Ben Duoc Tunnel: A Hidden Gem in Cu Chi Tunnels

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. 

DayTime
Monday to Sunday8 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

1. Is the Ben Duoc Tunnel open to tourists?

2. Can I explore the tunnel on my own, or do I need a guided tour?

3. What should I wear and bring when visiting the Ben Duoc Tunnel?

4. Are there any restrictions for visitors inside the tunnel?

5. Is photography allowed inside the Ben Duoc Tunnel?

6. How do I get to the Ben Duoc Tunnel from the nearest city or airport?

7. Are there any nearby attractions or points of interest to visit along with the Ben Duoc Tunnel?

8. What languages are the guided tours available in?

9. Is there a souvenir shop or café at the Ben Duoc Tunnel site?

10. Can I touch or interact with the artifacts inside the tunnel?

11. Are there any special events or ceremonies at the Ben Duoc Tunnel?

12. Is there a best time of year to visit the Ben Duoc Tunnel to avoid crowds and extreme weather?

Featured Image: Facebook.com/realcuchitunnels

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