Must-visit places to learn about the Vietnam War in Vietnam

The Vietnam War occurred in the 20th century. Even today, around 40 years later, it still haunts many people. The reason behind the rise of the Vietnam War was because of the conflict which was against the communist government of North Vietnam and South Vietnam. The War was along with its principal Ally, The United States. It was a prolonged military dispute which began as an Anti-Colonial War against the French and developed as a Cold War between International Communism. Around 58,220 soldiers and people died during the War. Have a look at the must-visit places to learn about the Vietnam War in Vietnam.

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Here is a list of must-visit places to learn about the Vietnam War in Vietnam

• War Remnants Museum
• Cu Chi Tunnels
• Con Dao Prisons
• Hue Imperial Citadel
• Keh Sanh Combat base
• Vin Moc Tunnels

1. War Remnants Museum

You cannot miss visiting this museum if you are in Ho Chi Minh City. The museum in Ho Chi Minh City was opened to the public for the first time in 1975. American military equipment is kept on display and the images inside speak about the brutal and horrors of the War. American troops used many types of equipment against the Vietnamese. This equipment such as helicopters with rocket launchers, fighter planes, and a conventional bomb that weighs 6800kg are kept on display. The most popular exhibits in the War Remnants Museum are the “tiger cage.” The South Vietnamese would imprison 14 people at a time in these confinements and execute the prisoners.

It also features hideous images of victims who had suffered “Agent Orange.” Almost 4.8 million were exposed to chemical spray and strong pesticides. It was believed that close to 5,00,000 children were born with defects due to the chemicals. Though children are allowed, the museum is against children entering as it might be a disturbing experience for them. It is definitely one of the must-visit places to learn about the Vietnam War in Vietnam.

Location – 28 Vo Van Tan, Thanh Po Ho Chi Minh City, District 3, Vietnam

Opening Hours – 7:30am to 12:00pm & 1:30pm to 5:00 pm

Also Read: War Remnants Museum, Vietnam- Top war museum in the world

2. Cu Chi Tunnels

Cu Chi tunnels are one of the best day trips from Ho Chi Minh City. They offer the tourists a quick sneak-peek to experience the underground life of Vietnamese soldiers back in 1948. The area has around 120kms of underground tunnels along with trap doors, armoury, and other facilities. These tunnels show the kind of sacrifices people made during the War. If you are claustrophobic then it’s better you avoid it. Otherwise, it is one of the must-visit places to learn about the Vietnam War in Vietnam. The experience is worth the visit. 

Location – Durong Tinh 15, Phu Hiep, Than pho Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

Opening Hours- 7:00am to 5:00pm.

3. Con Dao Prisons

These islands of the Southern part of Vietnam are one of the most beautiful places in the country. It is more than just a tourist attraction. Its also home to abuse, torture, and executions of the last century. It has more than 2000 separate exhibits each sharing its own horror experience. It is one of the must-visit places to learn about the Vietnam War in Vietnam.

A great place to learn the history of the Vietnam War and how the lives of prisoners were. The locals and Vietnamese people regularly visit the museum to show their respect and offerings for those National heroes who died for their country’s Independence. The prison was a site of misery back then. It’s one of the must-visit places to learn about the Vietnam War in Vietnam.

4. Hue Imperial Citadel

One of the fiercest battles that took place here during the Vietnam War, known as the Battle of Hue. The place was called the Forbidden City, where the Emperor and his closest people lived and worked. The place was not open to the public for a very long time. Although, now it is open and you can see the remains of the place. However, there isn’t much to see, as most of it has been destroyed. The large empty spaces do not speak about how much was lost during the War.

Location – Thanh pho Hue, Thừa Thiên Huế, Vietnam

5. Keh Sanh Combat base

It was a pivotal battle between the North Vietnamese and American troops. The battle began 50 years ago when the North Vietnamese troop ( around 20,000 people) surrounded the isolated Combat base held by 5000 Marines. Since the enemy had attacked during the monsoon season, the marines could not be reinforced or re-supplied. Most of it was lost in the jungle, but there are still some bunkers, original Airstrip, and American Military hardware to see. Also check Vietnam honeymoon package.

6. Vin Moc Tunnels

While the Cu Chi tunnels were used for Military purposes, Vin Moc tunnels were used by the civilians. Almost 300 people lived and worked in this underground tunnel for around 6 years to save themselves from the American bombers and War. It is both a historical and tourist attraction during the period of Vietnam’s War. Imagine the lives of people who lived underground for years, not knowing if they will survive or when they will be attacked. Take a deep breath and get a chance to experience how it would feel. Vin Moc tunnels are one of the must-visit places to learn about the Vietnam War in Vietnam.

Location – Quảng Trị Province, Vietnam

Opening Hours – 7:00am to 5:00pm

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Vietnam is a beautiful country in Southeast Asia. It attracts travellers for its greenery and golden sand beaches. To the other side of it lies the deep history and horrors of the Vietnam War. If you are interested in learning the history, then the above mentioned are, one of the must-visit places to learn about the Vietnam War in Vietnam. Look into Pickyourtrail for some offers on Vietnam tour packages.