EXPLORE BLACK VIRGIN MOUNTAIN IN TAY NINH CITY

Black Virgin Mountain (Núi Bà Đen) is one of the most iconic natural landmarks in southern Vietnam. Located in Tay Ninh Province, it’s renowned not just for its height and beauty but also for its rich cultural and spiritual significance. I will introduce you to the complete guide to exploring this magnificent destination.

In recent years, Nui Ba Den has not only attracted tourists because of its beautiful space like a fairyland but also because of its many unique experiences and festival events taking place all year round.

1. Where is Ba Den Moutain?

Approximately 100 kilometres from Ho Chi Minh City, Ba Den Mountain is a well-known scenic location in Tay Ninh. It is a component of the Ba Den Mountain historical and cultural relic complex and lies northeast of Tay Ninh city.

The height of Ba Den Mountain in Tay Ninh is 986m above sea level.


Ba Den is the tallest mountain in the South at 986 meters. This location boasts magnificent mountains and a lovely natural landscape in addition to its amazing height. At the moment, a cable car transports guests to the summit of the mountain where they can worship spiritual artefacts and take in the surroundings.

2. How to get there?

– By Car or Motorbike: The most convenient way is to drive or ride a motorbike, which takes around 2.5 to 3 hours. You can follow National Highway 22 towards Tay Ninh City.

– By Bus: You can also take a bus from Mien Tay Bus Station in Ho Chi Minh City. Buses depart frequently and take about 4 hours to reach Tay Ninh City, where you can hire a taxi or motorbike to the mountain base.

3. The ideal time to go to Ba Den Mountain in Tay Ninh

The dry season (December to April) is the ideal time to visit Ba Den Mountain. The good weather enhances the pleasure of trekking and sightseeing. Steer clear of the rainy season, which runs from June to November, as the trails can get slippery and challenging.

You can also experience the cultural and religious celebrations by going during Tet (Lunar New Year) or Ba Den Festival (which takes place in the first lunar month), though be prepared for big crowds during this time.

Dry season is the ideal time to conquer Ba Den Mountain

4. The way to reach Nui Ba Den

There are two main ways to reach the summit of Black Virgin Mountain: taking the cable car or trekking up the mountain.

4.1. Take the Cable Car to Ba Den Mountain to enjoy the scenery

The cable car is the most convenient way to reach the top, and it offers a breathtaking aerial view of the surrounding landscape. The modern cable car system takes about 8-10 minutes to reach the summit. Along the way, you’ll glide over lush forests, rocky outcrops, and even temples dotting the mountain.

It’s a comfortable and scenic option for those who want to avoid the strenuous hike but still enjoy the beauty of the mountain.

Note: The cable car operates continuously from 5:30 AM to 9:30 PM. The management board will stop selling tickets at 8:30 PM. Therefore, you need to be proactive about their travel time.

4.2. Climbing Ba Den Mountain: An Interesting Trekking Route for Backpackers

For adventure seekers, trekking up Black Virgin Mountain is an unforgettable experience. Several trails, ranging from moderate to challenging, lead you through dense forests, rocky terrains, and sometimes steep climbs. The most popular trekking route takes 3-4 hours to reach the top.

If you enjoy the thrill of hiking and want to experience nature up close, this is the way to go. The sense of accomplishment when you reach the peak makes it worthwhile.

You will have 5 paths to conquer Ba Den Mountain with increasing difficulty.

Here are the 5 roads that you can follow to climb Ba Den Mountain:

Chua Road: This is the most straightforward path to the summit of Ba Den. Simply follow the instructions from the welcome gate to arrive there. Numerous cafes can be found along the route where you may stop for a bite, relax, and refuel for the trip.

Cot Dien Road: For individuals who are new to mountain climbing, the power pole road is a good option. This route is clearly marked with steps.

Ong Nuoc Road: Ranked as the third most difficult of the five routes to reach Ba Den mountain, the water pipe road includes a part that will be ascended in tandem with the temple road. You need a guide in order to travel this path. It will require visitors to crawl through a water conduit that is reasonably risky. But in exchange, you’ll be able to take in the breathtaking and lyrical natural surroundings.

Ma Thien Lanh Road: This will be a novel experience for experienced hikers. There are no stone stairs or paths in this terrain. It will be necessary for visitors to conduct thorough research and have a guide to guide them.

The final and most tough path is Nui Phung Road, which presents a challenge to all climbers. You will need two days to ascend Phung Mountain Peak and then proceed to Ba Den Peak. I would want to remind you not to take this trip if you are not strong enough, healthy enough, or have no local guidance.

5. Ticket Price of Nui Ba Den

To visit and sightsee at the Ba Den Mountain tourist area in Tay Ninh, you will have to buy an entrance ticket. The specific ticket prices are as follows:

Adults: 16.000 VND/person (0.6 USD).

Children (from 1 – 1.4m), seniors (over 60 years old), disabled people: 8.000 VND/ticket (0.3 USD).

Children under 1m: Free.

The Price of Cable Car:

The price for a round-trip ticket on the cable car ranges from 150.000 to 400.000 VND (6.25 to 16.6 USD), depending on the season and promotions.

Note: Prices may be changed depending on the time.

6. Activities and Experiences at Nui Ba Den

6.1. Backpacking Ba Den Mountain in Tay Ninh – a challenge for those who love exploration and adventure

You will have unrestricted freedom to explore and conquer Ba Den Mountain in Tay Ninh, which is often known as the roof of the Southeast and is a typical icon of the region. Ba Den is going to be a great location, especially for young people who are enthusiastic about mountain climbing.

With an altitude of 986m, the top of Ba Den Mountain is covered in mist all year round, creating a beautiful fairyland. Watching the sunrise or sunset on the mountain will also be extremely dreamy.

6.2. Visit the pagodas on Ba Den Mountain

Statue of Buddha Tay Bo Da Son

Perched atop Thien Son Ba Den, the statue of Lady Buddha Tay Bo Da Son is striking in its height of 72 meters, having been crafted from 170 tonnes of red copper. In contrast to Buddha sculptures from other nations, the artists’ use of numerous significant motifs and patterns, inspired by the Le Dynasty statue, sets the piece apart. Visitors will experience a good vibe that will erase all tension and anxiety from life as they stand in front of this masterpiece with significant cultural and spiritual worth.

The majestic statue of Buddha Tay Bo Da Son on top of Ba Mountain

You can gaze up from the square, capturing the majestic aspect of the Tay Bo Da Son Buddha statue perched on a concentric 4-story pedestal. Gazing off into the distance, the statue beseeches favors for the people and land of Tay Ninh. In particular, you may see the lush trees, the sea of clouds, and the lovely, rich plains when you ascend the stairs on either side of the Buddha statue.

The statue of Buddha has a benevolent face, holding a vase of nectar in her left hand and making a mudra with her right hand.

During major holidays, the square at the base of the Buddha statue becomes a lively gathering spot where visitors come together to assemble flower lanterns, write down their wishes, and offer them to the gods. The enchanting glow of over 3,500 LED lights, combined with the vibrant colors of the flower lanterns, creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. This magical display offers visitors a truly unique experience as they explore this sacred place.

Experience offering lanterns at the square at the foot of the Buddha statue

Linh Son Tien Thach Tu (Ba Pagoda)

With its historic beauty, Linh Son Tien Thach Tu is situated in the middle of the pagoda complex and has been deeply connected to the locals’ spiritual lives for over three centuries. The pagoda features numerous pillars, a golden altar, and roof architecture adorned with dragon and cloud motifs. Here, pilgrims can learn more about Northern Buddhism and offer prayers for good health, prosperity, renown, and crops.

Linh Son Tien Thach Tu is one of the most beautiful pagodas in Tay Ninh.

The Linh Son Tien Thach Tu space is split up into various worship spaces, such as the front yard with the statue of Quan Am, the front hall dedicated to worshipping Tieu Dien, and the upper level featuring smoke from incense. As a result, guests are able to enter a peaceful meditation area and present the gods and Buddha with priceless offerings including cakes, incense, flowers, tea, and fruit.

6.3. Check-in at the mountaintop cliff

When traveling to Ba Den Mountain in Tay Ninh, don’t forget to check-in at the rock peak on top of the mountain. Standing here, you will have a panoramic view of the beautiful natural scenery. In addition, this is also an ideal cloud hunting coordinate for young backpackers.

An indispensable check-in destination for young people when traveling to Ba Den Mountain

7. Useful tips for traveling to Ba Den Mountain

After I have a trip to Ba Den Mountain, here are all the essential tips I would share with you:

– Wear Proper Footwear: If you’re planning to hike, wear sturdy and comfortable shoes as the trails can be rocky and challenging.

– Bring Enough Water and Snacks: Ensure you carry plenty of water and light snacks, especially if you’re trekking. Food options may be limited, especially along the hiking trails.

– Start Early: Start your trip early in the morning to avoid the heat of midday and to enjoy more peaceful surroundings. Early arrival also helps you catch beautiful sunrise views from the summit.

– Check the Weather: Always check the weather forecast before you go, especially during the rainy season (June to November) when trails can become slippery and difficult.

– Dress Modestly: If you plan to visit the Ba Den Pagoda or other sacred spots, dress modestly as a sign of respect to local customs.

– Prepare for the Climb: If trekking, pack light, but be sure to bring essentials like sunscreen, a hat, and a raincoat if the forecast suggests rain.

– Bring a Camera: Don’t forget to bring a camera or phone with a good camera to capture the stunning views, especially from the top of the mountain.