Cu Chi Tunnels - A Historical Mark of Underground Struggle

Cu Chi Tunnels - A Historical Mark of Underground Struggle

Do you want to experience the life of guerrilla fighters in the mysterious and intricate Cu Chi tunnels? Are you keen on tasting the specialty dishes of the iron land of Cu Chi? If yes, join BDATrip to the Cu Chi Tunnels - a unique underground historical site.

History of Cu Chi Tunnels

Located 70km northwest of Ho Chi Minh City, the Cu Chi Tunnels are a unique military architectural work, deeply hidden underground in Cu Chi district. Built by the Viet Minh and the National Liberation Front of South Vietnam, this system is a testament to the arduous historical struggle during the Indochina War and the Vietnam War. Spanning about 250km, these tunnels served not only as shelters but also included vital facilities such as hospitals, living rooms, kitchens, and storage areas, along with a sophisticated ventilation system hidden beneath dense foliage.

Cu Chi Tunnels is one of the tourist destinations imbued with the history of protecting the nation
Cu Chi Tunnels is one of the tourist destinations imbued with the history of protecting the nation

Situated at the end of the Ho Chi Minh trail, the Cu Chi Tunnels reflect the resilient and indomitable spirit of the Vietnamese people on the land known as the “land of steel”. During the Tet Offensive in 1968, this was the starting point for the Southern Liberation Army in their historic attack on Saigon.

After the war, the tunnels were recognized as a national historical monument and honored with the title of Labor Hero in 2015. In 2016, this site was also awarded the status of a Special National Monument, acknowledging its significant contributions and historical meaning to the country and people of Vietnam.

Routes and Means of Transportation to Cu Chi Tunnels

The address of the Cu Chi Tunnels, located at Ap Phu Hiep, Phu My Hung Commune, Cu Chi District, Ho Chi Minh City, is a famous historical site. The entrance fee for adults is 90,000 VND, while children enjoy a discounted price of 45,000 VND per person. 

The tunnels are located in Cu Chi district, Ho Chi Minh City
The tunnels are located in Cu Chi district, Ho Chi Minh City

Visitors have various transportation options to reach the tunnels:

- Bus: Take bus number 13 from Mien Tay bus station to An Suong, then switch to bus number 79 to Cu Chi. From Cu Chi bus station, you can use a motorbike taxi or an electric bike to reach the tunnels.

- Motorbike: If driving from the center of Ho Chi Minh City, follow National Highway 22, then turn onto Provincial Road 15 to continue the journey.

- Tourist Car: Book a car through travel agencies or hotels. A Cu Chi tour often includes both the entrance ticket and a guide, ensuring a comfortable and informative trip.

- Boat: Another option is to take a boat from Bach Dang Wharf to Cu Chi, then a bus or electric bike.

Exploring the Cu Chi Tunnels

Touring the Cu Chi Tunnels

The Cu Chi Tunnels offer an opportunity to experience the life of guerrilla fighters during the resistance years. Guided by a tour guide, visitors will discover mysterious booby traps, secret tunnel entrances, living quarters, kitchens, hospitals, workrooms, weapon storage, and the ventilation system.

Cu Chi Tunnel with many turns
Cu Chi Tunnel with many turns

During this journey, historical stories, heroic memories, heroes, and achievements, along with the noble sacrifices of the Cu Chi military and civilians, will be recounted, offering a deep insight into national history. Notably, visitors also have the chance to crawl through narrow, dark, and suffocating tunnels, gaining a better understanding of everyday life in these underground passages.

When touring, choose comfortable clothing and flat shoes for easy movement, and don't forget to bring a flashlight to explore the hidden corners of this unique tunnel system.

Revisiting the Past at the War Reenactment Area

The Vietnam battlefield reenactment area offers a vivid experience, recreating wartime scenes with truthfulness and detail. Here, visitors can view a range of artifacts: from historical photographs, various weapons, tanks, fighter planes, to bombs, mines, and valuable documentary films. Beyond observing, visitors can participate in simulated military activities like rope climbing, sliding, shooting, as well as traditional activities like rice planting, fishing, providing a comprehensive view of life during wartime. Each activity here contributes to recreating the heroic atmosphere, filled with the fighting spirit of the Vietnamese during the resistance period.

The tunnels have many areas recreating ancient war scenes
The tunnels have many areas recreating ancient war scenes

Testing Skills at the Shooting Range Inside the Tunnels

Experience real-life shooting at the designated area, where you have the opportunity to try your hand with famous weapons like the AK-47, M16, M60, and many others. Each guest will receive meticulous instruction from experts, including how to use the weapons, safety measures, and maintenance. To add excitement, you can choose from a variety of targets, from human-shaped targets, animals, to simulated tanks. For your safety, noise-canceling headphones and special protective glasses are provided. With a reasonable fee of 40,000 VND per bullet, you can experience the thrill of real shooting, creating an unforgettable memory of your trip.

Shooting area with full weapons equipment
Shooting area with full weapons equipment

Enjoying the “East Sea Flavor” at the Swimming Pool

In the East Sea style swimming pool, you can immerse yourself in a relaxing space and enjoy the cool sea breeze. The area is vibrantly decorated with colorful wall paintings depicting charming sea scenes, floating boats, hardworking fishermen, and the beauty of tranquil islands. You can relax in the cool waters of the pool and engage in exciting water games like water soccer, rowing rubber boats, pedal boats, and sailing. Additionally, cultural activities such as karaoke singing, lion dancing, and bamboo dancing are also available for entertainment. With an affordable fee of only 50,000 VND, this swimming pool area is an ideal place to recharge and enjoy your holiday.

New to the swimming pool inside the tunnel
New to the swimming pool inside the tunnel

Trung An Fruit Garden

At Trung An Fruit Garden, you have the opportunity to explore and taste a variety of famous fruits of Cu Chi. Enjoy a stroll among rows of fruit-laden trees such as mango, jackfruit, durian, coconut, grapefruit, orange, lemon, guava, plum, lychee, custard apple, longan, mangosteen, and many more appealing varieties. Not only can you admire them, but you can also pick and taste these fresh fruits on the spot. Additionally, you can buy these fresh fruits as gifts for family and friends. With an entry fee of only 100,000 VND, including entrance and unlimited fruit tasting, Trung An Fruit Garden is the perfect destination for those who love natural flavors and want to experience the rustic beauty of Cu Chi land.

Fruit garden with all kinds of fruits
Fruit garden with all kinds of fruits

Discovering Wildlife through the Lens at the Wildlife Rescue Station

At the Wildlife Rescue Station, you have the chance to interact with and care for various wild animals that have undergone challenging circumstances such as injuries, loss of habitat, or captivity. During this tour, you will observe and learn about a diverse range of animals like bears, monkeys, turtles, snakes, various birds, rabbits, squirrels, and many others. You will also gain a deeper understanding of conservation efforts and the work to reintegrate animals into their natural environment. Moreover, you will participate in practical activities like feeding, grooming, bathing, and playing with the animals. With an entrance fee of 50,000 VND, including animal food, this rescue station experience is not only enjoyable but also enriches your knowledge and connection with the natural world.

The animal rescue station is home to many animals
The animal rescue station is home to many animals

What to Eat at Cu Chi Tunnels?

Exploring the cuisine at Cu Chi Tunnels, visitors will experience a plethora of unique flavors. The area is famous not only for its underground mysteries but also for its traditional culinary delights. Below is a list of must-try dishes when visiting:

- Banh trang tron: A popular snack combining dry rice paper, peanuts, fried shallots, dried shrimp, Vietnamese coriander, herbs, chili, and fish sauce, creating a memorable and unique flavor. Priced at around 10,000 VND per bag.

- Banh canh cua: A Cu Chi specialty, this dish includes rice flour noodles, rich crab broth, fresh crab, pork, raw sausage, water spinach, and green onions. A bowl of bánh canh cua is priced at about 30,000 VND.

- Banh xeo: A traditional Vietnamese dish, combining rice flour, coconut milk, turmeric, shrimp, pork, mung beans, bean sprouts, and fresh herbs. Priced at about 15,000 VND per piece.

- Banh tet: An essential part of holiday celebrations, consisting of glutinous rice, mung beans, pork, eggs, fried shallots, salt, pepper, and wrapped in banana leaves. Priced at about 50,000 VND per piece.

- Com tam: A Saigon specialty, comprising broken rice, grilled pork, pork skin, sausage, fried egg, fresh vegetables, and fish sauce. Priced at about 40,000 VND per serving.

- Che Cu Chi: A sweet dessert including coconut milk, sugar, tapioca starch, and various seeds. Priced at about 15,000 VND per bowl.

Cu Chi Tunnels with many specialties but no less rustic
Cu Chi Tunnels with many specialties but no less rustic

Accommodation Options Near Cu Chi Tunnels

When exploring Cu Chi Tunnels, visitors also have several ideal accommodation options nearby. Here is a list of some places to stay near the tunnels for a comfortable and enjoyable experience:

- Les Hameaux de l'Orient Resort: Located about 15km from the tunnels, this resort offers a peaceful space, ideal for those looking to escape the city's bustle. It features modern apartments and villas, a swimming pool, a spa, and a diverse cuisine restaurant.

- An Lâm Retreats Saigon River: Situated about 20km from the tunnels, this luxurious and tranquil resort by the Saigon River offers private villas with pools, a spa, a restaurant, and river cruise services.

- Saigon River Club: An excellent choice for sports and health enthusiasts, located about 25km from the site. The Saigon River Club offers modern accommodations, a fitness center, an outdoor swimming pool, and various water sports activities.

- Villa Song Saigon: A boutique resort about 30km from the tunnels, Villa Song Saigon stands out with its unique architecture, luxurious rooms, upscale restaurant, riverside swimming pool, and spa.

- Mekong Lodge: About 40km from the tunnels, Mekong Lodge offers a unique experience in the Mekong Delta region. The hotel includes traditionally styled bungalows, a restaurant serving local cuisine, and tours to floating markets and traditional craft villages.

Easily find resorts near the tunnels
Easily find resorts near the tunnels

Golden Tips for Exploring Cu Chi Tunnels

To ensure an interesting and safe trip to Cu Chi Tunnels, keep in mind the following:

- Visiting hours are from 7 am to 5 pm daily. Plan your visit early to avoid crowds and intense heat.

- Entrance fees are 90,000 VND for adults and 45,000 VND for children. Carry your ID or passport for ticket purchase.

- Wear comfortable clothing and flat shoes for easy movement, and bring a flashlight, drinking water, and sunscreen for a convenient visit.

- Ensure to follow all instructions from the staff and guides. Avoid touching or damaging objects, weapons, traps, and the tunnel structure. Do not litter, make loud noises, or disturb others.

- Remember to bring a camera or smartphone to capture beautiful images and cherish precious memories. The souvenir shop at the site offers various products like T-shirts, hats, scarves, jewelry, pens, cups, plates, paintings, books, and music discs.

Cu Chi Tunnels bring many emotions when visiting
Cu Chi Tunnels bring many emotions when visiting

Cu Chi Tunnels - an underground historical site rich in mysteries and heritage. Visitors can learn about the heroic deeds, explore the unique culture, and enjoy traditional dishes of Cu Chi. A visit to this site promises memorable and meaningful experiences. 

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