What are the Cu Chi Tunnels?

The Củ Chi Tunnels are an extensive network of underground passages spanning over 250 kilometers. Originally built in the 1940s during the Indochina War, the Viet Cong expanded them during the 1960s to include living quarters, kitchens, storage spaces, and hospitals, providing them with a hidden, self-sustaining base to operate from while evading U.S. and South Vietnamese forces.

Today, the Củ Chi Tunnels stand as a symbol of the resilience and ingenuity of the Viet Cong during the war. Visitors can explore sections of the tunnel network, learn about its construction, and see firsthand how it was used to support guerrilla warfare tactics.

5 interesting facts about the Cu Chi Tunnels

The tunnels were meticulously excavated by hand using simple tools like shovels and picks.
The soil of Củ Chi is rich in iron and low in moisture, which made it ideal for tunnel construction by hand. When exposed to air, it hardened like concrete, providing structural strength.
U.S. and South Vietnamese forces deployed “tunnel rats”; soldiers armed with just a pistol, knife, and flashlight to navigate the tunnels, detect traps, and engage hidden enemies.
Specialized kitchens were designed to disperse smoke through long chimneys, minimizing detection by enemy aircraft.
In 2015, the Vietnamese government designated the tunnels as a "Hero of Labour" site.

A historical timeline of the Cu Chi Tunnels

Late 1940s: Tunnels’ construction begins during the First Indochina War as the Viet Minh combat French colonial forces.
Late 1950s: Expansion continues as resistance against the South Vietnamese government intensifies.
Early 1960s: The Viet Cong enlarge and transform the tunnel network into a complex system with living quarters, hospitals, and command centers.
1966: Operation Crimp is launched by U.S. and Australian forces to locate and destroy the tunnels but proves challenging to eliminate.
1967: Operation Cedar Falls is launched by U.S. and South Vietnamese forces to dismantle the tunnels but fails.
1975: Following Saigon’s fall, the country recognizes their historical significance and begins preserving them as a memorial site.
1990s–present: The Ben Dinh and Ben Duoc tunnel sections are opened to the public with educational exhibits and reenactments.

Cu Chi Wildlife Rescue Station

This station is located 8km away from the tunnels and lets you see rescued animals such as gibbons and bears and learn about Vietnam’s conservation efforts.

Cao Dai Temple with colorful facade and intricate architecture in Tay Ninh province, near Ho Chi Minh City.

Tay Ninh Holy See

Situated 40km from the tunnel, this temple features a grand hall, with dragon-wrapped pillars and a sacred Divine Eye symbol above the altar. making it one of the focal points for followers of this unique religious movement.

Boat cruising through dense vegetation in the Mekong Delta, Vietnam.

Saigon River Cruise

Take this scenic boat ride along the Saigon River and enjoy the lush landscapes and charming rural villages of southern Vietnam. Situated just 40 kms from the tunnels, it's a relaxing way to learn about local life.

War History Museum

Situated in Ho Chi Minh City and just 40 km from Củ Chi Tunnels, this museum features a wide collection of U.S. tanks, helicopters, jets, and bombs from the Vietnam War. Keep an eye out for the replica of the infamous “tiger cages” used to imprison political prisoners during the war.

Suoi Tien Theme Park

A cultural theme park situated 45 km from the tunnels that features roller coaster rides like the "Kamikaze", exhibits inspired by mythology such as the Palaces of Heaven and Hell, and Crocodile Kingdom where you can feed crocodiles.

Ba Den Mountain

Located about 45 km from the Cu Chi Tunnels, this southern Vietnam peak offers panoramic views and a scenic cable car ride. Along the way, you can explore ancient pagodas and experience the beauty of nature.

Elephant walking in enclosure at Saigon Zoo, Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City Zoo & Botanical Gardens

Located in District 1, this is one of the oldest zoos in the world. Just 50km from the tunnels, this zoo houses over 100 species of animals including rare Vietnamese animals like the Saola and Asian elephants.

Vinh Trang Pagoda

Situated in the Mekong Delta city of My Tho and 75km away from Cu Chi Tunnels, this pagoda’s massive reclining and standing Buddha statues and peaceful bonsai garden make it one of southern Vietnam’s most photographed religious landmarks.

Frequently asked questions about Cu Chi Tunnels

Why are the Cu Chi Tunnels significant?

The Cu Chi Tunnels are an extensive underground network stretching over 250 kilometers, which played a crucial role in the Viet Cong's guerrilla warfare tactics and served as living quarters, supply routes, and strategic hideouts. Today, they stand as a testament to resilience and ingenuity.

How long do the tours last?

Half-day tours typically last around 5-6 hours, including travel time. Full-day tours can extend up to 11 hours, especially when combined with other attractions like the Mekong Delta.

Can I visit the Cu Chi Tunnels without a tour?

While it's possible to visit independently, joining a guided tour enhances the experience by providing historical context and logistical convenience, including transportation and entrance arrangements.

What is the best time to visit the Cu Chi Tunnels?

The Cu Chi Tunnels are open year-round, but the dry season (December to April) is the best time as you’ll avoid the heavy rains and high humidity of the wet season, making it easier to walk around and explore both the surface exhibits and the tunnels themselves. To make the most of your visit, opt for the morning tours to avoid the midday heat and large tour groups that tend to arrive later.

Are the Cu Chi Tunnels wheelchair accessible?

The tunnels are not wheelchair accessible due to narrow and uneven terrain. However, the surrounding areas and visitor centers are more accessible.

How long is the portion of the tunnel that visitors can crawl through?

Visitors can choose to crawl through sections ranging from 20 to 100 meters. It’s completely optional and designed with exits in between for ease.

What else is there to see besides the tunnels?

A visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels includes fascinating wartime artifacts, booby trap demonstrations, a chance to try tea and cassava (a staple wartime food), and even a shooting range where you can fire authentic weapons used during the war.

What’s the difference between the Ben Dinh and Ben Duoc tunnel entrances?

The Ben Dinh entrance is more tourist-friendly with reconstructed sections and wider tunnels. On the other hand, the Ben Duoc entrance is more authentic with original, narrower tunnels and fewer crowds.

Are there any museums or exhibits at the site?

There are displays of war relics, short documentaries, and detailed diagrams showing the full scale of the tunnel network and the underground rooms.

Are there souvenir shops at the Cu Chi Tunnels?

Yes, you’ll find small souvenir stalls selling war-themed memorabilia, local crafts, and traditional Vietnamese snacks.