1. Why should you visit Tay Ninh during Tet 2026?
1.1. Location, distance from Ho Chi Minh City and neighboring provinces
Tay Ninh is located in the central area of the Southeast region, only about 100 km northwest of Ho Chi Minh City. This distance makes travel convenient, whether you choose a car or a motorbike, it only takes about 2 to 2.5 hours on National Highway 22 to arrive. Convenient transportation makes Tay Ninh an ideal choice for spring travel for a day or a short break, especially suitable for guests from neighboring provinces.
With its proximity to Ho Chi Minh City, tourists can easily arrange a trip to where to go in Tay Ninh for Tet 2026 within 1 to 2 days. This saves time while fully enjoying the unique cultural and spiritual aspects of this land.
1.2. Highlights of spring travel, festivals, culture, and spirituality
Tay Ninh is a prominent destination during the Tet season with its spiritual atmosphere and traditional festivals taking place continuously throughout the first lunar month. Notably, the Ba Den Mountain Spring Festival attracts many visitors from the 1st to the end of the lunar month with New Year's Eve activities such as artistic fireworks and music shows featuring many artists.
In addition, the ceremony of worshipping Duc Chi Ton held at Toa Thanh Tay Ninh on the 9th day of the lunar month gathers a large number of followers and tourists to attend the grand ceremony. The weather in Tay Ninh during Tet is usually fresh, with light sunshine and coolness, creating favorable conditions for spring sightseeing and visits.
The commemoration festival of Duc Chi Ton held at the Holy See of Tay Ninh on the 9th day of the first lunar month attracts a large number of followers and tourists to attend the grand ceremony. (Source: Collected)
1.3. Specialties and experiences unique to Tay Ninh
The Tay Ninh travel itinerary during Tet is highlighted by visits to spiritual sites like Ba Den Mountain, where tourists often go to pray for peace and prosperity at the beginning of the year. This is also a great opportunity to enjoy local cuisine such as Trang Bang banh canh with its soft noodles and clear, refreshing broth. Along with the famous Tay Ninh shrimp salt, meticulously made from dried shrimp and coarse salt.
Banh trang phoi suong (dew-kissed rice paper) is a characteristic gift of this region, with its chewy and fragrant layers that leave a lasting impression on anyone who tastes it. Additionally, the bustling Tet atmosphere with stalls selling specialties and candies at traditional markets contributes to the vibrant spring colors and the warm affection of the local people.
2. Where to go in Tay Ninh for Tet 2026 and unmissable experiences
2.1. Ba Den Mountain
Sun World Ba Den Mountain, with a height of 986m, is the most frequently mentioned destination when planning where to go in Tay Ninh for Tet 2026 . A large-scale spring flower festival takes place throughout January, showcasing hundreds of thousands of vibrant tulips along with many imported flowers from the Netherlands.
The Van Son cable car, equipped with Vietnam's most modern technology, offers panoramic views of Tay Ninh's natural landscape and transports visitors from the foot of the mountain to its summit. At the summit, the spiritual complex is highlighted by the largest bronze statue of Bodhisattva Tay Bo Da Son in Asia, located on the mountaintop, along with a giant Maitreya Buddha statue, creating a sacred and serene atmosphere.
Cultural performances such as Chhay dăm drum dances, Khmer dances, and Ngu Am music performed by local artisans take place throughout the Tet holiday. The opening ceremony is impressive with artistic fireworks and a music program featuring many artists, contributing to a vibrant and energetic festival atmosphere at the start of the year.
Sun World Ba Den Mountain with a height of 986m is the most mentioned destination when planning where to go in Tay Ninh for Tet 2026. (Source: Collected)
2.2. Tay Ninh Holy See: Discover unique religious architecture
The Tay Ninh Holy See is an architectural highlight of Cao Dai in Vietnam, nổi bật with a sophisticated blend of Asian and European styles. It is not only a place of worship but also a vibrant symbol of the unique beliefs of the people of Tay Ninh.
The festival held on the 9th day of the first lunar month here attracts a large number of Cao Dai followers from all over to attend the grand ceremony. When visiting, tourists have the opportunity to observe traditional rituals, immerse themselves in a friendly community atmosphere, and clearly feel the unique religious philosophy that Cao Dai offers.
2.3. Go Ken Pagoda: A famous ancient pagoda during Tet
Go Ken Pagoda, with a history of over a century, is nổi bật for its architecture blending tradition with modernity and influences from Western styles. It is the starting point for the development of Buddhism in Tay Ninh, carrying deep spiritual significance for the local people.
The stupa within the pagoda grounds, with its intricate architecture, is a favorite spot for many tourists to check-in. The quiet and peaceful atmosphere of the pagoda brings a sense of tranquility, helping visitors find moments of inner peace. At the beginning of the year, the atmosphere of pilgrimage and incense offering for peace here becomes even more sacred and meaningful.
Go Ken Pagoda has a history of over a century, standing out with architecture blending tradition and modernity. (Source: Collected)
2.4. Discover spring festivals and cultural activities
Tet season in Tay Ninh is vibrant with many peace-praying festivals, spectacular lion dances, along with folk sports competitions and art programs. Cultural activities take place everywhere, creating a joyful and enthusiastic atmosphere for both locals and visitors.
Folk games such as wrestling, blindfolded goat catching, rice cooking contests, and traditional exhibitions serve as a bridge connecting the community with tourists. Through these, you not only entertain yourselves but also gain a deeper understanding of the unique culture of Tay Ninh during the early spring days.
2.4.1. Ba Den Mountain Spring Festival
The Ba Den Mountain Spring Festival is the largest spiritual cultural event in Tay Ninh during the Lunar New Year, attracting millions of visitors from all over. The festival takes place from the 1st to the end of the first lunar month with many special activities such as incense offering for peace, watching folk art performances, enjoying traditional cuisine, and visiting spiritual sites on the mountain. This is an ideal time for visitors to pray for peace at the beginning of the year while enjoying the bustling and sacred atmosphere characteristic of Tay Ninh.
2.4.2. Maitreya Buddha's Birthday Celebration
The Maitreya Buddha's Birthday Celebration is held on his birthday, which is the first day of the first lunar month every year. This is a time when heaven and earth and all beings harmonize, when, according to folk belief, merits and good intentions are easily increased, and worldly resentments can be resolved. For this sacred meaning, many Buddhists and visitors from all directions sincerely offer sacrifices, praying for Maitreya Buddha to bestow blessings, helping them have peace, and avoid misfortune and illness in the new year.
2.4.3. Explore craft villages and Tet markets in Tay Ninh
Tay Ninh Tet markets are bustling with hundreds of stalls selling dew-dried rice paper, shrimp salt, Tet jams, and specialty fruits. The lively sounds of vendors and the vibrant colors create an unforgettable, dynamic spring scene.
At the Trang Bang dew-dried rice paper craft village, visitors can witness firsthand the traditional steps of making rice paper by artisans. A trip to Tay Ninh during Tet will be more meaningful when you choose to buy specialty products as gifts for loved ones, carrying the distinct imprint of this land.
3. Tay Ninh's Tet Cuisine: Must-Try Dishes
3.1. Trang Bang Noodle Soup
Trang Bang noodle soup is an indispensable dish on the list of places to visit in Tay Ninh for Tet 2026. The soft, chewy noodles are made from traditional rice flour, combined with thinly sliced boiled pork, and served with characteristic wild vegetables like wild mustard greens or bean sprouts.
The clear broth is naturally sweet and savory, perfectly suiting the taste of Southern people. Many famous noodle soup eateries are located along National Highway 22B and in the Trang Bang town area, with prices ranging from 40,000 to 60,000 VND per bowl. This dish makes the beginning of the year complete with its refreshing, light, yet appealing flavor.
Trang Bang noodle soup is a must-have dish on the list. (Source: Collected)
3.2. Tay Ninh shrimp salt and dew-kissed rice paper
Tay Ninh shrimp salt is a unique combination of coarse salt, ground dried shrimp, and minced chili, creating a rich flavor that is hard to find anywhere else. This seasoning is not only used for dipping dew-kissed rice paper but also enhances the flavor of many rustic dishes.
Tay Ninh dew-kissed rice paper is notably chewy and fragrant, suitable for wrapping boiled meat and fresh herbs, dipped with sweet and sour fish sauce. When buying as gifts, you should choose large establishments or reputable supermarkets and stores to ensure quality. Checking the origin and labels will give you more peace of mind about the products you bring back as Tet gifts.
3.3. Tay Ninh vegetarian cuisine to enjoy on spiritual holidays
Tay Ninh is famous for its many delicious vegetarian restaurants, especially around the Black Lady Mountain area and the city center. The menu is rich with dishes such as vegetarian fermented fish hot pot, vegetarian spring rolls, and vegetarian pancakes, skillfully prepared from plant-based ingredients.
These vegetarian restaurants not only serve Buddhists but are also a favorite choice for many tourists who want to experience light cuisine. The flavor of vegetarian dishes here is highly praised for its sophistication in marination, suitable for enjoying after a pilgrimage or for the first meal of the new year.
Tay Ninh is famous for its many delicious vegetarian restaurants, especially around the Ba Den Mountain area. (Source: Collected)
4. Suggested 1-day itinerary for Tay Ninh during Tet 2026
Starting from Ho Chi Minh City at 6:30 AM, you will arrive at Ba Den Mountain around 9 AM, taking advantage of the time to avoid crowds. After purchasing the Van Son cable car ticket, ascend to the mountain peak to worship the Tay Bo Da Son Buddha statue and visit the spring flower garden with thousands of colorful tulips.
At noon, you can enjoy Trang Bang noodle soup at roadside eateries or savor vegetarian dishes in the central area.
In the afternoon, visit the Toa Thanh Tay Ninh to experience its unique architecture and, if lucky, witness traditional ceremonies. Conclude the trip by purchasing specialties like shrimp salt and sun-dried rice paper at the Tet market as souvenirs.
5. Useful tips and notes for traveling to Tay Ninh during the Lunar New Year
5.1. Attire and preparation for temple visits and travel during Tet
When visiting spiritual sites, attire should be modest and respectful. Men should wear shirts with sleeves and long pants, while women should avoid short skirts or off-the-shoulder tops. Light colors are preferred to show solemnity.
You should bring a light jacket and a hat for daytime travel as Tay Ninh's weather can be quite sunny. Preparing sunscreen and drinking water will help protect your health during outdoor sightseeing. If you plan to go up Ba Den Mountain in the evening, a warmer jacket will be necessary as the summit is usually 5 to 7 degrees Celsius colder than the base.
5.2. Transportation, etiquette, and cultural considerations for spiritual sites
When visiting religious sites, remember to mute mobile devices, refrain from taking photos in restricted areas, and avoid loud conversations to maintain a solemn atmosphere. Traveling to Tay Ninh during Tet should involve showing respect for spiritual traditions, being mindful to give way to elders, and maintaining cleanliness in public places.
5.3. Suggested Tet souvenirs to buy from Tay Ninh
Sun-dried rice paper is a prominent souvenir from Tay Ninh, priced from 150,000 to 250,000 VND per kg depending on the type. Special shrimp salt costs around 80,000 to 120,000 VND for a 500g box. Additionally, there are tamarind rice paper and various Tet jams suitable for different budgets, priced from 50,000 to 150,000 VND per pack.
You can buy souvenirs at the central market of Tay Ninh, specialty shops in Trang Bang, or large supermarket chains. When purchasing, remember to carefully check labels, expiry dates, origin, and ensure proper packaging to guarantee quality when bringing them back as gifts for loved ones during Tet.
Dew-dried rice paper is a prominent specialty of Tay Ninh. (Source: Collected)
Where to go in Tay Ninh for Tet 2026 offers a perfect experience for families and friends with a harmonious blend of spirituality, culture, and unique cuisine. Plan early to fully enjoy the emotional spring festivals in this sacred land!
