To get insights into a glorious chapter in the Vietnam’s history, historical tunnels which used to be the significant military bases of the former Vietnamese guerrillas are what you will be recommended to. Let’s explore the suggested sites one by one!
Cu Chi Tunnels – Ho Chi Minh City
Just 70 kilometers from the heart of downtown Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) to the northwest, Cu Chi Tunnels is widely referred to as a Vietnam’s bizarre site, bearing historic meanings during the Vietnam war. Made by hand in the late 1940s, the site depicted as an underground village embraces hospitals, kitchens, equipment sheds, command center, etc. With the stretch of over 200 kilometers, the tunnels are 3-8 meters deep, and each is just enough for only one person to crawl through. In the past, the network was allegedly divided into three levels; the first one provided shelter from the attack of guns, tanks and armored military vehicles while the second was to defend against small-sized bombs. During the wartime, there was no person injured and killed because of the enemies’ attacks, but the number that died for the lack of light and food was up to 6,000.
Vinh Moc Tunnels – Quang Tri Province
Vinh Moc Tunnels, positioned at Vinh Thach Commune, Vinh Linh District, Quang Tri Province is portrayed as an underground village with different zones for 3-4 people to stay, three wells, meeting rooms accommodating up to 50 people, hospitals, kitchens, food storage facilities, etc. The tunnel system is divided into three levels; while the first one is to stay, the second is to store up food and the bottom is to avoid bombs. The whole underground network accommodates up to 1,200 people, and in the past it was indeed where to bring the certain shelter for the Vietnamese guerillas and innocent inhabitants. Nowadays, Vinh Moc Tunnels is a common travel destination for both domestic and international tourists, especially for vets.
Khe Trai Tunnels – Thua Thien Hue Province
Khe Trai Tunnels is the most historic site closely associated with the Tet Offensive of Thua Thien Hue people in 1968. The tunnel system is located in the hill 160, Huong Tra Town, Thua Thien Hue Province; inside it is a range of living zones and martial zones, such as bedrooms, meeting rooms, kitchens, etc. There is no entrance fee, so you can freely explore this destination. However, a minus point here is that the tour guide is not available.
Vinh Linh Tunnels – Quang Tri Province
Vinh Linh Tunnels was made in 1966 when the invaders were launching an attack on the North. The tunnel network runs for over 40 kilometers and comprises a range of separate zones; each is supposed to be a miniature of an underground Vietnamese village with all constructions that met the people’s basic need during the wartime. However, a part of this site has been damaged by many reasons, so you find it hard to perceive the spirit revolving around its extraordinary structure.
Nhon Trach Tunnels – Dong Nai Province
Just like other tunnels, Nhon Trach Tunnels, located at Long Tho Commune, Nhon Trach District, Dong Nai Province) was made by hand in 1963. The tunnels are 5-7 meters deep and 1-1.2 meters wide. Inside the site consists of air holes, wells, kitchens, etc. The tunnels were designed to defend against the destructive power of 250-kg bombs, and accommodates up to 300-500 people.
