Exploring Tay Ninh, Vietnam: A Guide to Hidden Gems and Unique Attractions
Tay Ninh in Vietnam is located in the Southwestern part of the country and belonging to Tay Ninh province, which is the capital city Tay Ninh spreading on a total area of more than 4 thousand kilometres is a connecting point between Saigon and Phnom Penh as well as home to the Cao Dai religion.
Do check the Vietnam tour packages while planning your trip with our Tay Ninh Travel Guide. Tay Ninh Vietnam is one of nine provinces and cities in the Southern Key Economic Region. Apart from this, there are so many places to visit in Vietnam which many visitors look at.
Tay Ninh has a rich cultural heritage, scenic landscapes, and vibrant history. It is situated just 99 km from the centre of Ho Chi Minh City, so it soon becomes an ideal place for sightseeing and relaxing during the weekend. Visitors can experience the region’s spiritual essence through the temple’s elaborate architecture and colourful ceremonies. The province is also home to Ba Den Mountain, the highest peak in southern Vietnam, offering breathtaking views and a popular pilgrimage site. Tay Ninh’s unique blend of cultural, natural, and historical attractions makes it a fascinating destination for travellers seeking an authentic Vietnamese experience.
History of Tay Ninh
History of Tay Ninh
History of any place is important which makes it more adorable and adventurous to explore. Tay Ninh Vietnam has a rich history that has the broader historical narrative of Vietnam. Originally inhabited by indigenous tribes, the region came under Vietnamese control during the southward expansion of the Vietnamese kingdom. During the French colonial period, Tay Ninh in Vietnam was a site of resistance and conflict.
During the Vietnam War, Tay Ninh was strategically important due to its location near the Cambodian border and saw significant military activity. Today, Tay Ninh is known for its cultural heritage and religious significance, which draws the visitors interested in its unique spiritual and historical background.
Language of Tay Ninh
The primary language spoken in Tay Ninh in Vietnam is Vietnamese. As the official language of Vietnam, Vietnamese is used in everyday communication, education, government, and media. In Tay Ninh, you may also encounter various dialects and accents unique to the region. Additionally, due to its proximity to Cambodia, some residents may speak or understand Khmer.
Religion of Tay Ninh
Tay Ninh in Vietnam is renowned for being the birthplace and spiritual centre of Cao Dai, which is a syncretic religion that incorporates elements from Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, Christianity, and Islam. The Cao Dai Holy See in Tay Ninh is the religion’s main temple and attracts numerous pilgrims and tourists.
The region also practises traditional Vietnamese Buddhism and ancestor worship, reflecting the diverse religious landscape of Vietnam. Visiting Vietnam in October can be particularly rewarding as the weather is pleasant.
What is the Best Time to Visit Tay Ninh?
If you are wondering about the best time to visit Tay ninh? December-April is the dry season in southern Vietnam, and it does not rain during this period.
So, what about the temperature? The average temperature is 27 degrees Celsius. This is a pleasant time to visit Tay Ninh with minimum chances of rain as during May-November it is mostly raining. Most of the people also look for a honeymoon in Vietnam.
How to reach Tay Ninh in Vietnam?
- By Flight
Although Tay Ninh doesn’t have its own airport, you can fly to Ho Chi Minh City. The nearest major airport to Tay Ninh is Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN), which is located 82 km from Tay Ninh. The shortest flight to Tay Ninh from India departs from Kochi and takes around 5h 20m.
- By Bus
Several bus companies operate bus routes to Tay Ninh. From Dalat, the bus ride to Tay Ninh takes 628 km and from Nha Trang to Tay Ninh it takes 821 km. Bus is a convenient and affordable option, with the journey taking around 2 to 3 hours.
- By Car
Renting a car or hiring a private taxi from Ho Chi Minh City is another option for reaching Tay Ninh. The drive takes about 2 to 3 hours, depending on traffic conditions. This option of car renting offers more flexibility and comfort, allowing you to stop along the way and explore more of the countryside.
- By Motorbike
For the adventure seekers, renting a motorbike and riding to Tay Ninh can be an exciting way to experience the Vietnamese countryside. The route is relatively straightforward, following National Route 22 from Ho Chi Minh City to Tay Ninh. Make sure to wear appropriate safety gear and be prepared for varying road conditions.
Regardless of the mode of transport you choose, reaching Tay Ninh from Ho Chi Minh City is relatively easy and offers a chance to explore the diverse landscapes of southern Vietnam.
Things to do in Tay Ninh Vietnam
Tay Ninh has many things to offer to its visitors from its mountains to temples and many more. Trekking in Vietnam is also in trend and it attracts many visitors towards it.
- Cao Dai Holy See
The temple is a birthplace of the Cao Dai religion. Thousands of devotees come here every day for daily mass which happens 4 times in 24 hours. Most of the tourists come to see the noon crowd of the temple while exploring places near visit in Tay Ninh. There is a ‘Divine eye’ in the front side of the temple, which is in the shape of a triangle of justice. A contrasting blend of colours is used to decorate walls and carvings.
- Ba Den Mountain
Situated around 10 km from Tay Ninh city, Ba Den Mountain is called the roof of southern Vietnam. Clouds almost always cover it. The Mountain offers spectacular scenery and is a part of the mountain range Nui Ba.
- Dau Tieng Lake
The Dau Tieng Lake is a man-made reservoir and is situated around 19 kms from Tay Ninh city. It was constructed in 1981. Visitors can take a taxi to the reservoir and spend the day looking at beautiful mountains around the landscape where the lake sits.
Where to Stay in Tay Ninh?
Tourists will find many places to stay in Tay Ninh. From luxurious stays to affordable options, it has everything for everyone. Here are the top stays in Tay Ninh which you can opt for on your trip:
- Melia Vinpearl Tay Ninh
Location- 90 Le Duan Block 5, Ward 3, Tp. Tay Ninh, Vietnam
Rating-4.9
- Homestay in Tay Ninh
Location- Hiep Tan, Hoa Thanh District, Tay Ninh, Vietnam
Rating- 4.7
- Homestay Tam Quen
Location-hem 30 Lac Long Quan, TT. Hoa Thanh, Hoa Thanh, Tay Ninh, Vietnam
Rating- 4.8
- TAY NINH HOTEL – LAVENDER VINCOM
Location-Truong Tung Quan, Phuong 3, Tay Ninh, Vietnam
Rating- 4.5
- Homestay Huong Xưa
Location- 5/2 Nguyen Chi Thanh, Khu pho 6, Tay Ninh, Vietnam
Rating- 5.0
What to Eat in Tay Ninh?
- Xoi (Sticky rice) – A popular Vietnamese dish for breakfast
Vietnamese sticky rice can be enjoyed for breakfast or any other meal and comes in both savoury and sweet options. There are so many amazing restaurants in Vietnam where you can visit and enjoy the beauty of the place. The Xoi Ngu Sac, which means five-coloured sticky rice, is one of several must-try variants of Xoi Ngot (sweet sticky rice), especially for those intrigued by its vibrant colours.
Ingredients:
- Steamed glutinous rice (or sticky rice)
- Peanuts, mung beans, black beans, and seasames
- Pork or chicken
- Pho – One of the most famous Vietnamese dishes to foreigners
Pho, one of the most popular Vietnamese dishes, has a young history dating back to the late 19th or early 20th century. Now, pho is known worldwide and has been featured on various food websites as one of the best Vietnamese dishes to try. Pho is an essential part of Vietnamese cuisine and can be found everywhere, from street vendors to upscale restaurants.
Ingredients:
- Beef or chicken
- Beef or pork bones and seasoned with spices like cinnamon, anise, ginger, and cloves to make the broth
- Rice noodles
- Red onion, green onion, onion
- Saigon sandwich (Banh mi) – The best street food in Ho Chi Minh City
Banh mi is a famous street food in Ho Chi Minh City that is loved by both locals and tourists alike due to its unique blend of flavours. This iconic sandwich consists of a crispy French baguette filled with various meats, vegetables, and sauces.
The origin of banh mi dates back to the 19th century, when it was modified from the common French baguette. This Saigon sandwich usually consists of pork or chicken, pâté, pickled carrots and daikon, cucumber slices, cilantro, mayonnaise, and chilli sauce. These ingredients are all sandwiched between two slices of freshly baked golden-brown baguette.
Nightlife in Tay Ninh
Tay Ninh is known for its nightlife compared to larger cities like Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi. Here are a few things you can do to enjoy the nightlife in Tay Ninh:
- Local Cafes and Coffee Shops:
-Cafe San Vuon: This garden cafe offers a relaxing atmosphere with live music on certain nights.
-Highlands Coffee: A popular chain in Vietnam, which offers a comfortable place to relax with a cup of Vietnamese coffee.
- Night Markets:
-Night Market: This market is a great place for Shopping in Tay Ninh and to explore local food stalls.
- Dining Out:
–Local Restaurants: Many restaurants stay open late, offering delicious Vietnamese cuisine.
–Street Food Stalls: These are abundant and offer a chance to try various local snacks and dishes.
- Bars and Pubs:
- While Tay Ninh doesn’t have a wide array of bars and pubs, you can find a few local spots where you can enjoy a drink.
- Scenic Walks:
- Ba Den Mountain: An evening visit to the base of Ba Den Mountain can be amazing.
- Cinemas:
- Catching a movie can be a relaxing way to spend an evening. Check local listings for any cinemas in Tay Ninh.
Conclusion
Upon checking the Tay Ninh Vietnam Travel Guide, we know that you are excited to visit the place and want to explore this less explored destination. There are so many beaches in Vietnam which you can explore. Hurry UP! And plan your visit today to discover more. We at WanderOn are here to make your trip as amazing as you are. Here is a Vietnam travel tip which you can check prior to planning your trip.
How can I get to Tay Ninh from Ho Chi Minh City?
Buses from Ho Chi Minh and Cu Chi to Tay Ninh are frequent, and minivans are connecting Tay Ninh to other places like An Suong. Chartered taxi services can also be availed to travel through the province.
What is the significance of the Cao Dai Temple in Tay Ninh?
Significance is a spiritual centre, symbol of Unity, and other tourist attractions.
How can I experience the local culture in Tay Ninh?
You can do so bg visiting the local market, attending festivals and many more.
What are some outdoor activities available in Tay Ninh?
There are many activities like – Hiking, exploring Caves, cycling, boat trip, photography and many more.