Discover Dong Giang Ecotourism Area – Heaven’s Gate: Experiences & Souvenirs
Nestled in the majestic mountains of Dong Giang, the Dong Giang Gate of Heaven Ecotourism Area is an ideal destination for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone interested in exploring Co Tu ethnic culture. From trekking through pristine waterfalls and exploring mysterious caves to riding the cable car and admiring Thuy Dinh Lake, each activity offers a unique perspective on the local landscape and culture. Visitors also have the opportunity to purchase distinctive souvenirs, bringing a taste of the highlands home.
Introduction to Dong Giang Gate of Heaven Ecotourism Area
Dong Giang Gate of Heaven Eco Tourism Area is a well-known ecological destination in Quang Nam, located amid pristine mountains and year-round fresh air. The area features a diverse natural landscape, including multi-layered waterfalls, ancient caves, the iconic Gate of Heaven, a cable car reaching nearly 800 meters in elevation, and various cultural and spiritual sites of the Co Tu people.
The entire complex is designed to preserve the raw beauty of nature while offering modern experiences such as cable car rides, panoramic viewpoints, and unique photo spots. Visitors can admire the majestic scenery of the Truong Son Range, enjoy the cool forest atmosphere, and find peaceful moments away from the city.
Dong Giang is also a cultural hub where travelers can learn about Co Tu traditions through ancient villages, Guol houses, Tung Tung Da Da dances, and local festivals. It is an ideal destination for those who love nature, cultural exploration, slow travel, and serene landscapes.
Read more: Bay Mau Coconut Forest: A unique Eco-Tourism destination in Vietnam
How to get to Dong Giang Gate of Heaven Ecotourism Area
The Dong Giang Gate of Heaven Ecotourism Area or Dong Giang Heaven’s Gate is located in Ma Cooih Commune, Dong Giang District, Quang Nam Province. Surrounded by majestic mountains, clear streams, and fresh air, it is an ideal place for relaxation, camping, and nature experiences. The roads to Dong Giang mainly include national and provincial routes passing through the highland districts of Quang Nam. While the main roads are relatively easy to drive, there are many winding mountain passes and slopes. Travelers using motorcycles or private cars should drive cautiously.
- From Da Nang: Follow National Highway 14B northwest, passing Hoa Vang, Thang Binh, Nam Giang districts, then continue following signs to Dong Giang. The distance is approximately 150 km, with an estimated travel time of 3.5 – 4 hours.
- From Hoi An: The distance is about 120–150 km, depending on the route, with an estimated travel time of 3.5 – 4 hours. It is recommended to start early for a full-day visit.
- From Bliss Hoi An Beach Resort & Wellness: Guests can use Bliss Hoi An’s private transportation service, which offers 4 – 16 seat vehicles with professional drivers, ensuring a safe and convenient trip, especially for visiting Dong Giang without driving yourself.
Ticket prices and opening hours at Dong Giang Gate of Heaven Ecotourism Area
Ticket prices are categorized based on age groups and service packages, making them suitable for both individual travelers and families. Admission tickets for adults and children include many on-site experiences such as the cable car, waterfall swimming areas, the swimming pool, and electric shuttle rides within the park. Additionally, the park offers combo packages covering multiple zones, including the glass bridge, waterfall area, and experiential zones, as well as full packages that include accommodation and meals.
The park opens daily from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM, allowing visitors enough time to explore all areas in a single day. Guests should also note that some additional services, such as on-site electric vehicles, playgrounds, accommodations, and dining, may be included only in certain combo packages or charged separately. Ticket prices and packages may vary depending on the season, holidays, or promotional programs, so it is recommended to check the official website or contact the park management before visiting.
For a clearer overview, you can refer to the ticket and combo price table below:
| Ticket Type | Adult | Child (~1m – 1.4m) |
| Standard Admission | 400,000 VND | 300,000 VND |
| Combo 1 (Admission + Lunch) | 600,000 VND | 450,000 VND |
| Combo 2 (Admission + Accommodation + Dinner + Breakfast) | Weekdays: 1,050,000 VND Weekends: 1,130,000 VND | Children: ~630,000 VND |
Unmissable experiences at Dong Giang Gate of Heaven Ecotourism Area
When visiting the Dong Giang Ecotourism Area – Heaven’s Gate, travelers not only get to admire the majestic mountains and forests but also have the opportunity to engage in a wide range of unique and diverse experiences. Whether you seek adventure, want to capture stunning photos, or simply look for a peaceful space to relax, the following list of experiences will help you fully explore all the highlights of Dong Giang Ecotourism Area.
Trekking through the pristine waterfalls
One of the most captivating activities is trekking through the 26 waterfalls scattered across Dong Giang’s primeval forest. Visitors can walk along shaded trails, admire the towering and cascading waterfalls, and enjoy the soothing sound of flowing water combined with the songs of birds. At several larger waterfalls, you can bathe or soak your feet in the cool, clear water, fully immersing yourself in nature. This is also an excellent opportunity for nature photography, capturing the pristine beauty of the waterfalls and surrounding forested landscapes.
Exploring the mysterious caves
The park features ancient caves with thousands of years-old stalactites and stalagmites. Each cave offers unique beauty with vivid colors and fascinating formations, enhanced by natural and ambient lighting, perfect for artistic photography. Visitors can walk along guided paths inside the caves to explore the natural formations and learn about the geological history and local legends, creating an adventurous and educational experience.
Conquering the Gate of Heaven
Visiting the Gate of Heaven is a must-do experience and serves as a symbolic check-in spot for all travelers. Situated atop a high ridge, this site offers breathtaking panoramic views of valleys, waterfalls, and lakes. Many visitors choose early morning or sunset for photography sessions, enjoying the magical changes in light while standing “at the gateway to the sky” amidst the vast mountains.
Enjoying the serenity at Thuy Dinh Lake
A more relaxed activity is strolling around or resting at Thuy Dinh Lake, featuring picturesque scenery and refined East Asian architecture. The lake’s clear waters reflect the surrounding mountains and sky, creating a tranquil setting for photography, meditation, or leisurely boat rides. It is also a perfect spot to take a break, read a book, or enjoy light refreshments while soaking in the peaceful ambiance.
Panoramic views from Thien Mon Bao An Tower
Climbing Thien Mon Bao An Tower is an unmissable activity, offering 360-degree views of Dong Giang’s forests and valleys. From the 10th floor, visitors can observe the entire landscape, including waterfalls, lakes, and untouched forests. Inside the tower, there are cultural exhibits and historical artifacts, allowing guests to enjoy the scenery while learning about the region’s heritage. The tower is also a popular spot for panoramic photography, providing a striking perspective of the surrounding nature.
Soaring over the forest on the cable car
A highlight of the park is the 1.6 km-long, 800 m-high cable car, allowing visitors to fly over the primeval forest and admire waterfalls, lakes, hills, and valleys from above. This activity is safe, thrilling, and perfect for families, offering unique photo opportunities and a bird’s-eye view of the entire ecotourism area.
Experiencing Co Tu culture at the Co Tu cultural village
Visitors can participate in traditional cultural activities at the Co Tu Cultural Village, including the Tung Tung Da Da dance, handicraft making, trying on ethnic costumes, and learning about local customs. This immersive experience offers a vivid cultural exchange, ideal for those seeking to understand the lifestyle and traditions of the Co Tu people.
Engaging at the Ancient Co Tu Village
Exploring the ancient Co Tu Village allows visitors to join local festivals, try traditional crafts, and taste regional specialties. Guests can practice weaving, making farming tools, or engaging in folk games, providing a combination of learning, entertainment, and cultural immersion in the daily life of the Co Tu community.
Adventure and outdoor activities
Besides the main attractions, visitors can try adventurous outdoor activities, such as ziplining, rope swings, artificial climbing walls, and other physical challenges. These activities are suitable for families and groups, enhancing bonding while enjoying thrilling experiences amidst the natural scenery.
Camping, relaxing, and enjoying local cuisine
Finally, camping or staying in bungalows or stilt houses amidst the forest offers an immersive nature experience. Visitors can taste local delicacies, from river fish and wild vegetables to grilled dishes and traditional desserts, while enjoying the peaceful mountain atmosphere. This activity is perfect for concluding a full day of exploration at Dong Giang Ecotourism Area.
Read more: A Nature-Lover’s Adventure at Hoa Phu Thanh Waterfall
What to buy as souvenirs at Dong Giang Gate of Heaven Ecotourism Area ?
When visiting the Dong Giang Ecotourism Area – Heaven’s Gate, you don’t just experience stunning natural landscapes and rich local culture, you also have the opportunity to bring home unique souvenirs. From traditional handicrafts to local specialties, these gifts are perfect for keeping memories of your trip or sharing with family and friends.
Souvenirs can be purchased at official stalls and shops located throughout the ecotourism area, especially near the entrance, cultural villages, and main attractions like the Gate of Heaven and waterfalls. These spots offer a wide range of options, from handcrafted items and textiles to packaged local specialties, ensuring authenticity and convenience. Visitors are encouraged to shop at official vendors to support local artisans and guarantee the quality of the products.
Here are some of the most popular souvenir options:
- Wild Bamboo Shoots (Dried Bamboo)
Bamboo shoots are one of the region’s most notable products. The Co Tu people harvest them from the forest, then clean and dry them for easy storage and transport. Dried bamboo shoots are ideal for soups, stir-fries, or braised dishes, bringing the authentic taste of the mountains into your kitchen.
- Ta Vat Rice Wine & Traditional Local Spirits
Ta Vat rice wine is a traditional alcoholic beverage of the Co Tu people, known for its distinctive flavor. It makes a meaningful gift for friends or family, especially for those who enjoy sampling unique local spirits from the highlands.
- Herbal Mountain Tea
Dong Giang is rich in herbal teas and wild plants harvested from the forests. Small packs of natural herbal tea, such as mountain tea leaves, are lightweight and convenient to bring home, offering a healthy and aromatic gift.
- Thổ Cẩm Textiles and Woven Crafts
At the Co Tu Cultural Village, visitors can purchase handcrafted textiles and woven items, including bags, scarves, and decorative objects made from rattan or bamboo. These items are culturally meaningful, beautifully crafted, and easy to carry. They also support local artisans and preserve traditional craft techniques.
- Cultural Souvenirs of the Co Tu People
In addition to textiles, you can find small souvenirs reflecting Co Tu culture, such as keychains, small jewelry, or handcrafted items made from bamboo and rattan. These are usually sold at cultural village stalls or souvenir shops within the ecotourism area and are perfect keepsakes of your visit.
With a wide range of experiences, from untamed natural landscapes to the rich traditions of the Co Tu people, Dong Giang Gate of Heaven Ecotourism Area promises unforgettable memories. Plan your visit to explore the main attractions, enjoy exciting activities, and don’t forget to select unique souvenirs that capture the essence of Dong Giang’s mountains and forests. It’s the perfect destination for families, friends, or anyone eager to discover the beauty of western Quang Nam highlands.
