Things To Do
in Tây Ninh
Tây Ninh Province sits just northwest of Ho Chi Minh City, near the Cambodian border, offering a calm contrast to Vietnam’s big cities. It is renowned for the Cao Dai Great Holy See, a striking temple complex that blends multiple faiths, and for Ba Den Mountain, a gateway to scenic hikes and sweeping views. The region's landscapes are a mosaic of rice fields, fruit orchards, and small rural towns that pulse with local markets and temples.
With a warm, tropical climate and friendly communities, Tây Ninh makes for an authentic southern Vietnam experience away from the usual tourist trails.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Tây Ninh and check into your accommodation. Start your day with a delicious local breakfast, sampling bánh canh or hủ tiếu at a nearby eatery. Spend some time exploring the local markets, immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere filled with colorful goods and lively interactions.
Visit the iconic Cao Dai Temple, where you can observe the fascinating rituals and unique architecture that attracts visitors from around the world. Take a guided tour to learn about the history and beliefs of Cao Daism, which combines elements of different religions. Enjoy a fresh lunch at a local restaurant serving up traditional specialties.
Relax in the evening with a stroll around the nearby lake, taking in the tranquil ambiance as the sun sets. Consider trying a local dinner that features grilled meats and fresh herbs at an outdoor market. End your day with a cup of Vietnamese coffee, savoring the rich flavors in the cool evening air.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before heading out to explore the lush rural landscapes surrounding Tây Ninh. Rent a bicycle and cycle through the picturesque rice paddies and charming villages, interacting with friendly locals along the way. Stop at a family-run farm to gain insight into traditional agriculture practices.
After lunch, visit the impressive Black Virgin Mountain (Núi Bà Đen), where you can hike to the summit for breathtaking views or take a cable car for a more relaxed ascent. Discover the beautiful temples nestled in the mountain, enriched by local legend. Spend time at the small waterfalls at the base, perfect for a refreshing dip.
Head back to Tây Ninh town for dinner, where street food vendors tempt your taste buds with their delicious offerings. Try the local specialty of bánh tráng, a type of rice paper typically served with fresh vegetables and meats. Conclude the night with a visit to a lively café, enjoying music and conversations with locals.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🍜Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| 🏨1-night in a mid-range hotel | $25-50 |
| 🚲Local transportation (per day) | $3-8 |
| 🛍️Souvenirs and small goods | $5-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage (Cao Dai temple)
- Stunning natural scenery (Ba Den Mountain)
- Affordable travel and food
- Calmer alternative to bigger cities
- Limited nightlife and Western comforts compared to Ho Chi Minh City
- Occasional road and traffic delays in peak hours
- English may be limited in rural areas
- Very hot and humid conditions can be uncomfortable
- "Xin chào" - Hello
- "Cảm ơn" - Thank you
- "Xin lỗi" - Sorry
- "Bạn có nói tiếng Anh không?" - Do you speak English?
- "Bao nhiêu tiền?" - How much is this?
Places to Visit in Tây Ninh
Visit one of these nice places.
A vibrant multi-faith temple complex with striking architecture, colorful arcs, and ceremonial spaces that make for dramatic photography at different times of day.
A commanding hill with sweeping vistas over the plains; the cable car or hiking paths offer dramatic landscape photos, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Food in Tây Ninh
Tây Ninh Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Tender, young beef skewers grilled with simple seasonings; order with salt, pepper, and a dipping sauce for a signature experience.
Must-Try!
Thick tapioca noodle soup, typically served with pork or shrimp, fresh herbs, and a savory broth—a regionally iconic bowl.
A classic southern dish of broken rice with grilled pork; great when paired with a fresh cucumber pickle and fish sauce.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling local market where you can sample street foods, fresh produce, and regional snacks, especially in the mornings and early afternoons.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; shoulders and knees should be covered; remove hats in sacred spaces if required.
Greet with a calm, friendly tone; use simple Vietnamese phrases when possible; avoid loud conversations in sacred or quiet areas.
Safety
Tipping in Tây Ninh
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary but appreciated for exceptional service; small tips in cash are common in restaurants or for hotel staff, usually a few thousand to a few tens of thousands VND.
Cash (Vietnamese dong) is widely used; some larger establishments accept card payments, but many smaller eateries and markets operate on cash. ATMs are available in towns but may have occasional withdrawal limits.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Typically sunny and comfortable for outdoor activities; lower humidity and less rain, ideal for temple visits and mountain views.
Afternoon showers are common; mornings can be clear, but the humidity rises; plan for flexible outdoor schedules and waterproof gear.
Tây Ninh at Night
Hiking in Tây Ninh
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A major hiking destination with several routes and a cable car, offering rewarding views over the plains.
Airports
How to reach Tây Ninh by plane.
Major gateway to the region; connects to domestic and international destinations; serves as the primary access point for Tây Ninh travelers.
Regional airport offering domestic flights; farther from Tây Ninh but accessible by road and rail connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The dominant ethnic group in Tây Ninh with a mix of minority communities.
A significant minority near the border, preserving distinct cultural traditions and temple sites.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and watched at schools and in communities; local clubs and pickup games are common.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tây Ninh.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can find vegetable-based dishes and tofu options; communicate plainly in Vietnamese or use a locals’ phrase to request no meat, no fish sauce, and no shrimp paste. Many places can prepare simple vegetable dishes or clear broth upon request.