North (Hòn Chồng)

Nha Trang’s northern suburbs are a short 10–20 minute drive from the city center, featuring dramatic limestone formations, Cham ruins, and sulfur hot springs & mud spas. It is ideal for a half-day or full-day outing.

Po Nagar Cham Towers, a Hindu sanctuary built by the Cham Kingdom between the 8th and 11th centuries, overlooks the city and the sea from a hill at the mouth of the Cai River. Nearby, Hòn Chồng Promontory is famous for its massive, layered rock formations, the legend of the 'Giant’s Handprint' carved into the stone, and its expansive sea views.

The highlight of this area is the Hot Spring Mud Spa. Tháp Bà Hot Springs in northern Nha Trang is the oldest and most well-known mud spa in the region, offering mineral mud pools, hot spring baths, and water slides. Similar facilities, such as I-resort, located slightly further inland, are also popular.

If you have more time, you can venture further north. Ba Hồ Waterfalls features a three-tiered waterfall and stream activities, while Dốc Lết Beach, with its white sand and shallow, calm waters, is perfect for a quiet day away from the crowds.

Recommended Route

A standard half-day itinerary includes visiting Po Nagar Cham Towers and Hòn Chồng Promontory in the morning, followed by relaxing with a mud spa at Tháp Bà Hot Springs in the afternoon. For a full day, extend your trip north to include Ba Hồ Waterfalls and Dốc Lết Beach.

Practical Tips

• Transportation: Po Nagar, Hòn Chồng, and Tháp Bà are located just 3–6 km from the city center. Using Grab or hiring a taxi for half a day is convenient.
• Mud Spa: Prices vary depending on the type of pool, from basic shared mud baths to private ones. Be sure to bring a swimsuit, change of clothes, and a waterproof pouch.
• Cham Towers: As a sacred religious site, avoid revealing clothing. Robes are available for rent at the entrance.
• Longer Distances: Ba Hồ Waterfalls and Dốc Lết Beach are over 40 minutes to an hour away one way, so an early morning departure is recommended.