Explore the Marble Mountains in Da Nang City with our guide to caves, pagodas, and breathtaking views. Book sustainable eco-tours with Legend Travel Group for an unforgettable Vietnam adventure!
Da Nang City, a vibrant coastal gem on Vietnam’s South Central Coast, attracts over 7 million visitors annually to its 125 km South China Sea coastline. Located just 9 km south of the city center in Hoa Hai Ward, the Marble Mountains (Ngu Hanh Son) are a cluster of five limestone and marble peaks, each named after an elemental force—Metal (Kim), Wood (Moc), Water (Thuy), Fire (Hoa), and Earth (Tho). Recognized as a National Cultural History Monument, these mountains are a spiritual and natural wonder, featuring ancient pagodas, mystical caves, and historical tunnels. From their strategic role during the Vietnam War to their status as a pilgrimage site, the Marble Mountains offer a rich blend of adventure, history, and serenity. Legend Travel Group, a premier local tour operator, provides eco-friendly tours to immerse you in this iconic destination sustainably. Contact us at +84825862222 or info@legendtravelgroup.com to start your journey—book a tour via the links throughout this guide!
Legend Travel Group crafts authentic Southeast Asia experiences, prioritizing sustainability and cultural immersion. Our Marble Mountains tours utilize low-impact transport—bicycles, electric shuttles, and eco-taxis—led by local experts who share the site’s historical and spiritual significance. Supporting communities in Hoa Hai and Hai Chau Wards, we align with Da Nang’s “Green Heritage” initiative to preserve its cultural and natural treasures. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we ensure a seamless travel experience. Book our eco-conscious tours via the links on this page and travel responsibly!
Vietnam’s administrative restructuring has merged Quang Nam Province into Da Nang City, expanding its footprint to include wards like Minh An (formerly Hoi An). The district level has been eliminated, making Da Nang the nation’s largest city by landmass. Enhanced by sustainable infrastructure—cycling paths, electric buses, and a VND600 billion flood mitigation project (2024)—the city ensures seamless access to the Marble Mountains.
Situated 764 km south of Hanoi and 964 km north of Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang City is bordered by Thua Thien Hue, Quang Ngai, Kon Tum, Laos, and the South China Sea. Covering 1,283.42 km² (241.51 km² urban, 1,041.91 km² rural), it features a tropical monsoon climate with a dry season (February–August, 24–35°C or 75.2–95°F) and a rainy season (September–January, 18–30°C or 64.4–86°F), with peak rainfall in October–November (150–500 mm).
The city’s terrain, from the Truong Son Mountains to 125 km of beaches, creates a stunning backdrop for the Marble Mountains. The Han River fuels its tourism hub status, while over 50% of the area is forested, enhancing the natural allure of this sacred site.
The Marble Mountains, particularly Thuy Son (Water Mountain), are renowned for their intricate cave system, shaped over millennia by erosion. Key caves include:
Huyen Khong Cave: A vast, circular chamber with a natural skylight, housing Buddhist altars and Champa carvings. Used as a hospital during the Vietnam War, it features bullet holes and historical relics.
Am Phu Cave: Known as “Hell Cave,” it showcases dramatic sculptures of Buddhist afterlife scenes, offering a unique spiritual journey.
Van Thong Cave: A narrow, challenging cave leading to a hidden viewpoint, ideal for adventurers seeking panoramic vistas.
Cost: Thuy Son entry $1.80 (45,000 VND, adults); $0.90 (22,500 VND, children); free for children under 10. Am Phu Cave $0.80 (20,000 VND).
Tip: Bring a flashlight for darker caves; wear sturdy shoes for slippery surfaces. Included in our Marble Mountains & Non Nuoc Tour ($65–$85).
Thuy Son is home to historic pagodas, reflecting Vietnam’s Buddhist heritage:
Linh Ung Pagoda: Built in 1825 under Emperor Gia Long, this pagoda features a 10-meter Buddha statue and intricate Nguyen Dynasty architecture.
Tam Thai Pagoda: A 400-year-old sanctuary rebuilt by Emperor Minh Mang, dedicated to Phat Di Lac, with a three-gate entrance symbolizing Buddhist principles.
Tang Chon Pagoda: A smaller, serene temple near Huyen Khong Cave, offering tranquility and Cham-inspired relics.
Cost: Included in Thuy Son entry ($1.80).
Tip: Dress modestly (covered shoulders, knees); visit during the Quan The Am Festival (2nd lunar month) for cultural events. Included in our Marble Mountains Spiritual Tour ($80–$100).
Thuy Son’s summit, accessible via 156 marble steps or an elevator, offers breathtaking views of Non Nuoc Beach, Da Nang’s skyline, and the other four peaks. Key viewpoints include:
Vong Giang Tower (Riverview Tower): Built in the 18th century by Emperor Minh Mang, this observatory spot overlooks the Truong Giang and Cam Le rivers.
Xa Loi Tower: A 28-meter tower with 200 Buddha statues, providing panoramic vistas of Kim Son and the coast.
Cost: Elevator $0.80 (20,000 VND) one-way; stairs free with entry ($1.80).
Tip: Climb early morning for cooler weather; the elevator is ideal for elderly or mobility-limited visitors. Included in our Marble Mountains & Non Nuoc Tour ($65–$85).
The Marble Mountains served as a strategic hideout during the Vietnam War, with tunnels in caves like Huyen Khong and Quan Am used by Vietnamese revolutionaries. These passages provided shelter and vantage points over the U.S. airport and My Khe Beach. Guided tours reveal bullet holes, remnants of wartime structures, and stories of resilience.
Cost: Guided tour $2 (50,000 VND/group), included in entry ($1.80).
Tip: Join a guided tour for historical insights; avoid claustrophobic tunnels if sensitive to tight spaces. Included in our Marble Mountains Cultural Tour ($80–$100).
Adjacent to the Marble Mountains, Non Nuoc Village is a 300-year-old hub of marble craftsmanship. Artisans create intricate sculptures, from jewelry to grand Buddha statues, using stone from Nghe An and Thanh Hoa to protect the mountains. Explore workshops, watch artisans at work, and purchase unique souvenirs.
Cost: Free entry; souvenirs $2–$5,000+ (50,000–125,000,000 VND+).
Tip: Bargain for 20–30% off; support family-owned shops for authentic items. Included in our Marble Mountains & Non Nuoc Tour ($65–$85).
The Marble Mountains are at 81 Huyen Tran Cong Chua Street, Hoa Hai Ward, 9 km south of Da Nang city center and 20 km north of Minh An Ward, a 20–40 minute drive.
From Da Nang City Center (9 km):
Taxi/Grab: $6–$10 (150,000–250,000 VND) round-trip, 20 minutes via Le Van Hien or Truong Sa Street.
Motorbike Rental: $6–$12/day (150,000–300,000 VND); scenic coastal route via Vo Nguyen Giap.
Bicycle: $1–$2/day (25,000–50,000 VND); 30–45 minutes for fit travelers.
Public Bus: Bus #1, #11, or R16 (Da Nang–Hoi An) costs $0.80–$1.20 (20,000–30,000 VND), dropping off near Le Van Hien Street, a 5-minute walk. Runs every 30 minutes.
Private Tour: Tours start at $12/person with eco-transfers.
From Minh An Ward (20 km):
Taxi/Grab: $12–$18 (300,000–450,000 VND) round-trip, 30–40 minutes.
Motorbike Rental: $6–$12/day (150,000–300,000 VND), 30 minutes.
Private Tour: Round-trip transfers $24–$30 (600,000–750,000 VND).
Tip: Use Grab for transparent pricing or book a Legend Travel Group tour for eco-friendly transfers. Call +84825862222 or email info@legendtravelgroup.com.
Thuy Son: $1.80 (45,000 VND, adults); $0.90 (22,500 VND, children); free for children under 10.
Am Phu Cave: $0.80 (20,000 VND).
Elevator: $0.80 (20,000 VND) one-way.
Guided tour: $2 (50,000 VND/group).
Guided tours (including Non Nuoc Village): $12–$50 (300,000–1,250,000 VND); private tours: $85–$130 (2,125,000–3,250,000 VND).
Non Nuoc souvenirs: Jewelry $2–$50 (50,000–1,250,000 VND); sculptures $100–$5,000+ (2,500,000–125,000,000 VND+).
Nearby dining (e.g., Huyen Tran Cong Chua eateries): $3.50–$10 (85,000–250,000 VND).
Within Da Nang (1–5 km): Bicycle $1–$2/day (25,000–50,000 VND); motorbike $6–$12/day (150,000–300,000 VND); taxi/Grab $3.50–$6.50/trip (85,000–160,000 VND).
To Marble Mountains (9 km): Taxi/Grab $6–$10 (150,000–250,000 VND) round-trip; bus $0.80–$1.20 (20,000–30,000 VND).
Hanoi to Da Nang (750 km, round-trip): Flight $80–$150; train $40–$65 + $6–$13 taxi; bus $25–$40 + $6–$13 taxi.
Ho Chi Minh City to Da Nang (900 km, round-trip): Flight $90–$170; bus $35–$50 + $6–$13 taxi.
Budget: $15–$40 (includes entry, transport, small souvenirs, street food).
Mid-range: $40–$80 (includes guided tour, dining, medium souvenirs).
Luxury: $80–$150 (includes private tour, upscale dining, larger purchases).
Tip: Carry VND for vendors; ATMs are in Hai Chau. Bargain for 20–30% off at Non Nuoc shops.
Plan Ahead: Book tours 2–4 weeks in advance via Legend Travel Group (+84825862222, info@legendtravelgroup.com) or Klook, especially for March–August or the Quan The Am Festival (2nd lunar month). Allow 2–3 hours.
Weather Prep:
Dry Season (February–August): Sunscreen, hats, light clothing for 24–35°C (75.2–95°F).
Rainy Season (September–January): Raincoats, waterproof shoes; avoid slippery steps in November. Check AccuWeather for flood risks.
Navigation: Use offline maps (Maps.me) for Huyen Tran Cong Chua Street; the entrance is well-marked.
Accessibility: Thuy Son’s elevator aids elderly or mobility-limited visitors, but caves involve steep stairs. Am Phu Cave is not wheelchair-accessible.
Budget Wisely: Carry 50,000–500,000 VND notes; guided tours enhance insights.
Stay Safe: Wear sturdy shoes for marble steps; secure valuables in crowded areas.
Sustainability: Use bikes or shuttles; support Non Nuoc artisans; avoid plastic waste.
Cultural Respect: Dress modestly for pagodas (covered shoulders, knees); say “cảm ơn” (thank you); tip guides/vendors ($1–$2).
Our sustainable tours showcase the Marble Mountains and nearby cultural gems:
Marble Mountains & Non Nuoc Tour ($65–$85/person): Thuy Son, Huyen Khong Cave, Non Nuoc Village. Includes eco-transfers, entry ($1.80), English-speaking guide, and lunch.
Marble Mountains Spiritual Tour ($80–$100/person): Linh Ung and Tam Thai Pagodas, Am Phu Cave, cultural insights. Includes eco-transfers, entries, and snacks.
Da Nang Explorer ($300–$450/person, 2–3 days): Marble Mountains, Golden Bridge, Son Tra Peninsula, homestays ($12–$30/night). Includes all activities, meals, eco-transfers.
Prices include entrance fees, eco-transfers, and meals/snacks. Enjoy 10% off for groups of 10+ or seasonal promotions. Book now via links around this page or contact +84825862222, info@legendtravelgroup.com!
The Marble Mountains in Da Nang City offer an enchanting blend of mystical caves, ancient pagodas, and panoramic viewpoints, steeped in history and spiritual significance. From exploring Huyen Khong Cave to climbing to Vong Giang Tower, there’s no shortage of unforgettable experiences. Supported by Da Nang’s sustainable tourism initiatives, a visit here is both enriching and responsible. With Legend Travel Group’s eco-friendly tours, you’ll uncover these wonders while supporting local communities. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your Marble Mountains adventure today!
Ready to explore the Marble Mountains? Reserve your eco-friendly tour with Legend Travel Group and immerse yourself in Da Nang’s natural and cultural masterpiece!
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