Ba Na Hills & Fantasy Park Day Tour from Da Nang: Cable Car, Pagoda

3.00

(2 reviews)

What’s the experience like?

The air felt cooler as we left Da Nang behind—windows down, you could smell the mountain breeze before we even saw the hills. Our guide, Minh, chatted about how the French first built their retreat up here in 1901. He pointed out old stone markers along the road that I’d never have noticed on my own. The drive took maybe 45 minutes, just enough time for a quick coffee from a roadside stall (the owner’s daughter was practicing her English with us—adorable).

The cable car ride is something else. It’s not just long—it’s quiet except for the soft whirring overhead and the occasional bird call. Clouds drifted past our window, and you could spot patches of wild orchids clinging to the cliffs below. At Ba Na Station, Minh led us through Vong Nguyet Hill and up to Linh Ung Pagoda. Incense hung in the air; monks were sweeping leaves off the steps. There’s this calm that settles over you up there—maybe it’s the altitude or just being away from city noise.

We wandered through old French villas—some crumbling, some restored—and ducked into a chilly wine tunnel lined with dusty bottles. Lunch was a buffet at a big hall near Orchid Garden; I piled my plate with fresh spring rolls and grilled pork (the chili sauce had a real kick). Afterward, we had hours to play at Fantasy Park. It’s loud and bright inside—kids everywhere, arcade noises bouncing off the walls. I tried a 4D movie while my friend braved the death race ride (she screamed so loud people stared). By late afternoon, we headed back down by cable car—the sun was already dipping low over Red Beach Bay.

On our way back to town, Minh made a quick stop at Central Specialties Super Market. Locals were picking up dried mango and fish sauce for dinner—I grabbed some coconut candy for souvenirs. Back at our hotel by sunset, tired but happy. Minh waved goodbye with a big grin and told us to come back in spring when the orchids bloom everywhere.