Exploring the Majestic Marble Mountains of Vietnam

Just 29 kilometres from the bustling city of Da Nang are the majestic Marble Mountains, known as 'Ngu Hanh Son' in Vietnamese, a picturesque cluster of five hills made of limestone and marble, hence the name.

These five hills are named after the five elements of nature: Metal, Wood, Water, Fire, and Earth, and a visit to these hills will transport you into a mysterious world of caves and pagodas, both Buddhist and Hindu grottoes, built deep into the mountainside.

Thuy Son, the main Marble Mountain, can be accessed either by a stairway with 156 steps or by taking the elevator that will take you directly to the top. 156 doesn't sound like a formidable number, but these steps were built sometime during the 17th century; they are uneven and very slippery. We settled for a quick elevator ride that cost 15,000 VND (that's less than 1 USD), one way!!

Once you reach the top, you will see breathtaking views of Non Nuoc Beach in the South China Sea.

You will be greeted by the beautiful Xa Loi Tower in Linh Ung Pagoda as you enter the complex ...

The Marble Mountain complex houses one of the three famous Linh Ung Pagodas in Da Nang; this one, located on Marble Mountain, is one of the oldest.

Yes, there are 3 Linh Ung Pagodas in Da Nang!1

The other Linh Ung Pagodas are the one on Son Tra Peninsula, also known as Lady Buddha, and the third is on Ba Na Hills.

Spend some time at the pagoda, then walk further to explore the half a dozen big and small caves that dot the landscape of Marble Mountain; each with a palpably different feel and level of difficulty, especially if a hike is involved.

We started our day with Van Thong Cave...the cave that opens into the sky... its winding, crooked staircase looked rather inviting...the sojourn proved to be fun, although we did not go all the way up because the stone path up was very slippery and extremely narrow (see video below)

This brings me to my 3 main tips about Marble Mountains:

One, take the elevator, it's totally worth it because there is a lot of walking and hiking involved once you step into the Marble Mountain Complex, save your energy for seeing the caves.

Two, keep exploring caves as you go along the route, thinking that you would enter them on your way back might not be possible because the routes are tricky to follow, and finding your way around can be difficult unless you've done your research and are keen on visiting any particular cave. Having said that, I'd also like to mention that all caves are uniquely beautiful, so enjoy the scenery instead of rushing through the caves. I saw a lot of people, drenched in sweat, running frantically from one cave to another.

Three, the caves you should not miss, however, are the famous Huyen Khong Cave and Am Phu Cave, also known as Hell Cave.

Huyen Khong Cave is a haven of tranquillity as sunlight filters through the large openings at the top of the cave, casting a luminous glow on the intricate carvings all around and the large statue of Buddha placed on a central plinth.

This cave had served as a hiding place for soldiers during the Vietnam War, making it even more intriguing.

The magnificent Huyen Khong Cave

Another cave that stood out for its unique layout was Dong Linh Nham Cave. The path up was fairly smooth, but the cave was pitch dark inside, making it a very thrilling experience!

Once you leave the main complex of Marble Mountains and step out of the elevator, on your right, you will see the magnificent Am Phu Cave, or Hell Cave, at the foot of Hon Thuy Son, the Water Mountain.

Click on the link below to learn more about Am Phu Cave

https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/the-allure-of-am-phu-cave-at-marble-mountain

For your day at Marble Mountain

• Wear Comfortable Shoes: The terrain can be uneven, so sturdy footwear is crucial for exploring all that the mountains have to offer.

• Stay Hydrated: Bring plenty of water, especially if hiking. The tropical climate can be hot, and staying hydrated will help you enjoy your visit.

  
  

• Respect the Culture: Because this area holds spiritual significance, dress modestly and be mindful of local customs at temples and pagodas.

  
  

• Plan Your Timing: Visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon can help you avoid crowds and allow for a more peaceful experience.

  
  

• For thrill-seekers, hiking to the summit of one of these mountains and taking in the panoramic views can be a truly fantastic experience. Trails may vary in difficulty.

  
  

• The Marble Mountains serve as a hub for local artisans to showcase their craftsmanship and earn a living from it. Very close to the parking lot, you will come across massive workshops where skilled craftsmen create marble sculptures, vases, and intricate decor. If you talk to these artisans, they'll happily share stories about their work, explaining the cultural significance behind each piece.

  
  

• Opt for the elevator and conserve your energy. Remember, the elevator service closes at 5 pm. You can buy the return ticket from the counter next to it.

  
  

• Must keep aside about an hour at the Am Phu Cave. It's enchanting!!

  
  

The Marble Mountains of Vietnam are a hidden gem that offers a rich mix of natural beauty, cultural depth, and adventure. Whether you are exploring the caves, hiking to vibrant summits, or learning about local artisans, there is something here for everyone.

My verdict is, make sure to carve out time from your itinerary for this enchanting destination!