Must-see destinations in Ninh Thuan

I've visited Binh Thuan many times, specifically Lagi, Phan Thiet, and Mui Ne, but whenever I reached Bau Trang, I always stopped there, never once visiting Ninh Thuan in the South Central region. So, one beautiful weekend, I just slung my backpack over my shoulder, grabbed my girlfriend, and headed there with the simple desire of seeing my country clearly and embracing Vietnam many more times.

Arriving in Ninh Thuan, specifically Phan Rang city, I didn't have high expectations, simply thinking of it as a weekend getaway from Saigon without much thought. But upon arriving in Ninh Thuan, I realized that the advice to "pour your heart out" and completely empty your mind before traveling was sound. Imagination, judgment, and everything you'd read and seen beforehand only limited the sensory experience when you were actually there. Ninh Thuan truly welcomed me with wonderful sensory surprises. It's true that when you have low expectations, disappointment won't haunt you. And I had the chance to call out, "Ninh Thuan, oh Ninh Thuan…" with surprise and affection.

Bau Truc Pottery Village

What makes Bau Truc pottery village unique is the handcrafted art of its products, which are molded by hand rather than using a potter's wheel. The materials are also interesting; the clay is sourced from the nearby Quao River, and sand is mixed into the clay according to the intended use of the pottery, rather than following a fixed formula.

The patterns on Bau Truc pottery are inspired by rivers, seashell dots, and plants. Today, Bau Truc pottery has developed further in terms of aesthetics and has flourished with many new, sophisticated patterns.

My Nghiep weaving village

Opposite the Bau Truc pottery village is another cultural beauty that I had the opportunity to explore. Recently renovated, the houses here have a simple architecture but still retain the Cham style with their characteristic arched roofs. My Nghiep brocade has long been a unique cultural feature of the Cham people. The patterns, with their many colors and designs, create a distinctive beauty. Especially noteworthy is that all the products are entirely handcrafted by Cham artisans, making us appreciate the creations even more.

Po Klong-Garai Tower

Located north of Phan Rang city, Po Klong-Garai is a famous complex of Cham towers in Ninh Thuan province. I arrived during the sunny season and the afternoon sun was setting, but the beauty of the towers was evident from afar. Up close, it seems small compared to other Cham tower complexes you may have visited near Nha Trang, but from a distance, the majestic complex perched on a high hill evokes an indescribable feeling.

Nam Cuong Sand Dunes

Perhaps, upon hearing the word "sand," people will think of the giant sand dunes of Mui Ne, but Ninh Thuan also has it, and it's just as beautiful. A golden expanse of sand stretches to the horizon, with plenty of dunes for you to slide across, and most importantly, there's not a soul in sight. It's peaceful here; no matter how strong the wind blows, the tranquility remains.

Hang Rai

The rocks come in a variety of shapes and colors, and the water is a stunningly beautiful shade of blue. It's called Hang Rai (Otter Cave) because many otters used to nest here, but sadly, they are no longer there. When the sea receded centuries ago, the coral reefs emerged, creating a surface that looks like you're walking on Mars.

Vinh Hy Bay

Leaving Hang Rai, I headed north to Vinh Hy Bay. I had heard about this place for a long time, so I was extremely excited and had high expectations. If I ever return, I will visit on a sunny day to fully enjoy the bay's scenery.

Cuisine

What I love most about Ninh Thuan isn't just the stunning scenery (of course, that's part of it), but the biggest reason is the delicious food that tantalizes my taste buds. And don't ask why, just try it yourself, because I'm terrible at describing the flavors of this land in words.

Ly Thanh Co