Picture this: A crisp morning in Da Nang, Vietnam, tinged with excitement as we geared up for an escapade to remember. Armed with cameras and curiosity, we set out on a journey to the ethereal realm of Sun World Ba Na Hills. Mind you, it was a mere hop, skip, and a cable car ride away from the bustling city center.
At an elevation of 1,487 meters above sea level, Sun World Ba Na Hills earns the title of “heaven on earth”. This is due to its breathtaking climate and surreal natural scenery.
Time Gate: Stepping Through History
Imagine walking through a portal that transcends time itself. Yes, that’s the magic of the Time Gate at Ba Na Hills. With its intricate designs and mystical aura, it felt like stepping into a fairy tale. Indeed, every corner whispered secrets of nature, the mythical and centuries past.
The Time Gate serves as a bridge between past and present, adorned with ornate carvings and symbolic motifs. It transports visitors to bygone eras, making it a captivating spot for history enthusiasts and daydreamers alike. Furthermore, it leads to the Memory Garden towards the Hoi An cable car station, which brought us to the middle part of the Sun World Ba Na Hills.
The Ba Na Hills Cable Car Ride: Skyward Soaring
If you’ve ever yearned to feel like a bird on the wing, the cable car ride to Ba Na Hills is your golden ticket. As we ascended into the clouds, the world below unfurled like a patchwork quilt. Furthermore, it revealed emerald forests, winding rivers, and the promise of adventure on the horizon.
Spanning an impressive length of 5,801 meters (19,032 ft), the cable car journey holds the record as one of the longest non-stop single-track cable car routes in the world. In fact, it offers unparalleled views of the lush landscapes below. It took us around 20 to 25 minutes to get to the Bordeaux cable car station, which was the gateway to the Golden Bridge. But according to our guide, it would take us five days to climb Ba Na Hills on foot.
The Golden Bridge: The Icon of Ba Na Hills
Ever dreamed of strolling on a bridge that defies gravity? Then the Golden Bridge is your dream come true. Suspended like a shimmering ribbon in the sky, it’s a marvel of architecture and a testament to human ingenuity. And yes, the views? Absolutely jaw-dropping.
This architectural wonder, held aloft by colossal stone hands, offers visitors a surreal experience as they traverse its gleaming pathway. Additionally, they are surrounded by panoramic vistas of misty mountains and lush greenery.
Le Jardin d’Amour: Love in Full Bloom
For a moment of pure romance, look no further than Le Jardin d’Amour. Here, amidst a riot of colors and fragrances, we found ourselves lost in a world of blossoms and butterflies. Truly, it’s like stepping into a painting, where every brushstroke is a testament to nature’s beauty.
Spanning a total area of 21,000 square meters, this meticulously landscaped garden boasts a diverse array of flora from around the world. Moreover, it provides a sensory feast for visitors as they meander through its enchanting pathways. The 9 gardens within Le Jardin D’Amour are like 9 enchanting narratives told through 9 distinct architectural styles. Also, they blend seamlessly to compose a captivating symphony of visual splendor.
Buddha Statue at Ba Na Hills: Serenity Personified
Amidst the hustle and bustle of our explorations, the Buddha Statue stood like a silent guardian, radiating tranquility and peace. Definitely, it’s a reminder to slow down, breathe, and soak in the beauty that surrounds us—a lesson we all need from time to time.
This iconic landmark, towering majestically amidst the verdant landscape, serves as a beacon of serenity. In addition, it invites visitors to pause and reflect in its serene presence.
French Village: Ooh La La!
Who knew you could find a slice of France in the heart of Vietnam? French Village is a delightful blend of quaint charm and European elegance. From cobblestone streets to cozy cafes, it’s a feast for the senses and a journey back in time. The Saint Denis Church caught our eye, and we even witnessed a pre-nuptial photo shoot inside its small hall.
Modeled after an authentic French village, this charming enclave transports visitors to the romantic streets of Europe. It’s complete with charming boutiques and artisanal shops. Plus, there are delectable patisseries serving up freshly baked croissants and pastries.
Spiritual Land: Finding Inner Peace at Ba Na Hills
In the midst of our whirlwind adventure, Spiritual Land offered a sanctuary for the soul. On hindsight, it must be the highest portion in Ba Na Hills, and we climbed this spiritual complex. Amidst sacred shrines and meditative gardens, we found a moment of stillness—a rare gift in our fast-paced world. There you will find the Tru Vu Tea Corner, the Stele Hall, and the Campanile. Add to that the Linh Chua Linh Tu Temple, the Linh Phong Thien Tu Pagoda, and the Belfry.
This tranquil oasis, nestled amidst the verdant hills of Ba Na, provides a serene escape for spiritual seekers and weary travelers alike. It has quiet temples, ornate pagodas, and lush meditation gardens inviting contemplation and introspection.
Culinary Odyssey: A Feast Fit for Kings
Let’s talk food, shall we? At Ba Na Hills, we dined like royalty, indulging in a smorgasbord of culinary delights. Pizza Brasserie Restaurant served up slices of heaven, while the El Fresco stall kept us refreshed with fruity concoctions.
And as for Kem Vien? Let’s just say we screamed for ice cream—and went back for seconds. From gourmet restaurants to charming street stalls, Ba Na Hills offers a diverse culinary landscape sure to tantalize taste buds and satisfy even the most discerning palates. If you want a feast, there’s even a buffet lunch available. However, we opted to eat at stalls as we preferred to explore the complex more, given our limited time.
Visitor Information: Planning Your Adventure
For those eager to embark on their own odyssey to Sun World Ba Na Hills, here’s what you need to know. Ticket prices vary depending on the package chosen.
- Adults: VND750,000,
- Children (1m – 1.4m): VND600,000.
- For Danang locals: Adults: VND450,000, Children: VND350,000. Kids above 1.4m pay adult fares, under 1m are free.
- Includes entry to complex, VAT, 105 games at Fantasy Park, Golden Bridge access, Le Jardin D’Amour gardens, excludes Wax Museum and some indoor sports fees.
- A different ticket price for visitors that prefer to have the buffet lunch included.
Sun World Ba Na Hills operates from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily, allowing visitors ample time to explore its myriad attractions. For inquiries and ticket reservations, interested parties can contact Sun World Ba Na Hills via phone at + 84 (0) 905 766 777 or email at [email protected].
If you want to stay for the night, there’s Mercure Ba Na Hills French Village Hotel. It’s part of the 4-star hospitality chain governed by Accor Hotel that is located within the resort. There are other amenities as well. In fact, there were plenty of massage chairs there, and we even availed of its services after roaming the entire theme park.
How to get to Ba Na Hills
Getting to Sun World Ba Na Hills is a breeze, with various transportation options available from Da Nang city center. The distance from Da Nang’s downtown area to Ba Na Hills is approximately 20 km away. Moreover, taxis, private car services like Grab, and shuttle buses are readily available for convenience.
Additionally, adventurous travelers can opt for a motorbike ride, enjoying the scenic journey along winding mountain roads before reaching the summit of Ba Na Hills. With its convenient location and plethora of attractions, Sun World Ba Na Hills promises an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.
A Farewell to Ba Na Hills: Until We Meet Again
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the hills, we knew our time in Ba Na Hills had come to an end. Admittedly, there were still so many nooks and crannies and attractions that we haven’t seen or tried, as the day seemed too short to enjoy Ba Na Hills.
But as we bid adieu to this enchanting realm, we carried with us memories to last a lifetime and hearts full of gratitude for the wonders we had witnessed. So, if you ever find yourself in Da Nang, do yourself a favor: Take a journey to Sun World Ba Na Hills and let the magic unfold. Trust me, you won’t regret it.