Ta Cu Mountain – The Legendary Sacred Landmark Of Binh Thuan

Ta Cu Mountain is a famous natural and spiritual attraction in Binh Thuan. It is characterized by lush forest, idyllic scenic views, and sacred pagodas, which provide a sense of adventure and tranquility in its journey to understanding natural sanctity.

Introduction To Ta Cu Mountain

Ta Cu Mountain, situated roughly 30 kilometers to the south of Phan Thiet City, is one of Binh Thuan’s most recognizable natural and spiritual destinations. With an elevation of 649 meters above sea level, it is refreshing to be in nature surrounded by forests, cool air, and stunning views. While the mountain is well-known for its beauty, it is also noted for its spiritual atmosphere that attracts devotees as well as nature-lovers.

Ta Cu Mountain is a famous natural and spiritual attraction

At the center of Ta Cu is the giant reclining Buddha statue, measuring 49 meters in length, and sleeping peacefully in green hills, one of the biggest in Southeast Asia. Visitors are able to either hike to the top along forest trails or take a cable car ride above the trees to the top of the mountain. A trip to Ta Cu Mountain is not just a sightseeing journey, but rather an escape to nature, a chance to view Vietnamese spirituality, and a few moments to relax away from the city bustle.

History Of Ta Cu Mountain

In 1872, Monk Tran Huu Duc (1812-1887) visited Ta Cu Mountain and created a little meditation facility in a rocky cave. His healing abilities enabled him to cure the Empress Mother, and Emperor Tu Duc gave the temple the title of “Linh Son Truong Tho” (Sacred Mountain of Longevity).

After the monk died in 1887, a lower temple called Linh Son Long Doan was constructed at the base of the mountain to represent him as the founder. He lived in the cave the whole time he was meditating. He drank from natural springs and lived on wild vegetables. Over time, Ta Cu Mountain was known as a Sacred site, a place abundant with valuable medicinal plants, and became recognized as a national cultural and historical site.

At present, the location has become the Ta Cu Cable Car and Ecotourism Site, one of the most interesting travel tourism destinations of Binh Thuan since 2003, after being made into this site. Tourists from many parts of Vietnam have come to visit when they would like to experience the cool air in the mountains and to pilgrimage to the sacred spiritual site.

Top 4 Iconic Attractions In Ta Cu Mountain

A visit to Ta Cu Mountain provides not only spectacular views of natural scenery but also a cultural and spiritual journey among historical monuments. There is plenty to enjoy, from the bottom to the top of the mountain, with ancient temples and impressive religious architecture.

Ta Cu Pagoda

Set on the natural slope of the mountain, Ta Cu Pagoda features traditional Northern Buddhist architecture and still retains its ancient grace and tranquility after so many years; there are three remarkable statues of the Buddha, Amitabha Buddha, Avalokitesvara, and Mahasthamaprapta, all made from pure white stone and buried in the beauty of the mountain.

A remarkable statues in the Ta Cu pagoda

Linh Son Truong Tho Pagoda

At an elevation of 420 meters above sea level, this temple is well known for its gigantic reclining statue of Shakyamuni entering Nirvana, which measures 49 meters long by 11 meters high and holds the record for the longest reclining statue of the Buddha on a mountain in Asia! Visitors can view a spectacular panoramic view of the coastline all the way to Hon Ba Island in La Gi.

To Pagoda

To Pagoda is one of the historical Buddhist sites in Ta Cu Mountain, dating back to the late 19th century. After ascending over 100 stone steps, visitors arrive at the peaceful site of an ancient temple constructed in the architectural style of the Nguyen Dynasty. Within the temple grounds is the legendary Hang To (To Cave), a sacred location where the monk who built the pagoda became enlightened.

Long Doan Pagoda

To the east of To Pagoda is Long Doan Pagoda, which exhibits a more modern architectural characteristic. It displays stupas commemorating revered monks and abbots within the temple grounds. Due to its simplistic ambiance and atmosphere, the pagoda is a nice site to meditate and contemplate on the tranquil cultural spaces that envelop Ta Cu Mountain.

6 Unforgettable Experiences You Shouldn’t Miss

In addition to its sacred temples, Ta Cu Mountain provides visitors with various stimulating experiences that combine adventure, relaxation, and beautiful scenery. It is worth highlighting a few activities that you should not miss, so that your trip will be an unforgettable experience.

Hiking The Ancient Forest

If you are looking for amusement and enjoy a physical challenge, then hiking up Ta Cu Mountain is one you will not forget in Phan Thiet. The hiking trail is over 2,500 meters long, with more than 1,000 winding stone steps to hike through thick jungles on steep hills. You will get to appreciate natural sights along the trail, such as Ban Thuong Rock, Ban Ha Rock, and Yen Ngua Slope. The reward for hiking the summit of Noc Tru at 694 meters will still astonish you with the spectacular views of the Binh Thuan landscape.

Taking The Cable Car Journey

Most visitors prefer to conquer Ta Cu Mountain by cable car because it is quicker, and it is a more scenic experience. From the cable car, you will see nearly half of the mountain’s lush forest and enjoy breathtaking views over Thuan Nam Town below. Charming villages, serpent-like roads, and colorful dragon fruit gardens create a delightful picture of rural Vietnam.

Having Fun With Fishing

Fishing in the mountain’s peaceful lakes provides a peaceful option to unwind and escape for visitors. Amongst the foliage with fresh mountain air, it is an ideal escape to relax and enjoy nature’s serenity. After fishing and catching a few, you can ask local chefs to prepare your fresh fish on the spot – a simple yet rewarding way to motivate patience.

Pedal Boating In Swan Lake

The swan-shaped pedal boats will provide you with a fun-filled activity that will appeal to the entire family while visiting the Ta Cu Mountain tourist area. You can glide across the calm lake, with greenery surrounding you, to enjoy the relaxation and on-the-lake fun, regardless of whether you are visiting with kids, friends, or a partner. This activity is a great excuse to take a short break while finding relaxation in the area.

Exploring By Electric Car

If comfort is your thing, and you would like ease of exploration when visiting Ta Cu Mountain, then renting an electric car is likely the best option for you. You will enjoy a leisurely ride on smooth asphalt roads, gently bending and weaving throughout plush gardens and sheltered trees for a rewarding ride with great views of the mountains.

Eating At Ta Cu Mountain

Dining here is never a problem. Around the cable car station, you will find spacious restaurants and cafés with views, with opportunities to try local specialties such as Ca Ty squid cakes and sun-dried Phan Thiet squid. If you would like to have additional options, you can always check out the nearby choices like Taku Restaurant, Colia Minh Restaurant, Modjo Bar & Restaurant, or Babylon, all known for their delicious dishes and hospitality.

Entrance Fee

Ta Cu Mountain Tourist Area was established in 2003 and is one of the unique highlights of Binh Thuan province. It consists of sightseeing and experience activities, including cable cars and nature. Below is a summary of ticket prices and experiences available to visitors:

Type of Ticket	Adults (VND)	Children (VND)
Entrance Ticket	50,000	30,000
Cable Car (Round Trip)	100,000	60,000
Cable Car (One Way)	60,000	40,000
Fishing Area Access	10,000 / rod
Swan Pedal Boat Ride	10,000 / person
Electric Shuttle Service	10,000 / adult	5,000 / child

Best Time To Visit Ta Cu Mountain

Ta Cu Mountain has a cool climatic condition throughout the year because it is situated at a high elevation and the area has thick forest cover. The area around Ta Cu Mountain possesses two distinct seasons: the rainy season and the dry season. The best time to visit is from November to April, when visitors can be assured of blue skies, the air is fresh, and traveling or hiking further up the mountain is much more convenient, comfortable, and enjoyable.

The best time to visit is from November to April

Visitors should also take into account that the rainy season is from May to October in Phan Thiet, which could affect travel plans or make climbing the mountain more difficult because of slippery trails, though the scenery will be greener and more colorful.

Ta Cu Mountain tends to have the most visitors during the spring season and specifically during the Lunar New Year in February, which is a popular destination for many visitors who pray for peace and prosperity.

How To Get To Ta Cu Mountain

Part of the adventure lies in getting to Ta Cu Mountain. Whether you’re in the mood for a scenic motorbike journey, an easy bus ride, or a heart-pounding cable car ride to the top, you have more than one way to arrive.

Getting To The Bottom Of Ta Cu Mountain

Since there is no operating airport anymore in Phan Thiet – Binh Thuan, visitors from Northern or Central Vietnam would fly to Ho Chi Minh City and then proceed to Phan Thiet by bus. It is easy from there to travel to Ta Cu Mountain.

Local flights from any Vietnamese airport to Tan Son Nhat Airport in Ho Chi Minh City have regularly priced fares at 900,000 VND-1,200,000 VND. Take a bus or a motorbike from Ho Chi Minh City, around 170 km to Phan Thiet.

By bus: Catch a coach from Mien Dong Bus Station to Phan Thiet or La Gi. They all go through Ta Cu Mountain, so you can drop by on your way. Ticket prices are 160,000-450,000 VND per person, depending on the category of bus and seat type.
By motorbike: As Ta Cu Mountain lies on National Highway 1A, it is easy for motorbike tourists from Ho Chi Minh City. Ride on the highway for approximately 170 km to kilometer 28 of Phan Thiet, and turn towards the signs leading to the mountain base.

Climbing To The Top Of Ta Cu Mountain

Or, either by cable car or on foot, from the base of the mountain. Both are stunning with panoramic views of the green rolling countryside of Binh Thuan.

By cable car: It takes about 15 minutes and offers a wide panoramic view of the mountain and the town of Thuan Nam below. Return ticket costs 100,000 VND for adults and 60,000 VND for children.

Climbing To The Top Of Ta Cu Mountain by Cable Car

By climbing: Climbers can climb more than 1,000 stone steps to get there. The strenuous climb is rewarded with the beauty of the forest, the freshness of the air, and the accomplishment of having summited one of Binh Thuan’s holy mountains.

Things To Know Before Traveling To Ta Cu Mountain

Prior to embarking on Ta Cu Mountain, it is wise to make plans in advance to ensure a more enjoyable trip. Below are some basic pointers to consider before your visit:

Wear light and breathable clothing and footwear that are appropriate for hiking or exploring.
Bring sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen due to the intensity of the tropical sun.
Dress modestly and stay quiet while entering temples on the mountain.
Pack insect repellent since there may be a lot of bugs on the trail.
Bring enough water, snacks, and basic first aid items, especially if hiking on foot.
Be respectful of your actions, and refrain from loud voices and disrespectful gestures in sacred places.
If you’d prefer a more relaxing experience, consider a cable car ride to the summit rather than hiking.

Final Thoughts: Is Ta Cu Mountain Worth Visiting?

Ta Cu Mountain caters to those looking for a combination of nature, culture, and inner peace. The cool weather, green environment, and views from the cable car are unforgettable experiences for visitors. The sacred temples of the mountain and the reclined Buddha statue add tranquility and peacefulness to your journey. Plan your trip today with Seni World to experience the eternal charm of Ta Cu Mountain.

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