Province / City
Province
Province Name
Tay Ninh
Population (June 2025)
3,254,170

Overview

Where nature, history, and culture converge.

Tay Ninh – a sacred land where majestic mountains meet fertile plains – is not only a destination rich in national cultural identity but also a place that preserves profound historical values. With its strategic location at the southwestern gateway of Vietnam, Tay Ninh serves as a vital link between vibrant Ho Chi Minh City, the agriculturally rich Mekong Delta, and neighboring Cambodia, creating a great advantage for both regional and international tourism development.

Every landmark here carries a unique story: Ba Den Mountain, the majestic symbol of the Southern land; The Cao Dai Holy See, a one-of-a-kind religious and artistic masterpiece; and Dau Tieng Lake, the largest man-made reservoir in Southeast Asia. Alongside these is Lo Go – Xa Mat National Park, an ASEAN Heritage Park, which safeguards rare endemic ecosystems and is emerging as a prominent destination on Vietnam’s eco-tourism map.

From the high mountains to the landscapes reminiscent of the Dong Thap Muoi wetlands in the province’s south, from the confluence of the Vam Co Dong and Vam Co Tay rivers where untouched Southern beauty remains, Tay Ninh reveals itself with rustic charm, simplicity, and heartfelt warmth.

Photo Credit: Kiều Oanh
Photo Credit: Hữu Tuấn
Royal Long An Golf & Country Club
Royal Long An Golf & Country Club
West Lakes Golf & Villas
West Lakes Golf & Villas

Must-Visit Destinations

Lo Go – Xa Mat National Park

Lo Go – Xa Mat National Park, recognized as an ASEAN Heritage Park, lies about 55 km from Tan Ninh ward in Tan Bien commune, Tay Ninh province. This unique reserve sits at the crossroads of three major ecological regions: the Central Highlands, the Southeastern Region, and the Mekong River Delta.

The park is home to a rich transitional ecosystem that conserves countless rare species of trees, medicinal plants, birds, animals, and fish. Notable examples include Dalbergia cochinchinensis, Dalbergia oliveri, Eurycoma longifolia, Grus antigone sharpii, Pygathrix nigripes, Leptoptilos javanicus, Ciconia episcopus, and Physignathus cocincinus.

Visitors are greeted by vast forests, vibrant grasslands, colorful blossoms, poetic rivers and lakes, and an abundance of wildlife. Beyond its natural beauty, the park also preserves important historical relics from Vietnam’s resistance wars. It was here that the Main Base of the Provisional Revolutionary Government of the Republic of South Vietnam was established.

With its blend of ecological diversity, scenic landscapes, and historical heritage, Lo Go – Xa Mat National Park is not only a sanctuary for conservation but also an inspiring destination for sightseeing, study, research, and ecotourism.

Tay Ninh Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism

Lang Sen Wetland Reserve

Nestled in the fertile heart of the Southern Mekong Delta, the Lang Sen Wetland Reserve emerges as a rare “green oasis” amid the fast pace of modern life. More than just a source of pride for the Dong Thap Muoi region, it stands as a living symbol of biodiversity, safeguarding ecological treasures recognized worldwide.

Founded in 2004 and spanning thousands of hectares, the Lang Sen Ramsar Site is organized into three zones: the Ecological Conservation Area, Vinh Loi Forestry (Economic Melaleuca Sub-zone), and the Biodiversity Sub-zone covering Tan Hung and Vinh Chau Communes, with Cai He as its core. Researchers have documented an astonishing diversity here, with 161 species of waterbirds, 142 aquatic species, 331 plant species, along with countless insects, reptiles, and amphibians. Many of these are rare and listed in both Vietnam’s Red Book and international conservation registers. Seasonal migrations bring flocks of egrets, herons, storks, ducks, and wild ducks, weaving a dynamic symphony of life across the wetlands.

Beneath the shimmering water surface lies another thriving world: freshwater fish, aquatic plants, and amphibians flourish in balance. Native vegetation – mangroves, sedges, wild rice, lotus, and water lilies – forms a vital “green lung” for the region. Visitors often liken Lang Sen to a watercolor masterpiece of Southern Vietnam: mornings draped in mist over tranquil waters, evenings ablaze with crimson sunsets stretching across flooded fields as flocks of egrets glide toward their roosts.

In 2015, Lang Sen earned global recognition as the 2,227th Ramsar site and the 7th in Vietnam, meeting six of nine international criteria for wetlands of global importance. With its exceptional ecological, scientific, and cultural significance, Lang Sen has become a proud emblem of Tay Ninh province’s commitment to sustainable conservation.

Photo Credit: Chánh Thi

Tan Lap Floating Village Eco – Tourism

The Tan Lap Floating Village Eco – Tourism Area covers 135 hectares along Highway No. 62, nestled on the banks of the Vam Co Tay River. This destination is distinguished by its vast melaleuca forests, winding rivers and canals, and diverse wetland scenery, setting it apart from other sites in the Dong Thap Muoi region.

Visitors here are immersed in the tranquility of nature, surrounded by lush greenery and peaceful waterways. The atmosphere offers a perfect escape from the bustle of daily life, where guests can enjoy rustic yet delicious local dishes and experience the charm of the countryside.

With its pristine landscapes and serene environment, Tan Lap Floating Village has become a beloved spot for ecotourism, relaxation, and cultural discovery.

Tay Ninh Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism
Tay Ninh Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism
Photo Credit: Lê Tuấn Anh

Historical Relic – Central Office For South Vietnam Base

The Central Office for South Vietnam Base is recognized as a Special National Relic in 2012, covering three major relics: the Central Office for South Vietnam Base, the National Liberation Front of South Vietnam, and the Base of the Provisional Revolutionary Government of the Republic of South Vietnam.

During the resistance war against American imperialists, Tay Ninh held immense strategic importance. Its vast mountainous terrain linked the South Central region with the southwestern plains, while its ethnically diverse communities carried a strong patriotic tradition. These conditions enabled the Central Government to establish numerous resistance bases, forming an unbroken network that provided a firm foundation for revolutionary forces.

In February 1962, the Central Office for South Vietnam relocated to the northern Tay Ninh Base Area – today preserved as the Special National Historical Relic of the Central Office for South Vietnam Base. From this stronghold, the Office successfully directed the resistance, ultimately leading the struggle against American imperialism and contributing to national liberation.

Today, it stands as a powerful testament to the resilience of the Vietnamese people, their fight to safeguard independence, and the leadership of the Party and President Ho Chi Minh. It remains a vital historical site, embodying the spirit of unity and determination in the nation’s journey to freedom.

Tay Ninh Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism

Ba Den Mountain National Tourist Area

Ba Den Mountain, also known as Black Lady Mountain, is one of the South’s most famous cultural and historical complexes, located just 11 km from Tan Ninh ward. Rising to 986 meters, it is the highest peak in Southern Vietnam, renowned for its majestic landscapes, pristine cave systems, centuries-old pagodas, and the legendary tale of the sacred Black Lady.

Every year, the mountain hosts vibrant festivals such as the Black Lady Mountain Spring Festival, Kim Quang Cave Festival, and Lady Soul Temple Festival, alongside diverse entertainment activities. These events make Ba Den Mountain both a spiritual pilgrimage site and a popular picnic destination, attracting more than 5 million visitors annually.

Since 2013, modern infrastructure has enhanced the visitor experience. The Nui Ba Cable Car Joint Stock Company introduced a European-standard cable car system, later expanded in 2020 by Sun Group at Sun World Ba Den Mountain. This system includes the world’s largest cable car station, officially recognized by Guinness World Records.

At the summit, the awe-inspiring Tay Bo Da Son Buddha Statue stands as a symbol of wisdom, virtue, and compassion. Measuring 72 meters in height and cast from 170 tonnes of red copper, it was certified by the Asian Records Organisation on February 22, 2022.

Another highlight is the world’s largest sandstone statue of Maitreya Buddha, seated gracefully on a waterfall at over 900 meters altitude. With a cheerful smile, the 36-meter statue was assembled from 6,688 sandstone pieces, weighing more than 5,000 tonnes, and gazes toward Dau Tieng Lake.

Together, these natural wonders, spiritual landmarks, and record-breaking achievements make Ba Den Mountain a must-visit destination, blending history, culture, and modern tourism.

Photo Credit: Minh Tú

Dau Tieng Lake

Located about 25 km east of Tan Ninh ward, Dau Tieng Lake lies along the tourist route connecting Tan Ninh, the Cao Dai Holy See, and Ba Den Mountain. It is the largest artificial irrigation project in both Vietnam and Southeast Asia, with a water capacity of 1.5 billion m³, providing vital irrigation for Tay Ninh Province and Ho Chi Minh City.

Beyond its economic importance, Dau Tieng Lake – often called the “Sea Lake of Tay Ninh” – spans a vast water surface of 27,000 hectares and is earmarked for ecotourism development. Scattered across the lake are islands and peninsulas blanketed in forest, the most famous being Nhim Island, which can be reached in just 30 minutes by boat.

Because the lake remains largely untouched by outside development, it retains its pristine, wild beauty – perfect for travelers seeking new adventures and immersion in nature. Visitors can also savor local specialties, especially dishes made from Hemibagrus fish, prepared in unique and delicious ways.

With its expansive natural scenery, tranquil waters, and ecological richness, Dau Tieng Lake is an enchanting destination for exploration, relaxation, and ecotourism.

Tay Ninh Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism

Tay Ninh Cao Dai Holy See

One of Tay Ninh’s most iconic attractions is the Cao Dai Holy See, located in Long Hoa ward. This sacred site is the center of Caodaism, a religion founded in Vietnam, and is celebrated for its extraordinary architecture. The complex harmoniously blends elements of traditional Vietnamese design with the grandeur of Western styles and the mystique of Eastern aesthetics, creating a truly unique monument.

Construction began in 1933, and the Holy See was officially inaugurated in January 1955. Covering an area of 1 km², it lies just 7 km east of Tan Ninh ward. Visitors are captivated by its striking architecture, earning it the title of the Holy Land of Tay Ninh Cao Dai.

Every year, major ceremonies draw thousands of pilgrims and tourists. The Great Ceremony of Duc Chi Ton (on the 8th day of the first lunar month) and the Holy Banquet for the Great Mother and the Nine Goddesses (on the full moon of the eighth lunar month) feature vibrant ethnic performances such as the Tu Linh dance, Chhay-min drum shows, and traditional orchestras. Exhibitions of local products and uniquely prepared vegetarian dishes add to the festive atmosphere.

In addition to these grand celebrations, daily religious rituals and ceremonies are held, offering visitors a glimpse into the spiritual life of Caodaism. This blend of sacred tradition, cultural artistry, and architectural wonder makes the Tay Ninh Cao Dai Holy See a destination of deep fascination for both domestic and international travelers.

Tay Ninh Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism

Moc Bai International Border Gate

The Moc Bai International Border Gate is the largest roadway border crossing in Southern Vietnam along the Vietnam -Cambodia mainland frontier. More than just a gateway for Tay Ninh Province, it plays a vital role in fostering trade, tourism, and outward economic development with Cambodia.

Moc Bai holds a unique advantage thanks to its location on the Trans-Asia Highway – a major route that begins in Myanmar, passes through Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and Cambodia, and ends in Guangxi, China. Positioned along this corridor, Moc Bai lies only 70 km from Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s leading economic hub, and 170 km from Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia.

With its strategic location and international significance, Moc Bai International Border Gate has become a key driver of regional connectivity, economic growth, and cultural exchange between Vietnam and its neighbors.

Tay Ninh Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism

Typical Craft Villages

Tay Ninh is home to a rich tradition of craftsmanship, where villages like Trang Bang dew-soaked rice paper, Water Hyacinth Knitting and Binh An Drum showcase the artistry, heritage, and ingenuity of local artisans that have been passed down through generations.

Trang Bang Dew-Soaked Rice Paper Making

Dew-soaked rice paper are one of the most distinctive dishes of Tay Ninh cuisine. The process of making them requires meticulous care and craftsmanship. Rice flour, mixed with a touch of salt for flavor, is coated into sheets that are thicker than ordinary rice paper. These sheets are then left overnight to absorb the natural dew, giving them a soft, delicate texture and unique taste.

Production is concentrated in Loc Du Quarter, Trang Bang Ward, Trang Bang Town, where generations of artisans have perfected the technique. This specialty has gained widespread fame, not only across Vietnam but also internationally through export. The dish is a testament to the creativity and dedication of Tay Ninh’s people, and it has become a source of pride for the community.

In recognition of its cultural value, Trang Bang dew-soaked rice paper making was officially listed as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism under Decision No. 3465/QD-BVHTTDL on October 13, 2015.

Water Hyacinth Knitting Village

Known for its “floating life,” the humble water hyacinth has been transformed by the people of Moc Hoa commune into beautiful, finely crafted handicraft products. These eco-friendly creations are not only popular with domestic consumers but also hold significant export value, showcasing the ingenuity and craftsmanship of local artisans.

Binh An Drum Village

Located in Tan Tru commune, Binh An Drum Village has a history of nearly 200 years. Its drums are renowned across Vietnam for their durability, elegant designs, and remarkable sound quality. Unlike many other types, Binh An drums produce a deeper, more resonant tone, making them prized for both cultural performances and traditional ceremonies.

Tay Ninh Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism
Tay Ninh Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism
Photo Credit: Hữu Phương
Photo Credit: Lê Hoàng Thái

Must-Try Specialties

Trang Bang Under-Dew Rice Paper

The name under-dew rice paper comes from its meticulous preparation process. Rice is soaked for two days, milled, rinsed, and sun-dried. The sheets are then baked and left outdoors between 3 – 5 a.m. to absorb the morning dew, giving them a soft, delicate texture unlike any other.

What makes this dish truly memorable is the variety of fresh herbs and vegetables served with it – such as toad leaves, red buds, silk leaves, fish lettuce, perilla, jelly leaves, and basil – alongside pickled roots, carrots, and cucumbers. The rice paper is paired with flavorful cuts of pork, typically thigh or hock meat, combining skin, fat, and lean portions for a rich, balanced taste.

Each roll delivers a harmony of flavors: the sour, bitter, and slightly acrid notes of the herbs, the tang of pickled vegetables, and the savory, fatty sweetness of the pork, all wrapped in the tender dew-soaked rice paper.

This simple yet ingenious dish has become a culinary treasure, celebrated far beyond Tay Ninh.

Tay Ninh Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism

Vegetarian Cuisine

Vegetarian food is a distinctive hallmark of Tay Ninh cuisine, shaped by the large number of followers of Caodaism and Buddhism in the region. As a result, vegetarian dishes here are abundant, diverse, and beautifully presented.

Beyond being delicious, these dishes are prepared with creativity and artistry, offering both variety and visual appeal. Some of the most popular specialties include: Vegetarian beef noodle soup, vegetarian noodle soup, vegan duck, vegetarian chicken, vegetarian shrimp, vegetarian roast pork, vegetarian shredded chicken, vegetarian anchovies, vegetarian mushroom porridge, vegan crab, fish stewed vegetarian, vegetarian hot pot, etc.

From hearty soups to creative plant-based versions of traditional meat dishes, Tay Ninh’s vegetarian cuisine reflects both spiritual values and culinary artistry, making it an essential part of the province’s cultural identity.

Tay Ninh Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism
Tay Ninh Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism

Tay Ninh Young Beef

Young beef is one of Tay Ninh’s most celebrated specialties, renowned nationwide for its tender texture and distinctive flavor. Unlike older cattle, young beef (1.5 – 2 years old) has a pale, almost pork-like color, with skin only 0.2 – 0.5 cm thick, giving it a delicate bite.

A trip to Tay Ninh would be incomplete without tasting this dish. While beef is familiar everywhere, Tay Ninh’s young beef offers a uniquely rich and savory experience. The meat can be prepared in many ways, but the most popular is grilled young beef. Marinated with spices and grilled over charcoal, it releases an irresistible aroma that draws in anyone nearby.

Other delicious variations include steamed beef with perilla leaves, beef salad, beef hot pot, and beef porridge with mung beans. Among the many preparations, grilled beef with betel leaves is considered the most fragrant and appealing. To achieve its signature tenderness and flavor, the beef must be carefully marinated for hours.

Another highlight is roasted veal (bê thui), prized for its softness and distinctive taste.

With its variety of preparations and unforgettable flavor, Tay Ninh’s young beef has earned its place as a culinary treasure that every visitor should experience.

Tay Ninh Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism

Tay Ninh Shrimp Chili Salt

Simple yet distinctive, shrimp chili salt has become a famous condiment that enriches Vietnamese meals with its savory, aromatic flavor. As its name suggests, the key ingredients are coarse salt, fresh chili peppers, and dried shrimp. Depending on the recipe, supplementary elements such as garlic, lemongrass, or MSG may be added to enhance the taste.

The chili peppers used are grown locally in Tay Ninh, prized for their mild spiciness that balances heat without overwhelming the palate. The dried shrimp, an indispensable component, adds depth and umami. These ingredients are finely ground and blended, with each producer adding their own secret touch to create unique variations.

An important stage in production is drying. Traditionally, artisans roasted the mixture over wood-fired stoves at moderate heat. Today, larger facilities often use drying ovens, though each establishment maintains its own methods to achieve the perfect texture and flavor.

With its rustic origins and refined taste, Tay Ninh’s shrimp chili salt has become not only a beloved household staple but also a specialty product that reflects the creativity and culinary heritage of the region.

Tay Ninh Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism
Tay Ninh Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism

Banh In From Long Huu (Molded Rice Cakes)

Long Hựu rice cakes may be small and unassuming, but they carry within them a world of Tet (Lunar New Year) memories for families across the Mekong Delta. Their ingredients are humble – roasted glutinous rice flour, white sugar, dried bananas, sesame seeds, ginger, and peanuts – but what truly gives them life is the heart, love, and skillful hands of the baker.

Each cake is pressed into a handcrafted wooden mold, often shaped like dragons, phoenixes, lotus blossoms, or the characters Phúc – Lộc – Thọ (Happiness – Prosperity – Longevity). These designs are more than decoration; they are blessings, wishes for peace and abundance in the year ahead. Crafting a perfect cake is a meticulous process: rice must be carefully chosen, roasted until golden, then ground into fine powder. Ginger must strike the balance – spicy yet gentle. When blended together, the ingredients create a flavor that is sweet, lightly spicy, and nutty, distinctively tied to the land and its people.

A single bite is enough to taste the passage of time: the fragrance of rice, the mellow sweetness of banana, the warmth of ginger, and the crunch of peanuts, all melting slowly on the tongue.

Today, Long Hựu rice cakes are no longer just offerings for Tet or treats for the family table – they have become a beloved specialty of Long An, cherished as gifts. Packed in rustic dó paper and tied with bamboo string, each box carries not only flavor but also the heartfelt simplicity of the countryside, a token of love sent to friends and relatives near and far.

Tay Ninh Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism
Tay Ninh Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism

Banh Tet From Thu Thua (Sticky Rice Cakes)

Thu Thua sticky rice cake is a cherished traditional dish of Southern Vietnam, deeply woven into the daily life and cultural spirit of the riverine countryside. More than food, it is a culinary symbol passed down through generations, embodying the warmth and resilience of the Mekong Delta.

Crafting a perfect sticky rice cake is a meticulous art. From selecting the finest ingredients to wrapping and cooking, every step demands patience and skill to preserve the cake’s chewy texture, fragrant aroma, and distinctive flavor.

The main ingredients include glutinous rice, mung beans, pork fat, bananas, salted eggs, coconut milk, and banana leaves. Each element is carefully chosen: rice must be naturally fragrant, coconut milk blended in precise proportions for richness, and banana leaves fresh, intact, and cleaned before use. Wrapping is a crucial stage – each cake is layered in at least three banana leaves and bound tightly with sedge string to withstand long hours of cooking.

The cooking itself takes 8 to 12 hours, depending on the cake’s size, with water added steadily to ensure even heat. Once finished, the cakes are cooled completely before slicing, preserving their softness, chewiness, and signature aroma.

Thu Thua sticky rice cakes are more than a delicacy; they are the harmonious blend of simple yet exquisite ingredients and the baker’s skillful hands. As a cultural treasure, they enrich Vietnam’s culinary identity and remain a proud symbol of Tay Ninh’s heritage.

Tay Ninh Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism

GNGCD Awards