Must-see destinations in Ninh Thuan

Many times I visited Binh Thuan in Lagi - Phan Thiet - Mui Ne, but every time I went to Bau Trang, I stopped and never once visited the land called Ninh Thuan located in the South Central Coast. So one beautiful weekend day, I just threw my backpack on my shoulder, pulled my lover to this place with the simple wish of seeing my country clearly and embracing Vietnam in my heart many more times.

Coming to Ninh Thuan, to Phan Rang city, I did not expect much, just thinking that this would be a weekend getaway from Saigon without thinking much. Coming to Ninh Thuan, I suddenly realized that "pouring out my heart" to completely empty my mind before traveling is a good advice. Imagination, judgment, what I have read and seen in advance about the destination only frame the ability to "absorb" all the senses when I am actually here. Ninh Thuan really welcomed me with surprises through many magical senses. It is true that only when we have low expectations, disappointment will not follow us. And I had the opportunity to call "Ninh Thuan oi..." full of surprise and affection.

Bau Truc Pottery Village

The unique thing about Bau Truc craft village is the craftsmanship of the works kneaded by hand instead of using a wheel to shape the pottery. The material is also interesting as the clay is taken from the nearby Quao River, sand is mixed into the clay depending on the purpose of the pottery and not mixed according to a formula.

The patterns on Bau Truc pottery are inspired by rivers, seashells and plants. Nowadays, Bau Truc has developed more aesthetically and has blossomed with many new and sophisticated patterns.

My Nghiep weaving village

Opposite Bau Truc pottery village is another cultural beauty that I had the opportunity to explore. This place has just been restored, the houses have simple architecture but still have Cham features with typical dome architecture. My Nghiep brocade has long been a very unique cultural feature of the Cham people. The motifs with many colors and patterns have created a unique beauty. In particular, the products are all completely handmade by Cham artisans, making us appreciate the products created even more.

Po Klong Garai Tower

Located in the north of Phan Rang city, Po Klong-Garai is a famous Cham tower relic complex in Ninh Thuan. I came here when the sun was still rising and the afternoon was already late, but the beauty of the tower came from afar. If you come close, this place will be very small compared to other Cham tower complexes that you have visited near Nha Trang, but from afar, looking at the majestic complex on the high hill, the feeling is hard to describe.

Nam Cuong sand dunes

Perhaps, when hearing about sand, people will think of the giant sand dunes in Mui Ne, but Ninh Thuan also has that, and it is no less beautiful. A golden sand color flows to the horizon and the sand dunes are left for you to slide on and importantly, there is not a single person. This place is peaceful, no matter how strong the wind blows, the peace is still there.

Hang Rai

Rocks of all shapes and colors, and beautiful clear blue waters. This place is called Hang Rai because many otters used to nest here, but unfortunately today they are gone. When the sea level receded centuries ago, the coral reef here appeared, creating a surface like walking on Mars.

Vinh Hy Bay

Leaving Hang Rai, I headed north to Vinh Hy Bay. I had heard of this place for a long time so I was very excited and had high expectations. If I could come back, I would stop by this place on a sunny day to enjoy the bay more fully.

Cuisine

I love Ninh Thuan the most not because of the beautiful places I have visited (of course that is a part) but the biggest part is through my stomach with the delicious food. And don’t ask why, just try it because I am really bad at describing the flavors of this land through words.

Lee Cheng-ji