Is the Ba Na Hills Cable Car to the Golden Hands Worth the Hype? Posted on May 2, 2024November 20, 2024 Getting your Trinity Audio player ready... Yesterday, I might have told you to skip Ba Na Hills Cable Car because of the rain. However, today I feel differently—it was one of the highlights of our trip to Vietnam. Riding the Ba Na Hills cable car, the world’s longest single-track system, offers an unmatched experience. The journey takes you over rugged peaks and lush jungles, often wrapped in misty clouds. As we ascended, the clouds shifted, unveiling the breathtaking Golden Hands Bridge. This architectural marvel at Ba Na Hills is an unforgettable sight that left us in awe. Table of Contents Is the Ba Na Hills Cable Car Worth the Hype? Ba Na Hills Itinerary Best Time to Visit Ba Na Hills Ba Na Hills Resort and the Golden Hands Bridge How Much Does the Cable Car Cost? Best Alternatives to the French Village Things to Do at Ba Na Hills Tips for Visiting Ba Na Hills Ba Na Hills Cable Car– is it Worth the Hype? What Makes the Ride Unique? Since they were unveiled in 2013, the Ba Na Hills cable cars have set world records for their impressive scope and scale and transformed how we experience the journey to the mountaintop. The 30-minute ride sweeps you over rugged peaks and lush jungles, often shrouded in a veil of clouds. As you ascend, enveloped by mist, it feels like entering a dream world, where the boundaries between sky and earth blur. This cable car system is more than a mere transportation method; it’s a marvel of engineering. Stretching over 5,771 meters (18,930 feet), it creates a seamless link to a once-remote mountain resort. Now easily accessible, this highland haven offers more than just a breath of fresh air—it provides a magical escape above the clouds, where every visitor can feel a little closer to the heavens. The cable car holds the Guinness World Record for the longest non-stop single-track cable car. I think that’s pretty spectacular, but not as thrilling as riding it. I am a contributor to KoreabyMe, an online magazine for expats living abroad in South Korea. Check it out here. Ba Na Hills Itinerary Start your day early to avoid crowds and maximize your experience. Ride the cable car and spend time exploring Ba Na Hills attractions like the Golden Hands Bridge and the French Village. Enjoy lunch at one of the many Ba Na Hills restaurants. Stroll through the gardens, visit the Buddha statue, and explore the Fantasy Park. End the day with a visit to the Debay Wine Cellar for a unique touch to your itinerary. Best Time to Visit Ba Na Hills The best time to visit Ba Na Hills is from March to September when the weather is drier and the skies are clearer. Early mornings and weekdays are ideal to avoid the crowds. Avoid visiting during the rainy season from October to February, as heavy rain and fog can obscure the views. Check this out: Black Female Travelers: Enriching the Global Travel Narrative Ba Na Hills Resort and the Golden Hands Bridge Absolutely! I’ve ridden several awesome cable cars. But this one is epic! The Golden Bridge is a 150-meter-long pedestrian bridge in the Ba Na Hills Resort, perched high on the Trung Son Mountains near Da Nang. The Golden Hands Bridge is more than an architectural wonder; it’s a breathtaking masterpiece that seems to cradle the mountains. The bridge nearly loops back around to itself. Two giant hands of fiberglass and wire mesh support it, designed to resemble stone hands holding up the structure. Walking across this bridge, you experience sweeping panoramic views of the lush landscape below, and it feels as if giant hands are supporting you. It’s not just a stunning photo opportunity—it’s an unforgettable experience. Nearby, you can also explore the area further, which includes a huge Buddha statue set among meticulously maintained sculpture gardens. These gardens are lush with a variety of plants and flowers, enhancing the serene atmosphere. Additionally, the expansive views from this height add to the sense of awe and wonder this location inspires. How Much Does the Cable Car Cost? Visiting Ba Na Hills can be pricier than other local attractions. Tickets, food, and drinks are expensive by Vietnamese standards, with entry costing around 850,000 VND (roughly $35) per person. Even a single hot dog was one-third the price of an entire meal in nearby Hoi An. I was hungry, but not that hungry. You can purchase an entry ticket that includes an optional buffet meal. However, for the unique experiences on offer, many find it worth the expense. Best Alternatives to the French Village We skipped the French Village because it felt more like Disney’s Universal Studios than a true cultural experience. If you decide to visit, you’ll need another cable car ride, which I highly recommend just for the scenic views. For those seeking alternatives to Sun World and the French Village, consider exploring the Marble Mountains, Lady Buddha, the show at the Dragon Bridge, or browsing the local night markets in downtown Danang. Things to Do at Ba Na Hills Visiting Ba Na Hills is an adventure you won’t forget. Begin with the world-famous cable car ride that takes you over lush forests and rugged peaks. Explore Ba Na Hills attractions like the Golden Hands Bridge, the French Village, and the meticulously designed gardens. Stop at Ba Na Hills restaurants for a meal, and wear comfortable shoes for the day’s walking. The weather at the top can be unpredictable, so bring a light jacket and an umbrella just in case. The dining options at Ba Na Hills cater to a variety of tastes. Many Ba Na Hills restaurants serve both Vietnamese and international cuisine, giving you plenty of choices. Whether you’re in the mood for a sit-down meal or something quick, there’s something to satisfy every palate. I am a contributor to KoreabyMe, an online magazine for expats living abroad in South Korea. Check it out here. Tips for Visiting Ba Na Hills Plan ahead for a seamless and enjoyable visit to Ba Na Hills. Here are some practical tips: Hire a Grab Driver: For convenience and flexibility, consider hiring a Grab driver to take you to and from Ba Na Hills. It’s a cost-effective and hassle-free option. Go Off-Peak: Visit during weekdays and early mornings to avoid large crowds. This timing also allows you to take better photos and enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere. Bring Layers: I was lucky, I had a warm sweater. The weather at Ba Na Hills is unpredictable and cooler than in the city. Pack a light jacket or long sleeves, as it can get chilly, rain or shine. Combine with Marble Mountain: Maximize your day by pairing your Ba Na Hills visit with a trip to Marble Mountain, which is nearby and offers incredible views and cultural experiences. Danang is an exciting city. Combine it with a trip to Hoi An, and you will have one heck of a vacation filled with memories. We spent only two days in Danang and hope to return to explore more of its wonders. Plan for Rain: Bring an umbrella or rain gear, especially if visiting during the wetter months, as sudden showers are common. With these tips, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy the stunning views, unique attractions, and unforgettable experiences that Ba Na Hills offers. Ba Na Hills welcomes approximately 2 million visitors each year, making it one of Vietnam’s most popular attractions. And a light-hearted tip: If you’re prone to motion sickness, you might want to be prepared with the provided cable car barf bags! Additional Information Address: Ba Na Hills, Hoa Ninh, Hoa Vang District, Da Nang, Vietnam Website: https://banahills.sunworld.vn Like It! Pin It! Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe! Share this:FacebookLinkedInTwitterPinterestThreadsEmailPrintBlueskyXLike this:Like Loading... Related Discover more from Duffel Bag Spouse Travels Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email. Type your email… Subscribe TRAVEL EXPERIENCES cable car ridesVietnam