Top 12 Unmissable Landmarks When Visiting Nghệ An

Historical Landmark Kim Liên is a commemorative site dedicated to President Ho Chi Minh in Kim Liên commune, Nam Đàn district, Nghệ An province, located in the coastal region of Central Vietnam, about 15 km from Vinh city via provincial road 49. Nowadays, this place has been included in the list of 23 special national relics by the Prime Minister of Vietnam. It is closely associated with the birthplace of President Ho Chi Minh in his ancestral village, Hoàng Trù village, Kim Liên commune, Nam Đàn district, Nghệ An province; where Ho Chi Minh lived from 1901 to 1906 in his maternal village Kim Liên; the tomb of Mrs. Hoàng Thị Loan (mother of President Ho Chi Minh), Chung Mountain, and many other relics associated with Ho Chi Minh's childhood.

Cultural and Historical Landmark Kim Liên is recognized by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism of Vietnam as one of the key national tourist areas and one of the four most important historical relics related to the life and career of President Ho Chi Minh. This is an irresistible destination because it is the birthplace of a son who brought freedom and independence to the nation. It is attractive because it portrays the pieces of President Ho Chi Minh's childhood and precious historical data about a great person. Here, there are green mountains, high hills, vast rice fields where storks fly, fragrant lotus ponds, and friendly and approachable people. Historical Landmark Kim Liên reveals the truths about a great life, a great personality, someone who sacrificed a lot to bring peace to Vietnam today.

The town of Cửa Lò was established in 1994. After more than 100 years of history, it's only been about 20 years since Cửa Lò truly awakened and began to assert its position on the country's development path in general and that of Nghệ An province in particular. Today, Cửa Lò is undergoing significant transformation with synchronized infrastructure development, especially in tourism services, modern high-rise hotels, and numerous entertainment and resort areas. Visiting Cửa Lò means visiting one of the most beautiful beaches in our country, attracting millions of tourists every year. Cửa Lò is one of the key tourist destinations invested by Nghệ An province. This beach is beautiful with its clear blue water, fine sand, and waves that are perfect for swimming and enjoying beach activities. Not only is it attractive for its beauty, but the seafood here is also incredibly diverse and unforgettable.

Cửa Lò Beach stretches over 10km, with a gentle slope, smooth white sand, clear and clean water, not mixed with mud like some other beaches. Above the beach, there are many expansive pine forests with tall pine trees and lush coconut groves. The seawater here is very salty, making Cửa Lò one of the ideal beaches in Vietnam. Lan Châu Island is located next to Cửa Lò beach, dividing Cửa Lò beach into two separate areas. During high tide, the entire island is submerged in seawater. At the foot of the mountain, to the southeast, there are many large rocks with peculiar shapes and various names. On the island, in 1936, King Bảo Đại had a castle built for relaxation. From here, tourists can admire the panoramic view of Cửa Lò town and have a broad view of the vast sea. Here, there is a peculiarly beautiful species of coral brought by King Bảo Đại from France.

The sunflower field spanning 50 hectares is located in the 19/5 agricultural farm, Nghĩa Sơn commune, Nghĩa Đàn district, Nghệ An province. Adjacent to the Hồ Chí Minh road, during each sunflower season, when the vast fields of sunflowers bloom, this place becomes an interesting stop for young people who desire to discover the radiant and pure beauty of sunflowers. This is a currently trendy destination, extremely beloved and favored by young people. The sunflower hill in Nghĩa Đàn has attracted many domestic and foreign tourists. Around November and December, people flock to the sunflower hill to enjoy the Christmas holidays, festivals, and Lunar New Year. Visitors will be amazed by the vibrant yellow color facing the sun, enchanted by the romantic, serene atmosphere that is not easily found elsewhere.

There are two sunflower seasons each year in March-April and November-December. This year, due to the cold weather, the flowers bloomed later, extending the flowering season. Due to the impact of the Covid pandemic, the sunflower field in Nghĩa Đàn has been chosen by many people as a place to capture beautiful moments. To ensure the safety of visitors, TH Milk Company has also provided guidelines for everyone visiting the flower garden. Not only serving as a source of raw materials for production, this sunflower field also creates a magnificent landscape, harmonizing with nature for the mountainous region of Nghĩa Đàn. Currently, the sunflowers are at their most beautiful days, making it an ideal destination to capture memories with friends and family in the early days of 2021.

Two Armpit Rock is a giant natural rock formation stretching 800m in length, widest at 120m, and tallest at 141m. It consists of many peaks, including the main peak, a large one named Two Armpit Rock (also known as Double Shoulders Mountain, or Milestone Rock) and a smaller peak (Tiger Ridge Mountain) rising prominently amidst the vast fields in the territory of 3 communes: Diễn Bình, Diễn Minh, Diễn Thắng. Two Armpit Rock is a beautiful scenic spot in the Central region of Vietnam. What makes it fascinating is the glimpses of caves beneath the trees with unique structures and various legends attached. Two Armpit Rock is one of the mystical symbols, full of poetic charm, of Diễn Châu. According to historical records, Two Armpit Rock was formed after seismic activity in the earth's crust over 50 million years ago. Despite the changes, the rock has a stable appearance as it is today. Since 1964, archaeologists have found fossilized human bones, stone tools, and 7 pottery jars at Two Armpit Rock. This discovery proves that Two Armpit Rock was once inhabited by primitive people.

To the southeast lies Thắt Cổ Cave. The cave is 30m above ground level. Inside the cave are many strange-shaped rocks. Especially, there is a block of columnar basalt resembling a person's back against the rock face, with veins protruding from the neck, hence the name Thắt Cổ (Necktie) Cave. At a height of 15m above ground level is Đa Cave. Beneath the cave floor is a cool water stream that never runs dry. There are also many other caves such as Khản Cave, Miss Tú Cave, and especially the deep and mysterious Sword Cave. Standing at different angles, people perceive Two Armpit Rock differently. In the minds of the people of Diễn Châu, Two Armpit Rock is considered a symbol of many mysteries. People from Lý Trai and Đông Tháp areas view the rock as a stone tablet – these areas often have high-achieving individuals. In Diễn Đồng and Diễn Thái areas where there is much rice, Two Armpit Rock is seen as a giant carrying rice. In Nho Lâm area where there are many blacksmiths, Two Armpit Rock resembles an anvil; in Diễn Thịnh and Diễn Trung areas where there are many herbalists, the rock looks like a cutting knife. To the east in Diễn Hoa area where women are graceful, the mountain resembles a girl with flowing hair and round shoulders…

Thanh Chương Tea Hill is a recently discovered destination. Surrounded by water, but in the middle, there is a small island that locals have utilized for planting tea. It creates a beauty that is not easily found elsewhere. The lush green tea hill, a vivid green color of young tea leaves, covers the island, creating a feeling of endless greenery here. Alongside are cool streams that add to the romantic, pure, and interesting atmosphere. Visiting Thanh Chương Tea Hill, you will be amazed and delighted by the scenery of 'green hills and blue waters like a painting' as well as the peaceful, poetic landscape. You will also witness tea hills or tea islet stretching out lush green until the end of the horizon, bringing a gentle feeling that makes you want to immerse yourself in the colors of nature.

Following the flow of Cay Cau dam, tourists can admire the entire tea hills with spacious and beautifully designed tea rows. You can also directly sit on a boat to explore the clear waters of Cay Cau dam, which is extremely exciting. The most beautiful time to visit the tea hill is in the early morning, when the sky is still dewy and the scenery here has not been awakened. Welcoming a new energetic day with the fragrance of tea leaves and the peaceful, fresh air is truly fascinating. Each tea hill has a large area ranging from nearly 1ha to about 1ha, very convenient for the movement and exploration of tourists. Each tea hill extends to the edge of the lake, casting shadows down onto the vast water surface. You can also stop and rest at the bamboo huts of the local people built around the tea hills. Inside, there are hot, fragrant pots of green tea prepared to offer to tourists. Thanh Chương Tea Hill has its own unique feature, with a rich, unforgettable tea flavor that will make visitors remember forever after just one visit.

Diễn Thành Beach is located approximately 250 km from Hanoi, near Diễn Châu Intersection, along National Highway 1A. Diễn Thành Beach is a wide, sandy beach with gentle waves. The sea at Diễn Thành is calm, with shallow water. Even when wading hundreds of meters out, the water only reaches waist-deep. Unlike the bustling beaches, Diễn Thành Beach offers a peaceful and serene atmosphere. With clear blue skies, deep blue sea, and long stretches of fine sand underfoot, it is considered one of the most beautiful and cleanest beaches in Vietnam, attracting many tourists every year.

Diễn Thành Beach carries the pristine and rustic beauty of the land of Nghệ. Despite not being as glamorous as the famous Cửa Lò Beach, Diễn Thành Beach still has its own unique charm that captivates tourists. The vast expanse of white sand, the clear blue sea, and the silver-haired waves crashing onto the shore create a romantic and picturesque scene. In the distance, pine trees sway with the sea breeze.

Located 5 km south of Vinh City, Quyết Mountain and the temple of King Quang Trung form an ecological, cultural, and spiritual tourism area, ideal for your trip. Quyết Mountain boasts fresh air, lush forests, and panoramic views. Standing atop Quyết Mountain, you can overlook the winding Lam River and Vinh City below, making it an ideal and fascinating stop for your journey. Here, you not only learn about the traditions and history of Nghệ An province but also enjoy the magnificent natural scenery from the summit of Quyết Mountain.

The tourist area of Quyết Mountain covers nearly 160 hectares (including a 56-hectare mountain area) and comprises various zones: hotels and guesthouses to the southwest, facing the Lam River, with villas and ethnic cultural villages; an entertainment zone with swimming pools, water slides, an aquarium, a water puppet theater, a cinema, a camping area, sports fields, and notably a cable car connecting Nghệ An and Hà Tĩnh provinces across the Lam River; a service zone with supermarkets, boat houses, parking lots, etc.; and a historical zone with ancient relics and memorials. In 1998, commemorating the 210th anniversary of Phượng Hoàng Trung Đô Vinh, the city completed a 5km road surrounding the mountain, a monumental tower atop the mountain, and memorial houses.

Hồ Chí Minh Square is a nationally significant cultural work, a masterpiece of ideological and artistic value, reflecting the deep respect of the people of Nghệ An province and the whole country for the great leader of the nation. This project was initiated in 2000 - marking the 110th anniversary of Uncle Ho's birth and inaugurated on May 19, 2003 - commemorating the 113th anniversary of his birthday. Prominently situated is the statue of President Ho Chi Minh, standing gracefully amidst the vast square. The statue is made of Bình Định granite, towering at 150 tons. It is located at the square spanning nearly 11 hectares with various components such as a podium, flagpole, parade route, ceremonial grounds, lighting system, grass carpet, greenery, and a simulated Chung Mountain resembling the one in Sen Village, Uncle Ho's hometown. Since its establishment, this place has not only been a cultural symbol of the people of Nghệ An but also an important destination for domestic and international tourists on the Central heritage route.

The Management Board of the Work was established with the main task of managing, protecting, and promoting the cultural, political, and social values of the work, always striving to fulfill the tasks assigned by the Party and the State. It has become one of the 14 units in the system of Ho Chi Minh museums and memorial sites nationwide according to Decision No. 508/DSVH-BT dated July 1, 2008. Hồ Chí Minh Square is an interesting destination, offering a spacious area, stretches of green grass, brightly lit lamps around the square, and a genuine, simple, and majestic view of Uncle Ho. It is the cultural center and symbol of culture for the people of Nghệ An. During major festivals or special events, the square is always the choice of Nghệ An.

Lữ Beach, located in Nghi Lộc district, Nghệ An province, also known as the 'paradise by the sea,' is renowned for its beautiful beach and stunning scenery. Dubbed as 'Dalat miniature in Nghệ An,' Lữ Beach has become an attractive destination for many domestic and international tourists. Lữ Beach captivates visitors with its breathtaking landscape, clear blue sea, and straight rows of trees. A sense of peace and tranquility prevails when standing on the beach, enjoying the fresh, gentle, and cool air. Although not a large sea, the water here is very clear, blue, and abundant in seafood. It is convenient to organize recreational activities here as the water is not too deep, suitable for children to play and swim.

Lữ Beach covers an area of nearly 160 hectares, located in the northeast of Nghi Lộc district, within the administrative boundaries of 2 communes: Nghi Yên and Nghi Tiến. Unlike the lively and bustling Cửa Lò, Lữ Beach is peaceful and simple. Here, a serene blend of sea and mountain, 'mountains mingling with the sea, sea merging with the sky,' tranquil with fascinating legends, touches people's hearts. The pristine beauty and mysteriousness of the legendary land have created a strange allure. The scenery of Lữ Beach, where the sea penetrates deeply into the mainland, where mountains and sea meet, creates a majestic and indescribable beauty. The long sandy beach, the blue sea, and the gentle waves here are as 'gentle, soft, and warm as a young girl,' gently cuddling each other, creating melodious, soothing sounds...

Thẩm Ồn Cave is a large cave in Quỳ Châu district, Nghệ An province. It is renowned as one of the most mysterious caves in Vietnam. Inside the cave are sharp limestone stalactites and stalagmites with strange shapes. The water flow here is not strong but very deep and clear. This is an attractive destination for those who love exploration, adventure, and seek new experiences. Thẩm Ồn Cave is located in Quỳ Châu district, Nghệ An province, and is considered a beautiful cave formed by diverse natural processes. Situated in the majestic limestone mountains of Quỳ Châu district, about 7km from Highway 48, Thẩm Ồn Cave is a naturally beautiful cave with diverse structures. The cave still retains its natural wilderness with rugged rock walls and bizarre shapes.

Archaeologists have excavated and discovered stone tools, bronze artifacts, as well as fossilized animal bones and teeth here. This evidence indicates that this place bears traces of ancient Vietnamese people dating back around 20,000 years ago. And the data also shows that the people of Thẩm Ồn were the first ancient Vietnamese inhabitants in our country. Thẩm Ồn, in the Thai language, means Large Cave. This is a beautiful cave formed by diverse natural processes, with archaeological value. Through surveys and excavations, archaeologists have discovered stone tools, bronze artifacts, fossilized animal bones, and teeth, providing evidence that this was a residence of ancient Vietnamese people dating back around 20,000 years ago. At Thẩm Ồn Cave, archaeologists have found many artifacts proving that ancient Vietnamese people once lived here. Currently, Thẩm Ồn Cave still retains its pristine features and continues to be developed to welcome tourists.

Stretching along the Central Vietnam strip of land, under the tropical monsoon climate, Pù Mát National Park has long been a favorite tourist destination for many, especially those who wish to visit, admire and immerse themselves in nature. Pù Mát is also home to various animals from different species, ensuring biodiversity, especially the Saola, an extremely rare species first discovered in Pù Mát. The fauna here is also very diverse. A preliminary survey identified 241 mammal species, belonging to 86 families, 28 orders, including 24 mammal species, 25 reptile species, 137 bird species, and 15 amphibian species. Located on the eastern slope of the Trường Sơn mountain range and spanning three districts: Con Cuông, Anh Sơn, and Tương Dương of Nghệ An province, Pù Mát National Park was established in 2002, with a natural area of ​​194,000 hectares, including a conservation area of 94,000 hectares and a buffer zone of 100,000 hectares. The Pù Mát peak, 1,841 meters high, is considered the master of the region. Pù Mát National Park is a treasure trove of wild, rare genetic resources, being one of the largest biodiversity conservation areas in Vietnam. This national park boasts a rich vegetation cover with 2,494 plant species, belonging to 931 genera, 202 families, including 37 species listed in the Vietnam Red Data Book and 20 species in the international Red Data Book.

What makes visitors to Pù Mát National Park extremely excited is the simple, rustic yet majestic nature of the preserved green forest that remains almost intact, untouched by human hands. From the very name imbued with rustic charm, Pù Mát, this place features a pristine ecosystem including primary forests in the upper reaches of Khe Thơi, Khe Bu, Khe Choăng, Cao Vều, Khe Kèm waterfall, Moọc stream, Giăng river, or the ancient forest of old trees providing shade all year round. At Khe Kèm waterfall (also known as Kèm waterfall), visitors can immerse themselves in the cool nature to forget the scorching sun of the Central Vietnam climate. From a distance, the waterfall flows down gently, gracefully like a strip of silk adorned with foamy white water, blending in with the green color of the mountains and forests. Coming to Pù Mát National Park, you not only have the opportunity to explore nature, with its rich flora and fauna, but also the landscape here is wonderful and even more appealing to adventure enthusiasts, exploring deep forests and numerous waterfalls.

Truông Bồn is located in Đô Lương province, Nghệ An. It is one of the important historical sites of Nghệ An province in particular, and the whole country in general. It is a historical testimony to the bravery, resilience, and determination of the people of Nghệ An during the resistance against foreign invaders. The days of July are crowded with people coming to offer incense in gratitude and respect to the heroic sons of the Fatherland. With its strategic position on the vital Highway 15A, ensuring transportation support for the southern battlefield, Truông Bồn became the scene of fierce struggles between the will and steel spirit of brave people against the fierce bombs and missiles of the enemy. From 1964 to 1968 alone, the US air force dropped 18,936 bombs of various types and thousands of rockets, aiming to cut off the transportation lifeline for human resources and supplies to the battlefields. Despite the rain of bombs and the enemy's gunfire, with courage, spirit, and determination, thousands of military officers and soldiers stood side by side with the army, creating the legend of Truông Bồn.

Here, 1,240 brave officers and soldiers fought and sacrificed. A typical example is on October 31, 1968, when 13 soldiers of the 'Steel Squad' sacrificed heroically, immortalizing the epic of Truông Bồn. On September 23, 2008, the President decided to posthumously confer the title of Hero of the People's Armed Forces to the group of 14 Truông Bồn military officers and soldiers belonging to the legendary 'Steel Squad.' Currently, Truông Bồn National Historical Site is built on an area of ​​21.7 hectares in Mỹ Sơn commune, Đô Lương district, Nghệ An province, including: the 13 Heroic Martyrs' Cemetery; memorial square; traditional house; bell tower; electronic memorial 'Truông Bồn Fire Coordinates'... By the end of 2014, the Truông Bồn Historical Site officially opened and quickly became a sacred place for people of all ages, especially youth, students, and pupils in the province and across the country to come and pay tribute to the heroes and martyrs.