1. Overview about Ben Hai River
A historical river which witnessed many battles of Vietnam in the past is a highlight of your exploration in the central region. Spanding peacefully nowadays, Ben Hai River is a symbol for peace. Another cluster landmark which is located in the same area for visitors to visit is Hien Luong bridge. Ben Hai River and Hien Luong Bridge are two attractions show the tourists the history of the country division North and South during 22 years. A trip to leverage your historical knowledge is memorable and fascinating. Ben Hai River is being the pride of Vietnam to show the resilience and determination toward independence of Vietnam. The Ben Hai River itself served as a symbolic boundary between North and South Vietnam from 1954 to 1976.
The Ben Hai River originates from Dong Chan mountain in the Truong Son range and flows along the 17th parallel, flows from the west to the east, and runs into the sea at Cua Tung. Ben Hai is a place upstream of the river, so the name Ben Hai river is taken from this place. Ben Hai River flows about 20km from the sea, then joins with Sa Lung River on the left, and the two rivers combine to form one flow into the East Sea. On the way, it flows through a Minh Luong village, and people use the name Minh Luong to call the river.
2. Where is Ben Hai River?
The Ben Hai River is located in central Vietnam which became an important landmark in the partition of the country into a northern and a southern zone along the 17th parallel by the Geneva Accords of 1954 then ended in 1976. Being located in Quang Tri province, its easy to travel to this landmark by cars, motorbikes or local taxies. The total length of the river is 100km and you can walk around this peaceful area.
3. Things to do at Ben Hai River
3.1. Learning The History and Watching Peaceful Ben Hai River
Fierce battles happened in Ben Hai River during day and night during Vietnam wars for over 14 years. Many soldiers sacrificed their lives for nation independence at this area. Coming to this war relic, tourists might feel emotional to learn and discover our past stories. There are many patriots of Vietnam who devoted their lives for Vietnam reunification. Nowadays, the peace, beauty and calm of river is what we have because of our hard-work of the past generation. Walking around the river to emerge yourself the beauty of nature as well as learning the history behind is an excellent way in travel. Unforgettable memories will be created when you enter this attraction.
3.2. Visiting the nearby war museum
Beside walking around Ben Hai River, you can take the opportunity to explore the war museum nearby. Many exhibitions of photographs and inforgraphics are informative to show you the history of Vietnam wars. Over 30 minutes to read all information and watch the war photos are useful for your knowledge about Vietnam during the past battles. Especially, the museum’s highlights are the time Vietnam wanted to be united with the South during the war. Many times, the country tried their best to bring peace and unity to our S-shaped country. And nowadays, we finnally get reunification after April 30th,1975. Visiting a war museum in central Vietnam is fascinating and interesting for your holiday. In order to get what we are today; we never forget what our old generation did.
3.2. Discover Hien Luong Bridge
Your trip to Ben Hai River will not complete if you do not enter to Hien Luong bridge. This is a symbol and desire for peace of Vietnam. Spanding peacefully on Ben Hai River, the bridge was the division of North and South of Vietnam. Hien Luong bridge had built since 1928 by the Government of Vinh Linh with the contribute by local people. The bridge is made of wood, piles of iron about 2m wide. It is only enough for walker. In 1931, the bridge was upgraded by the Indochinese Federation but other vehicles still across the river by ferry.
The bridge is 4 meters wide, paved with pine wood, and both sides have 1.2-meter-high bridge bars. In 1967, during the Vietnam War, this bridge was destroyed by bombs. In 2001, the iron bridge was restored to the original design of the old bridge.
Coming to Hien Luong bridge, you will see two colors which are blue and yellow. They show the point to devide the country to North and South for over 20 years. An amazing time to walk around area and learn the history of Hien Luong bridge is memorable and exciting.
4. Conclusion
No matter where you stay in central Vietnam such as Danang, Hue or Hoi An, you can take the time to explore the military zone trip. A full-day experience to visit many sites which are important landmarks for war history. Ben Hai River is one of the top things to do when you decide to leverage your knowledge about Vietnam wars. Explore Vietnam Travel hopes this article is useful for your reading. Kindly contact us for any travel tips or advices in Vietnam. Have a nice holiday!