Lonely Planet lists Ba Den Mountain as must-have Vietnam experience

Ba Den Mountain is not only known as the "roof of southern Vietnam" but also as a destination rich in historical and cultural significance in the eyes of international travellers. This landmark is recommended for those looking to delve into history, culture, and fascinating legends in the southern province of Tay Ninh.

According to Lonely Planet, international travellers interested in exploring culture, history, and war remnants can follow an itinerary starting from Ho Chi Minh City, then visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels, the Cao Dai Holy See, and Ba Den Mountain (Tay Ninh).

The majestic Bodhisattva Tay Bo Da Son statue amid the clouds on Ba Den mountain

In Lonely Planet’s Top 15 Experiences in Vietnam for 2025, visiting the Cao Dai Holy See in Tay Ninh ranks fourth, alongside other remarkable experiences such as exploring Bai Tu Long Bay and visiting the imperial tombs in Hue. Travellers are advised to extend their journey by heading 15km northeast to Ba Den Mountain, taking a cable car to the summit, and exploring the temple and cave complexes.

Located about 100km northwest of Ho Chi Minh City, Ba Den Mountain stands at 986m, earning the title "roof of southern Vietnam." The mountain’s majestic presence, often shrouded in drifting white clouds, creates a mesmerising landscape. It is also a significant religious centre, attracting millions of visitors annually for both tourism and pilgrimage. The site is home to numerous Buddhist and folk religious structures, including temples, pagodas, shrines, and towers.

The temple complex on Ba Den Mountain

The temple complex on the mountain creates a sacred atmosphere, drawing visitors to explore and learn about the history and culture of southern Vietnam.

Among the most visited spiritual sites is Linh Son Tien Thach Pagoda, closely linked to the legend of Ba Den, also known as Linh Son Thanh Mau Bodhisattva. As a symbol of faith in Southern Vietnam, Linh Son Thanh Mau is revered for her miraculous manifestations and compassion, serving as a spiritual anchor for the local people.

"The highlight of Ba Den Mountain is the noticeably cooler temperature compared to the lowlands," Lonely Planet says. With temperatures consistently 5-10 degrees Celsius lower than the plains, Ba Den Mountain is an ideal retreat from the heat in Tay Ninh, which experiences a tropical climate year-round. Many Southern Vietnamese even call this place as the "Dalat of southeastern Vietnam."

Ba Den Mountain peak attracts millions of visitors annually

Beyond its cultural and spiritual values, Ba Den Mountain also preserves significant war remnants. Its caves were used as shelters, weapon storage sites, and command centres for military operations. Today, remnants of the war remain, making the mountain an essential part of Vietnam’s historical exploration—especially for international visitors departing from Ho Chi Minh City.

The sandstone statue of Maitreya Bodhisattva – A manifestation of joy and the future atop Ba Den Mountain

To explore Ba Den Mountain, visitors can take advantage of a modern cable car system, which provides easy access to key attractions, including war memorial sites and temple complexes.

A notable highlight of the mountain is the Bodhisattva Tay Bo Da Son statue, standing 72m tall. This intricately carved statue, cast from over 170 tonnes of red copper, is recognised by the Asia Book of Records as the Tallest Copper Bodhisattva Statue on a Mountaintop in Asia. At the peak, visitors will also find a statue of Maitreya Buddha, representing joy and future blessings. According to folk beliefs, the beginning of the year is the best time to seek Maitreya’s blessings and embrace positive energy for the future.

With its combination of cultural heritage, war history, and significant religious sites, Ba Den Mountain is more than just a scenic attraction. It is also a "red address"–a particularly meaningful destination for those interested in the communist history and the unique identity of this borderland region.

Spiritual complex on Ba Den Mountain Ba Den Mountain is not only famous for the title "Reef of Southern Vietnam" with majestic scenery but also a sacred mountain associated with the legend of Linh Son Thanh Mau Bodhisattva and a system of magnificent spriritual works.

New cable car at Ba Den Mountain launched A new two-line cable car system has opened in the southern province of Tay Ninh, taking visitors to the top of Ba Den (Black Lady) Mountain and Ba Den Pagoda.

Tourism, investment potential of Tay Ninh introduced to foreign firms The southern province of Tay Ninh introduced its tourism potential and investment opportunities to diplomats and businesses of 15 countries at a meeting in Tay Ninh city on August 22.