Tay Ninh is the capital city of a Vietnamese province of the same name. Situated near the Cambodia-Vietnam border, it serves as a popular starting point for journeys to the Land of the Khmer.
Tay Ninh is renowned as the birthplace of Cao Dai, a syncretic religion blending Vietnamese local beliefs with elements of Confucianism, Taoism, Buddhism, and Roman Catholicism. The Tay Ninh Holy See, also known as the Cao Dai Temple, is one of the city’s highlights, drawing tourists and pilgrims alike. Another highlight is Ba Den Mountain (Black Virgin Mountain), the highest peak in Southern Vietnam at 986 meters.
Just a short drive from the city lies Lo Go Xa Mat National Park, renowned for its birdwatching opportunities and home to several threatened bird species. Whether you have a day trip from Ho Chi Minh City planned or are traveling between Cambodia and Vietnam, Tay Ninh is definitely worth a stop!
Motorcycle taxis, known as xe om, are a great way to travel short distances in Tay Ninh. You can easily find them on street corners. Fares are calculated based on distance, but weather and road conditions can also influence the price. Always confirm the fare beforehand, and make sure you wear a helmet for safety.
Visit the Tay Ninh Holy See, the center of the Cao Dai religion, featuring vibrant architecture and religious ceremonies. Another must-see attraction is Ba Den Mountain, a sacred mountain with pagodas and caves. You can hike or take a cable car to the top of the mountain for panoramic views of the city. If you are interested in Vietnamese history, make sure to visit the nearby Cu Chi Tunnels.
Tay Ninh is approximately 35 kilometers from the nearest Cambodian border crossing at Moc Bai. You can reach the border in an hour's drive on QL22B (National Route 22B). Moc Bai is a major border checkpoint between Vietnam and Cambodia, facilitating cross-border travel and trade.
One of the most convenient ways to go from Ho Chi Minh City to Tay Ninh is by shuttle service. You can book your ticket online and travel comfortably in a van. Another option is taking a bus from Ho Chi Minh City's Cu Chi Bus Station, with departures every 30 minutes. You can also opt for a taxi, which takes approximately 2 hours. Keep in mind that a taxi can be quite expensive, costing over VND 1,500,000 for a single trip.
The best time to visit Tay Ninh is during the dry season, from November to April, when the weather is pleasant with cooler temperatures and minimal rainfall. This period is ideal for exploring outdoor attractions like Ba Den Mountain. For a truly memorable experience, visit Tay Ninh during the Ba Den Festival, usually held in January.
Tay Ninh offers a variety of dishes influenced by Southern Vietnamese cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes include banh trang tron (rice paper salad), goi cuon (Vietnamese spring rolls), and bun mam (noodle soup with fermented fish or shrimp paste). You can sample these dishes at local markets, street food stalls, and restaurants throughout Tay Ninh.
Travel Tips for Tay Ninh City
Explore Tay Ninh City