The Cu Chi Tunnels, often referred to as “The Land of Steel,” stand as a symbol of Vietnam’s resilience and ingenuity during times of war. Honored with the title of Hero of Labor in 2015 and recognized as a special national historical site in 2016, this remarkable destination attracts millions of visitors annually.

Located just outside Ho Chi Minh City, the Cu Chi Tunnels offer a glimpse into the life of Vietnamese soldiers and locals during wartime with their intricate underground network of passageways.

The entire Cu Chi Tunnels system spans a total length of 250 kilometers and is divided into three different depths. The highest level is 3 meters below the surface, the middle level is 6 meters deep, and the deepest level reaches 12 meters.

In addition to areas for living, storing weapons, and housing the soldiers, the tunnels also contain various branches with sections dedicated to trap pits, spiked pits, and minefields, designed to defend against enemy forces and protect the guerrilla fighters using the tunnels.

This intricate and well-organized system played a crucial role in the resilience and survival of the Vietnamese people during the war.
They served as living quarters, meeting rooms, first-aid stations, weapon storage sites, and even battle zones.

So, how small is the Cu Chi Tunnels? The tunnels are small enough to house Vietnamese soldiers but just big enough to prevent any intruders. The passageways are typically 1 to 1.2 meters high and 0.6 to 0.8 meters wide. This size is just enough for people with smaller builds (about 160 cm or 5’3″) to crouch down and move through. Taller individuals might need to stoop or even crawl to navigate through the tunnels. This compact size made the tunnels incredibly difficult for enemies to detect or invade, contributing to their effectiveness during the war.

As of now, the Cu Chi Tunnels historical site is one of the six most famous man-made structures in the world. In addition, it has also earned a spot in the top 7 most unusual destinations in Southeast Asia, attracting a large number of tourists. The tunnels continue to fascinate visitors from around the globe with their unique historical significance, complex underground network, and the remarkable resilience of the Vietnamese people during wartime.

Many visitors prefer to visit the Cu Chi Tunnels during the dry season. This is because, during this time, the tunnels are drier and less humid. The average temperature inside the tunnels is around 28°C (82°F). However, even if you visit the tunnels during the rainy season, it is still fine. The tunnel entrances are located in underground sections with roofs, so no water leaks in. That said, you should prepare for a more humid atmosphere inside, and the walls may feel damp when touched.

Overall, visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels during the dry season offers a better experience. However, the tunnels remain a fascinating and worthwhile destination in Ho Chi Minh City year-round.