Imagine a lush, jungle-clad mountain range embracing the breathtaking Vinh Hy Bay. This is Nui Chua National Park, the verdant lung of Ninh Thuan Province in South Central Coast Vietnam. Towering 1000 meters above sea level, this national park spans an impressive 20,000 hectares, nurturing over 600 precious flora species and approximately 300 wild animal species.
Location
Nui Chua National Park boasts a dramatic location on the East Sea waterfront, complemented by a scattering of luxurious resorts. Situated in Ninh Hai and Thuan Bac Districts, Ninh Thuan Province, it is just 30 kilometers away from Phan Rang City.
Transportation
Thanks to its high-quality infrastructure and diverse transportation options, visiting Nui Chua National Park from different regions is incredibly convenient. Here’s how you can get there:
By Bus
From Ho Chi Minh City, you can hop on sleep coaches like Tuan Tu, Que Huong, or Phuoc Thien at Eastern Bus Station (92 Dinh Bo Linh, Binh Thanh District). These coaches will take you directly to Phan Rang – Thap Cham. Once you arrive, you can catch a taxi, Bus No.2, or a motorbike taxi for the 30-kilometer journey to Nui Chua National Park.
For bus information:
- Tuan Tu Bus: ticket counter No. 56. Tel: 0919 944 567
- Que Huong Bus: ticket counter No.48. Tel: 091 549 9904
- Phuoc Thien Bus: ticket counter No.70. Tel: 0977 111 29
By Train
From Sai Gon Train Station (1 Nguyen Thong, District 3), you can take the SE6 or SE8 trains departing at 9 am and 6 am, respectively, to Thap Cham Station (7 Phan Dinh Phung, Phan Rang Commune). The total journey takes around 6.5 hours.
Once you reach Thap Cham Station, you can take a taxi to the city center and then catch Bus No.2 (Phan Rang – Vinh Hy) to reach the national park, located approximately 37 kilometers away.
By Airplane
If you’re coming from big cities like Dalat or Ho Chi Minh City, you also have the option of flying to Cam Ranh International Airport. From there, you can transfer to My Thanh Bridge and rent a speedboat to Vinh Hy. Alternatively, you can take a Grab Taxi directly to Nui Chua National Park, located 60 kilometers away.
Best Time to Visit
Nui Chua National Park is best experienced between May and August. However, Ninh Thuan, renowned for its wind and sunshine, tends to be hot year-round. Therefore, if you’re not accustomed to dry and extreme weather, it’s recommended to plan your visit for late August or September.
Best Things to Do in Nui Chua National Park
Go Sightseeing
Immerse yourself in the picturesque natural landscapes of Nui Chua National Park. This hidden gem is brimming with magnificent mountains, gushing streams, striking cliffs, and lush greenery. It’s also home to a rich fauna and flora system, housing rare species like the Tibetan Bear and Malayan Bear. And since the park is less touristy, you can truly embrace the freshness and peaceful ambiance it offers.
Trekking
Embark on a thrilling trek through the dense jungle and indulge in a captivating photo hunt. One of the most popular treks in Nui Chua National Park takes you from Hang Da Hamlet to O Liem River, typically spanning three days with seven hours of trekking per day. During this journey, you’ll have the opportunity to camp in the heart of the forest, engage in interesting activities, and learn about the culture of the Raglai people. The cherry on top awaits at Nui Chua Mount, where spectacular mountain views will be your rewarding prize.
Underwater Exploration
For water enthusiasts, a visit to Vinh Hy Bay is an absolute must. Dive or snorkel your way through the diverse coral reefs, immersing yourself in the beauty of the ocean’s depths. It’s the perfect opportunity to cool off and enjoy the pristine, crystal-clear waters.
Accommodation
Nui Chua National Park and its surrounding areas offer a plethora of accommodation options. Budget-minded travelers can opt for low-cost lodgings such as Thap Thap Homestay, Meo Home, Homestay Ngoi Sao, and Thinh Thien Inn.
On the other hand, those seeking a luxurious experience can choose to stay at Amanoi Resort. Renowned as one of the best resorts in Vietnam, Amanoi Resort provides world-class services and amenities, ensuring a truly unforgettable stay.
Useful Information
- Location: Nui Chua, Ninh Thuan
- Best for: All Visitors
- Entrance: N/A
- Hours: Daytime visits recommended
- Distance to City Center: 22.8 kilometers (14.2 miles)
For more travel inspiration, check out our other articles like “5 Most Famous National Parks of Vietnam,” “9 Best Places for Trekking in Vietnam,” and “Vietnam Camping Tips.”
So, are you ready to embark on an adventure in Nui Chua National Park? Start planning your trip now and experience the natural wonders of Vietnam’s green oasis.