Nghe An Vietnam: Guide to getting the best travel experience

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Nghe An – the largest province in Vietnam (Source: Collected)

Nestled in the central region, Nghe An Vietnam beckons with its rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. Home to the birthplace of President Ho Chi Minh, this province boasts stunning landscapes, vibrant traditions, and inviting coastlines. Join us on a Vietnam travel through Nghe An, where every corner reveals a new chapter in Vietnam’s captivating story.

1. About Nghe An Vietnam: Location & climate

Nghe An is a province in Central Vietnam, where history dances with resilience and tradition whispers tales of valor. This storied land has nurtured countless heroes and visionaries, including the revered President Ho Chi Minh. From its revolutionary spirit to its cultural luminaries, Nghe An beckons travelers to explore its vibrant tapestry of heritage.

1.1. Location

Nghe An Province, nestled in the northern part of Central Vietnam, holds a strategic position within the region. Bordered by the sea to the east, it shares its southern boundary with Ha Tinh Province, while Thanh Hoa Province lies to its north. To the west, it shares a border with Laos. This central location makes Nghe An a hub of cultural exchange and economic activity.

Nghe An Vietnam (Source: Collected)

Discover: The map of Central Vietnam & top 11 amazing places to visit

1.2. Climate

Situated in the tropical monsoon climate zone, Nghe An Vietnam has two distinct seasons: summer and winter. From April to August, Nghe An weather is characterized by the hot, dry southwest monsoon, while the winter months are characterized by the cold, damp northeast monsoon. The annual temperatures average 24°C, with an average of 1,500 – 1,700 hours of sunshine annually. Rainfall averages 1,200 – 2,000 mm per year.

Read more: Insights into Central Vietnam weather by region & by season

2. Where to go on your trip to Nghe An Vietnam?

2.1. VinWonders Cua Hoi

VinWonders Cua Hoi is situated just a 15-minute ride away from Vinh’s city center and a 12-minute ride away from Vinh International Airport. Located on Cua Lo Beach, it is adjacent to Melia Vinpearl Cua Hoi Beach Resort, Cua Lo Golf Course, and Cua Lo Green Park, offering stunning panoramic views of the coastline.

As the largest entertainment complex in North Central Vietnam, VinWonders Cua Hoi features a sea-crossing cable car, the first and only of its kind in the region. This cable car connects the beachside amusement park to Song Ngu Island, providing a breathtaking 360-degree sea view.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of attractions, including a water park and an amusement park. Additionally, the Song Ngu Island complex offers an ecological and spiritual retreat with the historic 800-year-old Song Ngu Pagoda. Set amidst beautiful natural landscapes, it is a serene and picturesque place for relaxation and exploration in Nghe An Vietnam.

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VinWonders Cua Hoi promises exceptional fun and excitement for all visitors

2.2. Kim Lien Relic

Your visit to Nghe An Vietnam would not be complete without exploring Kim Lien Relic in Nam Dan District. This site sprawls across 278.86 hectares, comprising several significant attractions. These include the Sen Village cluster, where President Ho Chi Minh was born, Hoang Tru Village, the Chung Mountain, and the grave of Mrs. Hoang Thi Loan. Sen Village offers a poignant insight into the early life of Vietnam’s revered leader. Meanwhile, Hoang Tru Village and Chung Mountain provide historical context to his upbringing. A pilgrimage to this revered site unveils the roots of Vietnam’s resilience and the enduring legacy of its beloved leader.

Kim Lien Relic – the hometown of President Ho Chi Minh (Source: Collected)

2.3. Vinh City

Vinh City is a city in Nghe An Province Vietnam. Designated to become a center of economic and cultural significance in the North Central Coast, Vinh sits gracefully along the Lam River. The city lies approximately 295 km south of Hanoi, 1,424 km north of Ho Chi Minh City, and 400 km west of the Laotian capital, Vientiane.

Vinh Nghe An Vietnam beckons with its rich history and bustling energy. The city boasts a dynamic urban landscape infused with cultural heritage. From historic landmarks to modern amenities, it offers visitors a diverse array of things to do in Vinh. Below are the top tourist attractions in Vinh that tourists should not miss out on:

• Ho Chi Minh Square and Monument
• Phuong Hoang Trung Do Citadel
• Nghe An Ancient Citadel
• Vinh’s Temple of Literature
• Con Mo – Ben Thuy Relics
• Temple of Emperor Quang Trung
• Can Linh Pagoda
• Vinh Market

2.4. Pu Mat National Park

Pu Mat National Park is a pristine sanctuary in the western reaches of Nghe An Vietnam. Spanning over 94,000 hectares, this haven boasts lush forests, majestic mountains, and meandering rivers. Home to many wildlife species such as the Indochinese tiger and saola, it offers nature enthusiasts a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich biodiversity. Trekking trails wind through the dense forests, unveiling breathtaking waterfalls and concealed caves. This haven invites nature enthusiasts to explore its wonders, where visitors can immerse themselves in the richness of Vietnam’s biodiversity while enjoying the park’s serene ambiance.

Pu Mat National Park in Nghe An Vietnam is an ideal destination for an off-the-beaten-track trip (Source: Collected)

2.5. Chung Son Temple

Nestled amidst the serene embrace of Chung Mountain, Chung Son Temple is a cherished tribute to President Ho Chi Minh’s ancestral legacy. This revered attraction in Nghe An Vietnam offers visitors a chance to explore its historical and spiritual significance, promising a journey rich in heritage and reverence. As a sacred space honoring the contributions of President Ho Chi Minh’s family to their cherished homeland and the nation as a whole, Chung Son Temple is undoubtedly a must-see for those exploring Nghe An.

2.6. Thanh Chuong Tea Hills

Nestled near the Laotian border along the Ho Chi Minh Road, Thanh Chuong Tea Hills offer a distinct charm different from renowned tea plantation destinations like Moc Chau or Da Lat. Accessible only by boat, these hills in Thanh Chuong District were once an irrigation lake serving rice fields. In recent years, nearly 200 households have transformed over 400 hectares into tea plantations. Today, this unique location has evolved into an eco-tourism hotspot, offering visitors boat cruises and homestay accommodations, providing local farmers with additional income opportunities through tourism services.

2.7. Cua Lo Beach

Stretching along the vibrant coastline of Nghe An Province Vietnam, Cua Lo Beach stands as a captivating seaside retreat. With its soft golden sands and crystal-clear waters, this picturesque beach offers a serene escape for travelers seeking rejuvenation. Renowned for its gentle waves and panoramic sunsets, Cua Lo Beach provides the perfect backdrop for leisurely strolls along the shore or thrilling water activities such as swimming and jet-skiing. Lined with seaside resorts and seafood eateries, it promises a delightful coastal experience for visitors of all ages.

Beachgoers cannot miss out on Cua Lo Beach in Nghe An Vietnam (Source: Collected)

2.8. Kilometer Zero

Kilometer Zero in Tan Ky District is the starting point of the legendary Ho Chi Minh Trail – the lifeline supporting the southern battlefield during the 20th-century war. Today, the landmark has been restored, with a spacious 600-square-meter area featuring a traditional house displaying wartime artifacts. As a must-see attraction for history buffs, Kilometer Zero offers insight into the monumental role of the Ho Chi Minh Trail and its significance in Vietnamese history.

2.9. Ong Hoang Muoi Temple

About 3 km away from Vinh’s city center, Ong Hoang Muoi Temple honors Thai Uy Vi Quoc Cong, a notable general of the Le dynasty from Nghe An Vietnam. About 100 meters to the east of the temple lies his tomb. Dating back to 1634 during the Le dynasty, the temple has undergone periods of destruction and reconstruction. In 1995, it was restored and has since become a renowned spiritual hub in Nghe An Province Vietnam. This revered site attracts thousands of pilgrims annually. Here, visitors can witness traditional rituals such as chau van singing and hau bong ceremonies.

Locals often head to Ong Hoang Muoi Temple in Nghe An Vietnam to pray for luck and health (Source: Collected)

2.10. Pha Lai eco-tourism site

Nestled along the picturesque Giang River, Pha Lai eco-tourism site sprawls across nearly 10 hectares, offering a tranquil escape in Nghe An Province Vietnam. Part of Pu Mat National Park, it boasts lush forests and a refreshing climate, making it an ideal summer getaway in the region. Visitors can enjoy camping amidst nature’s embrace or embark on adventurous activities like kayaking along the Giang River and exploring the Pha Lai reservoir. Additionally, a thrilling zipline connects the two riverbanks, providing an exhilarating experience for all.

Read more: Central Vietnam itinerary: Must-go places & travel guide

3. When is the best time to visit?

Nghe An Vietnam offers diverse attractions throughout the year, catering to different interests. Beach enthusiasts should plan their visit between April and September to enjoy the coastal beauty. For immersive community experiences, any time from February onwards is ideal. Agricultural tourism aligns with fruit seasons; for instance, oranges are best seen in September and October. Around the New Year, visitors can head to the western highlands for white plum blossoms. Additionally, don’t forget to embrace the stunning sunflower fields from March to April and from November to December for unforgettable moments amidst nature’s splendor.

The mesmerizing sunflower field in Nghe An Vietnam (Source: Collected)

4. How to get to Nghe An?

The distance from Hanoi to Nghe An is approximately 290 km and from Ho Chi Minh City to Nghe An is 1,400 km. You can get to Nghe An by:

• Air: There are daily flights to Vinh Nghe An Vietnam from both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. For international travelers, there are connecting flights to Vinh International Airport with layovers in these cities.
• Train: The fastest train from Hanoi to Vinh takes about 5 hours and 30 minutes. This is approximately 9 hours for a train from Da Nang to Vinh, and more than a day for a train from Ho Chi Minh City to Vinh.
• Bus: The travel time from Hanoi to Nghe An by bus is about 5-6 hours. Buses depart hourly from My Dinh, Giap Bat, and Nuoc Ngam bus stations in Hanoi.

5. Other information for tourists to Nghe An Vietnam

5.1. Where to stay?

During your trip to Nghe An Vietnam, you can choose from a variety of accommodations:

• Luxury resorts and hotels: These provide high-end amenities, such as beachfront views, spas, fine dining, and other modern comforts, perfect for travelers seeking a premium experience.
• Mid-range hotels: Offering a balance of comfort and affordability, these hotels provide essential amenities including comfortable rooms, on-site dining, and convenient locations near major attractions.
• Budget hotels: Ideal for cost-conscious travelers, budget hotels offer basic amenities, clean rooms, and good value for money.
• Homestays and guesthouses: For an authentic local experience, homestays and guesthouses provide the chance to stay with local families, enjoy home-cooked meals, and immerse yourself in the culture.
• Eco-lodges: Perfect for nature lovers, eco-lodges offer rustic yet comfortable accommodations in natural settings, allowing guests to connect with nature.

There are many options for accommodation in Nghe An Vietnam (Source: Collected)

5.2. What to eat?

Nghe An Vietnam offers a variety of delicious local dishes that reflect the region’s rich culinary heritage. Here are some must-try foods when visiting Nghe An:

• Eel soup: A specialty of Vinh City, this savory dish features tender eel cooked in a flavorful broth, often served with rice porridge, bread, or banh muot (steamed rice roll).
• Banh muot: This is the famous banh cuon (steamed rice roll) but goes without any fillings.
• Banh ngao: Also known as “honey cake,” this Central Vietnamese food consists of glutinous rice balls filled with mung bean paste and cooked in a sweet ginger syrup.
• Nhut Thanh Chuong: This is a traditional fermented jackfruit dish that is both sour and savory, often eaten with rice or as a side dish.
• Banh muot xao ga: This is a steamed rice roll served with a side of chicken soup.
• Banh beo: This is a small steamed rice cake topped with minced shrimp, pork, and crispy shallots. It is served with a side of fish sauce for dipping.

5.3. What to bring home?

Nghe An Vietnam offers several specialty products that make for the perfect gifts to bring home. Here are some of the most popular:

• Xa Doai oranges: Xa Doai oranges are famous for their sweetness and juiciness. 
• Thanh Chuong tea: Thanh Chuong tea makes for a wonderful souvenir, offering a taste of the region’s tea culture.
• Tuong Nam Dan: This is a traditional soybean paste from Nam Dan District. Versatile and savory, it adds depth of flavor to various dishes.
• Banh da Do Luong: This is a crispy rice cracker from Do Luong District. Made from rice flour and sesame seeds, it can be a tasty snack or an accompaniment to dips.
• Local snacks: Traditional snacks like banh muot (steamed rice roll) or banh gai (glutinous rice cake) can be easily found in local markets and shops. 

Nhut Thanh Chuong and Tuong Nam Dan – two famous specialties of Nghe An Province (Source: Collected)

Nghe An Vietnam, a province steeped in history and natural beauty, beckons travelers with its allure. Beyond its famed landmarks lie untold stories waiting to be discovered. From the serene shores of Cua Lo Beach to the tranquil temples nestled in the hills, Nghe An invites visitors to explore its depths and uncover the essence of Vietnam’s cultural tapestry.

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