Cu Chi Tunnel: Famous War Relics

3:26:28 PM | 7/8/2005

In Cu Chi, the first tunnel was built in 1948 in two communes: Tan Phu Trung and Phuoc Vinh An. In the initial stage, it was a simple and short tunnel and later expanded to other communes forming a network of sophisticated tunnels.

The network zigzagged underground with numerous branches connecting with each other and some separate systems depending on the terrain. The total length of the network is estimated at over 200 km. The tunnels are not so deep but sometimes have 2 - 3 levels with secret entrances, check-points, narrow passages and disguised ventilation holes. The network is complete with big rooms for storing weapons and food, wells, commanding posts, surgery and patients rooms. There were strong shelters for women and children, meetings, film-shows and cultural performances.

Today, the network is well preserved and together with other resistance bases and headquarters form a famous tourist attraction. On the ground, local and foreign tourists can visit the display of war materiel: helicopters, tanks, home-made mines, traps, etc., souvenirs shops, floating restaurants on the Saigon River, underground meeting halls where 1,000 visitors can see film-shows and listen to the explanation in several foreign languages. There’s a sport shooting range, tennis courts, and camping areas provide relaxation for tourists after coming out of the tunnel.

Ben Duoc and Ben Dinh areas, 70 km North West of Ho Chi Minh city, are reserved for tourism. Visitors can see the reappearance of the liberated area in the period of 1960-1975, and the Temple of War Martyrs where memorial services and pilgrimages are organised every year.

Mr Tran Van Tam, Director of Cu Chi tourist centre said that coming to Cu Chi tourists will understand how difficult the resistance really was and how ardent was the desire of Vietnamese people for peace, independence and happiness.