1. Where is Tay Ninh?
Located less than 100 kilometers from the bustling energy of Ho Chi Minh City, Tay Ninh serves as a serene bridge between the flat Mekong Delta and the rugged Central Highlands. Many international and domestic tourists frequently find themselves debating the question: Is it worth going to Tay Ninh?
The breathtaking scenery of Sun World Ba Den Mountain (Photo: Collected)
The province is a unique cultural melting pot, known globally as the birthplace of the Cao Dai religion and home to spectacular natural landscapes that are unlike anywhere else in the region. The weather here is generally sunny and warm year-round, making it a convenient weekend escape for those looking to trade city noise for spiritual tranquility and fresh mountain air.
2. How to get to Tay Ninh ?
The infrastructure of Tay Ninh has been well invested over the past few decades so that the province can become a destination for investors and tourists. Tay Ninh can be reached by various ways as follows:
By airplane: Tourists need to book airline tickets to Ho Chi Minh City first and then catch a bus to Tay Ninh Province.
By passenger bus: This means of transport is for those departing from Ho Chi Minh City or nearby provinces. Tourists can depart from Mien Dong or An Suong coach station in Ho Chi Minh City. The ticket price ranges from 50,000 VND to 100,000 VND per person.
By car: Tourists can follow the same route as traveling by motorbike.
By bus: From Ho Chi Minh City to Tay Ninh, you need to catch two buses, one is the bus number 703 from Ben Thanh Market to Moc Bai and the other is the bus number 05 from Moc Bai to Tay Ninh. The tickets cost 50,000 - 55,000 VND for one person in total.
Traveling to Tay Ninh by motorbike is an awesome experience for backpackers (Photo: Collected)
By motorbike: Traveling by motorbike gives the tourists the opportunity to enjoy some breathtaking views on either side of the road. Tay Ninh Province can be accessed by either Highway 22A - Trang Bang T-junction - Go Dau T-junction - Highway 22B route or An Suong Coach Station - Trang Bang - Highway 782 route.
3. Where to play in Tay Ninh?
3.1. Sun World Ba Den Mountain
If you are asking whether it is worth going to Tay Ninh, a visit to Sun World Ba Den Mountain provides the most convincing answer immediately. Situated on the “Roof of Southern Vietnam” at 986 meters high, this complex is a masterpiece of modern tourism technology and spiritual architecture. Travellers can take a world-class cable car ride that glides smoothly over the forest canopy, offering a view that transforms an exhausting trek into a luxurious experience.
Sun World Ba Den Mountain cable car glides over the forest canopy towards the mountain summit (Photo: Collected)
At the summit, the magnificent “Tay Bo Da Son” Buddha statue stands tall, holding the Guinness World Record for the tallest bronze Buddha statue on a mountain peak in Asia. The area is surrounded by flower gardens that bloom in four seasons, creating a cloud-hunting paradise for photographers.
The illuminated Ba Den Mountain complex at twilight, appearing as a glowing jewel (Photo: Collected)
Throughout the year, Sun World Ba Den Mountain hosts vibrant cultural festivals and art performances that bring a lively energy to the sacred atmosphere. The cool climate at the peak offers a refreshing escape from the heat below, allowing visitors to relax and meditate in comfort. Notably, the sacred lantern offering ritual held every Saturday night has become a captivating tradition, drawing thousands of visitors each weekend to experience the magic of the holy mountain.
A close-up view of the “Tay Bo Da Son” Bodhisattva statue rising above the sea of clouds (Photo: Collected)
At night, the entire mountain is illuminated by a state-of-the-art LED lighting system, turning the peak into a glowing jewel visible from miles away. Visitors can immerse themselves in the world of Buddhism through a high-tech exhibition center that utilizes cutting-edge 3D video mapping and hologram technology. A highlight is the spectacular water music show in front of the Maitreya Bodhisattva statue, employing visual technologies never before seen in Vietnam. With its blend of spirituality, nature, and modern luxury, Sun World Ba Den Mountain is the primary reason why travelers feel that it is worth going to Tay Ninh.
3.2. The Cao Dai Holy See
The Cao Dai Holy See is a religious wonder that draws visitors from all over the globe, serving as a major reason why it is worth going to Tay Ninh. Located in Long Hoa town, this is the central headquarters of Caodaism, a unique indigenous religion that fuses Buddhism, Christianity, Taoism, and Confucianism. The temple itself is an architectural masterpiece, featuring bright, vivid colors and the iconic Divine Eye symbol watching over the entrance.
The colorful and unique exterior architecture of the Cao Dai Holy See at sunset (Photo: Collected)
Tourists are welcome to observe the daily prayer sessions, where followers don color-coded robes representing the different branches of the faith. The rhythmic chanting and the disciplined movements of the worshippers provide a cultural experience that is deeply moving and educational.
Followers attending a ceremony inside the dragon-pillared hall of the Holy See (Photo: Collected)
Outside the main temple, the complex includes lush gardens and administrative buildings that are equally well-preserved. It is one of the few places in Vietnam where you can see such a distinct blend of Eastern and Western philosophies in one location. For culture lovers, this site alone answers the question whether it is worth going to Tay Ninh with a definitive yes.
See more: https://csdl-vanhoa.tayninh.gov.vn/tour/
3.3. Go Ken Pagoda
For those who appreciate history and tranquility, Go Ken Pagoda offers a serene environment that helps confirm that it is worth going to Tay Ninh. As one of the oldest pagodas in the province, it dates back over a century and is renowned for its unique architecture that resembles a blend of a French villa and a traditional Vietnamese temple.
The stunning white Guanyin statue at Go Ken Pagoda (Photo: Collected)
The pagoda is situated on a lotus-shaped foundation and features a stunning white Guanyin statue standing on a dragon in the middle of a large lotus pond. The grounds are spacious and shaded by ancient trees, providing a perfect spot for meditation and escaping the noise of the city. The interior houses two large statues of the Buddha and boasts intricate wood carvings that demonstrate the high level of craftsmanship of the past.
See more: https://www.originvietnam.com/destinations/go-ken-pagoda/
3.4. Dau Tieng Lake
Nature enthusiasts often wonder if it is worth going to Tay Ninh, and the vast expanse of Dau Tieng Lake provides a compelling argument in favor of the trip. This is the largest artificial freshwater lake in Vietnam, stretching across three provinces, but its most scenic spots are accessible from Tay Ninh. The lake’s surface is calm and mirror-like, which creates a breathtaking backdrop for photography.
The solar farm on Dau Tieng Lake (Photo: Collected)
It has become a premier destination for camping, where groups of friends set up tents on the grassy banks to watch the sunrise or sunset. The open space allows for a variety of activities such as fishing, paddleboarding, or simply enjoying a picnic in the fresh air. Unlike crowded tourist spots, Dau Tieng Lake offers silence and space, allowing you to disconnect completely from urban stress.
See more: https://sunworld.vn/en/ba-den/activities/ho-dau-tieng
3.5. Ma Thien Lanh Valley
Often referred to as the “Da Lat of the Southeast”, Ma Thien Lanh Valley is a hidden gem that makes adventurers realize it is worth going to Tay Ninh. This valley possesses a cool microclimate and a rugged, mysterious beauty.
Ma Thien Lanh Valley is famous for the emerald green waters and rocky cliffs (Photo: Collected)
The terrain is characterized by large rock formations, emerald green streams, and lush vegetation that feels untouched by mass tourism. Trekking here requires a bit of effort, but the reward is discovering secluded spots that are perfect for artistic photos or quiet reflection. The valley is particularly famous among young travelers and couples looking for a romantic, wild setting for wedding photos.
3.6. Lo Go-Xa Mat National Park
If you are interested in biodiversity and conservation, Lo Go-Xa Mat National Park is a key destination that answers why it is worth going to Tay Ninh. This national park serves as a transitional zone between the Central Highlands and the Mekong Delta, resulting in a rich and diverse ecosystem. It is home to many rare species of birds and plants listed in the Red Book, making it a paradise for bird watchers and nature researchers.
Giant ancient trees within the dense forest (Photo: Collected)
You can take guided tours through the forest trails or enjoy a boat trip along the Vam Co Dong River to see the park from a different perspective. The park also holds historical significance as a former revolutionary base, adding an educational layer to the natural experience. The peaceful environment and the fresh, clean air are revitalizing for anyone coming from a polluted city. It represents the “green lung” of the province and highlights the importance of environmental preservation.
See more: https://www.traveloka.com/vi-vn/explore/destination/vuon-quoc-gia-lo-go-xa-mat/234737
3.7. Central Office of South Vietnam (COSVN)
For history lovers, the Central Office of South Vietnam is a fascinating site that determines it is worth going to Tay Ninh. This location served as the headquarters for the Vietnamese revolution in the south during the war, and it has been preserved as a special national relic. Visitors can walk through the secret jungle paths and explore the system of underground bunkers, meeting halls, and simple working huts used by famous leaders.
Preserved meeting huts and bunkers under the forest canopy at the Central Office of South Vietnam (Photo: Collected)
The site offers a vivid glimpse into the hardships and strategic brilliance of the wartime era, surrounded by the protective canopy of the forest. The exhibits are well-maintained, and the guides are knowledgeable, sharing stories that bring history to life. It is a place of deep respect and remembrance, offering a somber but important contrast to the recreational activities in the province.
See more: https://www.originvietnam.com/destinations/central-bureau-of-the-southern-vietnam-base/
3.8. Long Dien Son Tourist Area
Long Dien Son Tourist Area represents the modern entertainment side of the province, featuring a large water park, beautiful landscaping, and various amusement rides. It is an ideal spot to cool off during the hot midday hours, with pools and slides suitable for both children and adults. The park is decorated with traditional architectural elements and statues, giving it a unique local flair compared to standard water parks.
Long Dien Son Eco-Tourism Area is known as the “Green Oasis” in Tay Ninh (Photo: Collected)
On weekends or holidays, the atmosphere is festive and lively, providing a great opportunity to mingle with local families. There are also designated picnic areas and restaurants inside, making it easy to spend a full day here without needing to leave. This versatility in entertainment options confirms that it is worth going to Tay Ninh for a family vacation.
See more: https://sunworld.vn/ba-den/cam-nang-du-lich/khu-du-lich-long-dien-son
3.9. Tay Ninh Grape Gardens
While grapes are typically associated with Ninh Thuan, Tay Ninh has successfully cultivated vineyards that are open to tourists for sightseeing and tasting. Walking under the green trellises filled with bunches of ripe grapes is a delightful experience and a fantastic photo opportunity. The garden owners are often on-site to explain the cultivation process and let you sample fresh grapes or local grape wine.
The forest grape garden in Tay Ninh not only makes visitors miss the sweet bunches of grapes that can be enjoyed directly (Photo: Collected)
It is a refreshing stop where you can buy fresh produce directly from the source to take home as gifts. The ability to see agriculture thriving in this climate is impressive and offers a connection to the local farming community. It is a simple pleasure that adds variety to your travel itinerary. This unique agricultural experience supports the conclusion that it is worth going to Tay Ninh.
See more: https://www.originvietnam.com/destinations/tay-ninh-forest-grape-garden/
3.10. Binh Thanh Ancient Tower
The Binh Thanh Ancient Tower is a rare archaeological gem that helps answer the question that it is worth going to Tay Ninh for heritage seekers. Dating back over 1,000 years to the Oc Eo culture, this brick tower is one of the few remaining structures of its kind in Southern Vietnam. The tower is built with a unique technique where bricks were laid without visible mortar, a mystery that still fascinates construction experts today.
This is a valuable ancient architectural relic, an architectural and art works to mark a civilization of the people of more than 1.000 years ago (Photo: Collected)
The relic was recognized by the Ministry of Culture and Information, now known as the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism as a National historical and cultural relic in 1993. The site is peaceful and usually not crowded, allowing for a private and contemplative viewing experience. Seeing such an ancient monument provides a sense of scale and history to the province. For archaeology enthusiasts, this tower is a definitive reason why it is worth going to Tay Ninh.
See more: https://www.originvietnam.com/destinations/binh-thanh-ancient-tower/
4. What to eat in Tay Ninh?
4.1. Tay Ninh Beef
Tay Ninh Beef can be called “Bo To” which is young heifer beef that is incredibly tender, sweet, and flavorful compared to standard beef. It is taken from 5-6 month old cows that weigh 50-60 kilograms on average.
Tay Ninh beef (Bo To) served with fresh herbs and vegetables (Photo: Collected)
The beef is tender with a thin layer of skin. The signature dish is the grilled beef chunks, marinated simply to let the natural meat flavor shine, often dipped in a spicy local sauce. They also serve a hotpot that is rich with vegetables and fresh meat, perfect for sharing in a large group.
Recommended restaurants:
Bo to Nam Sanh: Highway 22B, Hiep Truong Hamlet, Hiep Tan Ward, Tay Ninh
Bo to Sau Tam: 68 Nguyen Trai Road, Tan Ninh Ward, Tay Ninh
4.2. Banh Canh Trang Bang
“Banh Canh Trang Bang” is a thick noodle soup that has become a symbol of the region. The broth is clear but deeply savory, made from hours of simmering pork bones, and the noodles are handmade from local rice, offering a unique chewy texture.
Delicious Banh Canh Trang Bang with pork hocks and broth (Photo: Collected)
The dish is served with a plate of fresh forest herbs and pork hocks, allowing diners to customize each bite. Eating a steaming bowl of Banh Canh here is a rite of passage for any visitor. The comforting flavors of this traditional dish make you realize it is worth going to Tay Ninh.
Recommended restaurants:
Banh canh Nam Dung: 91 Nguyen Van Rop Road, Trang Bang, Tay Ninh
Banh Canh Nam Dung 2: Highway 22, Trang Bang Town, Trang Bang, Tay Ninh
4.3. Ba Den Mountain Lizard
Not every tourist dares to eat this famous specialty. The lizard meat can be grilled, stir-fried with green pepper and guise leaf or used to make porridge. This is a specialty of Ba Den Mountain. Lizards of this type usually live mainly in the hollows of mountains. Their meat has a lot of nutrition, and visitors can enjoy dishes with raw vegetables such as pine apple, tomato or salad.
Grilled Ba Den Mountain lizards served with dipping sauce, a unique local specialty (Photo: Collected)
Recommended restaurants:
Lam Son Quan: 24/5 Long Chi Hamlet, Long Thanh Trung, Hoa Thanh, Tay Ninh
4.4. Dew-Soaked Rice Paper
This establishment specializes in “Banh Trang Phoi Suong”, or dew-soaked rice paper, which is a specialty that requires a laborious process of exposing the rice paper to night dew to achieve the perfect texture. Tay Ninh’s restaurant sells this rice paper along with a variety of condiments like shrimp salt, fried shallots, and tamarind sauce.
The traditional process of roasting dew-soaked rice paper over an open fire (Photo: Collected)
Visitors can buy these in bulk as gifts, but they can also taste the freshly mixed rice paper on-site. The texture is chewy and soft, not brittle like standard rice paper, and the flavor is a complex mix of spicy, sour, and salty. It is an addictive snack that has gained fame throughout Vietnam.
4.5. Tay Ninh Nem Buoi
Tay Ninh Nem Buoi delivers such a prismatic wave of flavors that tourists cannot resist until their tummies are satisfied. The sourness of star fruit, the spiciness of chili, the aroma and crispiness of grapefruit albedo and other ingredients such as peppers, rice auditorium and green papaya blends well together to create an authentic and unique flavor.
Tay Ninh Nem Buoi, a fermented grapefruit peel delicacy with garlic and chili (Photo: Collected)
Recommended restaurants:
Nem buoi Tay Ninh: 90 Nguyen Van Rop Road, Trang Bang, Tay Ninh
Quan Nem Sau Tan: 4 Hiep Nghia Hamlet, Hiep Ninh Village, Tay Ninh Town
5. What to buy as gifts for family and friends in Tay Ninh?
Here are a few gift suggestions for you to bring home when returning from Tay Ninh, Vietnam:
Tay Ninh shrimp salt: This nationwide-famous condiment delivers a distinctive spiciness that incites every taste bud. It is normally mixed with sour fruits or used to marinate food.
Visitors can eat Tay Ninh shrimp salt with various tropical fruit (Photo: Collected)
Tay Ninh sour sauce: Featuring a rich and strong flavor, the sour sauce is made from anchovies, rasboras brewed with salt, sugar and fried rice powder.
Tay Ninh Dew-Soaked Rice Paper: You can eat the rice paper with tamarind sauce or mix it with a variety of ingredients to make different dishes.
Dried Phyllanthus Acidus: Featuring a slight sweetness and spiciness.
Dried Phyllanthus Acidus, a snack featuring a sweet and spicy flavor (Photo: Collected)
Tay Ninh Nem Buoi: With an explosion of flavor, this is considered a real treat for foodies in Tay Ninh, Vietnam.
Tay Ninh Theo Leo Crunch Bar: The main ingredient of this specialty is peanuts. It tastes slightly sweet and has an eye-catching brown color.
Tay Ninh Theo Leo crunch bars made from peanuts (Photo: Collected)
The journey to the “Holy Land” of the Southeast offers a remarkable blend of spiritual sanctity, natural beauty, and rich history that few other destinations can match. From the cloud-covered peaks of Sun World Ba Den Mountain to the rustic charm of the local cuisine like dew-soaked rice paper, every aspect of the province invites exploration. Whether you are seeking a peaceful retreat, an adventurous trek or a culinary tour, the diverse experiences available here prove without a doubt that it is worth going to Tay Ninh for your next vacation.
