Ba Na Hills, located just a short distance from the bustling city of Da Nang, Vietnam, is a captivating destination that boasts a rich and fascinating history. The captivating mountain retreat of Ba Na Hills offers travelers a unique and unforgettable experience. Let’s hop on a journey to this marvelous land with Indochina Voyages to explore what makes this a famous attraction in Danang.
The history of Ba Na Hills
Ba Na Hills situated at an impressive elevation of over 1,400 meters above sea level, was first built by French colonists in 1900s. The French, seeking refuge from the tropical heat when they invaded Vietnam, were immediately enchanted by the cool, temperate climate and serene natural beauty of the Ba Na Hills. They quickly set about establishing a hill station, building luxurious villas, hotels, and a cable car system to transport visitors up the steep slopes. Over the years, Ba Na Hills evolved into a popular retreat for the French elite, who spent their summers enjoying the refreshing mountain air and stunning vistas.
Unfortunately, after the war, this place was ruined. Da Nang has recently restored and remodeled a few ancient French villas, a Buddhist cultural area, and new hotels and bars. Each of them has its own flower garden with various types of aristocratic flowers that Frenchmen left during the 50 years. Besides, the roads to go there were improved and it is not the opulent spot it once was.
Today, Ba Na Hills has been carefully restored and expanded, with the addition of a world-class resort, recreational facilities, and a newly constructed French-inspired village. This unique blend of history, natural splendor, and modern amenities has made Ba Na Hills a must-visit destination for travelers from around the world.
How to get to Ba Na Hills from Da Nang?
Located approximately 25 kilometers (15 miles) southwest of Da Nang, Vietnam’s third-largest city, and on a high of nearly 1500 meters above sea level, to get to Ba Na Hills, one of the most popular and iconic ways to reach Ba Na Hills is via the world’s longest and highest non-stop cable car system by Sun World – The tourism and entertainment complex is exploited in Ba Na Hills.
To get a cable car to reach Ba Na Hills, you need to go to the Mountain Foot area of Ba Na Hills (you can go by bus, taxi, or private car) to buy tickets then go to the stations to travel to Ba Na Hills. The Ba Na Hills Cable Car, also known as the “Heavenly Bridge,” takes visitors on a breathtaking 5-mile journey up the mountain, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The cable car ride takes approximately 20 minutes each way.
Here is the price table for Ba Na Hills cable car in 2024 for your reference (Please remember that ticket prices may change from time to time)
Type | Adult | Children |
From Monday to Thursday | VND 550,000 ~ US $22 | VND 450,000 ~ US $18 |
Friday, Saturday, Sunday & others occasions | VND 900,00 ~ US $36 | VND 500,000 ~ US $22 |
The breathtaking scenes of Ba Na Hills
Particularly, situated on a high of nearly 1500 meters above sea level, you can enjoy the cool, fresh temperature and witness a stunning landscape of the South China Sea and surrounding mountains. The average temperature in the summer is about 18oC, as a result, Ba Na Hills becomes an ideal eco-tourism in Central Vietnam. The record-breaking cable car runs from the base of the Ba Na Mountain to Vong Nguyet’s peak.
As visitors ascend the mountain via the cable car system, they are treated to a stunning bird’s-eye view of the surrounding countryside. Rolling green hills, lush forests, and winding rivers stretch out as far as the eye can see, creating a serene and picturesque backdrop.
At the summit of Ba Na Hills, the views become even more breathtaking. The iconic “Golden Bridge,” a 150-meter-long pedestrian bridge supported by two giant stone hands, offers a truly unique and unforgettable vantage point. Visitors can stand on the bridge and gaze out over the sweeping vistas, marveling at the sheer scale and natural beauty of the landscape.
In addition to the stunning natural scenery, Ba Na Hills also features a variety of man-made structures and attractions that complement the natural setting. The French-inspired village, complete with quaint architecture, charming cafes, and boutique shops, adds a touch of European flair to the experience. The various gardens, temples, and recreational areas scattered throughout the hills further enhance the visual splendor of the destination.
In 1986 Ba Na was recognized as a natural reserve area, in which tropical forests and precious animals are protected. Ba Na Hills has different flora and fauna. In the old-growth forest, there are 260 species of fauna, over 60 species of animals, nearly 180 species of birds, and 17 species of reptiles. The flora comprises of over 500 species. In addition, there are a significant number of rare animals here such as the Crested Argus, Asian Black Bear, and so on. Because of these, sitting on the peak you can hear the blending of the breathing forest & the flora and fauna sounds.
What to do on Ba Na Hills?
Ba Na Hills offers a diverse array of activities and attractions for visitors to explore, catering to a wide range of interests and preferences. Here are some of the top things to do on Ba Na Hills:
Explore the French Village: Stroll through the charming and beautifully preserved French-style village, complete with cobblestone streets, quaint cafes, boutique shops, and architectural elements that transport visitors to a bygone era.
Visit the Ba Na Hills Fantasy Park: This expansive theme park features a variety of rides, shows, and interactive attractions, including a wax museum, a haunted house, and a simulated volcano experience.
Take a Ride on the Golden Bridge: Experience the iconic and visually stunning “Golden Bridge,” a pedestrian bridge supported by two giant stone hands that offer unparalleled views of the surrounding landscape.
Discover the Ba Na Hills Temples: Explore the various temples and religious sites scattered throughout the hills, including the Linh Ung Pagoda and the Tien Sa Temple, which offer a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage.
Hike through the Ba Na Hills Nature Trails: For the more adventurous visitors, the network of hiking trails within the Ba Na Hills complex offers the opportunity to immerse oneself in the natural beauty of the region, with breathtaking vistas and diverse flora and fauna along the way.
Indulge in the Local Cuisine: Savor the flavors of traditional Vietnamese and French-inspired cuisine at the various restaurants and cafes throughout the Ba Na Hills complex, offering a unique gastronomic experience.
Relax and Unwind: Take advantage of the resort facilities, such as the swimming pools, spas, and recreation areas, to enjoy a leisurely and rejuvenating experience amidst the serene mountain setting.
Explore Ba Na Hills Fantasy Park: This is an amusement park in Vietnam’s largest state. To meet the entertainment needs of all ages, the Park was constructed, and not only kids but adults also participated from the fun games to games thrills. In the entertainment world this class, Fantasy Park also has three main dining areas serving dishes of European, Asian, and a Souvenir shop area with a full of range of products in diverse categories.
FAQs
Is it worth visiting Ba Na Hills, Vietnam?
Absolutely! Ba Na Hills is a must-visit destination for travelers to Vietnam, offering a unique blend of natural splendor, historic charm, and modern amenities. The breathtaking views, diverse range of activities, and rich cultural heritage make Ba Na Hills a truly remarkable and unforgettable experience. But for who those prefer hidden gems and off-beat attractions, this may be not a good idea to visit due to its appeal to tourists from around the world and domestically.
How long should you spend at Ba Na Hills?
The amount of time to spend at Ba Na Hills can vary depending on your interests and the pace of your visit. Many visitors find that a full day is sufficient to explore the main attractions and enjoy the various activities on offer.
However, those seeking a more relaxed and immersive experience may choose to spend two or more days at Ba Na Hills, allowing them to fully appreciate the natural beauty, cultural richness, and recreational opportunities of this remarkable destination.
After reading this travel guide blog, Indochina Voyages hopes you’ll feel inspired to visit the enchanting realm of Ba Na Hills. This mountain oasis has woven its spell, capturing the hearts of all who venture here. From the breathtaking panoramas to the immersive cultural experiences, each moment spent in Ba Na Hills leaves an indelible mark.
Thuy Dang – From Indochina Voyages Team