Phan Rang

Written by Lorraine Aust, Minh Nguyen
15/08/2025
Tháp Po Klaung Garai, Phan Rang, Ninh Thuận.JPG
Dongson*vmvn at Vietnamese Wikipedia, Wikimedia Commons

Phan Rang, also known as Phan Rang-Thap Cham, presents itself as a serene coastal city in Vietnam's South Central Coast. Visitors discover a compelling fusion of natural beauty, including pristine beaches and expansive sand dunes, alongside a deep-rooted Cham cultural heritage.

While Phan Rang is not recognized as a prominent hub for backpacker parties, the city's 16/4 Square serves as a central gathering point. Guests can immerse themselves in the local way of life and engage with vendors at Phan Rang Market, offering authentic social interaction within the community.

Top 6 Things to do in Phan Rang

Phan Rang offers diverse experiences, from exploring ancient Cham cultural sites and traditional craft villages to relaxing on serene beaches, venturing into unique sand dunes, and discovering picturesque bays and vineyards.

1. Explore Po Klong Garai Cham Towers

These impressive brick towers, dating back to the late 13th century, stand atop an exposed granite hill and are dedicated to the legendary King Po Klong Garai. Visitors can admire the intricate Cham architecture and carvings, including a dancing Shiva, and gain insight into the enduring Cham culture and history. Arriving early in the morning or late in the afternoon can help avoid crowds and midday heat, offering better photo opportunities.

Cost: Entrance fee is approximately 15,000 VND per person for adults. An electric car to the towers is available for an additional 15,000 VND round-trip.

Transport: The towers are located about 9 km northwest of Phan Rang-Thap Cham city center on Trau Hill. From the city, one can take a taxi or motorbike. A motorbike rental typically costs around 150,000 VND per day.

2. Relax at Ninh Chu Beach

Ninh Chu Beach is a wide, crescent-shaped stretch of golden sand with calm, clear waters, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and unwinding. It offers a quieter alternative to more bustling tourist spots. Early risers can witness stunning sunrises over the ocean. The beach is also known for windsurfing. Fresh seafood stalls are often available nearby for a local culinary experience.

Cost: Access to the beach is free.

Transport: Ninh Chu Beach is located about 5-6 km east of Phan Rang city center. It is easily accessible by taxi or rented motorbike. Local buses are also an option, with an average frequency of 30 minutes.

3. Discover Vinh Hy Bay and Rai Cave

Vinh Hy Bay is a picturesque natural harbor surrounded by turquoise waters, towering limestone cliffs, and lush greenery, approximately 40 km northeast of Phan Rang. It remains largely unspoiled, offering opportunities for snorkeling to see vibrant coral reefs and colorful fish, or glass-bottom boat tours for an underwater view without getting wet. Rai Cave, nestled within the Nui Chua Biosphere Reserve near Vinh Hy Bay, presents unique rock formations and a mystical ambiance, especially during sunrise when moss-covered coral reefs are exposed.

Cost: Glass-bottom boat tours typically range from 100,000–150,000 VND per person. High-speed boat group tours are around 150,000–200,000 VND per person. Private boat rentals start from 1,300,000–1,600,000 VND per boat. There may be a small entrance fee for Rai Cave.

Transport: Vinh Hy Bay is about 40-42 km from Phan Rang city. Take Provincial Highway No. 702 along the scenic coastal road. Public bus (Futa Bus 3 from Phan Rang Bus Station) to Vinh Hy is available for around 25,000 VND. Taxis and rented motorbikes are also common ways to reach the bay.

4. Experience Nam Cuong Sand Dunes

The Nam Cuong Sand Dunes offer a dramatic, desert-like landscape with ever-changing patterns sculpted by the wind. The vast sandy expanses provide excellent opportunities for photography, especially during sunrise or sunset, when the golden sand contrasts with the sky. Visitors can also enjoy thrilling activities like conquering the dunes on off-road vehicles.

Cost: There is no explicit entrance fee for the sand dunes themselves; however, activities like off-road vehicle rides will incur a cost. Motorbike rental is around 150,000 VND per day if self-driving.

Transport: Located about 7-10 km southeast of Phan Rang-Thap Cham city center. Taxis are readily available. Bus No. 04 from Ninh Thuan Bus Station can drop visitors at the nearest stop. Motorbikes are also a popular choice for self-exploration.

5. Visit a Local Vineyard

Phan Rang is known as Vietnam's 'capital of grapes' and is home to several vineyards, such as Ba Moi Vineyard and Thai An Vineyard. Visitors can stroll through the lush grapevines, learn about the grape-growing and winemaking processes, and sample local products like fresh grapes, grape juice, grape wine, and raisins. Many vineyards offer a hospitable atmosphere where owners share their passion and knowledge.

Cost: Entrance to many grape gardens, such as Thai An and Ba Moi, is free, and often includes complimentary tastings. Products like wine, jam, or dried fruit are available for purchase.

Transport: Ba Moi Vineyard is approximately 7 km from Phan Rang city center. Thai An Vineyard is about 30 km northeast of the city. Both are accessible by taxi or rented motorbike.

6. Explore My Nghiep Brocade Weaving Village

My Nghiep is a traditional Cham brocade weaving village with a history spanning over seven centuries. Visitors can witness Cham women diligently weaving intricate patterns by hand, learning about the multi-stage process from cotton fiber to finished product. The village offers a glimpse into the Cham ethnic group's cultural symbol, with various products like bags, vests, and scarves available as souvenirs.

Cost: Visiting the village is generally free, but products are available for purchase.

Transport: My Nghiep Brocade Weaving Village is located about 10-12 km south of Phan Rang city center, along National Highway 1A. Taxis and rented motorbikes are suitable transport options.

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