Group Tour Black Virgin Mountain & Cao Dai Temple: Honest Review

If you’re looking for a quick getaway from the clamor of Ho Chi Minh City, a group tour to Black Virgin Mountain (Núi Bà Đen) and the Cao Dai Temple might just be what you’re after. I recently tried one of these day trips, and thought I’d share, like your average travel blogger, all the little tidbits. We will go into, basically, what to anticipate, what I enjoyed, and a few things, I think, that could’ve been better.

Setting Off – Cao Dai Temple: A Kaleidoscope of Beliefs

So, the Cao Dai Temple was our initial stop, a place that just pops with visual fascination. Founded in the 1920s, Cao Daism is, in some respects, a religion that blends Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism, Christianity, and even elements of Islam. As a matter of fact, the temple’s architecture tells this really captivating story. It is quite amazing how vibrant and elaborate the decorations are, like your average cathedral amped up, like your average church. Every inch, that is to say, seemed to have some symbol or depiction. Anyway, the most impressive part was seeing the devotees during their mid-day prayer. It’s almost like the quiet reverence that filled the temple when they began chanting and performing rituals really moved me. Very very touching.

You know, keep in mind, visitors usually have to remove their shoes before entering, so you may want to wear socks, perhaps. That’s always a fun little surprise, you know? Also, being respectfully dressed, it is advisable to, such as covering shoulders and knees, really helps when visiting religious sites here. We, I guess, were given about an hour and a half to check out the temple, that might be alright for taking pictures and watching the ceremony. Although, I really felt I could have spent a bit more time just taking everything in. By the way, that area also tends to get pretty crowded, especially around prayer times. So you’ll have to push your way through the crowds.

Black Virgin Mountain: Scaling New Heights

Following the Cao Dai Temple, we went on Black Virgin Mountain, and in some respects, the name is kind of spooky, too it’s almost an inaccurate term for such a wonderful place. It’s the tallest mountain in the area. So, there’s, like your average tourist spot, a cable car system that carries people nearly to the top, really makes getting there convenient, for pretty much all fitness levels, actually. Once at the summit, arguably, you are greeted with sprawling views of the countryside. The air actually felt so much crisper and cleaner. It felt like a pleasant break from Ho Chi Minh City.

At the top, there are different pagodas and statues. Arguably the most imposing is the massive statue of the Black Virgin herself. Legends around her say she was a local woman who jumped off the mountain rather than marry someone against her will. A temple was built, in memory of her courage. Even though the stories behind this location have some mystery about them, in a way, what really strikes you is the serenity of the location. People light incense, offer prayers, and enjoy the fresh mountain breeze. Just a bit different from a hike in Colorado.

The Ups and Downs of the Tour: What I Liked and What I Didn’t

Alright, so let’s, for example, chat about the pros and cons of going with a group. By the way, I am the kind of guy to explore by himself. Basically, what I actually liked was the ease and lack of effort that I felt with a tour. Transportation was arranged, which made moving between destinations very easy. Our tour guide spoke both English and Vietnamese and told the tale about both sites. Which brought depth to the entire thing. And you are likely going to get that if you head out by yourself.

Or, you might not find anything fun to do on the bus, as a matter of fact, sitting around is a big drawback. Tours generally operate to a tight routine. You may want a little bit more time at certain places. Then you get hustled to another place, whether you are done there or not. The tour seemed full. It seemed quite crowded at times. It can get to be a challenge making your way around spots with a huge pack of people. Lastly, depending upon what tour you pick, arguably, the food offered may be pretty bland. By the way, if you have options, and there will probably be local restaurants nearby to test the goods from that region, that may be alright.

Who Is This Tour Right For?

Arguably, this excursion would probably work if you’re a traveler on a shorter trip. That may work out nicely for that specific reason. Someone who appreciates historical and cultural knowledge, basically, gains a lot here. When I was out and about, the pace wasn’t too hard. Making it OK for various ages. But, the heat and humidity might take some getting used to. Remember, it is always best to be in shape.

For those people that just enjoy alone-time exploration and freedom, this one may be a pass. Just like your run-of-the-mill tourist group visit. Anyway, if you actually do not want to be stuck somewhere. Actually, that’s not for you. However, with good companies, usually, they attempt to accommodate a range of pursuits.

Making the Most of Your Visit: A Few Tips

Now, to essentially take pleasure in a fun visit and head home with a bunch of stories. Here are just some things that you may want to remember. Just like an average day in Southeast Asia, actually, make sure that you stay really, extremely hydrated by taking enough to drink, in the extreme heat. Pack light breathable clothing that can dry fast, that helps heaps too.

If you have them with you, bring comfy sneakers. Or something similar. Especially because you’ll definitely walk quite a bit around Black Virgin Mountain and the temple. Be careful with your items, it helps stay aware of where the bag and valuables go to prevent them from any kind of thievery.

Finally, be ready to be pushed or jostled on crowded days. By the way, staying polite really makes a world of difference. Just being understanding to all parties involved. Whether that be the residents or any visitor in the location with you. This thing actually goes hand-in-hand, and it helps.