This is a UNESCO World heritage site for nothing because it is the biggest cave in the world, so big that a whole jungle grows inside of it. The cave’s name meaning ‘Wind and Teeth’ is inspired from the stalagmites which guarded the entrance of this mighty cave. It also has an underground river, a lake and water grottos. The view is so spectacular that it would leave one in awe of the marvel that is nature!
Cost - VND 69,800,000 per person.
Traditional apparel, jewellery, handicrafts, paintings, shoes - you name it and you can find it in Hoi An. Hoi An is also known for its quality tailoring services so you can have your clothes custom-made. The central market in Hoi An is the hub for buying and selling fresh produce and foodstuff. All the shops are pedestrian friendly, so you can spend your evening strolling and shopping for all the memorabilia you’ll need to treasure your Vietnam trip.
Yet another World Heritage site, Halong bay is on of the the best things to do in Vietnam. It has diverse landscapes ranging from picturesque sandy beaches, islands, ancient lime karsts and islets contrasting with the scenic emerald green waters. You can explore this north-eastern Vietnam’s marvel by cruises and kayaking. The best time to visit Halong Bay is during the months of April, May, October and November.
Cost - VND 5,80,000 and 70,00,000.
The Vietnamese cuisine is famous in South east Asia and contrary to popular belief is distinct from other oriental cuisines. Vietnamese cuisine is filled with herbs such as coriander, spearmint, basil, betel leaf, etc. French influences on the cuisine are evident. Must try street food dishes include but are not limited to the famous Banh Mi, Nem Ran, Banh Bao banh Vac. There are curated street food tours in Hoi An city.
Cost: VND 20,000 and 35,000.
Situated in District 3 of Ho Chi Minh City, the War Remnants Museum is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Vietnam. It has exhibits divided into numerous themed rooms. In its yard, one can see various helicopters, fighter flights, tanks and bombs. You can also stop by the souvenir shops to buy handmade souvenirs at reasonable prices.
Timings: 7:30 AM - 12 PM and 1:30 PM to 5 PM.
Entrance fee - VND 15,000.
The Hue Citadel was built by the founder of the Nyugen Dynasty, Gia Long. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Imperial City of Hue once consisted of 160 buildings, but only 10 major ones survived the test of time and the Vietnam War. The walled city houses temples, gardens, palaces, offices and residential buildings. In the middle of the citadel campus, is the Purple Forbidden City which was where the emperor and his confidantes lived and worked.
Cost: VND 23,00,000
A large intricate network of tunnels which is part of a much larger network of tunnels, the Cu Chi tunnels were the hiding spot and the operative location of the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. The tunnels are now made safe for tourists by installing lights and they can enjoy a meal underground. Above the ground, tourists can visit souvenir shops and a shooting range where you can use assault rifles like the AK-47 or the M16.
Entry fee - VND 90,000.
The Mekong river gets its local name ‘The River of Nine Dragons’ because it is in this delta where the river branches into nine tributaries criss-crossing over low-lying lands before merging into the sea. One can find fruit orchards, coconut candy factories on tiny islands, floating markets selling fresh produce and also a french colonial chapel amidst the floating market. The Delta also houses the Tram Chim National Park and the Tra Su Bird Sanctuary.
Cost - VND 10,00,000.
A puppet show with the water as a stage, is something not everyone has heard of and it has rightly been recognized as an intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO. One can witness this rare art form only when in Vietnam. At the Golden Dragon Puppet Theatre in Ho Chi Minh City, dragons, fairies and other exotic characters come to life in a 4 square metre pool coupled with appropriate music and lighting effects.
Entry Fee - Adults VND 230,000 (VND 175,000 - locals) Children - free
The phrase is used for any North-south Railway line connecting Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. It’s a 30-hour journey which gives a great view of the diverse landscapes of Vietnam, along with commemorating the reunification of North and South Vietnam. The train trip although time-consuming is still captivating as you travel through green paddy fields, small towns, the Train street in Hanoi and the Hai Van Pass, Danang.
Ticket - VND 47,000 (below 5 - free)
So what is your favourite among the things to do in Vietnam? Let us know down in the comments below if we have missed out on any particular activity!!
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