Nature has bestowed many gifts upon Vietnam, making it the ideal destination for tourists. The country is home to stunning landscapes, majestic mountains, crystal-clear waters and peaceful villages. Hop on a train and get the most out of your trip through the magnificently unspoilt countryside around Vietnam.
[rpi]HAI VAN PASS: SPECTACULAR VIEWS THROUGH PANORAMIC WINDOWS
There is a range of picturesque train lines passing through Vietnam, but the Hai Van Pass – known for being one of the most glorious views in the world – has always made a good impression on passengers. Sit inside the carriage, cast your eyes out of the window and enjoy the views over the tree-capped mountains and iridescent turquoise waters that stretch endlessly towards the horizon. Running from Hue to Da Nang and passing by the sparkling waves, the train offers some of the most fantastic scenery.
The Hai Van Pass is a 21-kilometre coastal strip which snakes through the mountainside, 18 bridges and 6 tunnels with a maximum width of 200m. The pass is tucked between a rugged cliff and a deep abyss, making it a hair-raising and challenging route for any type of vehicle. However, because of this, it has become an adventure attraction for travel enthusiasts. If you travel through the Hai Van Pass by train at least once in your lifetime, the image of the breathtaking landscapes will be imprinted in your mind forever.
Dubbed as the precious gem in the central provinces in Vietnam, the lush green forests and sparkling beaches will gradually appear before your eyes. Whenever the train snakes along the mountainside, an abundance of joy and happiness fills your heart. Your train journey through the Hai Van Pass to get a glimpse of Vietnam’s glorious countryside will be an unforgettable and fun-filled experience.
- Ticket prices: VND70,000 – VND210,000/turn from Hue to Da Nang (Vietnam)
- Duration: 2 – 3 hours
HANOI – QUANG BINH: MARVEL AT POPULAR TOURIST DESTINATIONS
Where can you see the dense forests, vast azure waters and magnificent caves in Vietnam? The answer is in Quang Binh. The peaceful land has people falling head over heels in love due to its mystifying beauty. Departing from Hanoi – the thousand-year-old capital of Vietnam and crossing the serene villages and cities, Quang Binh Province gradually appears in front of your eyes, making you feel extraordinarily peaceful. As you first arrive in Quang Binh, you will certainly appreciate its historical values.
“From the blue sea to the green mountains and forests, you will see the splendid scenery during four seasons, the locals are playing Le Thuy Chantey on Kien Giang River.” These melodious lyrics express special love for Quang Binh. Despite experiencing many difficulties and challenges over the years, it has only flourished and become more beautiful. Aside from the natural tourist spots and famous historical sites en route, for instance, Paradise Cave, Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park, Nhat Le Beach and Dong Hoi City, the train journey to Quang Binh will definitely bring endless joy to your heart.
Once you have reached your destination, you can participate in a wide range of exhilarating activities at the Chay River – Dark Cave, slide on Quang Phu Sand Dunes and soak in the refreshing water at the Bang Mineral Hot Springs. After these interesting experiences, hop on a train to return to the capital. In addition to any souvenirs that you may pick up or local delicacies that you try, you will definitely have a great time and leave with valuable stories about the local history in this beautiful area of Central Vietnam.
- Ticket prices: VND300,000 – VND900,000 VND/turn
- Duration: ~ 10 hours
HANOI – SA PA: CATCH A TRAIN TO THE MOUNTAINS
At nightfall, the Hanoi Railway Station teems with many people toing and froing, socialising together and waiting for the train to Sa Pa – the most attractive tourist destination in Northern Vietnam. As people begin to board the train, happiness and excitement may get the better of them. Many passengers may not be too enthused by the journey as the train to Sa Pa departs at night and they cannot appreciate the beauty of the natural scenery.
However, travelling by train at nighttime is also an amazing experience. At night, the sky is illuminated by dazzling lights, making the scenery a bit more fanciful. There is nothing better than enjoying a memorable night with your friends on a train as you prepare to reach nostalgic and peaceful Sa Pa.
- Ticket prices: VND195,000 – VND450,000/turn
- Duration: 8 – 11 hours
HCMC – NHA TRANG TRAIN ROUTE: BREATHTAKING OCEAN VIEWS
When summer comes, many people want to take a dip in the cool seawater and treat themselves to a break on a white sandy beach. Nha Trang – the busiest coastal city in Vietnam, has always been the top destination to temporarily get away from the bustle and intense heat of the urban areas. Departing from the magnificent metropolis of Saigon, the train to Nha Trang will definitely bring endless joy and excitement to your mind.
It would be a shame to pass through an abundance of magnificent scenery en route quickly, so this train takes nearly ten hours to travel through the exquisite natural landscapes in Binh Duong, Ninh Thuan – the land of sunshine and wind and Nha Trang that captivates you with its crystal-clear azure waters and smooth sandy shores. Additionally, the coastal city has attracted a large number of domestic and foreign visitors due to many interesting experiences on offer. Walk by the vast sea, scuba-dive deep into the ocean to explore the mysterious underwater world or simply rest in a luxurious resort and enjoy the peaceful coastal atmosphere.
The five-star train from Ho Chi Minh City to Nha Trang is a good chance to treat yourself to a little luxury with its state-of-the-art facilities, cleanliness and dedicated service on every train carriage. Gliding through the beautiful scenery of Vietnam, the train will allow you to capture each wonderful moment, enjoy nature and chat with new friends. Plane or car may be a more efficient means of transportation, but travelling by train has always been an incredible experience as you have plenty of time to appreciate the natural surroundings in Vietnam.
- Ticket prices: VND240,000 – VND720,000/turn
- Duration: 7 hours and 20 minutes
Le Ha | Wanderlust Tips