Cu Chi Tunnels

Located just 60 kilometers from Ho Chi Minh City, the Cu Chi Tunnels offer a glimpse into Vietnam’s wartime past. Built during the resistance against French and American forces, this 250-kilometer network of tunnels includes living quarters, kitchens, weapon storage, and even hospitals — all underground.

Visitors can crawl through narrow tunnels to experience how soldiers survived, observe hidden trapdoors, and explore reconstructed bunkers and command centers. The tunnels not only served as a means of transport and communication but also as a base for guerrilla warfare. It’s a powerful and humbling experience that tells the story of Vietnamese courage and strategy.

The Cu Chi Tunnels represent a powerful symbol of Vietnam's resistance and resilience during the Vietnam War. Built by the Viet Cong soldiers starting in the late 1940s, the tunnels expanded into a vast 250 km underground network by the 1960s. They included sleeping quarters, hospitals, command centers, and kitchens — all underground.

The culture of survival seen in Cu Chi reflects the Vietnamese spirit of ingenuity. Despite minimal resources, the fighters used clever trap systems, ventilation tricks, and silent cooking to survive and fight from below the surface.

Explore the Tunnel System: Crawl through the original, narrow tunnels (widened slightly for tourists).

Watch the Documentary Video: A short film explains the historical background and guerrilla tactics.

See Booby Traps in Action: View replicas of spike pits, swinging traps, and concealed entrances.

Visit the Underground Kitchen (Hoang Cam Stove): See how smoke was cleverly dispersed to avoid detection.

Try Tapioca & Tea: Sample the wartime diet of cassava and green tea.

Visit the Shooting Range (Optional): Fire real rifles used during the war like AK-47s and M16s.

While Cu Chi itself has limited food options, most tours include:

1. Cassava with crushed peanuts and tea (a must-try local staple during the war).
2. On the return to Ho Chi Minh City, enjoy:
3. Pho (Vietnamese noodle soup)
4. Banh Mi (Vietnamese sandwich)
5. Goi Cuon (Fresh spring rolls)
6. Indian options in HCMC: Baba’s Kitchen, Tandoor Saigon, and Namaste India are popular choices among Indian tourists.

Visa: Indian citizens can apply for a Vietnam e-visa online (valid for 30 days, single entry). Free visa options may apply in tour packages.

Currency: Local currency is VND (Vietnamese Dong). Carry USD and exchange locally for better rates.

Language: English is understood in tourist areas, but a guide is helpful at Cu Chi.

Clothing: Lightweight cotton clothes and walking shoes are ideal.

1. Local Etiquette: Be respectful of the war site — it’s an emotional place for locals.

Dry Season: November to April is ideal — pleasant weather, less rain.

Avoid mid-summer (May to July) if you’re sensitive to heat or humidity, especially inside the tunnels.

Tours usually run in the morning for cooler conditions.

1. Fly to Ho Chi Minh City (Tan Son Nhat International Airport)

1. Direct flights from India (Delhi or Mumbai) with layovers via Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, or Singapore.
2. Airlines: VietJet Air, Vietnam Airlines, Indigo, Singapore Airlines.

2. From Ho Chi Minh City to Cu Chi Tunnels:

1. By Private Car or Guided Tour (1.5 – 2 hours) – Most convenient
2. By Public Bus (less recommended) – Takes longer and requires multiple changes