Not far from the magnificent center of Saigon lies a completely different world, a legendary "underground city" – the Cu Chi Tunnels. This is not just an attractive tourist destination but also a living historical relic, an extraordinary testament to the resilience, intelligence, and courage of the Vietnamese people in their struggle for independence. Join us on a journey to explore this underground labyrinth, to gain a deeper understanding of a heroic chapter in the nation's history and to have an unforgettable experience.

Where are the Cu Chi Tunnels and how to get there?

The Cu Chi Tunnels are located in Cu Chi District, about 70km northwest of Ho Chi Minh City's center. It is an ideal spot for travel near Saigon for those who want to delve into history on a short trip. To get there, you have several transportation options:

• Motorbike: This is a suitable choice for young people who love adventure and want to be flexible with their time. You can follow the route of Truong Chinh - National Highway 22, then turn onto Nguyen Thi Ranh street to reach the destination. The route is quite convenient and well-signposted.
• Bus: A cost-effective option. You can take bus number 13 (from Ben Thanh) or 94 (from Cho Lon bus station) to Cu Chi bus station, then transfer to bus 79 to go directly to the tunnels.
• Car/Taxi/Grab: If you are traveling in a large group or with a family including elderly people or children, this is the most comfortable means of transport. You can easily book a car through tech-based apps.
• By tour: This is the simplest and most convenient way, especially for international tourists. Travel agencies will handle everything from transportation, entrance tickets, to tour guides, ensuring you have a complete and informative trip.

What is special about the history of the Cu Chi Tunnels?

The history of the Cu Chi Tunnels is an incredible story of creativity and iron will. This tunnel system began to form in the years 1946-1948, during the resistance against the French colonialists. Initially, they were just short, secret shelters used for hiding, storing documents, and weapons. Each village dug its own separate tunnels.

During the war against the US, especially from 1961 to 1965, the system of shelters and tunnels was strongly developed, connecting villages to form a complex, continuous network. With a total length of about 250km, the tunnels were no longer just a hiding place but had become a complete military base. It was likened to an "underground city" with full functional areas: living quarters, infirmaries, command rooms, weapon and food storage, Hoang Cam smokeless kitchens, and even mini-theaters for entertainment. This great work is a significant part of modern Vietnamese history, embodying the "steel land, brass fortress" spirit of the Cu Chi army and people.

How complex is the structure of this "underground city"?

The complexity of the Cu Chi Tunnels' structure has astonished the world. The system was dug entirely by human labor with rudimentary tools but is incredibly scientific and effective.

• Multi-level structure: The tunnels typically have 2 to 3 levels. The top level is about 3m below the ground, serving as the living area. The middle level, about 5-6m deep, was used to evade small bombs and as a shelter. The deepest level, 8-10m down, was the safest place to avoid large-scale bombing. There are secret hatches between levels.
• Narrow and zigzag passages: The tunnels are very narrow, just enough for one person to squeeze through, and designed in a zigzag pattern to prevent shrapnel and limit the enemy's line of sight if they managed to enter.
• Camouflage and trap system: The tunnel entrances were extremely cleverly camouflaged as termite mounds, bushes, or piles of dry leaves, making them undetectable. The area around the tunnels was a dense system of booby traps, spike pits, and trap doors, which terrified enemy soldiers.
• Ventilation shafts: These were discreetly disguised to bring air into the entire system, ensuring the survival of thousands of people underground for long periods.
• Diverse functional areas: Inside the tunnels was a miniature world including infirmaries, command centers, weapon-making workshops, kitchens, water wells, and even larger areas for meetings and cultural activities.

What unmissable experiences are there at the Cu Chi Tunnels?

Visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels, tourists not only sightsee but also directly experience the life and combat of the people in the past.

• Crawling through the tunnels: This is undoubtedly the most anticipated activity. You will get to experience crawling through narrow, dark, and damp sections of the tunnels to feel the hardship and ingenuity of your ancestors. (Note: Some sections have been widened for tourists, but it's still quite challenging).
• Watching documentary films and dioramas: Before exploring, you will watch a short film introducing the history and construction of the tunnels. A diorama recreating major battles will help you visualize the scale and role of this base more clearly.
• Trying the shooting range: At the national defense sports shooting range, visitors have the opportunity to fire real guns used in the war, such as the AK-47 and M16. This is a unique and thrilling experience.
• Tasting boiled cassava with sesame salt: After a tiring exploration, you will be invited to enjoy boiled cassava dipped in sesame salt – the staple food of the soldiers back then. A simple dish, yet incredibly meaningful.
• Exploring the liberated zone replica: This area displays models and wax figures recreating the daily life, production, and combat of the Cu Chi army and people, giving visitors a comprehensive and vivid overview.

How much is the entrance fee for the Cu Chi Tunnels in 2024?

The Cu Chi Tunnels have two main tourist areas: Ben Dinh (Nuan Duc commune) and Ben Duoc (Phu My Hung commune). The Ben Dinh area is generally more popular with international tourists. The reference ticket prices are as follows:

• Vietnamese visitors: Approximately 20,000 VND - 35,000 VND/person (depending on the area).
• International visitors: Approximately 90,000 VND - 110,000 VND/person.
• Opening hours: From 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily.

Please note that this ticket price does not include other services such as shooting, dining, or other entertainment activities on the premises.

What should you prepare for a trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels?

To ensure a complete and comfortable visit, you should prepare the following:

• Attire: Wear neat, sweat-absorbent clothing. Long pants and a t-shirt are the best choice. Avoid wearing skirts or very short shorts as they will be inconvenient when crawling through tunnels and moving through the forest.
• Footwear: Choose a pair of comfortable sneakers or flat shoes that are easy to walk in.
• Health: The tunnel crawling activity is not suitable for people with claustrophobia, cardiovascular disease, or high blood pressure.
• Personal items: Don't forget to bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and insect repellent.

A trip to explore the Cu Chi Tunnels is not just a simple tour but a profound history lesson. It gives us a chance to bow in admiration of a great work created from the sweat, blood, and wisdom of the previous generation. If you have the opportunity to visit Saigon, don't miss the chance to set foot on this "steel land"!

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