Things To Do
in Tây Ninh

Tây Ninh is a vibrant province in southern Vietnam, known for its unique cultural heritage and stunning landscapes. It is home to the famous Cao Dai Temple, a colorful religious site that attracts visitors from all over the world. The region's proximity to the Cambodian border adds to its charm, making it a gateway for travelers seeking adventure.

With its lush green hills and traditional villages, Tây Ninh offers a blend of natural beauty and rich history.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Culture and Nature
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Cao Dai Temple, the center of the Cao Dai religion, where you can witness the morning prayer ceremony at 12 PM.

afternoon
:

After lunch at a local eatery, head to the Ba Den Mountain where you can hike to the summit for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and take a stroll around the night market to experience the local street food scene.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure and Relaxation
morning
:

Visit the historic Cu Chi Tunnels to learn about Vietnam's wartime history and the incredible underground network used during the war.

afternoon
:

Return to Tây Ninh and spend some time at the Dau Tieng Lake, perfect for relaxation or a leisurely boat ride.

evening
:

Dine at a riverside restaurant while enjoying the sunset over the lake, followed by a visit to a local bar for live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Bowl of Pho$2
Vietnamese Coffee$1
🍻Local Beer$1
🍽️Meal at Local Restaurant$5
🚍Bus Ticket$0.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage with unique attractions like Cao Dai Temple.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Affordable cost of living and delicious local cuisine.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Language barrier may be challenging for non-Vietnamese speakers.
  • Public transportation can be less reliable.
  • "Xin chào" - Hello
  • "Cảm ơn" - Thank you
  • "Xin lỗi" - Sorry
  • "Giá bao nhiêu?" - How much?
  • "Tôi không hiểu" - I don't understand

Places to Visit in Tây Ninh

Visit one of these nice places.

Cao Dai Temple

An architectural marvel with vivid colors and unique design, perfect for capturing the essence of local spirituality.

Ba Den Mountain

Offers panoramic views and stunning landscapes, ideal for landscape photography, especially at sunrise or sunset.

Dau Tieng Lake

A serene location with scenic views, perfect for capturing reflections and tranquil moments.

Culinary Guide

Food in Tây Ninh

Tây Ninh offers a delightful culinary experience with its unique local dishes and vibrant street food culture.

Tây Ninh Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bánh Tráng Phơi Sương

A type of rice paper that is soft and chewy, often served with fresh vegetables and grilled meats.

Must-Try!

Gà Tiềm

A traditional chicken soup flavored with herbs, spices, and often served with rice.

Bánh Xèo

Vietnamese savory pancakes filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts, served with fresh herbs and dipping sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Tây Ninh Market

A bustling market offering fresh produce, local delicacies, and street food stalls that are perfect for tasting local flavors.

Night Market

A vibrant night market with a variety of street food options, from grilled meats to sweet desserts.

Climate Guide

Weather

Tây Ninh has a tropical climate characterized by a wet and dry season. The dry season runs from November to April, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). The wet season lasts from May to October, bringing higher humidity and temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F), along with significant rainfall. Overall, the best time to visit is during the dry season when outdoor activities are most enjoyable.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Religion

When visiting temples, dress modestly and behave respectfully, ensuring to remove shoes when entering sacred areas.

Greetings

A polite greeting involves a slight bow and a smile; avoid direct physical contact, especially with the opposite gender.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating, and it’s polite to try a bit of everything offered.

Safety Guide

Safety

Tây Ninh is generally a safe destination for travelers, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid displaying valuables, especially in crowded areas, and be cautious of your belongings. It's advisable to stay in well-lit areas at night and use reputable transportation services.

Tipping in Tây Ninh

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but some restaurants and hotels accept credit cards; ATMs are available in urban areas.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (November to April)

Expect warm, dry weather, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the region.

Wet Season (May to October)

Frequent rains can occur, but the landscape is lush and vibrant; it's advisable to carry an umbrella.

Tet Holiday (January/February)

A vibrant time with many festivities, but some businesses may close for the holiday.

Harvest Season (September to November)

The countryside is filled with golden rice fields, offering stunning photography opportunities.

Nightlife Guide

Tây Ninh at Night

Tây Ninh offers a modest nightlife scene that primarily revolves around local bars, night markets, and karaoke lounges. The atmosphere is laid-back, with many locals enjoying evenings out with friends over food and drinks. Visitors can find live music in some venues, particularly on weekends, creating a lively environment.

Hiking in Tây Ninh

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Ba Den Mountain Trail

A popular hiking route that leads to the summit of Ba Den Mountain, offering stunning views and a chance to explore local flora and fauna.

Dau Tieng Nature Reserve

This area offers several hiking trails through diverse ecosystems, including wetlands and forests, ideal for nature lovers.

Airports

How to reach Tây Ninh by plane.

Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN)

Located approximately 90 kilometers from Tây Ninh, this is the nearest international airport, serving numerous domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Tây Ninh is relatively walkable, especially in the city center where most attractions, restaurants, and shops are located within walking distance. Sidewalks are available, but some areas may be less developed. It's advisable to wear comfortable shoes and stay aware of traffic conditions.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Cao Dai Followers

A significant portion of the population practices Cao Dai, a syncretic religion that combines elements of various faiths.

Ethnic Minorities

Tây Ninh is home to various ethnic minority groups, each contributing to the province’s cultural diversity.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is widely popular among locals, with many informal games played in parks and open spaces.

Martial Arts

Traditional Vietnamese martial arts are practiced in the region, with various schools offering classes.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Tây Ninh is typically manageable, with a mix of motorbikes, cars, and bicycles. Public transportation options include buses and taxis, but they may not be as frequent as in larger cities. It's common for visitors to rent motorbikes for greater flexibility in exploring the area.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Tây Ninh.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it's advisable to ask for no fish sauce or meat to ensure compliance.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are limited, so it’s best to communicate your dietary needs in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Tây Ninh is basic, with several local clinics and a few hospitals available for general medical needs. For more serious conditions or specialized treatments, it's recommended to travel to larger cities like Ho Chi Minh City. Travelers should ensure they have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover Vietnam

Read more in our Vietnam 2025 Travel Guide.

Vietnam Travel Guide