5 Things to do in Da Nang, Vietnam
updated the 7 October 2015 à 00:03
We zoom in on the third largest city in Vietnam, Da Nang, and uncover five of the best things to do and see in this exciting, less frequented travel destination.
1) Visit Phap Lam Pagoda
Recently renovated, this pagoda is famous for its majestic golden statue of Buddha, located within its precinct and three equally impending giant ones outside it – which, needless to say, are a sight for sore eyes. The pagoda is best enjoyed in the early hours of the morning, or in the later part of the evening, when it is less crowded.
2) Visit Pho Da Nang Pagoda
Founded and built by Venerable Thich Ton Thang in 1927 and restored several times until 1983, this pagoda is a must-visit. The architecture is stunning and is only made better by the large oval-shaped lake that takes up much of the front grounds, and the 10-foot white statue of Kwan Yin (the Goddess of the Compassion and Mercy). Apart from it being a beautiful monument, it was also an important place for at least three decades, for Buddhist study and training for monks and nuns and continues to be the main place for the basic study of Buddhism.
3) Ride Ba Na Cable Car
If you’re not a fan of heights, you will be rid of them the moment you find yourself too encapsulated by the beauty of your surroundings. The landscape is truly picturesque and the cable car ride is apparently one of the longest rides offered, in the world. The ride takes you to two different levels – the first being a visit to Buddhist temples and pagodas and the second to a theme park that’s still being developed. Offering a panoramic view of the Da Nang city landscape below and the top of Ba Na Hills and the waterfalls around it, this totally affordable trip to-do (priced at USD25), is something not to be missed.
4) Get an Easyrider and Bike Around Da Nang
Da Nang, owing to its great location as an easily accessible port, conveniently nestled midway between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh, makes it a great place to bike to neighbouring places from. You can take an Easyrider up North to Hoi An and stay overnight at a small town at an affordable rate and then onwards to Hue, an ancient imperial city which is home to some truly beautiful architecture and relics. On the bike journey, you can look forward to some spectacular sights as well as the chance to stop at several small villages, where you can get a first-hand account of true Vietnamese culture and artistry.
5) Brave the Marble Mountains
For a truly unique adventure, take a day trip to the Marble Mountains – ancient limestone hills named after the five elements. There are many caves and tunnels to go in and out of, leaving you with an endless amount of nooks and crannies to explore. There are also attractive overnight options at hotels in the area.
Diya-Maya Tsering Bhalla
