Tay Ninh is a city I chanced upon while browsing Google Maps while planning my Vietnam trip. I wanted to visit somewhere different—somewhere beyond the usual attractions of Ho Chi Minh City. That was when Ba Den Mountain caught my attention. The image of the gigantic golden Buddha perched atop the mountain immediately captivated me. Beyond the impressive landmark, I discovered that Tay Ninh offered a unique blend of spirituality, natural beauty, and local culture.
After arriving in Ho Chi Minh City, I decided to make the journey to Tay Ninh. The trip took almost four hours, and I arrived in the evening. Although I only spent 1.5 days and 2 nights there, I managed to visit several of the city’s highlights. There were also a few attractions that I had to skip due to time constraints or personal preference. Here is a list of some of the top places to visit in Tay Ninh.
1. Sun World Ba Den Mountain
Without a doubt, Sun World Ba Den Mountain is Tay Ninh’s most iconic attraction. Home to the towering Tay Bo Da Son Buddha statue, the mountain is a significant spiritual destination and one of the most visited attractions in the city. Visitors can take a cable car ride up the mountain, enjoying breathtaking views of the countryside along the way. At the summit, you’ll find temples, religious monuments, beautifully landscaped gardens, and panoramic views stretching across Tay Ninh Province. Whether you’re a spiritual traveler or simply a nature lover, Ba Den Mountain is a must-visit destination.
2. Chùa Thiền Lâm (Gò Kén)
Chùa Thiền Lâm, more commonly known as Gò Kén Pagoda, is one of Tay Ninh’s oldest and most respected Buddhist temples. The temple is known for its tranquil atmosphere, elegant architecture, and impressive statues. Visitors can admire the giant white Avalokitesvara statue while exploring the peaceful grounds. It is a wonderful place to escape the bustle of the city and experience a quieter side of Vietnamese Buddhism.
3. Tay Ninh Holy See
The Tay Ninh Holy See serves as the headquarters of Cao Dai. Unbeknown to most, Cao Dai is a uniquely Vietnamese religion that combines elements of Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, Christianity, and Islam. The colourful and highly distinctive architecture of the Holy See makes it one of Vietnam’s most fascinating religious sites. Visitors are welcome to observe the daily prayer ceremonies which I did in the evening. Worshippers were dressed in robes and gathered in the grand hall. Even for non-religious travelers, the Holy See offers a unique cultural experience.
4. Vang CY Wild Grape Farm
For something different, consider visiting Vang CY Wild Grape Farm. The farm cultivates locally grown wild grapes that are used to produce grape wine, their specialty products. Visitors can stroll through the vineyard, learn about the cultivation process, and sample various grape-based wine. It’s a pleasant stop for myself as I also bought back 2 bottles of locally produced wine!
5. Đặc Sản Tây Ninh Đan Vinh Official
No visit to Tay Ninh is complete without bringing home some local specialties. Đặc Sản Tây Ninh Đan Vinh Official is a popular stop for purchasing regional products such as bánh tráng phơi sương (dew-dried rice paper), tamarind snacks, shrimp salt, and other local delicacies. Whether you’re shopping for souvenirs or simply curious about Tay Ninh’s food culture, this is a worthwhile place to visit. Another store which sells similar local specialties is Cơ Sở Bánh Tráng Tây Ninh Minh Nhựt.
6. Chợ đêm Tây Ninh Night Market
7. Chót Mạt Ancient Temple
As the sun sets, Chợ Đêm Tây Ninh comes alive with food stalls, local snacks, clothing vendors, and entertainment. The night market provides an excellent opportunity to sample authentic local street food while soaking in the lively atmosphere. It’s also a great place to observe local life!
8. Vườn quốc gia Lò Gò Xa Mát
Located further in the North and quieter area of Tay Ninh, Vườn quốc gia Lò Gò Xa Mát is a small museum that showcases the region’s historical and cultural significance. It features exhibits related to the area’s role during the Vietnam War, including former revolutionary bases, communication facilities, and historical artefacts that were once hidden within the forest. Although modest in size, the museum adds an educational dimension to the national park experience and offers an interesting glimpse into Tay Ninh’s lesser-known history.
9. Chùa Tây Thiên
Chùa Tây Thiên is another peaceful Buddhist temple that attracts both pilgrims and visitors seeking a tranquil retreat. Surrounded by greenery and featuring traditional Vietnamese temple architecture, it provides a calm environment for meditation and quiet contemplation. The temple’s serene atmosphere makes it a pleasant stop during a Tay Ninh itinerary.
10. Tay Ninh Khu du lịch Long Điền Sơn
For families and travelers looking for recreation rather than religious sites, Khu du lịch Long Điền Sơn Tourist Area offers a variety of leisure activities. The complex features gardens, amusement rides, water attractions, and open spaces suitable for picnics and relaxation. It is particularly popular among local families during weekends and holidays.
11. Tay Ninh Ma thiên lãnh
Often referred to as the “Da Lat of Tay Ninh,” Ma Thiên Lãnh is a scenic valley nestled among mountains and forests. Known for its rugged landscapes, streams, and natural beauty, the area attracts campers, hikers, and photographers. The journey itself can be an adventure, making it a rewarding destination for those seeking outdoor experiences away from the city.
Tay Ninh Top Places – My Thoughts
Although Tay Ninh may not be a famous destination, it offers a unique travel experience that combines spirituality, culture, nature, and local life. During my visit, I noticed that most visitors were domestic tourists, with relatively few foreign travelers around. This could be due to language barriers, limited international promotion, or the common perception that Tay Ninh is mainly a destination for Buddhist pilgrimages and spiritual events.
However, I believe Tay Ninh deserves more attention from international visitors. Beyond its religious landmarks, the province offers stunning mountain scenery, fascinating cultural experiences, delicious local food, and a slower pace of life. It also provides a refreshing escape from Vietnam’s larger cities such as Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. If you are looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination in Vietnam, Tay Ninh might just surprise you!
Do check out my other travel reviews too!