PHAN RANG CITY IN VIETNAM: THE BEST MEMORABLE JOURNEY

Phan Rang City, situated on the central coast of Vietnam, is a captivating location that combines breathtaking natural scenery, an abundant cultural legacy, and a lively local community. Travelers seeking sunkissed beaches, architecturally significant buildings, or distinctive culinary experiences may find something to suit their tastes in Phan Rang. I will show you an all-inclusive guide to discovering this interesting city.

Phan Rang in Vietnam, which attracts tourists every year

Phan Rang Beach, with indescribable beauty and cleanliness

1. Where is Phan Rang City in Vietnam?

Phan Rang, officially known as Phan Rang-Thap Cham City, is situated in Ninh Thuan Province in southern Vietnam. It lies approximately 350 kilometers (220 miles) northeast of Ho Chi Minh City and about 100 kilometers (62 miles) south of Da Lat. The city enjoys a coastal position along the South China Sea, making it an ideal spot for beach lovers and those seeking tranquility away from bustling tourist hubs.

Encompassing 16 administrative units that border Ninh Hai District, Ninh Phuoc District, Ninh Son District, and the East Sea, it covers a natural area of 79.38 square kilometers. Phan Rang, Vietnam, has 10 km of coastline, making it a perfect destination for resort travel, sailing, coral reef diving, and other water sports.

The Panduranga capital of the former Champa Kingdom was Phan Rang. In addition to being well-known for the Cham towers, Vinh Hy’s picturesque harbor, and Nam Cuong Sand Dune, among other things, Phan Rang is becoming a popular travel destination. When you visit Phan Rang, you will also experience the stunning surroundings and, most importantly, the warmth and simplicity of the local populace.

2. How to get there?

By Bus

Buses are a popular and cost-effective way to reach Phan Rang. Numerous bus companies operate services from major cities like Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, and Nha Trang. The journey from Ho Chi Minh City typically takes around 8-10 hours, while from Da Nang, it takes about 5-6 hours. Buses range from standard to sleeper options, offering a variety of comfort levels to suit different preferences.

The following well-known coach service providers are options if you leave from Ho Chi Minh City:

Lien Hung, Tuan Tu, Tien Hung, An Anh Limousine (You can search this coach service providers in the internet or ask your tourguide). The cost will range from 250.000 to 300.000 VND/person. It takes around 7 to 8 hours from Ho Chi Minh City to Phan Rang City.

By Train

Traveling by train is another scenic way to reach Phan Rang. The train journey provides beautiful views of the countryside and coastline. You can take a train from Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi to Thap Cham Station, which is the railway station serving Phan Rang. The trip from Ho Chi Minh City usually takes around 8-10 hours, and from Hanoi, it can take approximately 16-18 hours. Be sure to book your tickets in advance to secure a comfortable seat.

Travellers from Hanoi can go to Phan Rang Vietnam by train; the cost of a ticket depends on the kind of seat, the category of the train, and the duration of the trip. Train services from Hanoi to Phan Rang – Thap Cham run four times a day, with train tickets starting at about 1.000.000 VND.

There are 6 daily excursions covering a distance of 330 kilometers between Saigon Station and Thap Cham Station. Train tickets can cost anywhere from 250.000-500.000 VND, depending on the type of seat and train category.

You can search for more information about the train ticket and the specific location in Google, or you can book the ticket through Agoda or Traveloka app.

You can see the beautiful Phan Rang beach when you go by train

By Plane

For a quicker option, you can fly into Phan Rang. The nearest airport is Cam Ranh International Airport (CXR), located about 60 kilometers (37 miles) from Phan Rang.

From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to the city center. Flights from major cities like Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Da Nang are available, with flight times ranging from 1 to 1.5 hours depending on your departure point.

The cost is around 1.000.000 to 2.000.000 VND depending on your departure point and seat.

3. The ideal time to visit Phan Rang City

Phan Rang enjoys year-round moderate temperatures and plenty of sunshine thanks to its tropical monsoon environment. The distinct wet season (September to November) and dry season (December to August) define the weather in Phan Rang.

The best time to visit Phan Rang is during the dry season, which runs from December to August. During this period, you can expect sunny days and minimal rainfall, perfect for beach activities and outdoor exploration.

The cooler months from October to February can also be pleasant, although occasional rain showers may occur. Be mindful that the summer months can get quite hot, so stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun.

Phan Rang City in the dry season

4. What to do in Phan Rang?

4.1. Po Klong Garai Tower, where to learn about Cham architecture

Po Klong Garai Tower is a notable building that offers you further fresh perspectives on the distinct culture of Phan Rang, or Thap Cham region. This is a significant historical artefact that captures the beliefs and architecture of the Cham people in the past. King Che Man constructed Po Klong Garai Tower at the end of the 13th century.

This is still the source of great pride for the Cham, people of Ninh Thuan, and it’s also where many visitors to Phan Rang want to check-in.

Po Klong Garai Tower reflects the unique culture and beliefs of the Cham community

Address: No. 52E, Bac Ai Street, Phan Rang-Thap Cham City, Ninh Thuan Province.

Opening Hours: 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM daily.

Ticket Prices: 20.000 VND/Adult and 10.000 VND/Children

4.2. Discover Nam Cuong Sand Dune

It would be a mistake to overlook the sweeping sand dunes when discussing Phan Rang. This place has a barren, dry landscape that makes us think of the wide deserts we see in movies. Specifically, add the Nam Cuong sand dunes to your list of things to do in Phan Rang as soon as possible so you may visit them when you get the opportunity.

Nam Cuong Sand Dune – The most beautiful virtual living paradise in Phan Rang

When visiting the Nam Vuong sand dunes, you can rent an off-road vehicle to explore the area and snap pictures. There are also many of other fun activities to do, such as horseback riding and sand sliding. Don’t miss the opportunity to see the most breathtaking sunset in Phan Rang from these sand dunes.

4.3. Explore beautiful beaches

Discovering the stunning beaches in Phan Rang is undoubtedly the most worthwhile experience you will have. Based on my experience, the following are the two most stunning beaches that you should not miss if you ever get the chance to visit Phan Rang:

–Binh Son Beach: This beach boasts wide expanses, crystal-clear blue waves, fine white sand, and breathtaking beauty. You may unwind on the sand here while taking in the expansive ocean and the soft waves lapping against the coast. Specifically, Binh Son Beach is an incredibly perfect location for you to take stunning check-in photos and watch the sunrise.

Binh Son Beach

–Ninh Chu Beach: When discussing things to do in Phan Rang, Ninh Chu Beach must be mentioned. There are a lot of people at this beach, but there aren’t many hotels, restaurants, or other tourist attractions nearby. Thus, you won’t have to deal with the crowds when you visit; instead, you can relax and take in the refreshing sea wind, go swimming, and eat delicious seafood at incredibly low costs.

Ninh Chu Beach

4.4. Admire the beauty of Hang Rai and Vinh Hy Bay

Vinh Hy Bay is a stunning, immaculate, and serene bay. From Phan Rang city, this site is roughly 40 km away. If you are at a loss for things to do in Phan Rang, you will find lots of places to enjoy yourself when you arrive, including the stunning Hang Rai and the beaches at Coc and Ba Dien in Nui Chua National Park.

The beautiful Vinh Hy Bay is also home to the most expensive resort in Vietnam

A well-known tourist destination in Phan Rang is Hang Rai. Nature’s magically arranged stacked boulders have created this magnificent environment. The vibrant coral reefs that surround it make diving incredibly fascinating.

Hang Rai is created from extremely unique geological structures

Hang Rai is located in the south of Vinh Hy Bay, at the foot of Nui Chua National Park, about 35km from Phan Rang city.

4.5. Visit Ninh Thuan Museum

Ninh Thuan Museum is a location where priceless relics and records that capture the past and present of this Central Asian region are kept and put on display. The four floors of the museum are designed to house various functional areas.

Ninh Thuan Museum

At the moment, the Ninh Thuan Museum is keeping up to 38,884 artefacts from various historical eras. These antiques and artefacts in particular will provide you fresh perspectives on the history, way of life, and culture of the Cham people.

Discover the cultural relics of Ninh Thuan

Address: Muoi Sau Thang Tu Street, Phan Rang-Thap Cham City, Ninh Thuan Province.

Opening Hours: 7:30 AM to 11:30 AM and 1:30 PM to 5:00 PM from Monday to Saturday.

Ticket Prices: 15.000 VND/Adult and 7.000 VND/ Children.

5. The best foods that you must try in Phan Rang Thap Cham City

Phan Rang is renowned for its delectable local cuisine, which features a blend of fresh seafood and traditional Vietnamese flavors. You must be try the following foods:

5.1. Bánh Canh Nhường (Noodle Soup)

If you have ever been to Phan Rang but have never tried the noodle soup here, it will be a big regret. Nhuong noodle soup restaurant is a famous noodle soup restaurant in Phan Rang. The noodle soup here has a rich flavor of sea fish, typical of the spicy and salty taste of a sunny land like Phan Rang.

You can choose fish noodle soup. Any type of noodle soup is delicious, depending on the customer’s preference. The noodle soup is delicious, reasonably priced, with all the toppings such as fish cake, quail eggs, … add a little onion and spices to make the right Central Vietnamese noodle soup.

Banh Canh Nhuong

Address: No. 284, Ngo Gia Tu Street, Phan Rang-Thap Cham City, Ninh Thuan Province.

Opening Hours: 5:30 AM to 11:00 PM daily

Prices: 25.000 to 55.000 VND (1 to 2.4 USD)

5.2. Bánh căn Vinh (Vietnamese mini pancake)

The quality of Banh Can at Vinh restaurant is something that any diner who comes to enjoy it will nod in praise. With a crispy crust and delicious filling, it will surely make you excited.

The staff is friendly and quick, creating a cozy and comfortable space to enjoy the dish. In addition, the restaurant also ensures food hygiene and safety, so you can rest assured to enjoy delicious Banh Can at the restaurant.

Banh can Vinh

Address: right at the roundabout of Yen Ninh Street and 16/4 Street, Phan Rang – Thap Cham City.

Opening Hours: 10:30 AM to 10:30 PM daily.

Prices: 5.000 to 30.000 VND (0.2 to 1.25 USD)

5.3. Lẩu Bò Sáu Hít (Beef Hotpot)

If you have the opportunity to visit Ninh Thuan and want to enjoy Phan Rang beef hotpot, you should definitely not miss Sau Hit hotpot restaurant. A hotpot here is only about 190,000 VND but there is a lot of beef, 3 to 4 people can still eat a pot and still be full.

The hotpot broth is clear, not too fatty and especially the dish has a lot of vegetables to eat with. The staff at the restaurant serve quickly so they always receive satisfaction from customers.

Lau Bo Sau Hit

Address: No. 119, Tran Quang Dieu Street, District 3.

Opening Hours: 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily.

Prices: 80.000 to 200.000 VND (3.3 to 8.3 USD)

5.4. Bánh Tráng Mắm Ruốc (Vietnamese rice paper with fish sauce)

The first specialty of Phan Rang (Ninh Thuan) is the shrimp paste rice paper, Phan Rang people often joke: “If you have not eaten this dish in your childhood, you are not from Ninh Thuan”. It is true, whether your childhood is poor or rich, sad or happy, when you hear the aroma of the cake, you must find a way to eat it.

Just this much is enough for you to understand how attractive this dish is. That is why when you have the opportunity to come to Phan Rang – Ninh Thuan, you must definitely find a way to eat this dish.

Banh Trang Mam Ruoc

Here are the places to eat Banh Trang Mam Ruoc:

–Du Khanh Night Market, Address: Du Khanh Village – Khanh Hai Town – Ninh Hai District.

–Ninh Chu Beach, Address: Khanh Hai Town – Ninh Hai District.

The prices range from 10.000 to 20.000 VND (0.4 to 0.8 USD)

6. The reference cost of trip in Phan Rang

Summary of Estimated Costs (Per Day)

–Budget Traveler: Approximately VND 500,000 to VND 800,000 (USD 21 to USD 34) per day, covering budget accommodation, street food, and local transportation.

–Mid-Range Traveler: Approximately VND 1,200,000 to VND 2,000,000 (USD 50 to USD 85) per day, including mid-range, meals at local restaurants, and accommodation occasional activities.

–Luxury Traveler: Approximately VND 3,000,000 to VND 5,000,000 (USD 125 to USD 210) per day, covering luxury accommodation, fine dining, and private transportation.

These estimates can fluctuate based on personal preferences, travel dates, and booking arrangements, so it’s a good idea to plan ahead and check current prices for the most accurate budgeting. Enjoy your trip to Phan Rang!