Cu Chi Tunnels is a popular place in Vietnam for people to learn about the country’s history, especially the Second Indochina War.
It’s not just for adults; even kids can enjoy it.
Here, you can see how people lived during the war and dealt with enemy attacks.
One exciting part is the complex underground tunnels that stretch for 75 miles.
It’s like stepping into a real war adventure.
You can visit two tunnel sites: the Ben Dinh Tunnel and the Ben Duoc Tunnel.
Ben Duoc Tunnel is less crowded and more memorable.
Are you planning to visit the Ben Duoc Tunnel? Our guide will answer your queries!
During the Vietnam War, Vietcong soldiers used these tunnels
The tunnels were built over 25 years, starting in the mid-1940s when they fought against the French.
At first, these tunnels were rudimentary, short, and not connected.
Local people used them to hide from enemy soldiers and protect essential things.
But as time passed, people decided to connect these tunnels.
They turned the tunnels into a complex maze.
In the early 1960s, they improved the tunnels, making them more organized and adding new parts.
These tunnels became the main military base for Southern Vietnam during their fight against the French.
The tunnels weren’t just for hiding; they had different rooms for training, hospitals, kitchens, storage, and even headquarters.
They also helped the Viet Cong carry out sneak attacks, ambushes, and set traps for their enemies.
Many essential strategies were planned underground.
Interestingly, a significant victory in the Vietnam War, called the Tet Offensive, was planned and started from the Cu Chi Tunnels in 1968.
However, the secret of these tunnels couldn’t stay hidden forever.
Foreign soldiers couldn’t fit inside the small tunnels, so they trained “tunnel rats” – small men who crawled inside to find the Viet Cong and plant explosives.
But the tunnels were so well-designed and guarded that they stayed strong.
Why is the Ben Duoc Tunnel better than the Ben Dinh Tunnel?
Ben Duoc Tunnel is better if you want a more authentic experience.
Realistic Tunnel System
Ben Duoc Tunnel has narrow and rough underground passages, giving you a near-authentic taste of soldiers’ lives during the Vietnam War.
Ben Dinh Tunnel is more popular among tourists because it’s closer and easier to navigate, but if you want to understand the war, go to Ben Duoc.
Five Times Bigger
The Ben Duoc Tunnel covers a massive area, five times larger than the Ben Dinh Tunnel.
This means you’ll explore more and discover a complex underground world.
Ben Dinh was partly recreated for tourists, while Ben Duoc was the headquarters during the war.
More Historical Sites
The Ben Duoc Tunnel has many historical sites, like the Ben Duoc Memorial Temple and the Hoang Cam Kitchen.
In contrast, Ben Dinh Tunnel offers recreational activities like shooting and kayaking.
So, it depends on whether you prefer history and culture or entertainment.
How to Get to Ben Duoc Tunnel
You have a few options to get to Ben Duoc Tunnel:
Public Bus
This is the most budget-friendly choice. You can take bus number 13 from the 23/9 Park bus station.
After about 1.5 hours, you’ll get to Cu Chi Station.
Then, catch bus number 79, and you’ll reach the Ben Duoc Tunnel in around 50 minutes.
Just pay attention to the route so you don’t miss your stop.
Start your journey early in the morning, as it may take some time.
Taxi
If you prefer convenience and don’t mind spending more, call a cab to take you directly to the Ben Duoc Tunnel.
It will take about 1.5 hours, and a round trip costs around 1,000,000 – 1,200,000 VND (about $50 – 60).
Alternatively, you can use a ride-hailing service like Grab for a more affordable option.
Motorbike/Scooter
If you enjoy riding, you can take Route 22 until you reach Cu Chi District. Then, follow Nguyen Thi Thach Street.
It’s a good idea to ask locals for directions to avoid getting lost.
Riding a bike allows you to explore Cu Chi’s wildlife rescue station and try local specialties.
However, we don’t recommend this for first-time visitors due to the distance and complex routes.
Boat
For a unique adventure, you can take a boat to Cu Chi.
Boat services like Saigon Boat Company, Saigon River Tour, or Les Rives offer tours to Cu Chi by speedboat, giving you a different perspective as you travel on the water.
What to Do at Ben Duoc Tunnel
When you visit Ben Duoc Tunnel, there are many exciting things to do:
Explore the Open-Air Museum
As you enter, there’s an open-air museum where you can see different types of bombs used by the enemies and the weapons used by Vietnamese soldiers to protect themselves.
Learn in the Hall
Your guide will take you through the woods to a hall.
Here, you can watch documentaries about the place and hear from people dressed in traditional Vietnamese clothing.
They will tell you about the history and how the Cu Chi underground tunnel system developed.
Tour the Underground Buildings
You’ll get to go on a tour of the underground buildings.
One exciting thing to see is a clever invention in the Hoang Cam kitchen, designed to hide the smoke while cooking.
Try War-Era Food
You’ll stop at a place to taste the food that guerrillas ate during the war.
They used to eat boiled cassava with sesame salt and Vietnamese-style onigiri.
Explore Booby Traps
There are also booby traps to check out; you can take photos to remember your visit.
It’s a place full of history and exciting things to discover!
Ben Duoc Tunnel Opening Hours
Ben Duoc Tunnel opens at 8 am and closes at 5 pm every day, even on the weekends.
| Day | Time |
|---|---|
| Monday to Sunday | 8 am – 5 pm |
Helpful Tips for Your Visit
Here are some tips to make your visit to Ben Duoc Tunnel more enjoyable:
Wear Comfortable Clothes
There’s no strict dress code, but wearing comfy sneakers and long pants is a good idea.
This will help prevent scratches if you decide to crawl inside the tunnels.
Protect Yourself from the Sun and Bugs
Don’t forget to bring sunscreen and insect repellent.
These will help you stay comfortable during your visit.
Choose the Right Season
The best time to visit Cu Chi Tunnels is during the dry season, from December to April.
This way, you won’t get all muddy from the rain.
If you go during the rainy season, bring a poncho.
Check Out the Souvenir Shop
Don’t miss the souvenir shop.
You can find some cool bamboo souvenirs at reasonable prices to bring back for your family and friends.
Consider Your Health
If you have claustrophobia (fear of tight spaces) or respiratory issues, it’s better not to go inside the tunnels.
Your safety and comfort are essential.
Following these tips will help you enjoy exploring the Ben Duoc Tunnel!
FAQs
Is the Ben Duoc Tunnel open to tourists?
Yes, the Ben Duoc Tunnel is open to tourists. You can visit to learn about its history and significance.
Can I explore the tunnel on my own, or do I need a guided tour?
It’s highly recommended to take a guided tour. Guides provide valuable insights into the history and can safely lead you through the tunnels.
What should I wear and bring when visiting the Ben Duoc Tunnel?
Wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes suitable for walking. Bringing a flashlight, insect repellent, and bottled water is a good idea.
Are there any restrictions for visitors inside the tunnel?
Yes, visitors with claustrophobia or mobility issues may find it challenging to navigate the tunnels. It’s important to inform your guide about any concerns.
Is photography allowed inside the Ben Duoc Tunnel?
Photography is usually allowed, but some areas may have restrictions. Always ask your guide for guidance to respect the site’s rules.
How do I get to the Ben Duoc Tunnel from the nearest city or airport?
You can typically reach the Ben Duoc Tunnel by car or by joining a guided tour from Ho Chi Minh City, the nearest major city.
Are there any nearby attractions or points of interest to visit along with the Ben Duoc Tunnel?
Yes, the Cu Chi Tunnels are often visited along with the Ben Duoc Tunnel, as they are in the same region and offer a deeper understanding of the history.
What languages are the guided tours available in?
Tours are often available in multiple languages, including English. You can inquire about language options when booking your tour.
Is there a souvenir shop or café at the Ben Duoc Tunnel site?
Some tour operators may have souvenir shops or cafes nearby where you can purchase memorabilia and refreshments.
Can I touch or interact with the artifacts inside the tunnel?
It’s best to ask your guide about specific rules regarding touching or handling artifacts. In most cases, it’s advisable not to touch them to preserve their integrity.
Are there any special events or ceremonies at the Ben Duoc Tunnel?
Occasionally, special events or ceremonies are held at the site, especially on significant historical dates. You can inquire about any upcoming events when planning your visit.
Is there a best time of year to visit the Ben Duoc Tunnel to avoid crowds and extreme weather?
The cooler and drier months from November to April are generally the best times to visit to avoid both large crowds and heavy rains.
Featured Image: Facebook.com/realcuchitunnels
