Visiting Central Vietnam and want to get from Hoi An to Marble Mountains for an incredible day out of town? This is your ultimate guide with all the options, the price, and everything in between.
Picture this: ancient temples perched atop towering limestone peaks, hidden caves waiting to be discovered, and breathtaking panoramic views that will leave you in absolute awe. The Marble Mountains are a must-do in Central Vietnam, and it’s nestled just 20 kilometers northwest of Hoi An.
But here’s the thing: planning your route from Hoi An to the Marble Mountains can be a bit tricky if that’s your first time.
For this reason, in this guide, we’ll explore all the options to reach the Marble Mountains, making you have an unforgettable experience every step of the way.
Hoi An to Marble Mountains – Overview
If you don’t have time to go through all the details, here’s the best way to get to the Marble Mountains from Hoi An.
Best-Rated Tour
My Son Sanctuary and Marble Mountain Tour
- Fun and convenient way to visit
- Best tour from Hoi An & Da Nang
- See My Son and the Marble Mountains
Includes
- Entrance fees, bottle of water
- Expert guide and hotel transfers
- Countless memories to be made!
Where are the Marble Mountains?
The Marble Mountains are located in the south of Da Nang City. They are a group of five limestone peaks situated about 7 kilometers from downtown Da Nang and about 19km (11miles) from Hoi An.
You can get there in only 30 minutes by car or motorbike. The road is pretty modern is straight, so it will be an easy drive, whether you rent a motorbike or go with a day tour.
Taking a day to visit Marble Mountain tour is a great idea, as it’s one of the best activities to include in your Hoi An itinerary.
Is It Worth Visiting the Marble Mountains?
Absolutely! The Marble Mountains offer a perfect blend of stunning natural scenery, rich cultural and historical significance, and a myriad of attractions to explore.
From the breathtaking views over Da Nang to the caves adorned with Buddhist statues, visiting the Marble Mountains is an experience to treasure, and I’m sure you’ll love every bit of it.
Entrance Fees and Other Costs
The entrance fee to the Marble Mountains is a modest 40,000 VND per person, or only about US$1.5 per person. Also, in case you want to take the lift, it will cost you an additional 15,000 VND, or about US$0,80.
Lastly, visiting the caves outside the Marble Mountains cost an extra 20,000VND, or US$1. All in all, it will cost you about US$3 in total per person, excluding transportation, petrol, and parking fees.
Opening Hours and Best Time to Visit
The Marble Mountains are open daily from 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM, offering lots of time to explore the various attractions and natural wonders on a Marble Mountains trip from Da Nang or Hoi An.
To avoid crowds and the heat, it’s best to visit early in the morning, preferably between 7 and 8 AM. This timing allows you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty and serenity of the Marble Mountains without the distractions of large crowds.
Is Marble Mountain closer to Da Nang or Hoi An?
Marble Mountain is closer to Da Nang than Hoi An, being 8km south from Da Nang and 20km north from Hoi An.
How long should I spend at Marble Mountain?
Allow at least two hours to explore the Marble Mountains, taking into consideration the 40,000 VND entrance fee and 15,000 VND additional for the elevator (if used).
3 Ways to Get From Hoi An to Marble Mountains
There are several ways to get from Hoi An to the Marble Mountains – Joining a day tour from Hoi An, renting a motorbike, or booking a taxi.
The most convenient way is joining a day trip, which also combines a stop at Lady Buddha and My Son Sanctuary.
The cheapest option is to rent a motorbike for the day and drive yourself to the Marble Mountains, for less than $15 per day. However, I do not recommend driving a motorbike in Vietnam if you don’t have experience!
Lastly, booking a taxi from Hoi An is the cheapest option, as the driver will be waiting for you while you enjoy the landmark. Want to know more? Let’s go through the details.
Option 1: Join a Trip to the Marble Mountains
The best way to get from Hoi An to the Marble Mountains is to join a day trip. And unlike the day tours you’ll have back home, these are cheap!
On top of visiting the mountains, you will also head to My Son Sanctuary and Lady Buddha, which is awesome.
Discover the ancient and unique temples built by the Cham people in the 4th century at the My Son Sanctuary. This historical site is a testament to the rich and diverse culture of Central Vietnam.
But that’s not all – you’ll head to the Marble Mountains after that! These majestic limestone hills will take your breath away.
Explore the Am Phu Cave with its lofty vantage point and discover dimly-lit cave temples, colorful pagodas, and breathtaking views of Da Nang from afar.
The best part? Transportation and the entrance fees are included, which makes your visit as smooth as it gets.
With the convenience of a hassle-free journey and the opportunity to learn more about this fascinating destination, a guided tour or day trip is a fantastic option for many travelers.
Option 2: Marble Mountain By Private Car
Choosing a taxi or Grab (the Asian version of Uber) for your journey to the Marble Mountains is a quick and convenient option. With travel times of around 30 minutes from Hoi An City, it’s a good way to get there.
Moreover, taxis and Grab provide a comfortable and stress-free journey, especially for those coming from Da Nang or Hoi An ancient town.
While you can book a Grab taxi, they’re sometimes not available to take you to Da Nang, and I recommend booking online for added convenience. Note that prices are very similar, so this is your best bet. Plus, you’ll get a high-quality private car, which is great.
Option 3: Renting a Motorbike
For those seeking an adventurous and independent journey, renting a motorbike is the way to go. This option allows you to explore the Marble Mountains at your own pace and take in the beautiful scenery along the way, unlike a private car service.
However, as I already mentioned previously, I do not recommend driving a motorbike in Vietnam unless you have experience, as traffic here is chaotic to say the least.
With motorbike rental prices being around 200,000 VND per day, you’ll get a cheap and fun way to discover the Marble Mountain, Da Nang, and other attractions around.
What to Expect at The Marble Mountains
The Marble Mountain tour offers a plethora of highlights, and it’s some of the best places in Vietnam, with beautiful Thuy Son mountain, the serene Linh Ung Pagoda, and the mysterious caves and Heaven Gate.
Each of these attractions provides a unique insight into the natural beauty, spirituality, and cultural significance of the Marble Mountains.
Let’s discuss each section more in detail here below.
Thuy Son: The Largest and Most Beautiful Mountain
Thuy Son, the largest and most beautiful mountain in the Marble Mountains, boasts a harmonious blend of natural beauty, spirituality, and cultural significance. Its limestone cliffs are adorned with Buddhist and Hindu grottoes, adding to the mountain’s allure.
As you ascend to the summit, be prepared to be mesmerized by the breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, city skyline, and poetic beaches.
Linh Ung Pagoda: Ancient Temple with Dharma Statues
Nestled within the Marble Mountains, the ancient Linh Ung Pagoda offers a serene atmosphere and an impressive collection of dharma statues. As you explore the pagoda, you’ll discover a system of statues, including three Buddhas, Manjushri Bodhisattva, and Bodhisattva Universal Worthy, among others.
The visit to Linh Ung Pagoda provides a glimpse into the spiritual and cultural significance of this sacred place.
Caves and Heaven Gate: Exploring the Natural Wonders
The Marble Mountains are home to numerous caves, including the Van Thong Caves, that offer a unique opportunity to explore their natural beauty and spiritual significance.
From the Heaven Cave to Huyen Khong, each cave houses Buddhist shrines, adding to the mystical allure of the Marble Mountains.
One of the most captivating natural attractions in the Marble Mountains is the Heaven Gate. This impressive natural archway boasts breathtaking views of the mountains and coastline, providing a stunning backdrop for unforgettable memories.
Conclusion – Hoi An to Marble Mountains
In conclusion, the Marble Mountains offer a captivating blend of natural beauty, spirituality, and cultural significance that should not be missed.
Whether you choose to explore the area by private car, join a guided tour, or embark on an adventurous motorbike journey, the Marble Mountains promise an unforgettable experience.
With a wealth of attractions, breathtaking views, and fascinating history, the Marble Mountains are an essential addition to any traveler’s itinerary. So gear up and get ready to discover the wonders of the Marble Mountains on your next adventure!
