Rising majestically from the flat plains of Tay Ninh province, approximately 100km northwest of Ho Chi Minh City, Ba Den Mountain (Núi Bà Đen or Black Virgin Mountain) stands as the highest peak in southeastern Vietnam (~986m). This extinct volcano holds deep spiritual significance for centuries, considered a sacred site attracting Buddhist pilgrims, while simultaneously embracing modernity as home to the large-scale Sun World Ba Den Mountain tourism complex. Its distinctive conical shape makes it a prominent landmark visible from afar.
The mountain offers a blend of traditional religious sites and modern attractions. Partway up lies the historic Linh Son Tien Thach Pagoda complex, featuring ancient shrines and temples that draw crowds of worshippers, especially during festivals. Reaching this area and near the summit is now primarily done via an extensive modern cable car system operated by Sun World, offering scenic rides up the mountainside. The summit area itself has been extensively developed with landscaped gardens, viewing platforms providing panoramic vistas over Tay Ninh province and Dau Tieng Lake, restaurants, and, most impressively, a massive seated bronze Buddha statue, claimed to be the tallest of its kind in Asia located on a mountain peak.
A visit to Ba Den Mountain provides a unique experience combining spiritual pilgrimage, cultural exploration, stunning natural views, and modern tourist amenities (as of April 2025). It requires a day trip or longer excursion from Ho Chi Minh City (approx. 2-3 hours drive). While traditional hiking trails exist, most visitors utilize the convenient cable car system (tickets required). Whether you come seeking religious solace, breathtaking panoramas, or to witness the impressive scale of the Sun World development and giant Buddha, Ba Den Mountain offers a significant and multifaceted attraction in Southern Vietnam.