Ho Chi Minh City is commonly known as the modern and bustling city of Vietnam. However, the city also holds significant historical value related to the war against the French and American army, which can be explored by both locals and tourists. If you’re interested in delving deeper into Vietnamese history, visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels should be on your list of top things to do in Ho Chi Minh City. It’s a highly rewarding activity and worth the short trip from the city center.
The Cu Chi Tunnels are situated in TL15, Phu Hiep, Cu Chi District, Ho Chi Minh City and remain open from 8 am to 5 pm every day. The entrance fee for Ben Dinh is VND 110,000/person and VND 90,000 for Ben Duoc. The best time to visit the tunnels is between December and May.
History of Cu Chi Tunnels
The Cu Chi Tunnels are an extensive network of underground tunnels located 60 kilometers northeast of Ho Chi Minh City. Constructed over a span of 25 years beginning in 1948 during the French war, the tunnel system was used as a method of communication between villages and helped Vietnamese citizens evade detection by French soldiers.
Throughout the Vietnam War, the tunnel system extended over an area of 250 kilometers and played a significant role in the fighting strategy of the Viet Cong troops. It was also home to thousands of soldiers.
Today, approximately 120 kilometers of the tunnel network have been preserved and serve as a popular tourist attraction in Ho Chi Minh City, offering visitors a captivating glimpse into history.
Highlights of Cu Chi Tunnels
The Cu Chi Tunnels offer a unique example of architecture and structure that played a significant role in the history of Vietnam. An astonishing feature of these tunnels is that they had hospitals, schools, theaters, kitchens, and more, all built within them. The entrances to these tunnels were hidden behind secret wooden doors and camouflage leaves, and only the Vietnamese could fit inside due to their small size.
Despite the US army’s efforts, they failed to completely destroy the tunnel system because of its isolated construction and multiple escape routes leading to the Saigon River, counterfeit bunkers, and booby traps. Special closed-door buttons were also installed in different locations to prevent enemies’ intrusion and toxic gas. Additionally, deadly traps and unrevealed ventilation vents were carved out on the ground to keep those inside safe.
Visitors are allowed to explore the first level and some widened portions of the tunnel, which have been opened up for safety reasons. The Cu Chi Tunnels consist of multi-tiered architecture with three levels, the first floor being about 3 meters below ground, the next level about 6 meters deep, and the bottommost one over 12 meters down.
It is believed that the Cu Chi Tunnels were crucial to the success of the Vietnamese army during the war. If the tunnels had fallen, their defeat would have been inevitable, but their victory was secured thanks to the strategic importance of this tunnel network.
Visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels offers a unique opportunity to experience the real-life conditions inside the tunnels. One can try the dishes previously used by the Vietnamese army, such as sesame and boiled cassava, or explore deeper into the dark, endless tunnels to understand the struggles, resilience, and hardships faced by the Vietnamese soldiers during the war.
What to See in Cu Chi Tunnels?
Currently, there are only two sets of Cu Chi Tunnels that are accessible to the public for visiting: Ben Dinh and Ben Duoc Tunnels.
1. Ben Dinh Tunnels
The Ben Dinh tunnels, located near the Saigon River, were a crucial hideout for Cu Chi Commissioners during the war. The location provided them with an escape route to the river if they were discovered. This section was in use from 1968 to 1975 and is now open for tours that take roughly an hour to complete. Visitors can explore four tunnels which feature examples of underground sleeping quarters, command posts, and medical facilities. A ticket costs VND 90,000 (about USD 4). Additionally, visitors have the opportunity to purchase shoot weapons and bullets at the Ben Dinh section.
2. Ben Duoc Tunnels
Two sets of tunnels in Vietnam, Cu Chi, are popular tourist spots. The Ben Duoc Tunnels, covering an area of 100 hectares, are five times bigger than the Ben Dinh Tunnels that cover 17 hectares. As such, the traveling distance is longer, but it provides a more practical experience of the southern part of Vietnam during the war. At Ben Duoc, visitors can see firsthand how challenging life in cramped tunnels was and try to surpass the odds. Unlike recreational activities offered at Ben Dinh, Ben Duoc offers intriguing historical sites such as the Ben Duoc Memorial temple and Hoang Cam kitchen to visitors.
What to Do in Cu Chi Tunnels?
Cu Chi Tunnels, besides being a tourist attraction, also offer several captivating activities to keep you entertained after exploring the Ben Dinh and Ben Duoc sections.
1. Experience Shooting Guns
Cu Chi Tunnels offer visitors the opportunity to participate in military sport by shooting guns. This activity attracts many tourists who can select their preferred firearms, most of which were used during the war. Following staff instructions, visitors can aim at animal-shaped targets and experience the excitement of firing a real gun.
2. Swimming in Cu Chi Park
Cu Chi tunnels have an amusement and recreation zone that features a distinctively designed swimming pool. The adult section spans 500 square meters while the children’s area covers 150 square meters. The amenities available, such as changing rooms, toilets, and bathrooms, are of high quality and adequate.
3. Playing Paintball Guns
Cu Chi Tunnels offer an excellent team-building activity through paintball shooting, which merges elements of sports and military tactics. Amidst the natural forest in Cu Chi, players are outfitted with complete gear including uniforms, masks, armor, and weapons. Engaging in this game helps enhance one’s decision-making abilities, teamwork proficiency, and comprehension.
4. Pedaling and Kayaking
Experience a serene and peaceful activity by pedaling and kayaking at the Cu Chi tunnels. The simulation lake in Cu Chi provides a perfect location for visitors who want to relax and unwind. With swan-shaped boats as your ride, you can take in the breathtaking panoramic view of the South China Sea.
5. Having a Picnic
The Cu Chi Tunnels offer travelers the opportunity to enjoy a peaceful picnic amidst green trees and fresh air. The tunnels provide spacious areas that are perfect for families and friends to take a break from the fast-paced city life and unwind in a serene environment.
Ways to Explore Cu Chi
Cu Chi offers two options for exploring: self-guided or through a tunnel tour by boat. For those who want to explore on their own, they can take a bus, motorbike, or car to reach the Cu Chi Tunnels and purchase an admission ticket at the entrance. The tunnels provide free guides to visitors, offering a cost-effective way to learn about the area.
Alternatively, tourists can book a tunnel tour online or through their HCM City hotel. This option allows visitors to enjoy scenic river views while navigating the intricate maze of tunnels, including storage facilities, weapon factories, kitchens, and trap doors. Additionally, visitors can sample popular foods from the war era. The approximate fee for the tunnel tour is around USD 50 per adult.
How to Get to Cu Chi Tunnels
Numerous transportation options are available to reach Cu Chi Tunnels, providing you with a choice among the following modes of travel.
1. By Bus
The most cost-effective mode of transportation to reach Cu Chi is by taking a bus. Begin by boarding bus No. 13 from 23-9 Park, located near Pham Ngu Lao street, and travel to Cu Chi Bus Station. Then, switch to bus No. 79 that leads to Ben Duoc. The bus journey takes approximately 2.5 hours and costs over USD 1.
2. By Taxi
The most costly mode of transportation is by taxi, but it is also the most convenient. To travel a distance of 140 km to Cu Chi, you may have to pay approximately USD 60. Booking a taxi can be done online through Grab application or hailed on any street.
3. By Motorbike/car
It’s feasible to either utilize your own personal car or motorbike, or rent one in Ho Chi Minh City for transportation purposes. The distance to travel is approximately 140 km, therefore it’s viable to make the journey via personal mode of transport. It only requires about 1.5 hours to commute from the center of Ho Chi Minh City to the Ben Dinh area.
4. By Boat
Taking a speedboat from Tan Cang pier to Cu Chi through the Saigon River will only take you 1.5 hours. It is advisable to opt for the morning boat at exactly 7:30 am daily.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some suggestions for visiting Cu Chi Tunnels:
- Don’t forget to bring food and drink with you before you leave, as well as insect repellent and appropriate clothing since there are many mosquitoes in the area.
- Be aware that most of the games at Cu Chi Tunnels require payment.
- During holidays, the entrance fee is higher than on normal days, but it offers more activities for visitors.
- The tunnels are narrow and easy to get lost in, so it’s best to follow instructions from the staff.
- If you have a lot of luggage, it’s recommended to leave it outside. Cu Chi Tunnels is definitely worth a visit as it’s an iconic representation of the Vietnam War. Book a tour now and let us know about your experience!
