Củ Chi Tunnels
An immense underground network of war.
🥈 Highly Recommended
4.5 ⭐ (15K)
Introduction
Củ Chi Tunnels (Địa đạo Củ Chi) is a vast network of interconnecting underground tunnels located in the Củ Chi District of Ho Chi Minh City. This historical site preserves a portion of the immense system used by Viet Cong soldiers as a base of operations during the Vietnam War. It demonstrates the resilience, ingenuity, and harsh conditions faced by the soldiers who lived and fought almost entirely underground, with sections including command centers, hospitals, and living quarters.
Crawling Through the Tunnels
The main experience involves descending into the tunnels themselves. The Ben Dinh site features sections that have been slightly widened for tourists, offering a tangible sense of the tight, dark conditions. Visitors can choose to crawl through short stretches (20-100 meters) with multiple exit points along the way.
Hidden Entrances & Booby Traps
Guides demonstrate the expertly camouflaged trapdoors, barely wide enough for one person to slip through, that served as the primary entrances. The area also features displays of various intimidating booby traps, like the infamous bamboo punji sticks, which were used to defend the complex from intruders.
War Remnants Display Area
See captured US military hardware, including a decaying M41 Walker Bulldog light tank that was destroyed by a mine in 1970. This open-air exhibition provides a stark visual contrast to the hidden nature of the Vietnamese forces' operations.
Ben Duoc Memorial Temple
Located at the less-frequented Ben Duoc site, this large and solemn memorial temple commemorates the Vietnamese soldiers and leaders who died in the conflict. Its intricate design and peaceful atmosphere offer a place for reflection, distinct from the military focus of the tunnels.
Shooting Range
An on-site firing range allows visitors to fire historical weapons from the war era for an additional fee. You can choose from firearms like the AK-47 and M16, firing live ammunition at targets under supervision.
Getting there
From Ho Chi Minh City's District 1 to Củ Chi Tunnels (approx. 60-70 km):
🚗 Taxi: 90 - 120 mins | 900,000 - 1,200,000 VND ~ $35 - $47 USD (one way). Arrange a return trip or waiting time with the driver.
🚘 Ride-Hailing App (Grab/Xanh SM): 90 - 120 mins | 700,000 - 1,000,000 VND ~ $27 - $39 USD (one way). Grab Car is the most common option.
🚌 Public Bus: 2.5 - 3 hours | ~27,000 VND ~ $1.10 USD. Key routes: Take Bus #13 from 23/9 Park to Củ Chi Bus Station, then transfer to Bus #79 (for Ben Duoc) or Bus #63 (for Ben Dinh).
🛵 Motorbike: 90 - 120 mins. Recommended only for experienced riders comfortable with Vietnamese traffic.
⚠️ Notes: Taking a pre-booked tour is often the most convenient and cost-effective option, as many include hotel pickup, a guide, and entrance fees. Going by public bus is the cheapest but also the most time-consuming method. Traffic can be very heavy when leaving or returning to HCMC during peak hours (7-9 AM and 4-6 PM).
Hours & Admission
🕗 Opening hours:
- Monday - Sunday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Note: Last entry is typically around 4:00 PM. The site is open during public holidays.
🎫 Ticket prices:
- Foreign/Domestic Tourists (Ben Dinh or Ben Duoc site): 125,000 VND ~ $4.90 USD per person. This includes entrance and the tunnel experience.
- Children (under 7): Free
- Note: Tickets are purchased on-site at the entrance gate. Additional fees apply for the shooting range.
🚶 Best time to visit:
- Arrive right at 8:00 AM to explore before the large tour buses arrive around 9:30 AM. The weather is more pleasant during the dry season (December to April), but the forest canopy provides shade year-round.
⌚ Recommended duration:
- Plan for 2 to 3 hours at the site to fully explore the grounds, watch the introductory video, and experience the tunnels without rushing.
Tips from locals
Local tips
👟 Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes for walking on uneven, dirt paths. Do not wear sandals or flip-flops. Choose clothing that is breathable and that you don't mind getting a bit dirty, as you will be in a forest environment and may be crawling in dusty tunnels.
🦟 The tunnels are in a forested area, so apply insect repellent before you go, especially during the rainy season. This will help protect you from mosquitos and other insects as you walk between the exhibits.
🛗 Consider your comfort with tight spaces. The tunnels are extremely narrow and dark. If you are claustrophobic, you may prefer to explore the surface-level exhibits. There are multiple exit points, so you can always leave the tunnel section early if you feel uncomfortable.
💡 Decide which site to visit beforehand. Go to Ben Dinh if you are on a tight schedule or prefer a more managed tourist experience with slightly larger tunnels. Choose Ben Duoc for a more authentic, less crowded historical deep-dive with original-sized tunnels and the large war memorial.
Be aware
🔊 The constant, loud sound of gunfire from the on-site shooting range can be startling and may detract from the historical atmosphere of the site for some visitors. It is an optional activity, but its noise permeates a large portion of the complex.
🏃 Some organized tours can feel rushed, moving large groups quickly from one point to the next. If you want to explore at your own pace, consider a private tour or traveling independently to have more control over your time at each exhibit.
FAQs
Which Củ Chi Tunnels site should I visit, Ben Dinh or Ben Duoc?
Ben Dinh is closer to Ho Chi Minh City, more popular with tours, and has tunnels slightly enlarged for visitors. Ben Duoc is further, less crowded, offers a more authentic experience with original-sized tunnels, and features the large Ben Duoc Memorial Temple.
How long are the tunnels that tourists can go through?
Tourists typically crawl through sections ranging from 20 to 100 meters. The full historical network was over 250 kilometers, but only small, reinforced portions are open to the public.
Are the tunnels safe for someone with claustrophobia?
It is not recommended for individuals with severe claustrophobia. The passages are very narrow, low, and dark. However, there are numerous exit points along the tourist route if you feel uncomfortable.
Can you actually shoot guns at the Củ Chi Tunnels?
Yes, there is a supervised shooting range at the Ben Dinh site where you can pay to fire historical weapons like the AK-47 or M16.
What kind of shoes and clothes should I wear?
Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes like sneakers and lightweight clothing you don't mind getting dirty. The ground is uneven and you may be crawling on dusty ground inside the tunnels.
Is it better to take a tour or go independently?
Tours are the most convenient option, handling transport and providing a guide. Going independently via taxi or public bus offers more flexibility and can be cheaper, but requires more planning.
How much does the shooting range cost?
Prices are per bullet and can vary, but generally expect to pay around 60,000 VND (~$2.35 USD) per bullet, with a typical minimum purchase of 10 bullets.
Is the site wheelchair accessible?
No, the site is not wheelchair accessible. The terrain consists of uneven dirt paths through a forest, and the main attraction involves descending stairs and crawling through narrow tunnels.
Are there food and drinks available at the site?
Yes, there are small shops selling drinks and snacks. Visitors are also offered a taste of boiled tapioca, a staple food for the soldiers who lived in the tunnels.
Do I need to book tickets in advance?
No, you do not need to book tickets in advance. They can be purchased upon arrival at the entrance gate.
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