Ba Na Hills
A mountaintop world of fantasy.
4.5 ⭐ (50K)
Introduction
Ba Na Hills (Bà Nà Hills) is a mountaintop resort and theme park complex located in the Truong Son Mountains west of Da Nang. Accessible via one of the world's longest non-stop cable car rides, its main feature is the Golden Bridge held by two giant stone hands. The complex re-creates a medieval French village and includes gardens, temples, and an indoor amusement park, all at an altitude of nearly 1,500 meters.
Golden Bridge
This is the main draw for most visitors. The 150-meter-long pedestrian bridge appears to be held aloft by two colossal, weathered stone hands, offering expansive views of the surrounding landscape. It serves as a spectacular walkway connecting the cable car station to the Le Jardin D'Amour gardens.
French Village
A detailed re-creation of a medieval French town, complete with cobblestone streets, a town square, a cathedral, and numerous cafes and restaurants. The architecture provides a unique backdrop for photos and a distinct contrast to the tropical environment below.
Le Jardin D'Amour Flower Gardens
A collection of nine distinct gardens, each with its own theme and layout. These manicured gardens offer colorful floral displays, intricate landscaping, and several peaceful spots to escape the crowds of the main village.
Linh Ung Pagoda
Part of a trio of pagodas with the same name in Da Nang, this one is notable for its tranquil setting and a large, seated white Buddha statue that stands 27 meters tall. The pagoda offers a serene atmosphere and clear views from its courtyard.
Fantasy Park
A large indoor amusement park built into the mountain, offering a variety of rides and games for families and children. Inspired by the novels "Journey to the Center of the Earth" and "Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea", it provides an all-weather entertainment option.
Getting there
From Da Nang City Center/My Khe Beach to Ba Na Hills (approx. 30 km):
🚗 Taxi: 45-60 mins | 400,000 - 600,000 VND ~ $16 - $24 USD one way. Many drivers will offer a fixed price for a round trip with waiting time.
🚘 Ride-Hailing App (Grab): 45-60 mins | 350,000 - 500,000 VND ~ $14 - $20 USD one way. Booking a round trip may be more challenging.
🚌 Shuttle Bus: 60-75 mins | 120,000 - 150,000 VND ~ $5 - $6 USD per person round trip. Many tour operators and the official Sun World group offer shuttle services from various points in Da Nang. This is often the most cost-effective option.
🛵 Motorbike: 50-60 mins. Suitable for experienced riders, the road is well-paved but involves mountain driving. Parking is available at the base station.
⚠️ The road to Ba Na Hills is mountainous, so travel by car or shuttle bus is the most comfortable option. Booking a private car for a day trip is a popular choice, allowing for a flexible schedule.
Hours & Admission
🕗 Opening hours:
- Monday - Sunday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Note: Cable car operation times can vary slightly. Always check the official website for the most current schedule before your visit.
🎫 Ticket prices:
- Adult (Outside Da Nang province): 900,000 VND ~ $36 USD
- Child 1m-1.4m (Outside Da Nang province): 750,000 VND ~ $30 USD
- Adult (Da Nang resident): 600,000 VND ~ $24 USD
- Child 1m-1.4m (Da Nang resident): 500,000 VND ~ $20 USD
- Children under 1m: Free
- Note: The entrance ticket includes round-trip cable car access and entry to most attractions, including the Golden Bridge and Fantasy Park. Combo tickets with a lunch buffet are often available online and offer better value for money. It is highly recommended to book tickets online in advance to avoid long queues at the ticket counter.
🚶 Best time to visit:
- The best time of year is during Da Nang's dry season, from March to September, for a higher chance of clear skies. To avoid the worst crowds at the Golden Bridge, take the very first cable car of the day, arriving before 8:30 AM.
⌚ Recommended duration:
- Plan for a full day (at least 6-8 hours) to experience the main attractions without rushing, including the time for the cable car ride.
Tips from locals
Local tips
🎟️ Book your entrance tickets online through the official Sun World website or a reputable agent at least a day in advance. This allows you to use a QR code to enter directly, skipping the often lengthy queues at the physical ticket counters.
🧥 The weather on top of Ba Na Hills can be much cooler and more unpredictable than in Da Nang. Even on a hot day, it's wise to bring a light jacket or cardigan, as clouds can roll in quickly and cause the temperature to drop.
👟 Be prepared for a significant amount of walking. The complex is vast, with many stairs and sloped paths connecting the various attractions. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for a comfortable experience.
💡 To see the Golden Bridge with the fewest people, plan to be on the very first cable car of the day. The bridge fills up with tour groups quickly after 9:00 AM, making it difficult to get clean photos. An early start is the single best way to appreciate its design.
Be aware
👨👩👧👦 This is one of Vietnam's most popular attractions, and it gets extremely crowded, particularly from mid-morning to mid-afternoon and on weekends. Be prepared for queues for the cable car and a packed experience on the Golden Bridge.
☁️ The mountain has its own microclimate. Fog and clouds can obscure the famous views completely, even if it's perfectly sunny down in Da Nang. Check the live weather cams if possible, but go with managed expectations regarding visibility.
💰 Food and beverages inside the complex are sold at a significant markup. Prices are comparable to those in a Western theme park. To manage costs, consider eating a large breakfast before you go or purchasing a ticket combo that includes the lunch buffet, which is often a better value than the à la carte options.
FAQs
Is the cable car ticket included in the Ba Na Hills entrance fee?
Yes, the general admission ticket includes a round-trip journey on the cable car.
How long is the cable car ride to Ba Na Hills?
The ride takes approximately 17 to 20 minutes each way and offers excellent views of the surrounding forests and waterfalls.
Can I buy Ba Na Hills tickets at the entrance?
Yes, but it is highly recommended to buy them online in advance to skip the long ticket queues, which can save you up to an hour during peak times.
What is the best time of day to visit the Golden Bridge?
The best time is right when the park opens, typically between 8:00 AM and 9:00 AM, before the majority of tour buses arrive.
Do I need to bring a jacket to Ba Na Hills?
Yes, it is highly recommended. The temperature at the top is often 5-8°C cooler than in Da Nang, and it can feel chilly when it's cloudy or windy.
Is Ba Na Hills suitable for children?
Absolutely. The Fantasy Park is a large indoor amusement park with numerous rides and games designed for children and teenagers.
How much time should I spend at Ba Na Hills?
A full day is ideal to explore comfortably. Budget at least 6 to 8 hours for your visit, including travel time on the cable car.
Can I visit only the Golden Bridge?
No, the Golden Bridge is located within the Ba Na Hills complex. You must purchase the full entrance ticket to access it.
Is the food expensive at Ba Na Hills?
Yes, food and drink prices are significantly higher than in Da Nang city. The lunch buffet combos generally offer the best value.
Are drones allowed at Ba Na Hills?
No, for safety and security reasons, the use of drones by visitors is strictly prohibited throughout the entire complex.
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