The Marble Mountains
A pilgrimage through marble peaks.
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Introduction
The Marble Mountains (Ngũ Hành Sơn) are a cluster of five marble and limestone hills located in Da Nang's Ngu Hanh Son District. Each peak is named after one of the five classical elements: metal, water, wood, fire, and earth. The site is a major pilgrimage destination with a network of caves, tunnels, and temples carved into the mountainsides, offering both spiritual exploration and expansive coastal views.
Thuy Son (Water Mountain)
The largest and only mountain accessible to tourists, Thuy Son houses the main attractions. Its network of paths connects several caves and pagodas, requiring a fair amount of walking and stair climbing to explore fully.
Huyen Khong Cave
This is the most impressive grotto at the site, a large, dramatic chamber illuminated by natural light from a hole in its ceiling. Inside, you'll find a large Buddha statue and smaller altars set against the cave's rough-hewn walls.
Am Phu Cave (Hell Cave)
Located at the base of the mountain and requiring a separate ticket, this cave offers a vivid recreation of Buddhist hell. Visitors descend through dark passages filled with statues depicting punishment and torment before ascending towards a "heavenly" light.
Linh Ung Pagoda
There are several pagodas on the mountain, but this one is a common starting point for many visitors. It features intricate architecture and provides a peaceful space for reflection before you begin climbing the stairs to the higher viewpoints.
Vong Giang Dai Viewpoint
After a steep climb, you'll reach this lookout with panoramic views. From here, you can see the other four marble mountains, the coastline, and the surrounding Non Nuoc village.
Getting there
From Da Nang City Center/My Khe Beach to The Marble Mountains (approx. 9 km):
🚗 Taxi: 15-20 mins | 130,000 - 180,000 VND ~ $5 - $7 USD
🚘 Ride-Hailing App (Grab/Xanh SM): 15-20 mins | 100,000 - 150,000 VND ~ $4 - $6 USD
🛵 Motorbike: 15-20 mins
⚠️ The mountains are a straightforward drive south from Da Nang's main beach road towards Hoi An. Be aware that many marble shops offer "free parking" but will expect you to browse their stores, often with high-pressure sales tactics.
Hours & Admission
🕗 Opening hours:
- Monday - Sunday: 7:00 AM - 5:30 PM
- Notes: Hours are consistent year-round but can change for local holidays.
🎫 Ticket prices:
- Marble Mountains (Thuy Son):
- Adults: 40,000 VND ~ $1.60 USD
- Children: Free
- Am Phu Cave:
- Adults: 20,000 VND ~ $0.80 USD
- Elevator (One-way):
- Per person: 15,000 VND ~ $0.60 USD
- Notes: Tickets are purchased at separate counters at the base of the mountain. The elevator ticket is one-way only; you will need to buy another ticket at the top if you wish to use it for the descent.
🚶 Best time to visit:
- Visit early in the morning (7:00 AM - 9:00 AM) to avoid the intense midday heat and the largest tour groups. The weather from February to May is typically dry and pleasant. Avoid visiting after heavy rain, as the marble steps can become extremely slippery.
⌚ Recommended duration:
- Budget at least 2 to 3 hours to explore Thuy Son mountain and Am Phu Cave without rushing. If you plan to explore the craft village, add another hour.
Tips from locals
Local tips
👟 Wear sturdy, comfortable shoes with good grip. The marble steps throughout the complex are numerous, uneven, and can be very slippery, especially in damp conditions inside the caves.
💧 Bring your own water and stay hydrated. While there are vendors at the base, having water with you is essential for the climb, which can be strenuous in the heat and humidity. You will be climbing hundreds of stairs.
🎟️ The elevator is a good option if you have mobility concerns, but it doesn't take you to the very top. You will still need to navigate many stairs to see the main caves and viewpoints. Consider taking it up and walking down the scenic route.
💡 Don't skip Am Phu Cave. It requires a separate ticket and has a different entrance, but its graphic depictions of Buddhist hell and salvation are a unique and memorable part of the Marble Mountains experience that many visitors miss.
Be aware
🛍️ Be prepared for persistent and sometimes aggressive sales tactics from the marble shops and vendors at the base of the mountains. If you use their "free parking", they will strongly encourage you to enter their shop. Feel free to politely but firmly decline if you are not interested in buying.
💦 Many of the outdoor and cave steps are worn smooth from foot traffic and can be hazardous, especially after it rains. Use the handrails where available and watch your step carefully.
FAQs
How much is the entrance fee for The Marble Mountains?
The main entrance fee for Thuy Son (Water Mountain) is 40,000 VND. There are separate fees for Am Phu Cave (20,000 VND) and the one-way elevator (15,000 VND).
What are the opening hours?
The site is open daily from 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM.
How long should I spend at The Marble Mountains?
Plan for 2 to 3 hours to see the main sights on Thuy Son mountain, including the caves and viewpoints, plus Am Phu Cave.
Is the elevator worth it?
It helps you bypass the first major set of stairs, which is useful for those with limited mobility or short on time. However, you will still have a significant amount of walking and climbing to do to see everything.
Can you visit all five mountains?
No, only Thuy Son (Water Mountain) is officially open for tourists to climb and explore its network of caves and pagodas. The other four can be viewed from its peaks.
What should I wear to visit The Marble Mountains?
Wear lightweight, comfortable clothing. As it is a religious site, modest attire covering shoulders and knees is respectful, though not strictly enforced. Most importantly, wear sturdy footwear with good grip.
Are there a lot of stairs?
Yes, there are hundreds of steep and often uneven stone steps. Even if you use the elevator, expect a lot of climbing to reach the various caves and viewpoints.
What is Am Phu Cave?
It's a separate attraction at the mountain's base that depicts the journey through Buddhist hell and the path to heaven. It's known for its sometimes graphic and dramatic statues and scenes.
How do I get to The Marble Mountains from Da Nang?
It's an easy 15-20 minute motorbike or taxi ride south from the city center or My Khe Beach area. Ride-hailing apps like Grab are also widely available.
Is it better to visit in the morning or afternoon?
The morning is highly recommended. Arriving right at the 7:00 AM opening time allows you to climb before the sun gets too strong and before the large tour buses arrive around 9:00 AM.
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