Marble Mountains and Lady Buddha Tour from Hoi An: A Spiritual and Scenic Adventure

The Marble Mountains and Lady Buddha tour from Hoi An is a great way to explore nature, culture, and spirituality—all in one trip. Just a short drive from Hoi An Ancient Town, this half-day tour takes you to two of Central Vietnam’s most famous landmarks.

You’ll first explore the Marble Mountains, a cluster of five limestone hills filled with caves, temples, and stunning viewpoints. After that, you’ll head to Linh Ung Pagoda to see Vietnam’s tallest Lady Buddha statue, which overlooks the sea.

This tour is perfect for travelers looking for a mix of adventure, history, and beautiful scenery. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to expect, the main highlights, prices, and useful tips to enjoy your Marble Mountains and Lady Buddha tour from Hoi An.

Why Choose a Marble Mountains and Lady Buddha Tour from Hoi An?

A Marble Mountains and Lady Buddha tour from Hoi An is an easy and rewarding way to explore Da Nang’s most iconic spots. The mountains and pagoda are only 20–25 km away, and the drive takes just 30 to 45 minutes. Along the way, you’ll enjoy scenic views of the coastline and local countryside.

This half-day tour usually lasts 4.5 to 6.5 hours. You can choose a morning or afternoon slot depending on your schedule. Most tours include an English-speaking guide, air-conditioned transport, and hotel pickup—making the whole experience smooth and stress-free.

The tour is great for families, couples, and solo travelers. If you prefer a more personal experience, many companies like Viator or Travel Buddies offer private or small-group options. Flexible cancellation policies also give you peace of mind if plans change.

Marble Mountains Overview
Marble Mountains Overview

Top Highlights of the Tour

1. Marble Mountains: Caves, Pagodas, and Views

The Marble Mountains, or Ngu Hanh Son, are five limestone and marble hills named after the five elements: Kim (Metal), Moc (Wood), Thuy (Water), Hoa (Fire), and Tho (Earth). The main mountain, Thuy Son, is open to visitors and features stunning caves, pagodas, and panoramic viewpoints. Explore the Tang Chon Cave, Tam Thai Pagoda, and hidden tunnels used during the Vietnam War. The climb involves 146–282 steps, but an elevator is available for an additional fee (15,000 VND/$0.60 USD one way). Your guide will share stories of the mountains’ spiritual significance and their role in local history.

Tang Chon Cave Entrance
Tang Chon Cave Entrance

2. Lady Buddha and Linh Ung Pagoda

Located on Son Tra Peninsula, also known as Monkey Mountain, the 67-meter-tall Lady Buddha statue at Linh Ung Pagoda is Vietnam’s tallest, offering a serene and awe-inspiring sight. Standing at 220 feet, this statue of the Goddess of Mercy overlooks Da Nang’s coastline, providing breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere. Your guide will explain the statue’s spiritual significance and the history of the 19th-century pagoda. If you’re lucky, you may spot monkeys in the surrounding area, adding a playful element to the visit.

Lady Buddha Statue
Lady Buddha Statue

3. Marble Sculpture Village

At the foot of the Marble Mountains lies Non Nuoc Village, a 300-year-old hub for marble craftsmanship. Here, you’ll see artisans transform raw marble into intricate sculptures, from small souvenirs to large statues. While some tours include a stop at a marble showroom, you can skip it if you prefer more time at the mountains or pagoda. This visit offers a glimpse into local craftsmanship and an opportunity to purchase unique keepsakes.

Marble Sculpture Village Artisans
Marble Sculpture Village Artisans

4. Panoramic Views and Cultural Insights

From the top of Thuy Son, enjoy 360-degree views of Da Nang’s beaches, Son Tra Peninsula, and Hoi An’s distant coastline. Your English-speaking guide will provide insights into the Buddhist philosophies embedded in the caves and pagodas, making the tour both scenic and educational. The combination of natural beauty and cultural heritage makes this a well-rounded experience.

What’s Included in the Tour?

A typical Marble Mountains and Lady Buddha tour from Hoi An includes:

  • Hotel Pickup and Drop-Off: Convenient transport from your accommodation in Hoi An (or Da Nang for some tours).
  • English-Speaking Guide: A knowledgeable guide to share historical and cultural insights.
  • Entrance Fees: Access to the Marble Mountains (40,000 VND/$1.60 USD) and Linh Ung Pagoda (free entry).
  • Air-Conditioned Transport: Comfortable van or car with bottled water included.
  • Optional Lunch: Morning tours often include a traditional Vietnamese lunch at a local family’s home or restaurant.
  • Elevator Access (Optional): Available at the Marble Mountains for an additional fee.

Tours typically start at 7:20–8:30 AM (morning) or 1:20–2:30 PM (afternoon), returning by 1:00–2:30 PM or 6:00–6:30 PM, respectively.

How Much Does It Cost?

The cost of a Marble Mountains and Lady Buddha tour from Hoi An varies based on the tour type and group size:

  • Group Tours: Prices start at $24–$30 USD per person, including transport, guide, and entrance fees. Some tours include lunch for morning departures.
  • Private Tours: Expect $40–$65 USD per person for a private car and guide, with lower per-person costs for larger groups (e.g., $100–$150 USD for 2–4 people).
  • Additional Fees: Elevator access at the Marble Mountains (15,000 VND/$0.60 USD one way) and personal expenses like souvenirs are not included.

Providers like Viator, Travel Buddies, and Veronika’s Adventure offer competitive pricing with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Booking early is recommended, especially during the dry season (February–August) for pleasant weather.

Why Book This Tour?

  • Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off make the tour hassle-free, with no need to navigate public transport or Grab taxis (200,000–300,000 VND/$8–$12 USD from Hoi An).
  • Expert Guidance: English-speaking guides provide in-depth knowledge about the sites’ history and Buddhist significance.
  • Time-Efficient: The half-day format fits easily into a Hoi An itinerary, leaving time for other activities like exploring the ancient town.
  • Personalized Experience: Private or small-group tours (up to 15 people) ensure a more intimate and flexible experience.

Tips for Your Tour

  • Wear Comfortable Shoes: The Marble Mountains involve climbing 146–282 steps, and marble stairs can be slippery, especially after rain. Avoid dresses or sandals.
  • Prepare for the Weather: Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water in the dry season (February–August) or a poncho in the rainy season (September–January).
  • Use the Elevator: If mobility is a concern, opt for the elevator at Thuy Son (15,000 VND/$0.60 USD one way) to skip the first 146 steps.
  • Bring a Camera: The panoramic views and intricate caves are perfect for photography.
  • Skip the Marble Showroom: If you’re not interested in shopping, ask your guide to skip the marble factory stop to maximize sightseeing time.

Where to Book

Reputable providers include:

  • Viator: Offers private and group tours with flexible cancellation and reserve-now-pay-later options.
  • Travel Buddies: Known for affordable tours ($24–$26 USD) with lunch and knowledgeable guides.
  • Veronika’s Adventure: Provides small-group tours with English and French-speaking guides.
  • TripsPoint: Offers half-day tours with clear itineraries and competitive pricing.

Contact providers via their websites or WhatsApp for personalized quotes, especially for private tours.

Conclusion

A Marble Mountains and Lady Buddha tour from Hoi An is an unforgettable journey into the natural and spiritual heart of Central Vietnam. From the ancient caves and pagodas of the Marble Mountains to the peaceful 67-meter-tall Lady Buddha statue, this half-day tour offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and stunning landscapes.

With hotel pickup, expert guides, and flexible schedules, it’s an easy and rewarding addition to your Hoi An itinerary. If you’re planning more experiences in the region, don’t miss our Central Vietnam Travel Guide: Top Tours for Photographers and Foodies for more inspiration.

Book your Marble Mountains and Lady Buddha tour from Hoi An today and uncover the magic of these iconic landmarks!

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