Marble Mountains

Being part of the Vietnamese heritage trail and serving as a symbol of nature and spirituality for the people of Da Nang, Ngu Hanh Son (Marble Mountains) is a must-visit destination when traveling through Central Vietnam. The poetic beauty of this mountain complex has been immortalized in poetry, music, and art. Join us as we conquer lush green trails and explore a series of stunning caves and temples nestled in this splendid natural wonder.

Decode the name Ngu Hanh Son

In Vietnamese culture, names are more than just labels for people or things; they carry profound meanings and messages. The name Ngu Hanh Son is no exception. “Ngu Hanh” refers to the five elements in Eastern belief: metal, wood, water, fire, and earth, while “Son” simply means mountain. Together, the name signifies a mountain range where all five natural elements come together in harmony, reflecting the meeting of heaven and earth. This name was given by Emperor Minh Mang during his visit to the area in the early 19th century. Impressed by the harmonious natural landscapes and the balance of yin and yang in its energy, he named it Ngu Hanh Son – the Mountain of the Five Elements.

Later, when the French arrived, they named the range “Marble Mountains” due to the geological features of the area. This is also the first impression that visitors get when approaching the mountain complex: countless sculptures carved out from marble, varying in shape and size from towering statues that will leave you in awe to smaller, intricate items perfect for taking home as souvenirs.

For the local people, this mountain is also known as Hon Non Nuoc. This name is more to the face of it with “Non” meaning mountain, and “Nuoc” meaning water or sea. This name emphasizes the unique geography of the site, where one side is supported by towering peaks and the other meets the vast ocean.

Despite the variety in how it is called, Ngu Hanh Son remains the official name of this spiritual and natural complex.

Legends and anecdotes about Ngu Hanh Son

There are many legends and historical anecdotes associated with Ngu Hanh Son, adding to its mystique.

The legend of Ngu Hanh Son

Of all the legendary folklore, the most discussed one starts with an old man living by a secluded beach who one day encounters a magical dragon and a golden turtle. After witnessing the dragon laying a mysterious egg, he was tasked with protecting it, with a promise from the divine animals to come to his aid in case of danger or emergency. Over time, the magical egg grew bigger and bigger, cracking the earth and sand underneath as it rose high into the sky, its shell sparkling with colors.

One day, the old man’s house caught fire, but a cave emerged inside the egg to shelter him as soon as he called for help from the golden turtle. The egg eventually hatched into a girl, who was believed to be the Dragon King’s daughter. She was fed with milk flowing from the rock inside the cave and fruits brought to her by monkeys and doves from the nearby forest. The eggshell fossilized into a large mountain with dense vegetation and wildlife.

This is how the mountain is said to have come into existence. As for the destiny of the fairy girl, the old man, and the magical animals, we will leave that for you to discover during your visit.

The anecdote of King Gia Long

It is said that the Vietnamese historical figure Nguyen Anh (later King Gia Long) took refuge at Ngu Hanh Son while fleeing the Tay Son Army. He promised to restore the Tam Thai Pagoda to repay those who offered him shelter. Later, after ascending the throne, he failed to fulfill his vow but instructed his heirs to carry it out instead.

The anecdote of King Minh Mang

Gia Long’s successor, King Minh Mang, visited Ngu Hanh Son multiple times during his reign, making significant contributions to its development, including renovations of the pagodas and the construction of pathways connecting places of worship. This was not only an act to fulfill his father’s promise but also a demonstration of his admiration for the natural magnificence of the site.

The anecdote of Princess Ngoc Hoa

Princess Ngoc Hoa of the Nguyen Dynasty was said to have sought refuge at Tam Thai Pagoda to escape her royal life. She became a nun and practiced spirituality at Huyen Khong Cave, which later became symbolic of spiritual freedom and enlightenment.

How to get to Ngu Hanh Son

Ngu Hanh Son is only 8 kilometers from the center of Da Nang and can be accessed by various means of transportation.

By bus

• Duration: 30 – 40 minutes.
• Cost: 15,000 – 30,000 VND ($0.75 – $1.5).
• Details: You can take bus number 16 or number 2 from the center of Da Nang to Ngu Hanh Son. As this is a major tourist attraction, staff at the station can easily direct you to the correct bus. The buses depart every 10 – 20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. While this is an affordable option, it may be less convenient.

By taxi or motorbike taxi

• Duration: Around 20 minutes.
• Cost: Approximately 100,000 – 150,000 VND ($4 – $6).
• Details: Ride-hailing apps like Xanh SM and Grab are popular options for locals and visitors alike. Simply download the app, book a ride, and the driver will pick you up and take you to your destination. These apps allow you to see trip prices in advance or schedule a pick-up time, offering convenience and comfort. If you prefer not to install another app, you can always hail a traditional taxi from any hotel or major location in the city.

By private car with driver

• Duration: Around 20 minutes.
• Cost: Varies depending on providers, typically around 200,000 – 300,000 VND ($8 – $12).
• Details: Hiring a private car with a driver is an excellent choice if you’re traveling in a group, with kids, or with luggage. Drivers are often happy to stop along the way for photos or sightseeing. If you’re fortunate, you may get an English-speaking driver eager to share insights about the area. Ask your hotel to book a car with your preferred capacity.

By motorbike

• Duration: Around 20 – 30 minutes.
• Cost: 100,000 – 150,000 VND ($4 – $6) per day, excluding gas.
• Details: The beautiful coastal road and light traffic in Da Nang make it perfect for a motorbike ride. Renting a motorbike is simple, with many rental shops around the city center and hotels offering rental services at your doorstep. Once you have the bike, head to the nearest gas station, as most rentals do not include petrol. Ensure you have a valid driving license and always wear a helmet while riding.

Things to do at Ngu Hanh Son

Venture into Am Phu Cave

As soon as you step into the cave, you’ll immediately feel a chill in the air, a refreshing mist seeping from the marble walls around you. The name “Am Phu” actually doesn’t quite capture the full essence of the cave. As you venture deeper inside, you’ll come upon a spacious courtyard where the path splits into two directions: one leading to hell and one leading to heaven.

The former takes you through scenes depicting the punishments of the afterlife for the misdeeds one has done on earth, with intricate carvings of demons and spirits etched into the rock walls. At times, the way is clear with neat steps, but at other times, you’ll have to crawl through small crevices in the rocks. The ultimate destination on this path is the Sam Hoi Dai (Penance Platform), where, if one sincerely repents, the sins can be washed away. This is one of the reflections of Buddhist beliefs.

Meanwhile, the path leading to heaven is steeper, with vertical steps that may require you to cling to the rocks for support as you climb up. But once you reach the top, the breathtaking view on the summit, overlooking the houses below, makes the journey truly worthwhile. 

Both paths are equipped with handrails and lighting to ensure your safety throughout the experience.

Note: The entrance to Am Phu Cave is separate from the rest of the complex, and visitors need to purchase a separate ticket to enter.

Marvel at Linh Ung Pagoda & Tang Chon Cave

After conquering around 150 stairs, you’ll come to the first stop on this adventure which is Linh Ung Pagoda. This grand place of worship sits atop Mount Thuy Son, surrounded by towering trees, offering a refreshing and ancient atmosphere. Greeting you will be nine fearless dragons intertwined with a maze of tree branches like thousands of divine hands. Visitors can admire the traditional architecture, with moss-covered tilted roofs, colorful reliefs depicting mythical creatures in Eastern culture like dragons, phoenixes, and unicorns. 

Don’t miss Tang Chon Cave hidden behind the pagoda. Passing through a tiny entrance, you’ll find yourself in a cool, shaded corridor leading to a large cavern where stone statues of Buddha are enshrined in atmospheric altars.

Note: There are two famous Linh Ung Pagodas: one on Mount Thuy Son inside the Ngu Hanh Son complex, and the other on Son Tra Peninsula. Both are must-visit spots in Da Nang, but make sure you check the locations carefully to avoid confusion.

Conquer the Thuong Thai Peak and the highest peak

For those seeking a bit more adventure, this is probably the highlight of the trip. To reach the summit of Thuong Thai, also known as the peak of Mount Thuy Son, you’ll have to climb narrow and slippery stone steps, barely wide enough for one person. The trail is damp and steep, almost like an ancient tunnel, adding a mystical vibe to the exploration. Once you pass through this section, a stone staircase will lead you further up the mountain. When the thorny cactus bushes come into sight, you know you’re only a few steps away from the summit.

Once reaching the top, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning panoramic view where the sea, mountains, and blue sky beautifully blend together. The space at the summit is relatively limited and can get quite crowded around noon, so be patient and wait for others to descend before climbing up for your safety.

For those looking to avoid crowds, consider taking the trail to the highest peak as indicated on the information plaque. This path is entirely stone steps with plenty of shade and, surprisingly, very few people (perhaps because many visitors are already worn out after conquering Mount Thuy Son or mistakenly think that this path leads to the same peak, but it doesn’t). The view from the highest peak is no less spectacular: you can enjoy a sweeping skyline of the city and, most interestingly, watch the steady line of hikers making their way up Mount Thuy Son.

Enjoy the tranquility at Tam Thai Pagoda

After exploring the summits, take a moment to rest and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere at Tam Thai Pagoda. This small temple has witnessed significant historical events and weather catastrophes in the region. It also houses valuable religious artifacts that are hundreds of years old. The distinctive arch gate is an impressive feature with three separate entrances: the central gate is reserved for revered monks, the left one is for men, and the right is for women. Visitors are welcome to go inside, light an incense stick, and admire the interior design.

Experience spirituality at Huyen Khong Cave

The final destination on the map – and perhaps the most iconic image associated with Da Nang City for international visitors – is Huyen Khong Cave. This is the place where the sacred giant Buddha statue sits solemnly against the marble wall, bathed in shafts of light that beam through the stone ceiling. The ethereal aura and serene glow make this a truly unforgettable spiritual experience. From here, you can choose to descend either by stairs or by elevator back to the foot of the mountain.

Practical tips

• There are two ticket booths for the Ngu Hanh Son complex, one that includes an elevator pass and the other that doesn’t. If you prefer taking the stairs as we suggested, go to the booth further to the right from the elevator.
• Boots or sports shoes with good traction and ankle support are recommended due to the slippery and rocky conditions inside the caves and on the trails.
• A light waterproof jacket and a hat are useful, as you’ll encounter water dripping in some areas, and it can be windy in certain parts.
• It’s important to stay hydrated, as it can get quite hot during midday, especially if you choose to hike up instead of taking the elevator.
• Motorbike parking is available outside Gate 1 and Gate 2, and you shouldn’t be charged more than 10,000 VND ($0.4).
• Expect to spend around 1.5 hours at the complex, including temple visits and cave exploration. Plan for at least 1 hour more if you’re taking the stairs.
• Marble bracelets and keychains make for decent and special souvenirs to bring home. Engraving services are also available on request, so you can personalize your gifts with engraved names and special dates.

In short, Ngu Hanh Son, or the Marble Mountains, offers a unique blend of natural beauty, spiritual heritage, and adventure, catering to all tourists’ needs. With its ancient pagodas, marvelous caves, and stunning viewpoints surrounded by lush landscapes, it’s definitely worth adding to your to-do list when visiting Da Nang.