Phong Nha-Hue train route links Central Vietnam’s heritage sites
VOV.VN - A new rail tourism service connecting some of Central Vietnam’s most prominent heritage, historical, cultural, and natural attractions was launched on August 28, linking Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park with the former imperial capital of Hue along a route of approximately 190km.
The launch ceremony was held at Dong Hoi Station by the People’s Committees of Quang Tri Province and Hue City in collaboration with Vietnam National Railway Group (VNR). It was the first major strategic tourism product introduced following VNR’s transition to a new operational model.
Rather than simply carrying passengers from one place to another, the Phong Nha-Hue train is designed as part of the journey itself, connecting the Complex of Hue Monuments, Quang Tri Ancient Citadel, Vinh Moc Tunnels, Hien Luong-Ben Hai relic site and Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park.
The service runs between Hue, Dong Ha, My Trach, Dong Hoi and Tho Loc stations and back, creating another travel option between major destinations while expanding the space for visitors to explore the central region of Vietnam.
Speaking at the launch ceremony, Hoang Xuan Tan, vice chairman of the Quang Tri Provincial People’s Committee, emphasised that the new train service puts the cooperation agreement among the parties into practice, helping to strengthen regional connectivity, expand cooperation, link World Heritage sites, and create a distinctive rail tourism product for Vietnam.
“The train is more than a transport service, offering a distinctive tourism experience connecting two of Central Vietnam’s leading destinations,” he said.
“It is expected to serve a combined population of 3.2 million and connect with some 18 million visitors to Hue and Quang Tri in 2026, rising to 20 million in subsequent years.”
The eight-carriage train features five coaches equipped with reversible seats, allowing passengers to comfortably take in the scenery along the route. A VIP carriage provides 24 seats and complimentary snacks and beverages. Another communal carriage is designed for folk music performances, local culinary experiences, and the promotion of regional specialties certified under the OCOP (One Commune, One Product) program.
By putting Hue, Quang Tri and Phong Nha on a single rail itinerary, the new service creates an opportunity for destinations that have often been promoted separately to complement one another. Visitors can combine experiences of imperial heritage, wartime history and natural heritage in a single journey, potentially extending their stays and increasing spending on accommodation, food, travel services and sightseeing.
The launch of the train is therefore anticipated to strengthen regional tourism links, foster an integrated tourism service chain, and boost local economic growth, while positioning railways as a key part of Vietnam’s tourism ecosystem.
Tourist rail service to connect Phong Nha and Hue from September
VOV.VN - A tourist train linking Phong Nha and Hue – two of central Vietnam's best-known destinations for natural, cultural and historical heritage – is expected to begin operations on September 1.
