Travel Diary
RIDING THE LAVA TRAIN AT BA NA HILLS: VIETNAM’s HIDDEN MOUNTAIN ADVENTURE
If you’re planning a visit to Ba Na Hills, chances are the famous Golden Bridge is already on your itinerary. But one attraction that many visitors overlook is the Lava Train—a futuristic mountain funicular that connects the French-inspired upper village with the mystical Lunar Kingdom.
What Is the Lava Train?
The Lava Train, officially known as Ba Na Hills Funicular 2, opened in 2022 and was designed to transport visitors between the Sun Kingdom (French Village area) and the Moon Kingdom (Lunar Castle area). Instead of a long uphill walk through the park, visitors can hop aboard this scenic railway and reach their destination in just a few minutes.
Some quick facts:
- Length: approximately 1.3 km
- Capacity: up to 80 passengers per trip
- Speed: around 5 meters per second
- Operating hours: roughly 9:00 AM–5:30 PM daily
- Included in the Ba Na Hills entrance ticket (no extra charge)
The Experience
What makes the Lava Train special isn't just transportation—it's the journey itself.
Large panoramic windows reveal sweeping views of the mountains surrounding Da Nang. As the train glides through the landscape, you'll see forests, valleys, and dramatic themed scenery designed to match the fantasy atmosphere of the Lunar Kingdom. Travelers often describe it as feeling like a ride inside a fantasy movie rather than a typical theme-park shuttle.
The Train connects:
- Mystery Well Station (near the French Village)
- Dragon Den Station (near Lunar Castle)
- Why You Shouldn't Skip It
- Many visitors rush from the Golden Bridge directly to the French Village and miss the Lunar Castle entirely. The Lava Train makes exploring both sides of Ba Na Hills much easier.
Highlights accessible via the train include:
- Lunar Castle
- Eclipse Plaza
- Fantasy-themed attractions
- Indoor theaters and shows
- Scenic mountain viewpoints
Practical Tips:
Arrive Early Ba Na Hills can become extremely crowded, especially during holidays and weekends. Visitors on travel forums frequently mention long queues for cable cars and attractions. Arriving early in the morning can make the experience much smoother.
Ride Both Ways
Most people use the train simply to reach Lunar Castle. However, the return journey offers a different perspective of the mountains and is equally enjoyable.
Combine It With the Golden Bridge
A popular route is:
- Cable car to Ba Na Hills
- Visit the Golden Bridge
- Explore the French Village
- Ride the Lava Train
- Discover Lunar Castle and nearby attractions
- Return via Lava Train and cable car
This route helps cover the major attractions efficiently.
The Golden Bridge may be the star attraction of Ba Na Hills, but the Lava Train adds a memorable layer to the experience. It combines practical transportation with beautiful mountain views and a touch of fantasy-world storytelling. Whether you're visiting Da Nang for a day trip or spending more time in the mountains, this short ride is one of the easiest ways to see another side of Ba Na Hills.
For travel lovers, the Lava Train is proof that sometimes the journey between attractions becomes an attraction of its own.