Conquering the "Roof of Southern Vietnam": A Complete Guide to Exploring Ba Den Mountain Tourist Area

1. Introduction to Ba Den Mountain Tourist Area

1.1 Location and Significance of Ba Den Mountain

Ba Den Mountain is located in Thanh Tan Commune, Tay Ninh City, about 110km Northwest of Ho Chi Minh City. With an altitude of 986m above sea level, Ba Den Mountain is considered the "roof of the South" - the highest peak in the Cuu Long River Delta region.

The mountain is associated with the legend of Linh Son Thanh Mau (Ba Den), who was Ly Thi Thien Huong, a beautiful and gentle girl. She committed suicide to maintain her loyalty, then appeared and was worshipped by the people, becoming a spiritual symbol protecting the entire region.

Ba Den Mountain - a unique cultural and spiritual destination located in Thanh Tan, Tay Ninh (Collected image)

Ba Den Mountain not only has profound spiritual value but is also a place to admire the magnificent natural landscape of the Tay Ninh border region. On clear days, from the top of the mountain, you can observe the entire Southern Delta region stretching to the horizon.

1.2 Formation and Development History

Ba Den Mountain Tourist Area is not only a long-standing spiritual destination but also a national historical relic and scenic spot recognized since 1989.

A significant turning point was at the beginning of 2020, when Sun Group officially inaugurated and put into operation a modern cable car system, followed by continuous investment in magnificent spiritual architectural projects on the mountaintop, as well as beautifying the landscape, changing the face of Ba Den Mountain, turning it into one of the leading attractive destinations in the South.

Before the cable car, visitors had to hike a 5km trail with a steep incline, taking 2-4 hours. With the modern cable car system, visitors can now enjoy the magnificent natural scenery and reach the main attractions within 15 minutes in a cable car cabin.

2. Modern Cable Car System at Ba Den Mountain Tourist Area

2.1 Ba Den - Van Son Cable Car Line

The Ba Den - Van Son cable car line is the main and longest line, stretching 1,847m, taking visitors from the foot of the mountain to Van Son station at an altitude of 850m. This system uses advanced Austrian technology with 113 cabins, each holding 10 passengers.

The special feature of this cable car line is its speed of 6m/s, allowing visitors enough time to admire the ever-changing natural scenery. Starting from the lush green plains, the cabin gradually rises through dense tropical forests, then to the mountainous region with the characteristic vegetation of the highlands.

Ba Den - Van Son cable car is currently the longest cable car line (Collected image)

On favorable weather days, visitors can observe the "sea of clouds" covering the foot of the mountain - a spectacular natural phenomenon that only appears in the early morning or late afternoon. This is also why many photographers and visitors prefer to experience the cable car during these hours.

2.2 Ba Den - Chua Hang Cable Car Line

The Ba Den - Chua Hang cable car line is 1,247m long, connecting Van Son station with the Chua Hang area, where the famous Linh Son Long Chau Pagoda is located. This line operates with 78 cabins, each holding up to 10 passengers, serving the needs of visitors to the spiritual sites in the mid-mountain area.

The cable car line connects Van Son station with Chua Hang Pagoda, passing through unique check-in points (Collected image)

Chua Hang Pagoda is built in a natural cave about 20m², creating a unique meditation space in the heart of the mountain. From the Chua Hang Pagoda cable car station, visitors need to walk for about 10 minutes along a fairly flat paved stone path to reach the pagoda.

This area also has famous check-in points such as Vong Nguyet Dai and Thien Vien, where visitors can stop to rest and admire the mountain scenery. On weekends, this cable car line is often crowded due to the increased number of pilgrims.

2.3 Hoa Dong - Tam An Cable Car Line

The Hoa Dong - Tam An cable car line is the newest line, officially opened in 2023 with a length of 1,208m. This line connects the Hoa Dong Pagoda area with Tam An station, forming a complete cable car network to serve the movement between attractions.

The special feature of this cable car line is that it passes through a relatively pristine primary forest area, allowing visitors to observe the rich natural ecosystem of Ba Den Mountain. The cabin is designed with transparent glass, creating a 360-degree view so that visitors can take photos and record beautiful moments.

The system operates with 76 cabins, and the travel time is about 5-7 minutes. This line is especially suitable for visitors who want to explore the nature of Ba Den Mountain more deeply without having to trek through difficult forest paths.

2.4 Ticket prices and cable car services

Cable car ticket prices at Ba Den Mountain are divided into many different combo types, suitable for the sightseeing needs of each group of visitors. Ticket prices vary depending on the peak and off-peak seasons.

You can also update the latest price list on the fanpage Sun World Ba Den Mountain, accommodation and dining places.

• Ticket prices may vary depending on the season and holidays.

• Children under 1m are free.

• Tay Ninh residents receive a lower discount (for example, the ticket to the top of Van Son is VND 350,000/adult, VND 250,000/child).

• Monks, nuns, and people aged 80 and over are free with valid identification.

Cable car prices have many different segments, suitable for the needs of many tourists (Image: collected)

3. Notable attractions in Ba Den Mountain tourist area

3.1 Ba Den Pagoda complex

Hidden in the middle of the majestic Ba Den Mountain, the Ba Den Pagoda complex consists of 6 large pagodas built over many periods, creating a special spiritual space that is both ancient and sacred. Each pagoda is a unique architectural and religious mark, carrying within it a historical story closely related to the cultural and spiritual life of the people of Southern Vietnam.

Linh Son Phuoc Trung - also known as Chua Trung - is the largest pagoda here. Built in the traditional Buddhist style, the pagoda has three spacious floors, featuring a majestic statue of Buddha Sakyamuni made of precious wood placed solemnly in the main hall. The atmosphere here is always filled with incense, creating a peaceful feeling for visitors to stop and visit, worship.

The Ba Den Pagoda complex includes 6 large pagodas (Image: collected)

Another popular destination is Long Chau Phuoc Trung Pagoda, impressive with its characteristic curved roof tiles and elaborate stone pillar carvings. The pagoda is famous for its sacredness in praying for love, so it especially attracts young people to visit and seek good luck in their relationships.

It is impossible not to mention Linh Son Tien Thach Tu - also known as Ba Pagoda - the most sacred place in the complex. This is the oldest pagoda, located at an altitude of about 300m, next to the magical Ba Den cave with its magical natural rock formations. Here, the statue of Ba Linh Son Thanh Mau is carved directly on the rock face, a sacred stop that anyone visiting Ba Den Mountain wants to visit once, to confide their wishes.

3.2 Ba Den Mountain Peak Spiritual and Cultural Complex

The peak of Ba Den Mountain is where the most magnificent spiritual and cultural works of the Ba Den Mountain tourist area are gathered. This area is invested in modern construction with a large space, creating conditions for thousands of tourists to visit together.

• Statue of the Western Bodhisattva of Da Son Mountain 

The 72m high statue is the most prominent symbol of Ba Den Mountain, and is also the tallest Bodhisattva statue in Southeast Asia. The statue is cast from brass with a weight of over 140 tons, taking 3 years to complete. From the foot of the statue, visitors can admire the endless panoramic view of the Southern plains.

The statue is designed in a meditative sitting posture on a lotus throne with a compassionate and solemn face. Around the statue is a garden with a mist spraying system creating a cool atmosphere and a sacred space. In the evening, the LED lighting system illuminates the Buddha statue, creating a magical scene, attracting many visitors to take photos.

72m high statue of the Western Bodhisattva of Da Son Mountain (Collected image)

• Prajnaparamita Pillar

This is another unique architectural structure at the mountaintop. Inside the pillar is a spiral staircase leading to the highest floor, where there is a space for contemplation and sightseeing. The outside of the pillar is engraved with sections of the Prajnaparamita Sutra in Sanskrit and Chinese characters.

• Maitreya Buddha Statue

Located in a separate area with spacious grounds. The statue is designed in a traditional image with a gentle smiling face and a large round belly. This is a place where many families with young children like to come to take photos and pray for health and good luck.

3.3 Buddhist Art Exhibition Area

Famous as a modern cultural space displaying valuable works of art on Buddhist themes. The exhibition area covers 2,000m² and is divided into many thematic exhibition halls.

The collection includes over 200 sculptures, embroidered paintings, lacquer paintings, and ancient artifacts dating from the 17th-18th centuries. Notably, the exhibition area has a collection of precious wood Buddha statues crafted by traditional artisans with exquisite techniques.

The highlight of the exhibition area is the virtual reality (VR) experience space that allows visitors to "go" to famous temples around the world. This technology is particularly attractive to young people and has become a unique check-in point.

3.4 3D Mapping Cinema Center

A completely new and impressive stop for visitors at Ba Den Mountain tourist area is the 3D mapping cinema center – a place that takes you into a vibrant multi-dimensional cinematic world. The cinema is designed inside a unique artificial cave, using a 360-degree circular screen, creating a powerful visual effect as if you are immersing yourself in every frame of the film.

3D mapping cinema with a 360-degree screen (Image collected)

Here, visitors can enjoy the film "The Legend of Ba Den Mountain" - recreating the legend of Ly Thi Thien Huong, a sacred character associated with Tay Ninh land. The film uses sharp 4K image technology combined with vivid Dolby Atmos surround sound, bringing a realistic feeling as if living in the story. Each screening lasts about 25 minutes and is held continuously from 8 am to 5 pm daily, with a total of 8 screenings.

Besides the main film, the center also screens short films about the majestic nature of Ba Den Mountain, the development journey of Vietnamese Buddhism, and the beautiful spiritual culture of the South. The ticket price is quite reasonable - VND 50,000 / adult and VND 30,000 / child under 12 years old, suitable for families who want to have a relaxing and rewarding experience.

4. Festivals and special events at Ba Den Mountain tourist area

4.1 Ba Den Mountain Spring Festival

Ba Den Mountain Spring Festival is the largest and most important festival of the year in Tay Ninh, taking place from the 4th day of Tet (Lunar New Year) to the end of the first lunar month. The festival attracts millions of visitors from all over the place, creating a bustling atmosphere.

The festival begins with a solemn opening ceremony with the participation of Tay Ninh provincial leaders and representatives of agencies and organizations. Traditionally, visitors will participate in ceremonies to pray for peace, fortune, and offer incense at the pagodas.

During the festival, Ba Den Mountain organizes many cultural and artistic activities such as hat boi performances, don ca tai tu, lion dances, and folk games. Hundreds of stalls selling specialties, souvenirs, and worship items are set up at the foot of the mountain.

4.2 The Ceremony of the Buddha Di Lac

Held annually on the 15th day of the 4th lunar month, this is one of the most important spiritual festivals at Ba Den Mountain. The festival attracts a large number of Buddhists and tourists who come to pray for health, wealth, and peace.

The main ceremony begins with a incense offering ceremony at the Maitreya Buddha statue, followed by chanting, reciting Buddhist scriptures, and releasing living creatures. Especially on this day, the Ba Den Mountain tourist area organizes a "Free Vegetarian Food" program, serving thousands of meals to visitors. This is a meaningful charitable activity sponsored by many businesses and individuals.

The Maitreya Buddha Festival is held at the Ba Den Mountain tourist area (Image collected)

4.3 The Birthday Anniversary of Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva

The Birthday Anniversary of Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva, celebrated on the 19th day of the 2nd lunar month, is an occasion for Buddhists to express their gratitude to Avalokiteshvara. The festival takes place in a solemn atmosphere with traditional ceremonies such as offering incense, chanting scriptures, and praying for the deceased.

On this day, many Buddhists practice vegetarianism, observe precepts, and participate in charitable activities. The area around the temples is decorated with fresh flowers and banners, creating a sacred and solemn atmosphere.

4.4 Other Festivals

Ba Den Mountain is not only a famous destination for its natural scenery and spiritual architecture, but also a place where many festivals are held, imbued with the characteristic folk culture of the Southern region.

Among them, the most prominent is the Linh Son Holy Mother Festival, which takes place on the 23rd day of the 8th lunar month. The festival is lively with many special activities such as lion dancing, Chau Van singing, and Banh Chung wrapping contests, creating a vibrant and bustling atmosphere, yet still rich in folk beliefs.

In addition, throughout the year, there are many grand ceremonies held solemnly and attracting a large number of Buddhist followers such as: Vesak (8th of the 4th lunar month), Ullambana (15th of the 7th lunar month) - an occasion to show gratitude to parents, and pray for family peace. Besides, the days of the Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara such as June 19th (enlightenment) and September 19th (ordination) are also solemnly celebrated, with religious rituals and meaningful activities helping visitors immerse themselves in the sacred and peaceful atmosphere of the meditation hall amidst the high mountains.

5. Cuisine and specialties at Ba Den Mountain tourist area

Cuisine at Ba Den Mountain tourist area is a delightful culinary journey, imbued with the spirit of Tay Ninh - rustic yet rich. From traditional folk dishes to pure vegetarian cuisine, this place conquers visitors with its distinctive unforgettable flavors.

Cuisine at Ba Den Mountain tourist area is imbued with the flavor of Tay Ninh (Collected image)

You can buy Tay Ninh shrimp salt or Trang Bang dew-dried rice paper as gifts. The thin, slightly chewy cake is made entirely by hand and sun-dried at night to maintain just the right moisture. The cake is usually eaten rolled with grilled meat, fresh vegetables, and dipped in sweet and sour fish sauce, creating an attractive blend of flavors.

Right at the foot of the mountain, you can easily find restaurants serving local specialties such as sour fish soup, shrimp and pork spring rolls, crispy banh xeo, or fragrant Tay Ninh fish cakes. The price is reasonable, the taste is easy to eat, suitable for both families and groups of friends on a journey to explore Ba Den Mountain.

6. Experience visiting Ba Den Mountain tourist area

6.1 Don't miss the festivals at the tourist area

Ba Den Mountain tourist area can be visited year-round, you can visit in December - April of the following year if you want cool weather, less rain and low humidity, creating favorable conditions for travel and sightseeing.

January and February in the lunar calendar (equivalent to February-March in the solar calendar) are the busiest times due to the overlap with the Ba Den Mountain Spring Festival and many religious festivals. If you want to avoid crowds, you should choose December, April, or early May.

Tourists visiting and checking in amidst the sea of clouds at Ba Den Mountain (Collected image)

On days with favorable weather, visitors can observe the "sea of clouds" phenomenon covering the foot of the mountain - a breathtaking sight that only appears in the early morning.

The weather on the mountain is usually 3-5 degrees C cooler than at the foot of the mountain, especially in the early morning and late afternoon it can be quite cold. Visitors should bring an extra light warm jacket.

6.2 Transportation to the tourist area

If you are starting from Ho Chi Minh City and are planning to visit Ba Den Mountain tourist area, there are many means of transportation to choose from depending on your preferences and budget. The distance is about 110km, the travel time ranges from 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on the means of transportation and traffic conditions.

For young people who love the feeling of freedom, motorbikes are an ideal choice. The popular route is National Highway 22, passing through Cu Chi and Trang Bang, the asphalt road is flat and easy to travel, and there are many gas stations and rest stops along the way. The fuel cost for a round trip is about 100,000-120,000 VND.

If traveling in a group or family, a private car will make the journey more comfortable. Ba Den Mountain tourist area has a spacious parking lot, the parking fee for a 4-seater car is 20,000 VND/time. If you do not have your own car, you can rent a 4-7 seater car for 1,200,000-1,800,000 VND/day depending on the type.

In addition, passenger cars are also a cost-effective and easy option. From the Western or An Suong bus station, you can take a bus to Tay Ninh with a ticket price of about 60,000-80,000 VND/trip. Arriving at Tay Ninh bus station, you continue to take a taxi or motorbike taxi to the tourist area, the cost is about 100,000-150,000 VND.

7. Safety Precautions During Your Visit

Safety is paramount when visiting Ba Den Mountain tourist area.

• Keep your cable car ticket carefully as you will need to present it when moving between stations. Lost tickets must be repurchased at the original price.

• Do not stick your hands or head out of the cable car cabin and follow the instructions of the staff.

• Altitude sickness can occur in some people when climbing to the top of the mountain. If you experience any unusual symptoms, rest and drink water, and avoid strenuous activity.

• Be careful on the paths, especially in the area of the temples with many stone steps.

• Adhere to the regulations of the temples, such as dressing modestly, avoiding noise, and not smoking. Some areas prohibit photography, so pay attention to the signs.

Ba Den Mountain tourist area truly deserves to be called a "heavenly paradise" in the heart of Tay Ninh, with a perfect combination of majestic nature, sacred spirituality, and modern technology. Plan your journey to explore the "roof of the South" to experience unforgettable moments amidst the sea of clouds and the stunning cable car route.