Cu Chi Tunnel

Top Highlights To Discover At Cu Chi Tunnel

The Cu Chi Tunnels in Cu Chi District offer a glimpse into Vietnam's wartime history. There are maps of the Cu Chi Tunnels available to help guide you through the complex maze. You will discover entire underground villages that housed not only soldiers but also families who lived and worked underground to evade detection by American soldiers.

You can participate in the Tunnel Crawl Experience, where you navigate through sections of the tunnels to understand the cramped conditions that soldiers faced during the war. The tunnels are preserved as a war memorial park, featuring two display sites: Ben Dinh and Ben Duoc. Here, you can explore underground conference rooms, learn about the various types of booby traps employed during the conflict, and appreciate the resilience and tactics of the Viet Cong.

Hidden Tunnel Entrances and Booby Traps

The Cu Chi Tunnels include cleverly disguised tunnel entrances that allowed Viet Cong soldiers to move discreetly and evade American soldiers.

As you go deeper into the tunnels, you'll see demonstrations of various booby traps set by the Viet Cong to protect their territory. You will also find "breathing mounds", which were small mounds of dirt that allowed air circulation while keeping the tunnel entrances concealed.

Documentary Display Rooms

If you want to delve deeper into the history of Cu Chi Tunnels, visit the documentary rooms located on site. These documentaries highlight the historical significance of the Cu Chi Tunnels, give insights into the daily lives of the Viet Cong soldiers and the strategies employed in the Iron Triangle, a vital area encompassing the tunnel system.

The documentary presentations also feature stories from tunnel rats, the soldiers tasked with navigating the tunnel system to gather intelligence and eliminate threats.

Live Firing Range

Cu Chi Tunnels offers a live firing range where you can try your hand at shooting authentic weapons used during the Vietnam War. As you fire rounds from firearms, you will be reminded of the intensity and chaos faced by Vietnamese soldiers and American troops on the battlefield.

150-meter dash through the tunnels

At Cu Chi Tunnels, you will have the chance to participate in a 150-meter dash through the tunnels. This interactive experience allows you to crawl through a section of the tunnel system, providing a firsthand understanding of the cramped and dark conditions that Viet Cong soldiers endured.

B-52 Bomb Craters

The B-52 bomb craters near the Cu Chi Tunnels serve as a stark reminder of the intense bombing campaigns that targeted this region during the Vietnam War. These massive craters were created by American bombers and illustrate the devastation wrought upon the landscape and its people.

Ben Duoc Memorial Temple

The Ben Duoc Memorial Temple honors the bravery of the Viet Cong soldiers who fought during the Vietnam War. This temple serves as a place of remembrance and reflection, allowing visitors to pay their respects to those who sacrificed their lives for their country.

There are beautiful gardens and memorials surrounding the temple that are dedicated to various units and individuals who played crucial roles in the struggle for independence. The architecture and design of the temple reflect traditional Vietnamese styles, creating a serene atmosphere.

Handicapped Handicrafts

Visit the Handicapped Handicrafts workshop nearby that supports war victims, many of whom are affected by the lingering effects of Agent Orange (a chemical herbicide used by US military in the Vietnam war). The workshop provides employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities, allowing them to create beautiful traditional Vietnamese lacquerware and handicrafts.

Visit the nearby Saigon Opera House

The Saigon Opera House in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, is a beautiful old building where you can watch amazing performances like ballet and traditional Vietnamese music. You can see a show, check out the cool architecture, or take a guided tour to learn its history. It's a 2-hour drive from Ben Thanh Market, so you can easily visit both places in one day in busy Ho Chi Minh City.

Tips For Visiting Cu Chi Tunnels

Wear comfortable clothing

Dress in light, breathable clothing and sturdy shoes because you will be crawling through narrow tunnels and walking on uneven terrain.

Bring a mosquito spray

Mosquitoes are prevalent in the area, so remember to apply insect repellent to keep mosquitoes at bay.

Stay Hydrated

Carry plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially during the warmer months.

Avoid visiting during the rainy season

If possible, plan your visit during the dry season from December to April to avoid heavy rains that can make the terrain muddy and slippery.

Respect the site

Remember that the Cu Chi Tunnels are a significant historical site, so it's essential to be respectful of the area and its artifacts. Following the guidelines provided by the staff helps preserve this important landmark for future visitors.