Things to do in Tay Ninh: Adventure, culture and cuisine

1. Explore the masterpiece of Sun World Ba Den Mountain

Standing as the highest point in the region, the Sun World Ba Den complex is the undisputed highlight. It offers a seamless blend of spiritual tourism and modern entertainment, making it a top priority on your list of things to do in Tay Ninh.

1.1. Conquer the heights with 3 cable car routes

Riding the modern cable car system is one of the most exhilarating things to do in Tay Ninh for panoramic views. Sun World Tay Ninh operates three distinct lines:

Ba Den - Van Son: The 1.847-meter main line carries visitors from the foothill to Van Son Station at 850 meters high. Using advanced Austrian technology with 113 cabins, it moves at a scenic pace that reveals shifting landscapes. On clear days, travelers can even witness the breathtaking “sea of clouds”—a rare natural spectacle popular among photographers.

Ba Den - Hang Pagoda: The 1.247-meter midline links Van Son Station with Hang Pagoda, home to Linh Son Long Chau Tu (Hang Pagoda). With 78 cabins for up to 10 passengers, visitors can easily reach mid-mountain spiritual sites. Hang Pagoda sits inside a natural 20m² cave, creating a unique meditation space. Nearby Vong Nguyet Terrace and the Zen Monastery make this route popular on weekends.

Hoa Dong - Tam An: The 1.208-meter newest line links Linh Son Hoa Dong Tu (Hang Pagoda) with Tam An Station. With 76 cabins and a 5–7 minute travel time, it offers a smooth journey through pristine forest, allowing visitors to admire Ba Den’s rich natural ecosystem. This route is perfect for nature lovers who want deeper exploration without trekking.

Ba Den – Van Son cable car is the longest cable car line (Photo: Vivu Vietnam/Unsplash)

Ticket prices are divided into various combos to suit different visitor needs. Prices may vary depending on peak and off-peak seasons. For the latest ticket updates, visit the Sun World Ba Den Mountain official fanpage, which also provides information on accommodations and dining options.

• Children under 1 meter in height travel for free.
• Tay Ninh residents enjoy discounted rates (e.g., Van Son route: 350,000 VNĐ/adult, 250,000 VNĐ/child).
• Monks, nuns, and visitors aged 80+ can ride for free with valid identification.

1.2. Visit Ba Temple Complex

Located halfway up the mountain, the Ba Den Temple Complex is a sacred destination with centuries of history, comprising six temples. Worshipping here is one of the most traditional things to do in Tay Ninh, attracting millions of pilgrims annually to offer incense and fruits, especially during the Lunar New Year.

Linh Son Thien Thach Tu is the oldest and most sacred temple, located about 300 meters above sea level next to the enchanting Ba Den Cave, where the statue of Lady Ba is carved directly into the rock face. Legend says Lady Ba is highly responsive to prayers regarding peace and prosperity.

The largest temple, Linh Son Phuoc Trung Tu features a three-story traditional Buddhist design and a magnificent wooden Buddha Shakyamuni statue. Its serene atmosphere and lingering incense make it a peaceful place to pray and reflect.

Long Chau Phuoc Trung Tu is famous for its curved roofs and intricately carved stone pillars. Young visitors often come here to pray for blessings in love and relationships, making it a vibrant spiritual spot.

The Ba Temple complex consists of six major temples (Photo: Collected)

1.3. Admire the Tay Bo Da Son & Maitreya Statues

At the summit, you will be awestruck by the Tay Bo Da Son Bodhisattva, the tallest bronze Bodhisattva statue in Asia at 72 meters tall, casts a benevolent gaze over the plains. Nearby, a giant Maitreya Bodhisattva statue composed of thousands of sandstone pieces symbolizes absolute joy and happiness. Viewing these majestic masterpieces is one of the most iconic things to do in Tay Ninh.

Surrounding these statues are blooming year-round flower gardens, artificial waterfalls and walking paths, creating a fairylike landscape above the clouds. Capturing photos with the sea of clouds in the background is a must. This combination of art, nature and faith makes it a standout attraction in Tay Ninh tourism that rivals any international destination.

Sunset illuminates Mount Ba Den, showcasing both the grand Maitreya Bodhisattva and towering Bodhisattva statues (Photo: Vi Vu Vietnam/Unsplash)

1.4. Experience the Buddhist Art Exhibition Center

Beneath the giant Bodhisattva statue lies the Buddhist Art Exhibition Center. Visiting this center is one of the most educational and visually stunning things to do in Tay Ninh. The museum houses over 200 Buddhist sculptures, lacquer paintings, embroidery and antique artifacts from the 17th-18th centuries. Notably, the collection of wooden Buddha statues crafted by traditional artisans.

The exhibition spans 2.000 m² across multiple themed galleries that feels like a journey into a sacred galaxy with warm, mystical lighting. A unique feature is the 3D-mapping – a VR experience, which lets visitors virtually explore famous temples worldwide and has become a popular photo check-in spot for young travelers in Tay Ninh.

Discover the essence of Buddhism under one roof (Photo: Collected)

The highlight is the 3D mapping show on a massive dome screen, vividly projecting the universe through Buddhist cosmology. This immersive, multi-dimensional cinematic experience captivates audiences of all ages and the fusion of culture and cutting-edge visual effects sets Sun World apart.

The centerpiece is the “Legend of Ba Den Mountain” film, telling Ly Thi Thien Huong’s story with 4K visuals and Dolby Atmos sound. Screening lasts 25 minutes and runs 8 times daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Short films on Ba Den’s beauty, Vietnamese Buddhism and Southern spiritual culture are also shown. Tickets are 50.000 VND for adults and 30.000 VND for children under 12.

1.5. Celebrate festivals and special events

If you visit during the first lunar month, participating in the Ba Den Spring Festival is one of the most vibrant cultural things to do in Tay Ninh. The mountain transforms into a festive hub with traditional music, art performances and elaborate flower displays. It is not just a religious event but a celebration of spring, life, and renewal.

The complex also hosts solemn ceremonies that draw vast crowds like Maitreya Buddha Festival (Lunar Apr 15) for joy and forgiveness, Guanyin Birthday Festival (Lunar Feb 19) for peace and protection or lantern-offering ceremony every Saturday. Major holidays often feature glorious fireworks displays. The infectious energy and pleasant weather during these times offer a deep dive into the local customs, elevating your experience of the top things to do in Tay Ninh.

Spectacular fireworks light up the opening of Ba Den Spring Festival (Photo: Collected)

2. Immerse in indigenous religious heritage

Tay Ninh is a melting pot of religions and cultures. Beyond Sun World Ba Den Mountain, exploring the distinct religious architecture and ethnic heritage here is a vital part of the things to do in Tay Ninh.

2.1. Witness the Noon Ceremony at Cao Dai Holy See

The Cao Dai Holy See is an architectural marvel that blends Buddhism, Christianity, and Taoism. Watching the daily noon mass is one of the most mesmerizing things to do in Tay Ninh. At exactly 12:00 PM, hundreds of followers don robes in white, yellow, blue, and red to chant prayers. The synchronized movement and the solemn atmosphere create a spectacle that is both visually striking and spiritually moving.

Visitors are allowed to watch from the upper balconies, providing a perfect vantage point for photography (without flash). The temple interior features dragon-wrapped pillars and the symbolic Divine Eye watching over the globe. This experience offers unique insight into a religion found only in Vietnam. It is a cultural highlight that defines the uniqueness of Tay Ninh tourism on the global map.

The solemn arrangement and Midday Ritual leave a deep impression on first-time visitors (Photo: Collected)

2.2. Find peace at Go Ken Pagoda

Go Ken Pagoda is one of the oldest temples in the province, boasting a history of over 100 years. Visiting this site is one of the most tranquil things to do in Tay Ninh. The pagoda is famous for its architecture that combines East and West nuances, featuring a 30-meter long main hall. The grounds are spacious, prominent with a statue of Bodhisattva Quanyin standing on a dragon in the middle of a lotus pond.

The atmosphere here is much quieter compared to the bustling Ba Den mountain or the Holy See. You can stroll through the gardens, admire the ancient wooden structures, and enjoy the cool breeze. The pagoda also actively participates in charity work, adding a layer of community spirit to your visit. For those seeking silence and reflection, Go Ken Pagoda is a worthy addition to your things to do in Tay Ninh.

The 9-story Reliquary Pagoda beside the Buddha Hall amid the lake (Photo: Collected)

2.3. Explore Khmer cultural heritage & pagodas

Tay Ninh is home to a significant Khmer community living near the border. Visiting ancient Khmer pagodas like Botum Kirirangsay is one of the most culturally enriching things to do in Tay Ninh. These pagodas feature distinct architecture with golden spires, steep roofs, and intricate reliefs of divine snakes (Naga) and birds (Garuda), completely different from Vietnamese temples.

For a more immersive experience, consider joining a Khmer community-based tourism activity. Travelers can spend time learning how to carft traditional palm-leaf ornaments, cook local dishes like num banh chok, or listen to evening folk stories led by village elders. These hands-on cultural exchanges not only offer an authentic glimpse into daily Khmer life but also support local livelihoods.

The colorful masks of the Chan dance are indispensable in Khmer festivals (Photo: Collected)

If you visit in April, you can participate in Chol Chnam Thmay (Khmer New Year), where traditional dances like Rom Vong and water-splashing rituals create a lively festive scene. This is a rare opportunity to witness the rich ethnic heritage that many tourists overlook, adding a profound layer to the diverse things to do in Tay Ninh beyond the usual attractions.

3. Reconnect with nature and history

For those who love the outdoors and history, this section covers the rugged beauty of the province along with essential things to do in Tay Ninh.

3.1. Trekking at Ma Thien Lanh Valley

Often dubbed the "Da Lat of the East," Ma Thien Lanh Valley offers a cool climate and rugged landscape. Trekking here is one of the most adventurous things to do in Tay Ninh. The valley is formed by three mountains: Ba Den, Heo and Phung, creating a stunning emerald lake surrounded by cliffs. It is a favorite spot for young travelers to capture artistic photos amid nature.

The path to the valley is winding and scenic, perfect for a motorbike road trip. Hiking deeper, you can discover Ong Nui stream, a pristine water source flowing through rocks. Relatively quiet and untouched, the area contrasts starkly with the busy temples. Spending a day exploring this "forbidden valley" is a true highlight among the things to do in Tay Ninh.

Nui Da Lake inside Ma Thien Lanh Valley (Photo: Collected)

3.2. Check-in at Lo Go Xa Mat National Park

Lo Go Xa Mat National Park is a biodiversity hotspot located near the Cambodian border. The park is home to a transition ecosystem between the Central Highlands and the Mekong Delta, featuring rare flora and fauna like the black-shanked douc langur and various bird species. Visitors can take guided tours, ride boats along the Vam Co Dong River, or cycle through forest trails.

The park also holds historical significance as a revolutionary base during the war, where local forces organized and hid from enemy attacks. Combining ecotourism with history makes for a fulfilling day trip. The entrance fee is very affordable, usually around 60,000 VND, making it a budget-friendly option for your list of things to do in Tay Ninh.

Explore Lo Xo Go Mat National Park by bike through its lush forest (Photo: Collected)

3.3. Camping and glamping at Dau Tieng Lake

Dau Tieng Lake is the largest artificial freshwater lake in Vietnam, offering a vast open horizon. Camping here ranks among the most relaxing things to do in Tay Ninh. You can bring your own tent or rent a glamping service to enjoy a night under the stars. The sunrise here is spectacular, with the sun emerging from behind Ba Den Mountain, casting a golden glow over the water.

Besides camping, the lake is perfect for water sports like stand up paddleboarding (SUP) and fishing. The air is fresh and free from city pollution, providing a perfect escape for city dwellers. Many young travelers flock here on weekends to enjoy a BBQ and acoustic music by the campfire. It is a must-do for anyone loving the great outdoors in Tay Ninh.

Dry-season days make Dau Tieng Lake ideal for camping (Photo: Collected)

3.4. Visit Central Office for South Vietnam

History buffs cannot miss the Central Office for South Vietnam. This special national relic is a profound educational stop in your journey of things to do in Tay Ninh. Hidden deep within the dense forests of Rum Duon, it served as the “brain” of the revolution in the South during the war.

Walking through the network of thatched huts, meeting halls, and underground trenches, visitors can imagine how leaders lived under constant threat while maintaining the flow of intelligence and directives. The underground tunnels provided shelter and secret meeting spaces, surrounded by natural camouflage. Every corner tells stories of resilience, daring strategy, and sacrifice, offering a vivid glimpse into the daily life of the revolutionary forces.

Trenches appear scattered throughout the revolutionary base (Photo: Collected)

4. Savor the unique local cuisine

Tay Ninh cuisine is surprisingly diverse. Culinary exploration is an exciting part of the things to do in Tay Ninh, featuring dishes honored as national intangible heritage.

4.1. Feast on Tay Ninh calf dishes

When visiting the province, trying flavorful calf dishes at famous restaurants like Nam Sanh turns a simple meal into one of the most memorable things to do in Tay Ninh. The beef is sourced from young calves allowed to graze naturally, making the meat incredibly soft, sweet and fragrant with a high nutritional value.

The most popular way to enjoy it is grilled at the table over charcoal or boiled and wrapped with wild vegetables. The highlight is the dipping sauce, usually mam tom (shrimp paste) or the local fermented fish sauce. The experience of grilling fresh meat while enjoying the local beer is fantastic. Prices are reasonable, making it a favorite dining option for groups and food lovers alike.

Tay Ninh calf dishes: from gourmet tables to street eats (Photo: Collected)

4.2. Enjoy Trang Bang dew-soaked rice paper

Dew-soaked rice paper is the culinary pride of this region. Eating this dish involves a ritual of wrapping boiled pork, sour starfruit, and wild forest vegetables in the soft rice paper. The vegetables are key, with over 15 types of herbs gathered from riverbanks, offering flavors ranging from sour to acrid.

You can visit traditional craft villages in Trang Bang to see the laborious process of making the rice paper. The artisans must wake up early to expose the paper to the night dew just enough to make it soft but not soggy. This dedication to quality makes the dish special. It is a hearty meal that fuels your exploration of other things to do in Tay Ninh.

Artisan dew-dried rice paper, crafted the traditional way (Photo: Collected)

4.3. Discover the art of vegetarian cuisine

Due to the strong influence of Caodaism and Buddhism, Tay Ninh is a paradise for vegetarians. Trying the local vegetarian food is one of the most unique things to do in Tay Ninh. The locals have elevated vegetarian cooking to an art form, creating dishes that look and taste like meat (mock meat) using jackfruit, tofu, and mushrooms.

You can find high-quality vegetarian restaurants near the Holy See or Ba Den Mountain, especially on the 1st and 15th of the lunar month. The "mam" (fermented paste) made from vegetarian ingredients is a must-try. Prices are very affordable, and the food is healthy and light. This reflects the compassionate lifestyle of the locals and adds a special flavor to your trip.

Tay Ninh vegetarian dishes bring traditional Tet feasts to life (Photo: Collected)

4.4. Buy Tay Ninh shrimp salt as souvenirs

Tay Ninh has no sea, yet it produces the best shrimp salt in the country. Buying this savory condiment is a popular thing to do in Tay Ninh for shoppers. The salt is a blend of chili, garlic, salt, and dried shrimp, roasted to perfection. It is traditionally used to dip fruits like mango and guava, enhancing their flavor significantly.

You can visit production facilities to watch the roasting process and buy fresh batches. There are many varieties, from vegetarian chili salt to spicy shrimp salt. It is an affordable, lightweight, and practical gift for friends and family. Don't leave the province without a few jars of this famous spice, as it captures the essence of Tay Ninh tourism in a bottle.

Tay Ninh shrimp salt, dried naturally under the sun (Photo: Collected)

Tay Ninh is a rich tapestry of experiences that go far beyond a single day trip. From the spiritual heights of “Roof of the South” to vibrant Khmer culture, historic war bases and local culinary delights, the list of things to do in Tay Ninh caters to every type of traveler. This guide hopes to help you uncover the full beauty of Tay Ninh, a perfect mix of adventure, culture and cuisine.