Cu Chi Tunnels, Ho Chi Minh City

The Cu Chi Tunnels, located in Ho Chi Minh City, are a famous historical site today, but during the long periods of war against French colonialists and American imperialists, they served as a mysterious maze of tunnels. These tunnels provided a hiding place for the Vietnamese army and significantly contributed to Vietnam’s victory. Exploring this historical site is often included in one-day tour itineraries around Ho Chi Minh City.

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Overview of the Cu Chi Tunnels

Located about 70 kilometers northwest of downtown Ho Chi Minh City, the Cu Chi Tunnels are an extensive network of tunnels stretching a total length of 250 kilometers, divided into three levels of varying depths. The highest level is 3 meters below ground, the middle level is 6 meters, and the deepest is 12 meters. Besides areas for soldiers to live and store weapons, the Cu Chi Tunnels also include various branches with meeting areas, kitchens, spike pits, booby traps, and minefields.

The secret tunnels were primarily constructed underground, with only one small entrance and exit, just wide enough for a person to pass through, and air vents for breathing. When the entrance was closed, it was difficult for enemies on the surface to detect the tunnels. Soldiers living in enemy territory would hide in these secret tunnels during the day and emerge at night to carry out their missions.

To explore more tourist attractions in Ho Chi Minh City, visit: 9 Top Tourist Attractions in Ho Chi Minh city

However, the secret tunnels had the disadvantage of being easily surrounded or destroyed if discovered by the enemy. This led to the idea of extending the secret tunnels into longer tunnel systems with multiple hidden entrances connecting to the surface. This design allowed soldiers to both hide and fight back against the enemy and, if necessary, escape to a safer location. Thus, the Cu Chi Tunnels were developed and expanded by the Viet Minh resistance forces and the National Front for the Liberation of South Vietnam during the Indochina Wars and the Vietnam War.

Activities at the Cu Chi Tunnels

Touring the Cu Chi Tunnels

Visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels is a unique experience that offers insight into the history and culture of Vietnam, as well as the underground life of the Vietnamese soldiers and civilians during the war. Guided tours will take you through parts of the tunnel system that are open to visitors.

With a stretch of 120 kilometers divided into two levels, you will have the chance to enter the tunnels, experience the underground life, and see how this environment supported the survival and combat efforts of the soldiers. Since the tunnels were built during wartime with narrow and cramped pathways, sometimes requiring you to stoop or crawl to move through, visitors should consider this before deciding to explore the tunnels.

Visit the Military Liberation Zone’s Reenactment Areas

The Military Liberation Zone’s Reenactment Area is constructed in a small bunker near the ground surface. Inside, there is a large screen and simple seating. Here, visitors can watch precious wartime footage that captures the daily life and combat activities of the Vietnamese soldiers and civilians. Some of the scenes are from real documentary footage, while others are re-enactments.

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Testing Your Skills at the Cu Chi Tunnel Shooting Range

Visitors to the Cu Chi Tunnels often enjoy participating in shooting activities. There are two services available for you to choose from:

Military Sports Shooting: This military-style shooting activity is popular among visitors. You can experience firing weapons from the wartime era. After receiving thorough instructions on how to use the weapons and shooting techniques, you can test your marksmanship skills by shooting at animal-shaped targets at the military sports shooting range.
Paintball Shooting: This group activity combines military strategy with sports. In this game, you will simulate actual combat scenarios in the forest. Each participant is fully equipped with a helmet, mask, uniform, armor, and an AR15 or AK47 paintball gun. Paintball shooting helps you demonstrate teamwork, judgment, and quick reflexes. This exciting and safe activity is a must-try for visitors to the Cu Chi Tunnels.

Recreation and Water Games Area

The recreation area is located within the Cu Chi Liberation Zone replica. A 15-minute walk will take you to a scenic lake modeled after the East Sea, surrounded by precious wood forests and three symbolic architectural models from different regions: One Pillar Pagoda, Ngo Mon Gate, and the Ho Chi Minh Museum at Nha Rong Wharf.

At the Cu Chi Tunnels, you can also enjoy various fun activities such as cycling, swimming, and kayaking. Tickets for these activities are available for purchase according to the posted price list.

Visiting the Wildlife Rescue Station

While not part of the Cu Chi Tunnels historical site, the Cu Chi Wildlife Rescue Station is worth a visit if you are traveling by private vehicle. Located on Provincial Road 15, this station is about 1 kilometer from the center of the tunnels. It is the largest wildlife rescue station in the southern region, housing over 3,000 rare animals. Here, visitors can not only interact with wild animals in their natural environment but also hear fascinating stories about them from the rescue staff.

Exploring the Trung An Fruit Garden within the Cu Chi Tunnels

The Trung An Fruit Garden, located within the Cu Chi Tunnels area, is a popular and intriguing destination for visitors. At this garden, you can see a variety of fruit trees such as mango, coconut, jackfruit, soursop, pomelo, orange, tangerine, plum, and durian. After exploring the Cu Chi Tunnels, visitors can enjoy fresh, delicious fruits and learn about the processes involved in growing and caring for these fruit trees.

How to Get to the Cu Chi Tunnels

Traveling to the Cu Chi Tunnels from downtown Ho Chi Minh City, which is about 70 kilometers away, offers several transportation options. Here are some typical methods:

Motorbike or Private Car: From the city center, you can reach the Cu Chi Tunnels via Truong Chinh Street, Highway 22, and Provincial Road 15. If you have internet access on your phone, you can use Google Maps to find the nearest route to the Cu Chi Tunnels. Traveling by private vehicle allows you to enjoy the scenery along the way and sample local delicacies.
Bus to Ben Duoc Tunnel, Phu Hiep Hamlet, Phu My Hung Commune, Cu Chi District:
- Bus Route 13: Depart from Ben Thanh to Cu Chi Bus Station, then take Bus 79 from Cu Chi Bus Station to Ben Duoc Tunnel.
- Bus Route 94: Depart from Cho Lon Bus Station to Cu Chi Bus Station, then take Bus 79 from Cu Chi Bus Station to Ben Duoc Tunnel.
Bus to Ben Dinh Tunnel, Ben Dinh Hamlet, Nhuan Duc Commune, Cu Chi District:
- Bus Route 13: Depart from Ben Thanh to An Sương Bus Station, then take Bus 122 to Tan Quy Bus Station, and finally Bus 70 to Ben Dinh Tunnel.
- Bus Route 94: Depart from Cho Lon Bus Station to An Suong Bus Station, then take Bus 122 to Tan Quy Bus Station, and finally Bus 70 to Ben Dinh Tunnel.
Taxi: If you don’t have a personal vehicle and prefer not to take the bus, a taxi is your best option. The fare from the city center to the Cu Chi Tunnels ranges from 600,000 to 700,000 VND per trip.
Canoe or Boat: Another option for reaching the Cu Chi Tunnels is a river journey. You can book a one-day Cu Chi Tunnels tour with GREENLINE DP, which includes lunch and stops at various points of interest along the way.

Opening Hours and Admission Fees for the Cu Chi Tunnels

Opening Hours: The Cu Chi Tunnels are open from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM every day of the week.

Admission Fees:

Adults: 35,000 VND per person for Vietnamese visitors, 70,000 VND per person for foreign visitors.
Children aged 7 to 16, as well as students, receive a 50% discount on the regular admission fee.
Tickets for the Liberation Zone Replica Area: 65,000 VND per person.

Notes for Visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels

Opening and Closing Hours: Be mindful of the opening and closing hours to plan your visit accordingly.
Clothing: While there is no strict dress code, it is advisable to wear comfortable and neat clothing that is suitable for crawling through tunnels.
Footwear: Wear sports shoes for easier movement within the tunnels.
Hydration: Bring water to stay hydrated during your visit.
Claustrophobia: If you are uncomfortable in tight, enclosed spaces, avoid the smaller tunnels.
Safety Measures: If you wish to participate in shooting activities, ensure you follow all necessary safety precautions.

Conclusion

As of now, the Cu Chi Tunnels historical site is one of the six most famous man-made constructions in the world. It also ranks among the top seven most unusual destinations in Southeast Asia, attracting numerous tourists.

The Cu Chi Tunnels are a historical and cultural landmark in Ho Chi Minh City. This site not only offers deeper insights into the Vietnam War but also provides a range of unique experiences. Make sure to spend time visiting and exploring the Cu Chi Tunnels for an unforgettable adventure.

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