affect the experience was that many parts of the palace didn’t have air conditioning. Given how hot and humid the weather was during my visit, it got quite uncomfortable in several sections. Some rooms were noticeably stuffy, and at times I found myself rushing through just to get back to cooler areas.
That said, the architecture and historical significance of the palace are undeniable. The design is both elegant and symbolic, and each room seems to hold a story of its own. I especially enjoyed the presidential meeting rooms and the war command center in the basement both were fascinating glimpses into Vietnam’s past.
Overall, while the lack of AC in many areas made the visit a bit exhausting, the sheer scale, historical richness, and grandeur of the Independence Palace still made it worth the trip. I’d recommend it, but maybe plan your visit during cooler parts of the day.
It is also known as the Reunification Palace in Saigon(ho Chi Minh City) .
Spent few hours wandering those huge retro rooms with the leather chairs, massive floor mats, and that epic rooftop helipad. The basement war bunker with the old phones and narrow tunnels blew my mind. Gardens outside are lush and perfect for photos.
Left with goosebumps and a many pics. Absolute must-do for any history nerd in Ho Chi Minh City!
The Independence Palace is worth a quick visit for its history and architecture, but honestly I don’t think the audio guide is worth buying. There are already plenty of signs and information around, so you can still understand the place without it.
It’s definitely a spot filled with history, and you get a sense of the important events that happened here. A good stop if you’re exploring District 1, but I’d recommend just walking around on your own.
Entry fee was 80,000, so not expensive
Tour the Historic Rooms: Explore the president's office, state rooms, and war command room.
View Artifacts and Exhibits: See historical objects and photographs from the Vietnam War era.
Walk Through the Gardens: Enjoy the beautifully landscaped grounds surrounding the palace.
A must-see for anyone curious about Vietnam's modern history.
4.5
(43537)
4.0
(10426)
Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
10John W — Google reviewCherry T — Google reviewMichael M — Google reviewIshana M — Google reviewHelen B — Google reviewM. Q — Google reviewMaryeam M — Google review•
War Remnants Museum
Mentioned on
War museum
Museums
The War Remnants Museum stands as a poignant testament to the Vietnam and Indochina wars, showcasing an array of photographs, weapons, and artifacts that narrate the harrowing tales of conflict. Situated in Ho Chi Minh City, this museum is dedicated to preserving history while educating visitors about the impacts of war on Vietnam. It serves not only as a repository for historical evidence but also aims to instill a sense of peace and solidarity among nations.
Visiting the War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City was one of the most powerful and emotional experiences of my trip to Vietnam. I went in expecting to learn about history, but I left with something much deeper: a profound reflection on humanity, suffering, and resilience.
The exhibits—especially the photographs—were deeply moving. Some images were so raw and disturbing that I almost cried while walking through the galleries. I found myself needing to pause and take time to process what I was seeing. The human cost of the Vietnam War, especially for civilians, was heartbreaking.
What struck me most was how personal the museum felt. It doesn’t just present facts or military artifacts; it shows the faces, names, and lives of people affected—both Vietnamese and foreign. The section on Agent Orange and its lingering effects across generations was particularly difficult to take in.
I left with a heavy heart but also with a greater understanding of Vietnam’s past and an even stronger appreciation for the strength and kindness of its people today. Despite everything the country endured, I was met everywhere with warmth and openness. This visit changed the way I think about war, history, and reconciliation.
If you're in Ho Chi Minh City, I believe this museum is a must-visit. It’s not easy, but it’s important.
Stephanie C — Google review
The War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City offers a powerful and thought-provoking experience that dives deep into Vietnam's wartime history, particularly the Vietnam War. From the moment you enter, you're met with striking exhibits outside displays include American helicopters, tanks, and bombshells that set the tone before stepping inside.
The museum’s galleries are well-curated, showcasing raw and emotional photography, first-hand accounts, weapon displays, and reconstructed prison conditions. One of the most impactful sections focuses on the long-term effects of chemical warfare, especially Agent Orange, with sobering imagery and survivor stories.
The prison exhibit with life-sized mannequins and a preserved guillotine is chilling and historically significant.
There’s also dedicated space exploring global support during the war, along with detailed panels about Da Lat and Phu Quoc prisons. The layout encourages reflection and personal interpretation, rather than forcing a political stance.
You’ll want to spend at least 1~2 hours here to take in the emotional weight and historical context fully. It's not a light visit, but it's an essential one for anyone wanting to understand Vietnam’s past from a Vietnamese perspective.
Respectful dress and quiet observation are appreciated in there.
Thursday 7:30 am–5:30 pm
Friday 7:30 am–5:30 pm
Saturday 7:30 am–5:30 pm
Sunday 7:30 am–5:30 pm
Monday 7:30 am–5:30 pm
Tuesday 7:30 am–5:30 pm
Wednesday 7:30 am–5:30 pm
You don’t really have to buy your tickets in advance. Maybe on a weekend? I’m not sure. The collections in the museum are amazing. Just prepare your tissue, and yourself because you’ll get angry and teary at the same time.
It’s not hot inside, and there’s an elevator for people with disabilities, elderly, or pregnant woman.
If you really want to immerse yourself in here, and read everything. Allot at least 3-4 hours.
Amazing little museum. 3 floors of information pertaining to the Vietnam war and it’s lasting effects. In particular, I found the “War Photographers” section to be captivating…a lot of stories in there about journalists all over the globe that were intent on capturing the war and the brutality therein, often times paying the ultimate price for their attempts to broadcast the truth. The entire museum could easily take 2-4 hours if you’re intent on reading all the descriptions (provided in Vietnamese and English).
One small note - I didn’t see any warnings, but some of the content in here can definitely be unsettling. I’m glad they haven’t shied away from this, as it’s important to show the horrible effects of the war directly. But there are quite a lot of pictures of dead and mutilated bodies, especially within the “War Crimes” room. Also, there’s a large section dedicated to the health ramifications of Agent Orange, showing the deformities (in both children and adults, Vietnamese and foreign) and mental conditions caused by that horrible chemical. I saw a lot of families with young kids in here, and a lot of the children had slightly terrified looks on their faces. I assume if it was affecting to me, it may have been doubly so for them. Again, I recommend coming and not turning your face away from the horrible facts and effects of the war, but if you’re sensitive or have young children who may not be mentally prepared for such imagery, you may want to avoid certain exhibits that you feel could include such photographs (mainly War Crimes and Agent Orange are the two areas that are disturbing, I haven’t included any pictures from them below).
If you’re in Saigon even a little bit interested in the history and lasting effects of the war, this is a must-visit museum. I visited on a Saturday afternoon and it was crowded, but still easy to see everything.
Was on an emotional rollercoaster.
Need more than an hour here, like 2 or more to look at the pictures, read and absorb, and look at the artillery and remnants.
There are several sections and take your time through each.
You will definitely leave emotionally numb yet applauding the nation and the support it enjoyed during its struggles.....
Very sad and confronting. We really took our time to look at everything. The more and more we read it was a little disheartening. War is never a great thing but unfortunately this museum is very one sided. They don't tell the whole truth. In one way I understand why they say USA invaded but for the South this was not true. The USA and Australians and other countries came to help the South but this is never mentioned. Even speaking to locals about this they agree and a very passionate about how one sided it is. I still recommend this place highly but have your own view on this. Apart from that, the photos are always etched in my mind.
Was a great museum full of relics and monuments to a whole lot. The floors are dedicated to different “eras” or tragedies of the war. Which were of course depressing to read about, but very important to understand and learn from. The staff were also very helpful and there was a virtual tour (headphones) to help
First time my daughter visited War Museum. she was truly amazed. The powerful displays, old photographs, and real war artifacts left her speechless. The place wasn't crowded at all. Ground floor did't have any AC but 1st and 2nd floor had AC. Staff was helpful at the gate.
4.5
(39881)
4.4
(33471)
Phường 6, Quận 3, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 700000, Vietnam
Create your ultimate travel itinerary
Plan your itinerary, find lodging, and import reservations — all in one app.
11Larry E — Google reviewLan N — Google reviewW R — Google reviewJesse H — Google reviewRichard S — Google reviewMeghan H — Google reviewDaniel Q — Google review•
Cattien wild tour (Vietnature Tour)
Nature & Parks
Bird watching area
Cultural association
Hospitality and tourism school
Natural stone exporter
Nature preserve
went for a full day birding/nature trek (photography) in cat tien with Dzuong. it was the best wildlife photography trip of my life so far. we encountered so many birds, monkeys, crocodiles... dzuong was very knowledgeable on the ecosystem and its inhabitants, including the scientific assessment of the area. cool guy too. i highly recommend the experience
Alexander D — Google review
Nguyen Luong Dzung was an excellent guide for us for a two plus day bird tour at Cat Tien park reserve. Many excellent spottings and photos. He had extensive knowledge, excellent equipment and preparation, and unbounded and infectious enthusiasm. He found and attracted many varieties of birds. My wife’s camera got much better pictures with her zoom, but I captured a few with my iPhone.
Our family of four had the privilege of embarking on an incredible 2-day, 1-night adventure with VietNature Tour, and it was truly a journey to remember. From the moment we set foot in Cát Tiên National Park, we were immersed in the breathtaking beauty of nature, guided by the expertise and enthusiasm of our tour leader, Mr Dzung.
During our time in the park, we had the rare opportunity to observe wildlife at night—a magical experience that allowed us to witness animals in their natural habitat under the cover of darkness. The daytime expedition to Bàu Sấu (Crocodile Lake) was equally mesmerizing, offering stunning landscapes and fascinating insights into the park's diverse ecosystem.
What made this trip even more special was the dedication and deep knowledge of our guide, Nguyễn Lương Dũng. His passion for nature and his ability to share engaging stories about the flora and fauna of Cat tien truly enriched our experience. He ensured that every moment was both educational and exciting, making this journey an unforgettable experience for our family.
We highly recommend VietNature Tour to anyone looking for an authentic and immersive adventure in Vietnam’s wilderness. If you’re fortunate enough to have Mr Dzung as your guide, you’re in for an exceptional experience!
I booked a tour for 4 days. I stayed in the park and had an amazing time. The tour was incredible from night safari and night walks trough the jungle to a gibbon tour and a beautiful walk/ hike to crocodile lake and tour trough the village, an amazing boot tour seeing a little fish farm. Thank you so much for an amazing diverse tour! Thank you for being such a kindhearted guide!
I highly recommend a tour!
Mr Dzung and Mr Khan were absolutely fantastic guides. They know all the names of animals and birds in English and can spot them extremely well. We were delighted to spend 3 nights in Cat Tien national park with them learning about the local wildlife, primates and even getting us a tour at the free the bears rescue, where we were able to make enrichment toys for the bears and watch them interacting for much longer than we expected. The tour of the Primate rescue centre was very informative as well. Lastly, we wanted to thank them for accommodating us last minute, we only heard about the park the night before we visited but Mr Dzung was kind enough to travel back to the park for us on short notice.
My wife and I stayed two nights at a wonderful lodge in Cattien and Dzung was our guide for two days. Dzung was an excellent guide, we had two mornings birding at an easy pace, and an afternoon in a hide looking for Pittas. Dzung was excellent at finding us fantastic birds to enjoy and was good company. We only wish we had been able to stay longer because 2 days is not enough to explore this wonderful place in such good company.
We had the most amazing experience with Vietnature tour. Our guide, khanh, was incredibly knowledgeable and taught us so much while also being great fun to spend the day with. I would recommend anyone who is looking to experience Cat Tien national park to go with Vietnature tour as you won’t be disappointed.
We booked a tour for 3 days and it was an amazing experience. Dzung was such an incredible guide for us! His tours and explanations were interesting, fun, and he is very knowledgeable on every topic related to cat tien rainforest. I would strongly recommend Vietnature to anyone that plans to visit the Vietnam rainforest and wants to live an exciting experience.
5.0
(52)
4.0
(69)
Nam Cát Tiên, Tân Phú, Đồng Nai 76000, Vietnam
12•
Cao Dai Temple of Phu Hoa Dong
Place of worship
Sights & Landmarks
Sacred & Religious Sites
(Translated by Google) The campus is a bit small so the architecture is somewhat different
(Original)
Khuôn viên hơi nhỏ nên kiến trúc có phần khác biệt
Tony L — Google review
3.0
(1)
4.1
(1159)
2HG7+3RJ, Đ. Tỉnh Lộ 15, Phú Hoà Đông, Củ Chi, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
13Pubudu T — Google reviewDR. B — Google reviewAnujith V — Google reviewFiona O — Google reviewSaid Z — Google reviewSHREYAS — Google reviewAngie V — Google review•
Cu Chi Tunnel
Mentioned on
Historical landmark
Sights & Landmarks
Cu Chi Tunnels, a vast underground network utilized by Viet Cong soldiers during the war, offers visitors a chance to explore exhibits and war memorials. Tourists can also experience crawling through widened tunnels to gain insight into the soldiers' wartime struggles. Many find it hard to fathom how Vietnamese soldiers lived and fought in such conditions. Chinese-speaking guides provide vivid explanations of the historical significance, making it an educational experience for those unfamiliar with Vietnamese history.
Friday 17th October 2025:
Good experience to visit and see how the NVA were so aware of their own surroundings and used them to their advantage.
Plenty to visit on the site, but it gets extremely busy with tourists, and we were there at the start of the season.
You can use the rifle range whilst there: hand gun (cant remember which one), and M16.
I was informed they charge $2 per round, so if you want a full clip, thats gonna cost.
Enjoyed the visit, it was just too busy, its one of thos early morning jobs you need to be there as soon as it opens to get total enjoyment
Alan H — Google review
The Củ Chi Tunnels, located near Ho Chi Minh City, are an extensive underground network used by Vietnamese soldiers during the Vietnam War. Stretching over 200 kilometers, these tunnels served as hiding spots, living quarters, supply routes, and hospitals. Today, they are a popular tourist attraction where visitors can explore sections of the tunnels and learn about the resilience and ingenuity of the Vietnamese people during wartime. Great experience and unforgettable day.
If you in Vietnam must visit Cu Chi for experiencing the mind blowing war techniques against American.
Vietnam is a country that truly captures the heart of anyone who visits. The people of Vietnam are among the most welcoming, humble, and kind-hearted individuals I have ever met. Their warmth and hospitality make visitors feel at home from the very first moment. Whether in the bustling streets of Hanoi or the peaceful villages along the Mekong Delta, there’s always a smile to greet you and a helping hand ready when needed.
The culture of Vietnam is equally rich and inspiring—a perfect blend of tradition, resilience, and grace. Deeply rooted in family values, respect for elders, and community spirit, Vietnamese culture reflects a harmony between the past and the present. Festivals, music, and art beautifully showcase the nation’s history and pride, while its cuisine—fresh, flavorful, and balanced—perfectly mirrors the Vietnamese way of life: simple yet deeply satisfying.
What stands out most is the people’s positive spirit and their ability to find joy and strength even in challenges. Their respect for nature, tradition, and human connection is truly admirable.
Overall, Vietnam’s people and culture leave a lasting impression—a reminder that kindness, simplicity, and unity are the true essence of a beautiful life.
Visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels is far more than just a historical tour; it is a profoundly immersive and eye-opening experience that will give you literal goosebumps. The sheer resourcefulness and determination of the Vietnamese people, who carved this complex, 250km-long underground city by hand, is astonishing.
Seeing the incredibly small, cleverly hidden trapdoor entrances instantly sends a chill down your spine as you realize the ingenuity required for survival. But the ultimate moment is crawling through the tunnels yourself (sections have been widened, but they are still incredibly narrow!). The immediate sense of darkness, heat, and claustrophobia is deeply unsettling and offers a shocking, visceral understanding of the challenging life endured by soldiers and civilians here.
It is a humbling, powerful, and absolutely essential visit that leaves you in awe of human resilience and the powerful, tangible history under your feet.
Here we come to Cu Chi Tunnel.
If you going to HCM and love history.
dont miss it.
Entry fee not expensive also not to worry
Once we enter they're tour guide walk us around.
we took total 1hrs 45min grab car over from our place.
My husband enjoy the guy shooting AK47
also the small tiny Tunnel go down and cover up.
I myself try to walk through into a small Tunnel
Omg so hot, need to band down to walk.
But very good experience.
It’s hard to believe how people dug and lived in tunnels during the war.
Overall very good experience for us.
What an experience! First time I've first hand experienced a historical moment in modern human history told from the "other side". Truly eye opening and horrific moment in our history, especially with the current geopolitical events occurring live in front of our eyes, it gives a whole new perspective to it. This is a great place for all colonizing countries to visit, especially the French, British and of course Americans.
Visited the legendary Cu Chi Tunnels — a mind-blowing glimpse into Vietnam’s wartime history. Crawled through narrow underground passages, saw the clever traps and hidden bunkers, and witnessed the resilience and intelligence of the Vietnamese fighters. A powerful, unforgettable experience!
Very interesting experience to learn about Vietnam’s war . I booked a tour so the tour guide bought the tickets for me.
Bring mosquito spray and maybe long sleeve.
I came during a weekday, so I didn’t have to wait that much to enter into the tunnels. The tunnels are very small, so bring comfortable shoes and clothes.
4.5
(16121)
4.4
(26206)
Phú Hiệp, Củ Chi, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
14George — Google reviewDebbie S — Google reviewAndyB — Google reviewAlex G — Google reviewRomayne W — Google reviewLesley S — Google reviewEd F — Google review•
Sorya Kayaking Adventures & Cafe
Mentioned on
Tour agency
Outdoor Activities
Sorya Kayaking Adventures & Cafe offers an amazing 3.5-hour kayaking experience with knowledgeable and cautious guides. The adventure includes a thrilling truck ride to the start point, where you can enjoy the local life along the Mekong River. You'll paddle downstream, passing islands and submerged trees while enjoying the tranquility of the surroundings. The guides ensure your safety in fast currents and provide interesting insights about the area.
We, unfortunately were unable to stay with Sprays guesthouse. They were full, which is understandable now!
They have truly lovely staff, extremely helpful and they speak great English - the best we encountered Kratie actually.
The cafe/restaurant serves up great food and drink, we wish we had eaten there more!
The best bit though, was the dolphin kayaking tour - it was brilliant.
We did the morning tour in January, and it was surreal. The dolphins are beautiful, and the guide really made sure we saw everything we could.
Side note - I am gluten free, and they accommodated for this without problem.
Jack D — Google review
First- the hotel- I had a ground floor room. Really bright and clean with a great toilet and shower- separate from each other. Food- I only ate breakfast there but the bread, banana and pumpkin were delicious. A beer at sunset- amazing- as were all the staff. Bicycle- I rented one for a day to visit nearby temples- mountain bike, in great condition. Half day morning kayaking trip. Great guide and saw (and heard) lots of dolphins. A must-do if you’re in Kratie. Doable by most health people I think. All in all a fantastic time.
We had a fantastic trip out on the Mekong. Many thanks to Ben for his calm guiding across quite a strong current and his knowledge of the wildlife including the dolphins. I am not a strong kayaker so was a bit nervous before going as it was the wet season and the Mekong was enlarged with the extra rainfall, however it was all fine, we didn't need to go against the current. The kayaks are very stable and it was great fun. We were fortunate to see quite a few dolphins, which was amazing.
It was a fantastic experience and I would highly recommend it.
What a place this is!! We had the privilege of staying here for 4 nights and absolutely loved every second. The rooms are large, comfortable and have everything you could hope for. We ate at the cafe every day as the food is incredible and the staff absolutely amazing. This is also the best place in town I for a perfect sunset view.
When we stayed here, we had been travelling for 4 months and were craving a taste of home - the restaurant here does amazing western foods and we got the hit we needed!
We also took the kayaking tour from here which we would also recommend. Fantastically organised, wonderful guide and a once in a lifetime experience to be so close to the endangered river dolphins.
Thank you to Pete and the amazing staff for a wonderful stay. HIGHLY recommended for your stay, your food and drink, your kayaking adventure or ideally, all three!
We had an amazing time with Ben our guide. He explained many things in a lot of detail, which we liked. His english is super amazing and easy to understand. We were lucky to see the dolphins and w noted our kayaking.
I would definitely recommend Sorya Kayaking.
Kayaking The Mekong River was above expectations. Our tour guide, Borey, was an excellent guide, good English, polite, good customer & good knowledge.
Scenery was beautiful had a lovely swim from a beach on one of the islands. Saw plenty of dolphins. Awesome experience.
Had a great day out with Ben when we were staying at the guest house. Although the current was running quite strong, Ben lead us across the best way and when we tied the canoes up together we saw lots of the beautiful dolphins 🐬 Highlight of our stay
We had a great experience kayaking along the Mekong River with Sorya Kayaking. The tour was flexible and well organised — my parents were able to ride comfortably in a boat while we paddled alongside. In the afternoon we went on a relaxing bike ride around Kaoh Trong Island and even tried their famous pomelos. Bora was incredibly helpful and also arranged a private van for our transfer from Phnom Penh to Kratie, then on to Siem Reap. The only regret was booking too late to be able to stay at their guesthouse — would highly recommend this tour!
4.8
(238)
4.8
(471)
Preah Soramarith Quay, Kratié, Cambodia
15Isai S — Google reviewRith P — Google reviewJavier S — Google reviewBAOLANG T — Google reviewU H — Google reviewMateja U — Google reviewPika C — Google review•
Kaoh Trong
Mentioned on
Island
Nature & Parks
Kaoh Trong, located near Kratie, is a charming island that can be reached by ferry across the Mekong River. Visitors can rent bicycles for a nominal fee and explore the island at their own pace. The scenic route passes fruit farms, residential areas, cattle pastures, and temples with stunning views of the Mekong River and the island itself. There are also several dining options available on the island.
Short day trip from Kratie! It’s 10 minutes away by boat (that comes about once an hour but leaves when it’s full so sadly there’s no timetable)
You can rent a bicycle and ride around the island, I saw lots of different pretty birds (hard to catch on camera through), farms of the local people and the super sandy beaches. I spent about 2 hours here but didn’t stop anywhere to eat/drink. There are a few options but I preferred to wait until I got back to the city.
Zoe C — Google review
I got there on the 4:00pm ferry.
Got back on the 6:30pm ferry.
Enough time to bike around and have a few stops such as watching the sunset at the cafe.
Beautiful sights, tranquil lifestyle
Discover the tranquil charm of Koh Trong, an island oasis nestled in a fresh-water river. Home to vibrant local communities thriving on fishing, farming, and seasonal fruit businesses.
Immerse yourself in their warmth as friendly smiles greet every visitor. A serene haven where nature and culture blend seamlessly.
Interesting island, worth half a day trip here or staying in one of the two guesthouses for a full day of relax.
High recommend for those who love eco-tourism. On this island, you can experience with homestay with the price between 4$(share bathroom) to 30$ (30$ for private room with bathroom inside) and there also one big resort name Rajabori resort and you can check for more information on their website. You can have a tour around Koh (Koh mean island) by walking, riding bicycle, riding motorcycle, riding horse cart (3 people) or TukTuk (can be 4 to 5 people) and If you visit there, don't forget to taste the trademark pomelo too!! The best Pomelo is around November and get to see the biggest tree (derm Rorka) on island too.
Beautiful. Must visit and homestay would be a great experience.
Try the pamelo. One of the best..
Really great island for few hours trip. You could rent a bike there or in the city for 1$. The boat cost 0,25$/person/one way. There is a small road round the island (cca 7km) on which you can cycle. Perfect place to see local living with a lot of cows, chickens and many different fruit trees. On south side of the island there is floating villlage.
Koh Trong is an eco-tourism spot that you can go by taking a boat from the Mekong river side of the city. There, you can take a tour around the island by walking, biking, riding a motorcycle or a motorcycle cart. The guesthouse is as cheap as 25 cents per night and you can enjoy the sandy beach as much as you’d like. During festival seasons, it will be more crowded as people of the city gather to watch festive boats, fireworks or have a dance party at the beach. My favorite thing about this island is the Pomelo fruit native to the land on the island. From my experience, it is THE BEST pomelo I’ve had and will ever have. Sweet, juicy, delicious! Plus, people are very friendly and kind. I’d love to visit it again as I miss it a lot!
4.5
(55)
4.5
(272)
Kratié, Cambodia, USA
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16Alastair K — Google reviewThiery N — Google reviewNicoDuma — Google reviewAbout T — Google reviewLy H — Google reviewChristian B — Google reviewElise P — Google review•
Turtle Conservation Center
Mentioned on
Permanently Closed
Animal protection organization
Nature & Parks
Nature & Wildlife Areas
The Turtle Conservation Center is a fantastic initiative with an enthusiastic leader who runs a great program. It's perfect for families looking to get involved in turtle conservation efforts.
Great program, enthusiastic program leader!!
Julie H — Google review
Regrettably this is now closed and has been for over a year. The New Governor if the temple is not interested in this project
Its closed for now. The monks need the space or somthing. They are moving the place to kratie soon. The temple next to it is pretty nice
They ask 4 $ to visit, it is just a way to let you pay a ticket for the 100 columns pagoda.
It is closes now for turtle conservation center in Kratie near the 1000 column pagoda.
i love my famly
(Translated by Google) All we learned from the locals was that the turtles had to go so that a new temple could be built. This was currently under construction. None of the monks spoke English or Khmer, which is why we couldn't find out what happened to the turtles... You can skip the trip. Pagodas are a dime a dozen...
(Original)
Wir haben von den Einheimischen nur so viel erfahren, dass die Schildkröten weg mussten, damit ein neuer Tempel gebaut werden kann. Dieser befand sich unserer Zeit im Rohbau. Von den Mönchen sprach niemand Englisch und wie kein Khmer, weshalb wir nicht heraus bekamen, was mit den Schildkröten passiert ist... Die Fahrt kann man lassen. Pagoden gibt es wie Sand am Meer...
(Translated by Google) Entry at 4 USD to stay there for less than 5 minutes. The big turtles are in small boxes. And the staff doesn't speak English and you feel like you're bothering them.
(Original)
Entrée à 4 USD pour y rester finalement moins de 5 minutes. Les grosses tortues sont dans de petites boîtes. Et le personnel ne parle pas englais et on a l'impression de les déranger.
2.8
(13)
3.3
(89)
QXG8+Q6H, Sambour District, Cambodia, USA
17Ehab A — Google reviewPilar C — Google reviewKai T — Google reviewDinh T — Google reviewSeeda L — Google reviewNui — Google reviewEyejin L — Google review•
Khon Phapheng Falls
Mentioned on
Waterfall
Nature & Parks
Khon Phapheng Falls is an impressive natural wonder located in South Central Laos, near the Four Thousand Islands. It is renowned for being the largest waterfall by volume in Southeast Asia, with millions of liters of water crashing over the rocks every second. The site offers multiple viewpoints to observe the powerful falls and rapids from different angles. While there is a jacked-up price to visit, it's worth experiencing this awe-inspiring display of unrestrained aggression by nature.
This is the largest waterfall by volume in all of Southeast Asia!
The entire Mekong river has to go through here. There are multiple viewpoints here which let you see the various falls and rapids from different angles.
I highly recommend visiting this place. It is a must-do when you visit Don Det.
Konstantin B — Google review
Stunning place that's also fascinating. I'd definitely visit again.
The waterfall is gushing so much and it's even more intriguing that it's the most powerful one in the world when it comes to water flow. In fact, it's more than all of the other top 10 combined. Mind blowing!
The toilets come with a small charge but it's fine. They're not the most clean but they're not horrific as well, especially for public toilet standards in Laos. The walk can be a lot in the heat (even though it's not far from the entrance) so please be hydrated.
Impressive waterfalls!! I think during and after the rainy season they must be even more beautiful full of water 💦
An amazing waterfall, surrounded by cute paths, interesting flowers and a small temple dedicated to a sacred tree. Definitely worth the visit just for the vibes but also because it's the "largest waterfall by volume in Asia", so that's fun
Khone Pa Soi is a natural Waterfall located on the east side of Don Khone near Si Phan Don - Four Thousand Islands in South Central Laos. It is one of the worth visiting places for visitors while exploring Don Khone Island, which is non-touristy and smaller compared to other waterfalls in the region.
The falls are about a 25-minute moto-bike ride from the Don Det-Don Khone Bridge. After riding on a bumpy dirt road that winds through the middle of the island, small signs direct visitors toward a suspension bridge. The bridge is safe, but likely to bring fears of those who care for dangling over rocks and a rushing river. Leaving moto-bikes behind, the falls are just about a 5-minute walk from the bridge.
The walk to the waterfalls is adventurous and involves a traipse over a sizeable wooden suspension bridge above the roaring rapids of the falls. From this bridge, visitors can witness the panoramic views of the falls and beautiful countryside consisting of green rice fields. A walk further along the trail takes visitors to other points of the waterfalls. There is also another smaller bridge, which leads to walls built by the French for logging during the colonization times
During the rainy season, it may be difficult for tourists to see much of the falls, and be prepared to get wet LoL
Amazing views with beautiful nature and waterfall good place for relaxing with peace❤ Better visit during winter or summer not raining season because the rain will cause the water turn to yellow😉
Awesome! World’s 3rd largest by annual flow. Better go take picture at the last view point. You can walk down to the shore, very close to the falls, a bit scary tho.
Super cool place! We visited this waterfall from the Don Khon and we loved our short trip.
4.5
(221)
4.5
(217)
Laos, USA
18Gabi Z — Google reviewNang S — Google reviewJulian A — Google reviewKristina — Google reviewEleonora A — Google reviewAbu S — Google reviewLeBonze Y — Google review•
Li Phi Somphamit Waterfalls
Mentioned on
Nature & Parks
Waterfalls
Li Phi Somphamit Waterfalls, also known as Tat Somphamit, is a stunning natural wonder located on Don Khon. The falls are famous for their raging rapids and rocky hills where local fishermen risk their lives to catch fish using bamboo traps. The name 'Li Phi' means 'Spirit Trap,' reflecting the local belief that the falls act as a trap for bad spirits as they wash down the river.
Great waterfalls although smaller than the ones in the other side of the island. 30k entry but if you want to use the suspension bridges it’s another 250k each. We skipped as are on a budget. There’s also a zip line but not sure if it’s operational at the moment.
Henry B — Google review
Very impressive, we were during the end of the rainy season so the Mekong river was very high with water. I highly recommend to pay the extra 12$ to go over the 5 bridges that allow you to walk just above the water very close to the waterfall, a terrific experience.
Need to pay for the entrance fee 33,000 kip (same price for Lao and foreigners) if you are Lao no need to pay but you have to show ID card or family documents or drivers license or passport.
It's very nice to cross the bridge to the waterfall point with price 250,000kip.
Beautiful waterfalls, there's a nice short trail to walk around the property. You can't swim here.
Next to the parking lot there's food and drinks available.
Entrance fee: 30.000
Hanging bridges: 250.000
Zip line: 700.000
4 stars because you can't swim here.
We paid 200 kip per person for waterfall experience, and it was amazing! Highly recommend! We crossed 5-6 different bridges across the Mekong river. The view was breathtaking 😍
Nature is always beautiful, but the maintenance of the area is pretty poor now. Prices for zip lines are too high - just bridge costs more than $10 per person to enter. Not something wow, but if you have a lot of free time - why not.
Loved it when I visited 2023 for the first time. Will go again tomorrow. If I get a chance I'll stay around here longer. The waterfall is amazing with a small beautiful beach but can't swim everyday only when we are allowed if there is safety.
The zip line is short and a bit expensive (700k per person) but the environment is really worth it!
4.4
(969)
4.5
(276)
XW37+WJW, Khon Tai, Laos
19Erika W — Google reviewRoderick R — Google reviewMargaux C — Google reviewJosé S — Google reviewMel S — Google reviewNicolas G — Google reviewMichaela R — Google review
Champasak Wellness space ຈໍາປາສັກ ສູນສຸຂະພາບ
Wellness program
Spas & Wellness
Massage spa
Meditation instructor
Spas
A 'must do' to fully relax on a lazy day! This is a quite and charming Spa and the masseuses are so skilled and wonderful. We had the coconut oil body massage in the garden outside, directly at the river bank, where you enjoy a nice tea and first rest afterwards.
Walter B — Google review
I just had a one hour coconut oil massage that was wonderful, in this low key, intimate, soothing space.
I only wish I had booked one and a half hours :)
Thoroughly enjoyed- OK a bit more of a treat but in context well worth it. We had the 1.5 hours coconut oil massage (160000k) and I am still chilled 24 hours later. Lovely staff and everything explained in English.
wonderful experience, i wish i had time to go twice! highly recommend if you are passing through Champasak
Wonderful experience. We had a 4 hours treatment consisting on a foot refloxology, facial treatment, full body scrub and full body massage. Very professional massage, super service and kindness. Definitely an experience to have at this enchanting village, Champasak.
From our lovely welcome to our departing gifts, our day at the Champassak Spa was truely wonderful. Staff is very friendly, the treatments are good and the surroundings are beautiful and calming. It's worth very penny. If you would like to paper yourself, this is the place to be!
Amazing. So relaxing, well trained staff and nice chat with them before and after. They make everything to make you feel the most comfortable. We are travelling on a budget and we found affordable prices! We love Champasak!
Such lovely place! The owner is very nice lady from France. Her masseuses are skilled and it's worth of visit.
20Robert S — Google reviewTing O — Google reviewEm V — Google reviewTCD — Google reviewTapsi F — Google reviewNhann S — Google reviewPands M — Google review
Vat Phou
Mentioned on
Archaeological site
Sights & Landmarks
Vat Phou is an ancient temple complex of Hindu origin that was later used as a Buddhist shrine. The site exudes grace in its state of decay, and though it may not have the grandeur of Angkor, its setting and lack of visitors make for a more emotional experience. Some structures date back to over 1000 years ago, while most were built between the 11th and 13th centuries.
Vat Phou is a beautiful and significant Khmer temple in Champasak, Laos, renowned for its symbolic design, architectural evolution, and stunning natural setting. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2001, it is an outstanding example of the integration of a symbolic landscape with religious beliefs.
Unique Architectural and Symbolic Features 🗿
Vat Phou's beauty lies in its purposeful design, which reflects a Hindu vision of the relationship between nature and humanity. The complex is laid out along a central axis, with its structures stretching over 1.4 kilometers from the Mekong River to the base of Mount Phou Kao.
* Sacred Mountain: The temple is situated at the foot of Mount Phou Kao, which the ancient Khmer believed was a sacred mountain due to a lingam-shaped rock formation on its summit. This natural feature was seen as a manifestation of Shiva, one of the principal deities in Hinduism. The temple's layout was designed to represent the spiritual universe, with the mountain as the home of the gods and the river representing the cosmic ocean.
* Processional Pathway: The complex features a long, processional walkway lined with ancient frangipani trees and ceremonial ponds (barays). This pathway leads visitors on a symbolic ascent, creating a feeling of pilgrimage and spiritual progression as they climb toward the main sanctuary.
* Architectural Evolution: The site showcases the development of Khmer architecture over several centuries, with structures dating from the 7th to the 13th centuries. The main buildings, including the two quadrangular palaces on the lower level and the main sanctuary on the upper terrace, are built from laterite and intricately carved sandstone. The carvings and lintels depict various Hindu deities and mythological scenes, showcasing the exceptional artistry and craftsmanship of the time.
A Fusion of Cultures and Beliefs 🕉️
Originally built as a Hindu temple dedicated to the god Shiva, Vat Phou was later converted into a Buddhist monastery in the 13th century. This transition is evident in the blend of Hindu and Buddhist elements found throughout the complex. While many Hindu carvings and structures remain, the main sanctuary now houses Buddha images and is still an active place of worship for local Buddhists. This cultural fusion adds another layer to its historical and spiritual significance.
Breathtaking Setting and Serenity ✨
Beyond its architectural and historical value, Vat Phou is beautiful because of its tranquil and picturesque setting. The temple's tiered design allows for panoramic views of the surrounding plains and the Mekong River, making the climb to the top a rewarding experience. The ruins, overgrown in parts by ancient trees, evoke a sense of timelessness and connection with nature, which was a core part of its original design. The relative lack of crowds compared to more famous sites like Angkor Wat in Cambodia also contributes to a serene and reflective atmosphere, allowing visitors to fully appreciate its quiet grandeur.
Sy S — Google review
Great place to visit as an extension to Angkor Wat in Cambodia. Was built around the same time although it is being renovated as it's rather falling down the hill. Worth the climb to the top as the views are amazing and you can see the natural spring and elephant rock. Look closely and you can also see the ancient roadway to Angkor Wat. Interesting place and worth the time taken to visit.
Very beautiful ancient sites ,the ticket so cheap and have golf car send us to the place , afternoon is good time to go not so much people
Visited on a rainy day and honestly didn’t mind it at all… the rain kept the crowds away so it was nice and peaceful. Entry was 55,000 Kip for non-Lao residents. The site provides buses to take you to the starting point, which is really convenient. Everything was so lush and green, and the mist made it look even more magical. The walk up to the temple was beautiful, though the stairs are quite steep, so be careful on the way up and down. The view from the top is absolutely worth it! Definitely recommend visiting, even (or maybe especially) on a rainy day.
Wat Phou is an absolutely incredible site and one of the highlights of my trip to southern Laos. It’s a bit of a trek to get there from the city, but completely worth the effort — even in the rain! The entrance fee for foreigners is 55,000 Kip, and make sure to keep your ticket handy since you’ll need to scan it both when entering and leaving the site. From the moment you arrive at the base, the views are beautiful, with lush greenery and ancient stone structures scattered across the hillside.
The climb up can be a little challenging, especially if the steps are wet, but reaching the top feels rewarding. The temple ruins are stunning and full of character — it’s amazing to walk among the old stones and imagine what life might have been like centuries ago. There’s some restoration work going on, so you might hear a bit of construction noise, but it’s actually fascinating to watch the preservation process in action.
Even with the rain and uneven paths, the atmosphere is peaceful and spiritual. The combination of nature, history, and impressive views makes Wat Phou a truly special experience. I’d highly recommend making the trip — it’s so worth it!
Very well preserved and maintained ruins. It is not overbuilt with contemporary garbage, like they do in Thailand.
Vat Phou offers not only a glimpse into ancient history but also a journey framed by breathtaking scenery. The road leading from Pakse to the temple is smooth and pleasant, winding through lush countryside dotted with villages and rice fields. As you approach, the landscape opens to reveal the sacred mountain backdrop, creating a dramatic setting for the ruins. The view from the upper terraces is especially memorable: you can see the Mekong River valley stretching wide, with greenery merging into distant horizons. The combination of a comfortable ride and panoramic vistas makes the trip to Vat Phou as rewarding as the destination itself.
The Historical Temple it’s awesome but they charge 55000 Kip entrance fee include for buggy car to drop and pick. For pickup no buggy, wait more then 15mins and no in charge person around there also. Need to walk back 1.5km to main entrance
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21Prachyan S — Google reviewSander H — Google reviewGary T — Google reviewAjay M — Google reviewJOKER'S — Google reviewSara G — Google reviewNgan T — Google review
Wat Phousalao
Mentioned on
Buddhist temple
Sights & Landmarks
Points of Interest & Landmarks
Wat Phousalao is the largest temple in Laos and a top religious attraction. The highlight of the temple is a massive statue of Lord Buddha at the entrance. The traditional Buddhist architecture and serene atmosphere make it a peaceful place to visit. To reach Wat Phousalao, visitors can rent a motorbike, bicycle, or take a tuk-tuk for stunning views over Pakse city and the Mekong River.
To reach the hill with the Buddha Statue and the Temple, you have to climb almost 600 steps, some are vey high and narrow. Also the way is very steep and has not always a hand railing. After you reached the top, you get honoured with a great view over the Mekong River and the city of Pakse. It’s an amazing atmosphere up there.
The Phousalao Temple consists of several buildings, Temples and hundreds of small Buddhas.
If you cannot climb those stairs, take a car (not a motorcycle with sidecar) and drive up.
If you are in the region, it is a must to visit the Temple Phousalao.
Erich A — Google review
Take a look at this massive golden Buddha statue perched on a hill.
You can either climb up the 600 steps or drive up the hill for about 4.9 kilometers.
From up there, you’ll get a breathtaking view of the serene city of Pakse and the Mekong rivers.
And it’s completely free to enter!
Temple on the top of a hill, with a 23 meters high Buddha statue, and numerous smaller ones. Good view over Pakse. There's a 250 steps staircase if you feel sporty. But you can also drive up there. It's built around 2011, and it's nice, but nothing special.
There are over 300 steep steps up the hill to reach the golden Buddha.
Take your time but make sure you bring plenty of water and sunscreen.
Good views of the area from the top of the hill. No tickets required.
Beautiful temple, with a big Buddha sitting on top of mountain as though he is looking after the Pakse area and it's people, again rows of little Buddha statues is something very unique to this temple.
Other than that amazing view of Mekong River, Pakse, mountains and one could definitely enjoy the sunset from this temple.
An absolutely stunning spot with breathtaking views over the river and Pakse. We walked all the way from the city, crossing the bridge on foot and then climbing up the staircase — you’ll see it on your left about 300 meters after the bridge.
Yes, it’s a bit of a workout (around 600 steps through the forest), but completely worth it — and honestly, way more fun and rewarding than just taking a tuk-tuk. As you climb, the views start peeking through near the top, but the real payoff is the panoramic view from the summit. It’s truly unforgettable.
If you’re able, I highly recommend going on foot. The stairs make for a unique experience and really add to the journey. You can also get there by taxi or tuk-tuk if needed, but the hike makes it feel earned.
Overall, this is a must-visit when in Pakse — peaceful, scenic, and memorable.
Stunning views!!! We parked in the first paking because of the mud.
You have to climb 500 steps but it was worth it.
It's free.
100% recomend it!
Nice place to see city over view and beautiful sunrise
22Jeff H — Google reviewKoko C — Google reviewPetrie — Google reviewESL N — Google reviewBrian G — Google reviewGary T — Google reviewTony G — Google review•
Wat Sirindhorn Wararam Phu Phrao
Buddhist temple
Sights & Landmarks
Pavilion carved with pop culture characters, featuring painted florescent images on walls & floor.
Unique Buddhist temple with glow in the dark features at dusk. Definitely cool to experience the colors light up when it gets dark. It was a little busy with visitors and tour groups, but not overwhelming. Worth a visit when touring Ubon Ratchathani. Get there a little before dusk so you can get your bearings before it gets dark.
Jeff V — Google review
A truly beautiful Wat with unbelievable views. My girlfriend and her family brought me there to experience the temple. I was in awe of the craftsmanship put into the temple. They have cement designs in the ground, which are painted with glow in the dark paint. I would love to see it a night time someday!
Gorgeous temple to visit on a sunny day. We went on a rainy day. It was still nice to see everything. View is beautiful and fit for the temple. Saw dogs and horses at this temple. Architecture is very unique to look at and well kept. I'm sure if there was a festival, this place would be busy. We were the only ones there. Be warned, if raining, wear good shoes because the floor and stone pathway is very slippery when wet!
Free of charge.
Beautiful and unique temple on the hill. At Chong mek, near the immigration border to Laos.
Need private transportation to go up tho
Closes at 9pm
Day time you can appreciate the Temple design and decorations which are different from those in Bangkok as this temple is similar to one in northern Laos.
Also the beautiful painting of a tree at the back of the temple. Very unique with many birds and animals.
The scenery is breathtaking as you can see layers of mountains of Laos in the distance, as well as the reservoir
At night enjoy the glow in the dark patterns of the tree painting and patterns in the ground
Toilets available. Clean but squatting type.
Also you are a advised to dress modestly to enter the temple. Sarongs are available to borrow for free near the female toilet in case needed for those wearing shorts
Very nice,scenic and beautiful temple on a hill near to Chong Mek border.
Well decorated and designed.
Plenty of car parking lots,and nice well maintained toilet.
Preferably to come during the cold season.
future unesco site. incredible st night. the floors light up. awesome view into Laos. a must see if you are nearby
You have to be a proper tourist and wait for the sun to set to see the real beauty of the temple.
This is an impressive temple during the day and, based upon photos that I have seen, it would be stunning at night. There are painted markings on the ground that glow when lit at night.
It is situated on higher ground so you also get views of the countryside.
It is a long way from Ubon Ratchatani city but you can make a good day trip and see other attractions in the vicinity.
4.7
(5568)
4.5
(70)
99, 4FX9+X3C, 99, Chong Mek, Sirindhorn District, Ubon Ratchathani 34350, Thailand
23Magnus M — Google reviewPetrie — Google reviewRossawan K — Google reviewRob T — Google reviewSai N — Google reviewAndreas L — Google reviewLaurent R — Google review•
Pha Taem National Park
Mentioned on
National park
Nature & Parks
Pha Taem National Park is a stunning natural attraction in Thailand, named after a large cliff overlooking the Mekong River. It boasts ancient rock paintings that have become iconic in Ubon and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. The park features unique rock formations and an impressive waterfall called Nam Tok Saeng Chan, which flows through a natural hole in the rocks during rainy season.
Nice and big nature park area. Have to drive in 2 km Into the parking area and the information staff. Over there can start the painting trails easy walk and little step up and down. Take 1.5-2 hrs. To finish the trails. The painting are charming and unique. The trails are so beautiful with the rock ancient and the green tree opposite. So much enjoy for the trekker. Oh! The last 4th painting a little bit feel danger if you wanna know try to get there by yourself.
Auntita Y — Google review
Incredibly well preserved stone face paintings 🎨 aging up to 4000 year old 😲. Don't miss this if you are in the area. Watch out for 🐍 and other 🐸. They can be ☠️. Beautiful view though. Bring good shoes 👟 and water 💦 , it's a long hike in the heat.
Interesting geopark.
200 baht for foreign visitors , but it was worth approximately 40-50 baht for locals . Car entry 60baht
Beautiful national park to see the first light in Thailand, wall painting from 3000-4000 years ago, unique rock formations from 55 million years ago, and insects and birds
Unfortunately there was no much water at the waterfall in May.
The national park officers are really helpful. They advise you on how to go how to walk safely and also the place to take a picture. Very interesting and convenient to visit.
The wall paintings were still visible and gave a glimpse of life way back then. Located on the banks of the Mekong River with Laos on the opposite side. There were volunteer guides , students I think, and they were very helpful to point out the interesting aspects about the park. Park was clean and well maintained.
The view of the Mae Kong river and the Thai-Laos border is absolutely breathtaking!
This nation park is very beautiful and worth the money! The nature is very pretty and a lot of things to see if You like nature. The painting there is between 3000 and 4000 years old and wow. The walk is maximum 3.5km and a must. But use good shoes please because sometimes it's wet and slippery. The views are amazing
Another Thai national park, but also another unique place. it is notable for its Dipterocarp forest cover and for extensive rock art on cliffs above the Mekong. just magical place to contemplate Laos and Thailand in harmony. Will come back for sure :-)
4.5
(3367)
4.5
(129)
9GX5+F2R, Huai Phai, Khong Chiam District, Ubon Ratchathani 34220, Thailand
24Nik S — Google reviewKoko C — Google reviewPaul C — Google reviewStuart W — Google reviewRaymond I — Google reviewJack C — Google reviewRossawan K — Google review•
Wat Phra That Nong Bua
Mentioned on
Buddhist temple
Sights & Landmarks
Sacred & Religious Sites
Nestled in the heart of Ubon Ratchathani, Wat Phra That Nong Bua stands as a stunning testament to Buddhist architecture and spirituality. This remarkable temple features an impressive chedi adorned with intricate gold detailing that captures the eye from afar. The serene atmosphere is complemented by numerous seated Buddha statues, inviting visitors to reflect and meditate.
This temple is well worth the trip. Very few westerners were here and it was a very genuine local experience that I'd highly recommend enjoying. The temple is stunning and there are no pushy vendors outside. Just go!
Ok — Google review
The winner of wax carving in 2024 Ubon Candle festival. The Chedi may be the main attraction. But the whole temple area is beautiful and interesting. Inside the Uposatha or prayer hall are buddha statues, beautiful escalation ceiling. The rest area is decorated with colorful silk flowers, it's shady and tranquil.
We arrived to see the carved candles and that was amazing. We missed the festival, which is a sight to see...but the carving shows great craftsmanship and artistic abilities of the local people. Beautiful and large temple.
Another extremely beautiful and clean Temple. Very peaceful and relaxing time with the family walking around and praying inside. Would definitely recommend.
Wat an amazing temple! It was pristine the colours clean and sharp, no rubbish anywhere. So much to look at and explore, you feel a real sence of awe and reverence well worth a couple of hours exploring
This temple really caught my attention when I visited Ubon, I really felt its sacredness, the architecture of the building is very beautiful and it was built very beautifully.
Beautiful temple with big tower, amazing architecture and decorations, worth to visit and worship here
I enjoy to visit this temple very much. There are many interesting places inside. The temple itself was so beautiful by Isarn style. Surrounded by the Candles crafted.
4.7
(5054)
4.6
(266)
108, ตำบล ในเมือง, Mueang Ubon Ratchathani District, Ubon Ratchathani 34000, Thailand
25Oak P — Google reviewSang J — Google reviewPimsirinuch B — Google reviewCharlee C — Google reviewDavid T — Google reviewKoKi M — Google reviewOle B — Google review•
3000 Bok, Sam Phan Bok, Ubon Ratchathani Province
Nature preserve
Nature & Parks
Travel
Canyons
Geologic Formations
It's incredible place in countryside. if you come here in rainy season you wouldn't see anything. During the day it's too hot but I love to see all these rocks.
Chanyanit T — Google review
Beautiful and unique view you can find there. There is a boat tour for river view. Best to come when river is at low level, in high water season you will see nothing.
Amazing place
Like we are in a space.
Hot weather,u should
have hat or umbrella
for protect your skin
And don’t forget comfortable shoes.
Truly one of the wonders along the Mekong!!! Highly recommend to take a longtail boat from Had Salung nearby (1,000 baht for the boat, up to 12 people) to really appreciate this part of the river and the different areas around. Come either really early in the morning (6am-8am) or after 4pm to avoid the scorching sun. A must visit!
This is one of those out of your way type attractions to go to. Out of all the views in Thailand, this one is just mediocre at best. Of course, I'm biased, but let me explain that this was one of the last things I did in Thailand before going back to Bangkok. Meaning, before I went here I was in Phuket, Krabi, Koh Phi Phi, Phang Nga, Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai.
Let me get to the experience for you. We arrived via car, and immediately went to go get lunch at the only restaurant in the area. After lunch, we were joined by another family and rented a truck to go the ~1km down the cliff, and to the start of the hiking area.
The hike was guided, and the guide would explain to you the different pools and holes. S/he would take you to specific holes and tell you what they looked like. A heart, Mickey Mouse head and 800 shaped hole are to name a few.
If you choose to do so, you could also hire a boat to go on a river cruise through the canyon area.
That being said, perhaps my grading of 3 stars is a bit harsh in comparison to others that have been here, but I feel it realistic in the sense that if you were to ask, "Hey, I'm going to Thailand, should Ubon be high on my list?"
My response would be: "Only if you have enough time, like exploring and it is not your first trip to Thailand."
I do not feel that this is a place that you should really go out of your way for. But is it worth experiencing? Yes, that is the short answer.
Decide for yourself whether you like it or not. I would never say don't do something, if you asked if you should try it. The better question would be "Do you think I will like it?"
My answer to that is, the novelty of the place will wear away quickly.
There is a choice of walking to the boulders or taking a ride in a pick up which will cost 200 THB for a round trip.
There is some climbing involved so be careful. Once at the rocks there are guilds for hire.
The famous formation are Mickey mouse which was easy to find, Heart and number 800.
Love this place. Was really amazed by all the rock formation and very grateful such place exists in this country. I feel like it has such high potential for tourism to really develop but maybe nobody cares enough to promote it? Still lovely and quiet the way it is though so maybe it is a blessing.
Sam Pan Bok (Thai: สามพันโบก) is known as the "Grand Canyon of Thailand" and is the biggest rock reef in the Mekong River region. Sam Phan Bok translates as 3,000 shallow lakes and is a fascinating sightseeing spot with countless photo opportunities also great for Drone pilots.
4.4
(847)
4.5
(114)
Sam Phan Bok, Lao Ngam, Pho Sai District, Ubon Ratchathani 34340, Thailand
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26Kasper H — Google reviewRuslan S — Google reviewRicky L — Google reviewThaiadzz — Google reviewChristian B — Google reviewEmmy — Google reviewDavid S — Google review•
Ho Kaeo Mukdahan: City Observation Tower
Sights & Landmarks
Observation Decks & Towers
The Ho Kaeo Mukdahan is a heritage tower standing at 215-feet tall, providing visitors with breathtaking views of the area from its glass viewing deck. The ascent to the top involves roughly 250 steps until the rondel and another 50 steps until the dome. Although the elevator was out of operation, climbing up was worth it for the stunning panoramic view over Mukdahan and Laos across the river.
Beautiful place, good location. There are a lot of historical artifacts from mukdahan on several floors. The views are also fantastic. Definitely worth a visit (especially during weekday, there was no one!)
Ticket price for Adult : 30 thb for Thai and 50
thb for foreigner
Pagamas R — Google review
A nice and somewhat easy to reach viewpoint in Mukdahan. Entrance fee for foreigners is 50 bath and there’s a small museum on the ground floor and second floor and the you got the viewpoint area at level 5. It’s a good place to go see and you have beautiful view at the Mekong River, Laos and Mukdahan city.
This tower is an old-fashioned museum, stuck in the past. It costs 50 baht to get in if you're on your own, not 30.
The viewing area has binoculars, but you have to pay extra to use them, and half of them are broken. The window tinting is really bad.
The staff just don't care.
Honestly, the tower is more depressing than entertaining.
I liked the small park outside more than the tower itself.
City tower to see the city from 360 angle. The tower has been built long time ago, it may not that fancy compared to other brand-new built tower but it is the symbol of the city and it is still worth to visit. Tucket to enter 30 thb per person, free visit for elderly aged above 60 years old with proof.
Great Views of Mukdahan from the observation deck. Sadly the 7th floor was closed , I walked up to The main observation deck, the lift has not been working for some time as I understand, however the walk up is really easy for your average person.
Interesting exhibits and information, sadly not all in English, google translate 📸 with camera , very helpful 😊
Even though it’s a bit of a tired landmark in Mukdahan in need of updating, still worth a look 😊👍
Nice view over area from top
About 250 steps until rondel and more 50 steps until dome (elevator out of work by the time we were there) - some stepper training but worth the view then! Get some nice view around the Mukdahan area over the river until Laos.
Lift was not working and the viewing area available is only until Floor number 2 . The rest of the tower is not open to public, as of writing, due to maintenance repair.
Ok its a Mukdahan landmark and has some museum pieces inside. I picked the wrong day to go - winds gusting to 50+kph. I got to the level 6 and I could feel it swaying. I got up some of the stairs and then heard the call to go down. Ha - chicken. Yep!
4.2
(1692)
3.5
(83)
GPGM+96P, Si Bun Rueang, Mueang Mukdahan District, Mukdahan 49000, Thailand
27Shakya — Google reviewTaro T — Google reviewNik S — Google reviewPannawish T — Google reviewHarrison H — Google reviewWilson P — Google reviewChristian B — Google review•
Wat Phrathat Phanom Woramahawihan
Mentioned on
Buddhist temple
Sights & Landmarks
Wat Phrathat Phanom Woramahawihan is a magnificent Buddhist pilgrimage site featuring a towering and intricately designed chedi, as well as hosting an annual festival. The complex is expansive, with numerous areas to explore, including hundreds of Buddha statues in various forms and colors. Visitors are advised to allocate several hours for the visit and obtain a map to navigate the vast grounds.
Wat Phra That Phanom Woramahawihan is truly a must-visit for anyone traveling to northeastern Thailand. This sacred temple is not only a stunning piece of architecture but also a deeply spiritual site for Buddhists. The central stupa, standing tall and majestic, is beautifully adorned with intricate details, exuding both grandeur and reverence.
The atmosphere here is serene and peaceful, making it an ideal place for reflection and prayer. Locals and visitors alike come to pay their respects, and the energy of the place feels incredibly special. The temple grounds are well-maintained, with plenty of spots to take in the beauty and significance of the surroundings.
Whether you’re drawn to it for its religious importance, historical significance, or architectural beauty, Wat Phra That Phanom is a truly unforgettable experience. Don’t miss this cultural gem!
Wisanu T — Google review
Ancient stupa near the Laos border. Now it is fully restored it has nice structures. Many devotees visit this place for meditation and chanting.
Historical site of an ancient stupa which has been restored over time. While there do also visit the informative museum within the temple grounds.
It's a beautiful temple to visit. Visitors and locals pray inside the Chedi area.
The iconic ancient historical pagoda looked stunning in the night. Everyone arriving would come here first and walking 3 times in clockwise direction around the pagoda to pay respects. So don't miss this site. If you've never been to the place, that means you never really visit Nakhon Phanom. By the way it's quite convenient to travel by several alternative transportation options.
Ancient stupa which has been rebuilt to show its former beauty.
Large Buddhist temple with much to view
I came here at the evening. Not too busy. Perfect temperature, clear sky. Very nice temple.
A few years ago people would leave little Buddha statues at a particular place there but it seems they don't do that anymore.
Nice location with much traffic. We walked in for a pray. Beautifull. 🙏
4.8
(13376)
4.5
(163)
183, 13 หมู่ที่ 13 Chayangkun Rd, That Phanom, That Phanom District, Nakhon Phanom 48110, Thailand
28Sili Z — Google reviewAntonio B — Google reviewNik S — Google reviewWin Z — Google reviewЮлия Т — Google reviewGb — Google reviewSF J — Google review•
Red Lotus Lake Kumphawapi
Mentioned on
Nature & Parks
Nature & Wildlife Areas
Red Lotus Lake Kumphawapi, located 60km from Udon Thani airport, is a popular destination for morning boat tours to admire the blooming pink water lilies. The best time to visit is from November to February between 6:00 am and 10:30 am. It's a picturesque spot that offers serene views of nature.
We visited in early January, and the red lotuses were in full bloom — truly breathtaking, especially at sunrise. This might be the most beautiful lotus lake we’ve ever seen.
🌸 Tips for visitors:
Make sure to check the blooming season before you go. The lotuses typically bloom in the cool season (around November to February). Outside of this period, there might not be much to see.
There is a ticket booth near the pier where you can choose from various boat types depending on your group size.
For the best experience, visit early in the morning during winter — the weather is cool, the sunrise is stunning, and you’ll be surrounded by blooming lotuses, gentle mist, and the sound of birds.
It’s a peaceful and unforgettable nature experience — absolutely worth the early wake-up.
K T — Google review
The atmosphere was good. When we came, the weather was good, the sky was overcast, not too hot. We arrived in the morning, there weren't many people yet. You can feed the elephants and various animals. There is a restaurant, coffee, and activities to do, you can easily spend time here at least 1-3 hrs including lunchtime. Recommend coming when the weather isn't too hot. On weekend afternoons, there are a lot of people. Have a goo day all 😊🌠
Visited on October 28th. Mostly sunny sky, beautiful weather. I parked in front of the ticket office at 7:40. There are also toilets. To see the red lilies you need to take a boat. Small boat for 2 persons 300B, boat up to 6 persons 500B. When i gave the 300B, the nice lady at the cashier returned me 100B, maybe because i was alone. A very honest behaviour, unusual in the tourism business. The boat ride to the area where lilies are took about 10 minutes at a relaxed pace
Then the boat man entered slowly and respectfully of the water plants inside the lilies. When we stopped the boat and the silence surrounded us, it was magical. Around us thousands of red water lilies (although not as many as in the peak season), and many water birds and swallows chirping. The trip took almost an hour. Very impressed by nature and people here. Some Thai people at the dock even invited me for breakfast.
I visited in March which was not the season, but the Red Lotus Lake was on my bucket list. We rented a big boat for 500 baht. He took us out to several spots, and even stopped at the temple on the island. The lake was absolutely beautiful and tranquil. I enjoyed beautiful pink lotus, watching birds, and water buffalos. I recommend it for nature lovers.
Small boat for up to 2 people - 300 Baht. Big Boat for up to 6 people - 500 Baht. It's very very beautiful to visit during Seasonal Period between December to January. The Ride is about One Hour. I did not regret travelling so far to see this amazing red lotus lake. Advice to Arrive there in the Early Morning before 0800 to avoid the strong sun and crowd.
The sheer variety and beauty of the birds here is astounding! Their antics were absolutely hilarious – frantic food hunts, comical escapes from our boat, and the sheer chaos of their running retreats. And the lake? A perfect mirror reflecting it all. A truly delightful experience!
Me and my girlfriend passed by Khumphawapi in wrong (dry) season so boat rides on the lake were closed. However we still found some beautiful lotuses along the road around the lake and walking in the fields
Every season has different lotus flowers, grab a boat and enjoy, you can have a bit dining too. Will come back 😊
4.4
(3351)
4.5
(230)
626M+PCR, บ้านเชียงแหว, Unnamed Rd, Tambon Chiang Wae, Chiang Haeo, Kumphawapi District, Udon Thani 41110, Thailand
29Raymond L — Google reviewTanat L — Google reviewG C — Google reviewRamasamy R — Google reviewDeborah L — Google reviewHan N — Google reviewDavid T — Google review•
Ban Chiang National Museum
Mentioned on
Museum
History Museums
The Ban Chiang National Museum in Udon Thani is a captivating attraction that brings the history of the region to life. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it holds great significance as one of Southeast Asia's most important settlements. Visitors can explore ancient tools, pottery, jewelry, and dioramas that provide insight into early wet-rice agriculture and metalwork.
It was New Year's Day, so we were able to enter for free. I was impressed that the design of the excavated vases was still clearly visible. There was a QR code that could be translated into about six languages, which was very fun. I bought a shirt and a key chain with a vases design as souvenirs.
Poporon 2 — Google review
This museum chronicles a remarkable episode in twentieth century archaeology. In this village in the late 1960s villagers uncovered beautiful pots with red on buff designs. These were evidence of a hitherto unsuspected Bronze Age culture in South East Asia. The museum covers the extraordinary bronze and pottery found nds made at the site. Entrance costs 150 baht.
1-hr driving from Udon Thani city. The place is well-maintained and clean. They exhibit ancient artifacts from excavation with some historical hypothesis. Apart from that, there is nothing much (~1 hr walking around). There is a white lotus temple that you should also visit (10 min drive). Replicant pot painting is also enjoyable.
Ban Chiang National Museum: A Journey Through Time ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Google Maps Link [URL ที่ไม่ถูกต้องถูกนำออกแล้ว]
The Ban Chiang National Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in archaeology and the origins of civilization in Southeast Asia. Located in the heart of Ban Chiang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this museum offers a fascinating glimpse into a culture that thrived over 5,000 years ago.
What makes it special:
World-class collection: The museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts unearthed at the Ban Chiang archaeological site, including distinctive red-painted pottery, bronze tools, and skeletal remains.
Engaging exhibits: The exhibits are well-designed and informative, presenting the archaeological findings in a clear and engaging way. You'll learn about the different periods of Ban Chiang's history, from the early agricultural settlements to the Bronze Age.
Reconstructed excavation pit: A highlight of the museum is the reconstructed excavation pit, which offers a realistic view of how archaeologists uncovered the layers of history at Ban Chiang.
Multimedia presentations: Interactive displays and videos enhance the learning experience, providing a deeper understanding of the significance of Ban Chiang's discoveries.
Cultural context: The museum also showcases the contemporary life and traditions of the Ban Chiang community, connecting the past with the present.
Tips for your visit:
Allow ample time: There's a lot to see and learn at the museum, so plan to spend at least 2-3 hours exploring the exhibits.
Hire a guide: Consider hiring a local guide to enhance your understanding of the artifacts and their historical context.
Visit the archaeological site: After visiting the museum, be sure to explore the actual archaeological site at Wat Pho Si Nai to see the excavation pit and burial grounds firsthand.
Support local artisans: The museum has a shop where you can purchase authentic handicrafts made by local artisans, supporting the community and taking home a unique souvenir.
Overall:
The Ban Chiang National Museum is a captivating journey through time, offering a window into the lives of one of Southeast Asia's earliest civilizations. It's a must-see for history buffs, archaeology enthusiasts, and anyone interested in exploring Thailand's rich cultural heritage.
Ban Chiang National Museum is located in the North East of Thailand, in a town named Udon Thani. This museum is full of artifact from the Bronze Era like 3000 to 1800 BC. The excavation was started in the 70's and King Bumiphol was there to witness the excavation and all documented in the museum with audio visual as well. Tickets priced at 50 baht for locals and 150 baht for foreigners. The Museum closes at 4.00 pm.
Highly rated museum with internationally validated information that was fun to walk around. The staff was helpful and eager to share insights. There is an audio tour and a video to provide additional background and context. The pottery and burial sites of the prehistoric people who lived here thousands of years ago are extremely significant archeological and anthropological findings on a global scale. To understand the impact of these findings in Southeast Asia, and Thailand in particular, is fascinating and wonderful. The ticket cost was 150B for foreigners and 30B for Thais. It's a UNESCO site.
This archeological site is considered as the most important prehistoric settlement discovered in South-East Asia. Can understand why it is recognized as a UNESCO World Herritage site. Very interesting and informative! The village around the museum is so peaceful!
if you have even a passing interest in human geography this museum is amazing. it tracks the continual use of the area by humans going back to the iron age. id no idea that the iron / bronze age had run in parallel in Asia and Europe before visiting the museum.
4.5
(1823)
4.3
(244)
หมู่ที่ 13, ถนน สุทธิพงษ์, Ban Chiang, Nong Han District, Udon Thani 41320, Thailand
30Kasper H — Google reviewChristian B — Google reviewDaniel D — Google reviewPhuketBungalow I — Google reviewHannes S — Google reviewJohn K — Google reviewJerome M — Google review•
Tea Kappa Train Night Market
Mentioned on
Night market
Shopping
Flea & Street Markets
The Train Night Market in Udon Thani is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. It's actually a combination of three night markets that come together near the Railway Station, offering an abundance of food and clothing options. Visitors can enjoy a wide variety of local dishes from numerous food stalls, as well as shop for clothing, shoes, and jewelry. The market provides a great opportunity for people-watching and bargain-hunting.
Very good market, good atmosphere! Best in town in my opinion. A lot of locals and many options, all the vendors are very kind and it’s easy to order or ask questions about the food they are making. You have an area to sit and eat in the back.
There fried chicken, sticky rice, steamed rice, coconut desserts, curries, fruit shakes and cut fruit, donuts, omelets, fried veggies, fried rice, stir fried seafood and more and more!
Clémence A — Google review
Good area for a big variety of food at very reasonable prices. A good alternative to the other nearby food markets and open every evening. Lots of seatings so it’s easy to find a place to sit and enjoy your food
This market is awesome. You can eat here everything. Thai- and Western-Food or a good grilled fish. Sitting here outside you have to be 18 years old and it's a Non Smoking area.🙏
Wow what a place. This place is huge I have never seen anything soo big that is opened every night. So much food to pick from and so many options. Also lots of other things to look at from shoes to jewelry. If you are looking for something then you will find it here. So many people here also so if you not a fan of being around people then don't come but you will be missing out on one of the highlights of Udon Thani
Phantastic Food and a large Area to sit with friends and enjoy a nice evening with some beers. I prefer the left side of the market when you look at the Railway station. On the right side everything is more modern but they are having CHANG BEER ONLY ... i am loving LEO Beer or Singh or a Beer Lao better. Walk a bit inside, about 30meters from the street that leads to RailwayStation
Have fun
the food night (and afternoon) market is a very busy place, Night market with broad variety of awesome food at incredible cheap prices (as others said before). Don't leave Udon without visiting this place!
(Last in Sept 2022)
Great place for dinner. Many food stalls serving tasty food at reasonable prices. Unfortunately some of the tastiest foods are available for take away only. They have a bigger selection of clothing than UD Town night market. It's a good place to spend a few hours in the evening - shopping, eating, drinking, and people watching. Muxh more a local feel than UD Town. I only knock it down to 4 stars because the toilets aren't as modern as those at UD Town.
Excellent place for Thai food. Prices are fantastic!
4.5
(695)
4.2
(299)
Thongyai Rd, Tambon Mak Khaeng, Mueang Udon Thani District, Udon Thani 41000, Thailand
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