When visiting Ninh Thuan, experiencing the sand dunes is a must-do, offering a unique and exciting travel activity. Among them, the Phan Rang sand dunes, especially Mui Dinh, are renowned for their pristine beauty, rolling sand hills, and exhilarating sandboarding opportunities. Come explore this “Little West Asia” and enjoy unforgettable moments here.
The Untamed Beauty of Mui Dinh Sand Dunes
Mui Dinh sand dunes, located approximately 35km south of Phan Rang city center in Son Hai village, Mui Dinh commune, Ninh Phuoc district, are among the largest and most beautiful sand dunes in Ninh Thuan. As the second largest dune area in the province (after Nam Cuong sand dunes), Mui Dinh is likened to a miniature “Little West Asia,” giving visitors the feeling of stepping into another world.
The shapes of the dunes at Mui Dinh are constantly changing under the influence of the wind, creating a vibrant and captivating natural picture. The golden hue of the sand blends with the blue of the sea and sky, creating a stunning landscape that enchants anyone who sets foot here.
Rolling sand dunes of Mui Dinh in Ninh Thuan, Vietnam.
Thrilling Sandboarding Experience
Sandboarding is one of the most popular activities at Mui Dinh sand dunes. The feeling of gliding down steep slopes amidst the vast desert space is sure to bring you unforgettable experiences. You can rent sandboards on-site and conquer the towering dunes to your heart’s content.
Besides sandboarding, you can also participate in many other fun activities at Mui Dinh, such as off-road driving on the sand, kite flying, or simply walking, sightseeing, and taking photos. In particular, don’t miss the opportunity to watch the sunrise or sunset over the dunes; the moment the sun bathes the entire space in gold will amaze you with the majestic beauty of nature.
People sandboarding down a dune at Mui Dinh sand dunes.
Explore Interesting Surroundings of Phan Rang Sand Dunes
Beyond Mui Dinh sand dunes, the Phan Rang area has many other attractive destinations waiting for you to explore. You can visit Hon Do to watch the sunrise over the sea, explore Bau Truc pottery village to learn about the traditional pottery craft of the Cham people, or visit Po Klong Garai Tower, a unique architectural work of the ancient Champa kingdom.
Hon Do: Welcoming the Sunrise Over the Sea
Hon Do is an ideal spot to watch the sunrise over the sea. As the dawn breaks, the entire Hon Do is bathed in brilliant orange hues, creating an incredibly romantic and impressive scene.
Bau Truc Pottery Village: Discovering Traditional Craft
Bau Truc pottery village is one of the oldest pottery villages in Southeast Asia. Here, you will witness firsthand the traditional handmade pottery process of the Cham people, from selecting clay to firing pottery.
Po Klong Garai Tower: Champa Architectural Heritage
Po Klong Garai Tower is a complex of Cham towers built in the 13th century, one of the most intact Champa architectural relics in Vietnam. Po Klong Garai Tower is not only a unique architectural work but also a symbol of Cham culture.
Travel Tips for Phan Rang Sand Dunes
To have a complete and memorable trip to Phan Rang sand dunes, you should note a few things:
- Ideal time: The best time to visit Phan Rang sand dunes is during the dry season (from December to August of the following year). At this time, the weather is dry and sunny, very suitable for outdoor activities.
- Attire: Wear comfortable, cool, and sweat-absorbent clothing. Don’t forget to bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect your skin from the harsh sun.
- Footwear: Choose low, flat shoes or sandals for easy movement on the sand.
- Drinking water: Always bring enough drinking water to avoid dehydration when exercising a lot.
- Camera: Don’t forget to bring a camera or phone to capture beautiful moments at the sand dunes.
Phan Rang Cuisine: Distinctive Flavors
Besides the beautiful natural scenery, Phan Rang is also famous for its attractive culinary specialties. You can enjoy dishes such as Banh Can, Banh Xeo, Nem Chua, Goi Ca Mai, or fresh seafood dishes.
Banh Can, Banh Xeo
Banh Can and Banh Xeo are two familiar dishes of the Central region people. Phan Rang Banh Can has a distinctive flavor, made from rice flour and eggs, served with sweet and sour dipping sauce. Phan Rang Banh Xeo also has its own flavor, made from rice flour, shrimp, meat, bean sprouts, and served with raw vegetables and dipping sauce.
Nem Chua
Phan Rang Nem Chua is a snack loved by many. Nem Chua is made from pork, pork skin, roasted rice powder, and spices, with a harmonious sour, spicy, salty, and sweet taste.
Goi Ca Mai
Goi Ca Mai is a specialty of the Phan Rang sea region. Ca Mai is a small fish with transparent flesh, mixed with herbs, roasted peanuts, and sweet and sour dipping sauce.
Fresh Seafood
Phan Rang is a coastal region, so the seafood here is very fresh and diverse. You can enjoy dishes such as shrimp, crab, squid, snails, clams, prepared in many different ways.
Conclusion
Sandboarding at Phan Rang sand dunes is an unmissable experience when visiting Ninh Thuan. With its pristine beauty, rolling sand hills, and thrilling sandboarding opportunities, Mui Dinh is sure to bring you memorable memories. Come and explore this “Little West Asia” to enjoy wonderful moments with family and friends. Are you ready for a sand adventure?