Marble Mountains in Da Nang is a group of five limestone mountains in Vietnam. This destination is not only a tourist attraction but also a Buddha worship site. Marble Mountains is a natural masterpiece bestowed to the land of Da Nang, Vietnam. With the harmonious beauty of the ecological area and the spiritual and cultural life, this destination attracts a lot of visitors from all over the world. Don’t hesitate to read the information below and make plans for a trip to the Marble Mountains in Da Nang!
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Marble Mountains Da Nang at a glance
Situated 8 kilometers away from the city center, Marble Mountains is a cluster of five limestone peaks in Vietnam. Located on the route of Hue Imperial Citadel – Marble Mountains – Hoi An Ancient Town – My Son Sanctuary, Marble Mountains Danang has a favorable geographical position which allows tourists to also visit many other famous heritage sites in the Central Region.
According to Cham legend, one day a dragon flew to Non Nuoc Beach and laid an egg there. After a long time, the egg hatched and a beautiful girl stepped out of the egg. The eggshell was broken into 5 pieces that became the five magical mountains we see today.
In 1825, emperor Minh Mang named this mountain complex Marble Mountains, which means “Ngu Hanh Son” in Vietnamese. Each mountain was named after one of the five elements of Eastern philosophy: metal, water, fire, wood, and earth. These names remain unchanged until now, and the Marble Mountains in Vietnam have become a natural attraction with many majestic peaks, caves, and temples.
Must-see attractions in Marble Mountains in Da Nang
Linh Ung Pagoda
Situated on the eastern side of Water Mountain, Linh Ung Pagoda is an unmissable destination when visiting the Marble Mountains. With a history of more than 200 years, the pagoda attracts a lot of visitors who worship Buddha or want to ease their minds in the tranquility of a spiritual site.
The most prominent features of Linh Ung Pagoda are the 10-meter tall Buddha statue and Xa Loi Tower. Xa Loi Tower, which was built in 1997, is 28 meters tall, has 7 floors, and 200 Buddha, Bodhisattva, and Arhat statues inside. It has the largest number of stone statues in Vietnam.
The five Marble Mountains
Visiting Marble Mountains, visitors can explore the breathtaking beauty of the natural landscape, immerse themselves in nature, or learn more about the nation’s culture. The five mountains are home to many magnificent caves, tunnels, temples, and pagodas waiting to be discovered.
- Moc Son – Wood Mountain: Home to a special human-shaped Co Mu Stone
- The Son – Earth Mountain: The lowest and longest mountain
- Hoa Son – Fire Mountain: Home to two other mountains
- Thuy Son – Water Mountain: The biggest and most beautiful mountain
- Kim Son – Metal Mountain: Home to the famous Quan The Am Pagoda
Huyen Khong Cave
Huyen Khong Cave is one of the most magnificent and largest caves in the Marble Mountains. Due to its open and unique structure, the sunlight shines from the top of the cave on the Buddha statue, creating a spectacular scenery. There are two small temples outside the cave: Chua Tien Temple and Thuong Ngan Temple where visitors come to pray for health and wealth.
Throughout its existence, this revered location has witnessed significant transformations and played a role in tumultuous historical events. The Marble Mountains, where Huyen Khong Cave is situated, have served various purposes over the years. It has functioned as an army station on multiple occasions, offering strategic advantages during conflicts. During the French Colonial War, the cave covertly served as a secret base for the local revolutionary authority. Subsequently, during the Second Indochina War, it became a military training ground for the American and South Vietnamese forces. In 1968, the Viet Minh gained control of the area, transforming Huyen Khong Cave into a vital surgical and medical facility for the liberation army.
Am Phu Cave
Being one of the largest caves in the Marble Mountains, Am Phu Cave is the exact opposite of Huyen Khong Cave. “Am Phu” means “Hell”, thus the cave illustrates Buddhist hell – the future of wrong-doers after they pass away. According to Buddhism, if people keep doing bad things after they die, they will go to hell instead of paradise.
Am Phu Cave, spanning an impressive length of 302 meters and boasting towering heights of up to 40 to 50 meters, offers an immersive and spine-chilling experience. The natural formation of the cave has been ingeniously enhanced with intricate sculptures that convey the profound Buddhist principle of Karma—the notion that every action carries consequences. As visitors venture into the Am Phu Cave, they are confronted with harrowing depictions of torment, serving as visual representations of the karmic punishment endured by those who have committed grave sins in their past lives.
Tam Thai Pagoda
Located on Water Mountain and surrounded by poetic nature, Tam Thai Pagoda is an ancient pagoda built in the 17th century under the Le Dynasty. Its entrance is a 3-door gate, and according to Buddhism, the middle gate is only for monks while the left one is for men and the right one is for women.
The pagoda has gone through many renovations throughout its history. Tam Thai Pagoda is recognized as a National Historical – Cultural Heritage Site and has become a spiritual destination for Buddhists.
Things to remember when visiting Marble Mountains
- The road in Marble Mountain is quite slippery and requires a lot of walking and climbing. Therefore, you should choose a pair of walking shoes and be cautious when walking.
- If your family or your group has elderly members, you should go to Water Mountain by elevator to save energy and avoid the slippery road.
- It is suggested that you hire a guide to understand and feel the beauty and historical value of the Marble Mountains.
- Don’t forget to buy souvenirs and sophisticated stones as gifts after visiting Marble Mountains Da Nang.
Marble Mountains Danang is home to a spiritual culture of great value and many beautiful natural landscapes. This natural attraction is a harmonious combination of magnificent caves, majestic mountains, and famous temples. Visiting Danang city, you should not miss out on the Marble Mountains.
