dien bien phu is the place

Few historical sights of global significance are as remote as Dien Bien Phu. It's 470km north west of Hanoi and just a few kilometres east of the Lao border. Up until the early 2000s, travel to this isolated outpost involved long bone-jarring days on pot-holed roads. Vietnam Airlines now operates daily flights from Hanoi to the French built A couple of days is sufficient to soak up the atmosphere and trek to outlying villages. The journey from Sapa to Dien Bien Phu takes about 9 hours and, at the time of writing, includes many hours of travel in a minibus along an absolute shocker of a road. Roads and bridges are being built in preparation for a reservoir that will flood the small place called Dien Bien Phu. The hunters-the French army-had become the hunted, desperately defending their out-gunned base. The siege in the jungle wore on as defeat loomed for the French. Eventually the French were depleted, demoralized, and destroyed. As they withdrew, the country was ominously divided at U.S. insistence, creating the The new look of Dien Bien Phu campus not only meets the strictest requirements of all parents having preschool children but also creates a sense of joy and excitement for each child when coming to class, it is also a motivation for us, the WASS teachers, to become more involved and be fully confident in our career when seeing each class of (en) Bernard B. Fall, Hell in a Very Small Place. The Siege of Dien Bien Phu, New York, J.B. Lippincott Company, 1967 (ISBN -306-80231-7) (traduction française : Dien Bien Phu, un coin d'enfer, Laffont, 1968 - réédité « Dien Bien Phu un coin d'enfer », spécial Nam n o 45, éditions Atlas, 1989). When French paratroopers landed in the jungle on the border between Vietnam and Laos, the Vietnamese quickly isolated the French force and confronted them at their jungle base in a small place called Dien Bien Phu. The hunters-the French army-had become the hunted, desperately defending their out-gunned base. App Vay Tiền Nhanh. AsiaVietnamSightsRestaurantsEntertainmentNightlifeShoppingHotelsTop ChoiceA1 HillThis vantage point was crucial in the battle of Dien Bien Phu. There are tanks and a monument to Viet Minh casualties on this former French position,…Top ChoiceDien Bien Phu MuseumThis well-laid-out museum, contained in a space-agey modern structure, features an eclectic collection that commemorates the 1954 battle. Alongside…Men VillageDien Bien Phu is ringed by Tay villages, and this one, 5km north of the city, has been deemed a 'culture and tourism village', ostensibly because of its…Dien Bien Phu CemeteryThe immaculately maintained Dien Bien Phu Cemetery commemorates the Vietnamese who died in the battle of Dien Bien Phu, with each gravestone bearing the…MarketDien Bien Phu's liveliest quarter is this bustling produce market on the east bank of the Ron River, just east of the old Muong Thanh of Colonel de CastriesWest of the Ron River, the dank command bunker of Colonel de Castries has been recreated, though there's little to actually see. A discarded tank and some…Victory MonumentThe epic hilltop Victory Monument, commemorating the 1954 battles, presides heroically over Dien Bien Phu's main road. Road access leads around the back…French War MemorialThe unsigned French War Memorial, erected on the 30th anniversary of the 1954 battle, commemorates the 3000 French troops buried under the rice Thanh BridgeThe old Muong Thanh Bridge is preserved and closed to four-wheeled traffic. Dien Bien Phu Điện Biên Phủ is a town of 80,000 people 2018 in northwestern Vietnam. The city is best known for the events which occurred there during the First Indochina War, the Battle of Điện Biên Phủ. Later in the war the region was a breadbasket for the Việt Minh. Understand[edit] City landscape Điện Biên Phủ was the site of a major French defeat in the War of Independence in 1954. The Battle of Điện Biên Phủ was fought between the Việt Minh led by General Võ Nguyên Giáp, and the French Union led by General Henri Navarre, successor to General Raoul Salan. The siege of the French garrison lasted 57 days, from 13 March to 7 May 1954. An important factor was that the defenses had been designed on the assumption that the enemy would not have artillery, but the Vietnamese did. The US had provided the Nationalist Chinese with guns for their civil war against the Chinese Communists, and corrupt generals sold some of those to Vietnamese Communists who dismantled them and hauled the pieces over difficult terrain to Dien Bien Phu. Giáp's victory ended major French involvement in Indochina and led to the Geneva accords which partitioned Vietnam into a communist North and capitalist South. See Indochina Wars. Get in[edit] By car[edit] National Route 12 connects Điện Biên to Lai Châu. By plane[edit] 1 Điện Biên Phủ Airport DIN IATA. Vietnam Airlines flies from Hanoi 60 min. By bus[edit] Numerous buses depart throughout the day from different stations. Decent sleeper buses leave from Hanoi's Mỹ Đình station the journey takes about 12 hr and costs around 300,000 dong. Another option is to take a bus from Sapa or Lao Cai. There is some beautiful scenery along the way. From Sapa Sleeper 1, Bến xe khách Sa Pa, QL4D, TT. Sa Pa, Sa Pa, Lào Cai. 1830. Departure could be later since it's going from Lao Cai. It should cost not more than 200,000 dong but some sellers may try to scam tourists. The best option to get fair price is to go to Sapa Bus Station. There are 3 kiosks that sell these tickets first in front of the bus station, second and third on the left, still you need to bargain to get fair price. The pick-up is at Anh Nhi hotel near the bus station, the staff are helpful. The bus is not very comfortable and it feels a bit unsafe at night due to the bends on the roads. You will arrive at Điện Biên Phủ Bus Station at approximately 0500. There is option to change bus immediately to one that goes to Muang Khua. 200,000 dong. updated Apr 2018. Sleeper 2. 1800. You can buy tickets on 340,000 dong. updated Apr 2018. Seater. There is seater bus in the morning. It arrives at Điện Biên Phủ Bus Station at approximately 1500. The ticket should be cheaper than the sleeper. updated Apr 2018. There is also a bus from Muang Khua, Laos, the journey takes around 3 hr. Another bus that crosses the border links Điện Biên Phủ to the transport hub of Udomxai Muay Xai. Get around[edit] See[edit] Although of great historical interest to military buffs, there are few, if any, sights as such. It is a useful stop and transport connection on the way to other destinations. There has been refurbishment of the remains of the French defenses as more tourists are showing interest French Command Bunker west of River Ron. Strong point "Elaine" east of River Ron. A1 hill, Vietnam Military History Museum and cemetery sometimes called Điện Biên Phủ Victory Museum, on Duong 7/5 / AH13 / QL279 about 3 km south of central markets at the intersection with Hoang Van Thai. D1 hill, at Tran Dang Ninh and Duong 7-5/AH13/QL 279 can be found near the central markets. A set of giant stairs. This site contains a monument wall, statue and great views of the valley on all sides. Do[edit] Eat[edit] The Him Lam Plaza on Tran Dang Ninh where it meets the river contains a supermarket, a market area with restaurants in the back, and a bar near the river. There are various cheap to moderately priced restaurants on Nguyen Chi Thanh labeled Muong Thanh on the giant sign where the street ends on both sides. Drink[edit] 1 The Light House Club, Mường Thanh Hotel, Võ Nguyên Giáp Road. Open until midnight. This nightclub serves cheap beer 35,000 dong and plays improbably loud electronic music. Free entry. updated Feb 2019 Sleep[edit] Cheap, flophouse-like accommodation can be found across from the bus station at Nguyen Huu Tho/QL12 and Tran Dang Ninh for 100,000 - 200,000 dong. Most of these places have a mix of shared and private bathrooms, cheap restaurants underneath, and enough holes for air and bugs to flow through. Not much English is spoken. A half step up are the guesthouses and hotels on Tran Dang Ninh and the river intersection a few blocks away from the bus station for 200,000 - 250,000 dong. Air conditioning is more common, Wi-Fi less so. There are a variety of hotels and guesthouses on Duong 7-5/AH13/QL 279 near the interaction with A1 hill at Hoang Van Thai and a bit north of that. Go next[edit] Laos[edit] The bus from Điện Biên Phủ to Mheung Khua in Laos leaves daily at 0530 and costs 100,000 dong. Be sure to get there even earlier and claim a seat although you will likely be sharing your seat with a local, or sitting on a pile of goods piled in the aisle. As a rule, the "bus is never full." Bring water and snacks. It takes about 2 hours to reach the Tay Trang Vietnam exit point, which is fairly straightforward. From the Vietnamese border station it is another 6 km to the Laos border checkpoint. From there you continue along the now paved road to Muang Khua. Total journey time, including border crossings, is about hours. There are guesthouses and a place to exchange money at the top of the road leading from the boat ramp. You can connect to Muang Xay Oudomxay, 2½ hours. You should consider taking the boat ride down the fairly narrow and very scenic Nam Ou River to Nong Khiaw 200-350k Kip Nov 2022 depending on the number of people. A stop at Muang Ngoi is advisable, for the beautiful isolated scenery, though for an even more idyllic and isolated village consider stopping 45 minutes earlier at Sop Chem. From Nong Khiaw onwards travel by bus to Luang Prabang 70k kip Nov 2022 and elsewhere is possible. Departures by boat from Muang Khua depend on whether there are enough people interested in going. Ask at the boat ramp. Entry ticket Transfers Accomodation Flights Flights Meals Airport Pickup-Drop Sightseeing Tour guide Visa Included destinations Dien Bien, Dien Bien Phu Museum, Colonel Christian de Casties, A1 hill, Muong Thanh bridge Start from $206 /person Request this tour 3 days 2 nights Save to wishlist Saved to wishlist About the Tour Joining this 3-day tour to Dien Bien Phu, you will have the chance to visit all the historical landmarks in the famous Dien Bien Phu War in Vietnam back in 1954. If you are into Vietnam’s history and world’s history, you should probably know that Dien Bien Phu War is one of our most famous victories that completely forced the French army to surrend and leave Vietnam, a milestone that marks the complete failure of France in its attempt to rebuild Indochina in particular and its colonial empire in general after World War II, thereby ended 400 years of old colonialism in the world. Highlights Visit all historical landmarks in the Dien Bien Phu War Be informed about the war by an experienced tour guide Experience the luxury 4-star hotel - Muong Thanh Hotel Detailed Itinerary Day 1 Hanoi – Dien Bien L/D You will be picked up at your hotel and transferred to Noi Bai Airport. The flight will last for about 1 hour and 20 minutes, and there is no transfer needed on the arrival to Dien Bien, you will have lunch and check in Muong Thanh the afternoon, you will visit many historical sites such as Dien Bien Phu Museum, the bunker headquaters of French commander, Colonel Christian de that, you will be taken to A1 hill - where the actual bitter fights took place in the past. At around 7PM, you will go back to the hotel for dinner and stay overnight in Dien Bien. Day 2 Dien Bien Phu B/L/D - Full day visit battle field You will have breakfast at the hotel and then go out to visit more historical breakfast, you will visit Muong Thanh bridge - an old bridge which is preserved and closed to motorised traffic. After that, you will see the bunker where Chief Artillery Commander Pirot committed suicide. Next, you will be transfered to the place where General Comander Vo Nguyen Giap of Vietnam Military conmmanded Vietnamese army to win the French troops in the war. At 7PM, you will go back to the hotel and have dinner at Muong Thanh hotel with local famous food. Overnight in Dien Bien Phu. Day 3 Dien Bien Phu – Hanoi B/L In the morning, you will have free time to experience the daily life of local people at market and buy local products. Then, we will transfer to the airport to fly back to Hanoi. A late lunch will be served in Hanoi before you are transferred back to your hotel. Inclusions 02 nights in sharing room basic at 4-star Muong Thanh hotel 2 breakfasts at hotel 2 dinners at restaurant at hotel Transfer during tour Entrance fee to the historical landmarks Exclusions Other transportations not mentioned Food and drinks, unless specified Personal expenses Tips Travel insurance Other services not mentioned in the itinerary Special Notes Tour price may change during special occasions like Christmas, New Year’s Eve or other National Holidays. If you are allergic to any type of food or have specific food requirements vegan meals for instance, please inform us in advance. Entry ticket Transfers Accomodation Flights Flights Meals Airport Pickup-Drop Sightseeing Tour guide Visa Included destinations Dien Bien, Dien Bien Phu Museum, Colonel Christian de Casties, A1 hill, Muong Thanh bridge Start from $206 /person Request this tour Dien Bien Phu – Vietnam Travel guide. Dien Bien Phu Military Cemetery in northern Vietnam. Information about Dien Bien How to get to Dien Bien Phu Weather in Dien Bien Phu Accommodation in Dien Bien Interesting sites in Dien Bien Map of interesting places Dien Bien Phu town is of special interest for fans of military history. Dien Bien Phu Điện Biên Phủ lies to the west of northern Vietnam, approximately 10 km from the border with Laos. It is located in the Muong Thanh valley in a heart shape, a 20 km long and 6 km wide valley. Muong Thanh Valley is the largest rice field in northwestern Vietnam. The second largest rice field you will find around the Nghia Lo town in Yen Bai province. The scenery around the town is wonderful, the town is situated on a dry plain. There is also an airport with regular flights to Hanoi and back. Flights are operated by Vietnam Airlines, 2 times per a day. Even so, it is still a place not too much visited by foreign tourists. A good place to visit is also Pa Khoang lake and reservation. Pa Khoang lake and reservation is located about 20 km east of Dien Bien. If you want a break from the war monuments, it is the perfect place to relax. This lake was formerly a creek, but when irrigation systems for rice fields were built, the creek became a lake. You can rent a boat and take a cruise on the lake. If you do, visit some villages of the ethnic residents around the lake. The main attraction of Pa Khoang Reservation is the Pa Khoang Lake, which is a natural freshwater lake surrounded by a breathtaking mountainous landscape. The lake has a surface area of approximately 50 hectares and is fed by several streams that originate from the surrounding mountains. Pa Khoang Lake is known for its crystal-clear water, which is perfect for swimming, kayaking, and other water activities. The Memorial of Vietnamese soldiers in Dien Bien. French troops suffered a big defeat here in the Indochina war in 1954. Dien Bien Phu is a city where, in 1954, the communist oriented Vietminh with Ho Chi Minh fought againts the French colonial army. It was a decisive battle of the Indochina War. Trench warfare lasted 56 days and the city suffered. 8,000 French troops was captured by Vietnamese and on both sides losses were around 3,000 dead soldiers. This was a key moment of the cold war, in which the French tried to win the war of their colonies, it was between 1946-1954. Some remnants of the war can be seen around the town of Dien Bien. Accommodation in Dien Bien Phu You can see several historical sites of the Indochina War in Dien Bien Phu. The most famous historical sites are The Town Museum, the Cemetery of Vietminh Troops, Hill A1, D1 War Memorial, Bunker of Colonel de Castries. The Vietminh defeated the French army and the war in Indochina and colonial rule was ended. It was one of the greatest defeats of the French army. The Geneva conference in 1954 divided Vietnam by the 17th parallel in to the two separate states. The unification of North and South Vietnam occurred in 1976. Another important historical site is the headquarters of general Vo Nguyen Giap in the village of Phang – Muong Phang. This place was the headquarters of Vietnamese troops and general Vo Nguyen Giap. He defeated the french troops in 1954 in Dien Bien Phu town. The Memorial military equipment from the war in Dien Bien Phu photo Che Trung Hieu You can visit Laos – the border crossing at Tay Trung is open for tourists. Approximately 40 km from the city is Tay Trang border crossing to Laos. It can be passed, and you can use already a new 30-days e-visa, from February 2019. A big attraction is the ride on a motorcycle surrounding the city of Dien Bien. You can see amazing scenery of rice fields, mountains and hills or visit the Noong Chun and other ethnic villages. In this village you can meet a lot of people of the White Thai ethnic minority group. See their way of life or watch their cultural performances. Book a TOUR / ACTIVITY in Vietnam In this area and also in Dien Bien Phu province live a lot people from the Hmong ethnic minority group. The ideal climate in the Dien Bien Phu area is good for growing a variety of specialties, such as Nep Nuong rice. You can try various rice dishes, for example the well known Xoi Nep Nuong, Com Lam rice in bamboo and Banh den. Rice fields in Dien Bien Phu. Muong Thanh Valley is a beautiful valley at the town of Dien Bien Phu. Muong Thanh Valley is a beautiful and picturesque valley located in Dien Bien Phu, in the northwestern region of Vietnam. The valley is surrounded by lush green mountains, crystal-clear streams, and scenic rice fields, making it a popular destination for tourists. And it is easily accessible from the town. The valley is home to the Thai ethnic minority group, who have lived in the area for centuries. Visitors can learn about the Thai culture and customs by visiting the nearby villages and interacting with the locals. One of the main attractions of Muong Thanh Valley is the Muong Thanh Bridge, which spans the Nam Rom River. The bridge played a significant role in the Dien Bien Phu battle, which took place in 1954 during the First Indochina War. Today, the bridge is a symbol of peace and reconciliation between the former enemies. The valley is also known for its scenic trekking trails that lead to the nearby mountains and villages. Visitors can explore the valley on foot or by bike and enjoy the stunning natural scenery along the way. Muong Thanh Valley is right at the town of Dien Bien Phu, you can visit this place. How to get from Hanoi to Dien Bien Phu town From Hanoi to Dien Bien Phu – It is possible to use a flight of Vietnam Airlines from Hanoi. Use the transportation search engine or Baolau . The flight takes 1 hour, the price of one-way flight is about 100 USD. You can travel with a local bus from the cities of Lai Chau, Muong Lay, Son La or Sapa. There is no train connection in Dien Bien province. It is also possible to use a direct bus from Hanoi, but I think, about 13 hours by bus – it is too much. This place is a good for visit when you will be traveling in northwestern Vietnam by a motorbike. read this article How to travel to Dien Bien from Hanoi? How to get from Sapa to Dien Bien Phu town From Sapa to Dien Bien Phu – Yes, there are also some buses of tourist agencies from Sapa to Dien Bien Phu. It is about 9 hour from Sapa to Dien Bien Phu by bus. You can book and buy bus e-tickets on Weather in Dien Bien Phu + The Best Time to Visit The weather in Dien Bien Phu is characterized by two distinct seasons – the dry season and the rainy season. Before you go, check this weather forecast for Dien Bien Phu. The dry season in Dien Bien Phu usually starts in October and ends in April, while the rainy season starts in May and lasts until September. During the dry season, the weather is generally mild and dry with plenty of sunshine, making it an ideal time to visit the city and nearby intersting places around the Dien Bien town. The temperature during this season ranges between 16°C to 28°C. The air is also relatively clearer and less humid, which provides an excellent opportunity for outdoor activities such as hiking, trekking, and sightseeing or motorbike driving in Dien Bien Province. On the other hand, the rainy season in Dien Bien Phu is characterized by heavy downpours, and the humidity is higher than during the dry season. This season can make outdoor activities in Dien Bien more challenging, as the paths and trails may become slippery and muddy. However, the rainy season can also provide a unique experience of seeing the lush green landscape and the glistening rice fields. The temperature during the rainy season ranges from 20°C to 30°C. The best time to visit Dien Bien Phu is during the dry season, which is from October to April. During this time, the weather is pleasant, and there is little chance of rain, so you can easily travel on motorbike. The months of October and November are particularly beautiful because the rice fields turn a golden color as they are ready for harvest. It’s also a good time to explore the nearby villages and learn about the culture of the ethnic minorities in the region. Accommodation in Dien Bien Phu Dien Bien Phu offers a range of accommodation options that cater to different preferences and budgets. Dien Bien town has also various cheap guesthouses and modern hotels for tourists. Around the town you can also use local homestay by ethnic minority groups. Here are some of the popular options for this province Hotels Dien Bien Phu has several hotels ranging from budget to luxury. Some popular options include Muong Thanh Luxury Dien Bien Hotel, Muong Thanh Dien Bien Hotel, and Him Lam Hotel. Guesthouses There are many guesthouses and homestays in the city, which offer a more affordable option than hotels. Some popular options include Thuan Loi Guesthouse, Thanh Nga Guesthouse, and A Long Homestay. Resorts If you prefer a more luxurious stay, Dien Bien Phu also has a few resorts, such as Muong Thanh Holiday Dien Bien Phu Resort and Muong Thanh Luxury Son La Hotel. Hostels Backpackers and budget travelers can find several hostels in Dien Bien Phu, such as Dien Bien Phu Homestay and Hostel, Zephyr Hostel, and H’mong Hostel. Camping For those who enjoy outdoor activities and prefer a more adventurous experience, camping is also an option. Pa Khoang Lake and Reservation offers a camping site, where visitors can camp by the lake and enjoy the beautiful natural scenery. ➜ Accommodation in Dien Bien Phu hotels – Book Here Places of Interest in Dien Bien Phu Victory museum Memorial and cemetery of Vietnamese soldiers Hill A1 D1 War Memorial Muong Thanh Old Bridge historic site Bunker of Colonel de Castries Noong Chun and other ethnic villages nearby Pa Thom cave near the border with Laos Pa Khoang lake and reserve headquarters of general Vo Nguyen Giap in Muong Phang Muong Hum market a small ethnic market Memorial in Muong Hum riding a motorcycle in the province Dien Bien Phu – tourist map Frequently Asked Questions about Dien Bien Phu 1️⃣ How to book flights from Hanoi to Dien Bien Phu? It is possible to book direct flights from Hanoi to Dien Bien Phu online on Baolau or 2️⃣ How to search and book a tour in Vietnam? You can search and book a tour in Vietnam online at KLOOK. There are various tours and boat trips in northern and central and southern Vietnam, it is also possible to buy various tickets for tourist attractions. 3️⃣ How to move in Dien Bien Phu province? The best way is to travel on your own, you can searcha and rent a motorbike. IDP is necessary if you want to rent and travel on motorbike in Vietnam. You can book your motorbike in Hanoi easily online with Bikesbooking. It is good to know, roads in this province are dangerous, drive carefully and slowly. There are also some local buses between Dien Bien Phu and Son La or Dien Bien and Lai Chau or Sapa. 4️⃣ What is the travel time from Hanoi to Dien Bien Phu? Direct flight from Hanoi to Dien Bien Phu takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Travel by sleeper tourist bus from Hanoi to Dien Bien via Son La takes about 16 hours. 5️⃣ How much does it cost to get from Hanoi to Dien Bien? Direct flight from Hanoi – Noi Bai Airport to Dien Bien Phu costs about $50-100/pp. 6️⃣ How far is Dien Bien from Hanoi? Travel distance from Hanoi to Dien Bien Phu is about 450 km by tourist bus via Son La. 7️⃣ What is the best time to visit Dien Bien Phu? The best time to visit Dien Bien Phu is from November to April when the weather is dry and cool, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The temperature during this period ranges from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius. However, if you prefer to witness the lush green rice fields, May to October is the best time, but it can be hot and rainy. 8️⃣ How can I get to Dien Bien Phu? Dien Bien Phu has a domestic airport that operates daily flights from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Alternatively, visitors can also take a bus from Hanoi, which takes approximately 12 hours. The bus journey offers beautiful views of the countryside and is an affordable option. 9️⃣ What are the must-visit attractions in Dien Bien Phu? The must-visit attractions in Dien Bien Phu include the Dien Bien Phu Museum, A1 Hill, Muong Thanh Bridge, and Pa Khoang Lake and Reservation. These attractions offer visitors a glimpse into the local history, culture, and natural beauty of the region. 🔟 What are the popular outdoor activities to do in Dien Bien Phu? Dien Bien Phu offers several outdoor activities such as trekking, hiking, kayaking, and camping. Visitors can explore the nearby mountains, rivers, and lakes and enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the region. ➡️ What are the traditional dishes I must try in Dien Bien Phu? Some of the traditional dishes you must try in Dien Bien Phu include Thang Co a soup made from horse meat, Banh Cuon steamed rice rolls, grilled fish, and sticky rice. These dishes offer a unique blend of flavors and spices that are specific to the local cuisine. ➡️ What is the local language spoken in Dien Bien Phu? The official language spoken in Vietnam is Vietnamese. However, many locals in Dien Bien Phu can also speak Thai and Hmong, which are the ethnic minority languages spoken in the region. Basic English is also spoken in some tourist areas. ➡️ What are the cultural etiquettes I should follow in Dien Bien Phu? Visitors should dress modestly and cover their shoulders and knees when visiting temples or other religious sites. It is also important to remove your shoes before entering someone’s home or a temple. When interacting with locals, it is polite to greet them with a smile and say hello in Vietnamese. Book a TOUR / ACTIVITY in Vietnam Where to go from Dien Bien Phu You can continue to Lai Chau, Son La or Sapa. Go back to places of interest Accommodation｜Transport｜Visas｜Vaccination｜Money｜Trekking｜Ninh Binh｜Sapa｜Mai Chau｜Yen Bai｜Nha Trang｜Cat Ba｜Vientiane｜Hue Plan Your Trip To Dien Bien Phu Where To Stay Things To Do Best Time To Visit Map Rating /5 31 ratings Rate This Destination Weather Ideal duration 1-2 days Best Time April to June September to November Read More Planning a Trip? Ask Your Question "The Historic Town Where The French Were Defeated" Dien Bien Phu Tourism Formerly known as Thaeng, Dien Bien Phu is the capital of Dien Bien Province in the northwestern region of Vietnam. It is among the most historically eminent cities in Vietnam. It is here that the French were finally defeated in the year 1954 by the Viet Minh Communist just a small settlement with very less population, it achieved town status in 1992 and became a city only in 2003. The quaint town is full of natural beauty as you make your way through dense forests and hills and populated by only a handful of locals, it acts as a commercial trade centre of Vietnam. The laidback rhythm of Vietnamese life can still be witnessed here as you see locals mill about their daily chores and businesses in traditional dresses. This small town resides in the lap of Muong Thanh valley and is bordered by Vietnamese provinces Lai Chau and Son La in east and south, Chinese Pu'er City in the north and Phongsaly in Laos in the west. Vietnamese ethnic groups which form about one-third of the population live on the plains which essentially form the city. After the fierce battle in 1954, the city has witnessed humongous change, and many civic buildings and promenades have been constructed since then. The spirit of the city is like a phoenix rising after war and it is slowly but surely catching up to its current status as an economic hub. Read More Things to do in Dien Bien Phu 1. Muong Thanh Valley Muong Thanh is a heart-shaped valley located in Dien Bien province to the northwest of Vietnam. This gorgeous basin is well-known for its natural beauty as it is surrounded by paddy fields, rivers, an Read Mored stunning lakes. In fact, Dien Bien Phu is located within this valley. The famous battle of Dien Bien Phu was thus, fought right here. 3. A1 Hill One the most significant sites in Dien Bien Phu, A1 crater was the place where the Viet Minh registered their final victory, bringing to an end the famous Battle of Dien Bien Phu. The Viet Minh fought Read More the battle for a whole 39 days and nights and finally reclaimed the hill by blasting it fro underneath. 5. French War Memorial The French War Memorial in Dien Bien Phu is the only one built to commemorate the loss of French lives in the historic battle of Dien Bien Phu. 6. Dien Bien Phu Museum The Dien Bien Phu Museum located in Dien Bien is an attempt to commemorate the historic battle of 1954 fought between the French and the Viet Minh soldiers. The battle translated to victory for the Vi Read Moreet Minh and brought an end to the French occupation of Indochina. Top Hotels In Dien Bien Phu An loc hotel 154 reviews UAH 508 onwards Pharma Hotel 62 reviews UAH 598 onwards Mường Thanh Grand Dien Bien Phu Hotel 74 reviews UAH 1,260 onwards Guesthouse 51 58 reviews UAH 281 onwards Nhà nghỉ Tâm Cường 38 reviews UAH 393 onwards Duc Thang Guest House Nhà Nghỉ Đức Thắng 122 reviews UAH 309 onwards View All Hotels In Dien Bien Phu View All Hotels In Dien Bien Phu More on Dien Bien Phu The historic importance of Dien Bien Phu lies in the fact that it was the site of the triumph of the Viet Minh soldiers over the French occupation in the First Indochina War of 1954. The French army heavily underestimated the Viet Minh and wanted to choke the army by cutting off its resources and then finally bring in aerial reinforcements to claim the territory. The French believed that the Viet Minh had no capability to retaliate air attacks. However, the Viet Minh - under the able leadership of Ho Chi Minh - were able to move quickly through the terrain with heavy anti-air attack artillery and defeated the French in a long battle that lasted 28 Days. Nearby Places How to Reach Dien Bien Phu Dien Bien Phu is connected with the rest of Vietnam through air, roadways and even by the river Nam Ou. However, the best way to reach this town is through bus transport or by air from Hanoi. Vietnam Air Services Company, also known as, Vietnam Airlines is the only service provider that operates flights to Dien Bien Phu from Hanoi. There are daily flights, however, the schedules are subject to change. Dien Bien Phu is located approximately 450 away from Hanoi. The QL6 connects the two destinations and passes through rolling hills and quaint are available from Hanoi and Sapa/Lao Chai. However, the bus is far more preferred and easier way to travel and get to Dien Bien Phu. Sleeper Buses are available from Hanoi's My Dinh at 530 pm every day. The trip takes 11-12 hours and 350,000 dongs. Buses are also available from Sapa/Lao Cai and Laos. The prices, however, are subject to change. You can also self-book your bus at My Dinh Bus Station in Hanoi Old Quarter if you do not wish to go through a travel agent. From Muan Khua, a boat ride can be taken to Muang Ngoi, Nong Khiaw and Luang Prabang. Nam Ou river offers some stunning natural scenic beauty along the way. The town is quite small and you can walk around. Motorbikes are available easily for rides and you would be able to see various service providers ambling around in the streets. Cabs Van are also available for long distances. FAQs on Dien Bien Phu Historic Town Gorgeous Scenery Tribal Living Hospitable ResidentsWell-Connected to Hanoi The top places near to Dien bien phu are Sapa which is 133 km from Dien bien phu, Hanoi which is located 293 km from Dien bien phu, Halong bay which is located 434 km from Dien bien phu, Hue which is located 728 km from Dien bien phu, Son la which is located 79 km from Dien bien phu The top things to do in Dien bien phu are Muong Thanh Valley, Victory Monument, A1 Hill, War Cemetry, French War Memorial, Dien Bien Phu Museum. You can see all the places to visit in Dien bien phu here Dien Bien Phu is connected with the rest of Vietnam through air, roadways and even by the river Nam Ou. However, the best way to reach this town is through bus transport or by air from More Vietnamese love noodles! Rice is consumed in Dien Bien Phu in many forms like noodles, pancakes, porridges, etc. Fish sauce, vegetables and herbs form and intrinsic part of the healthy cuisine of Vietnam. Spring Rolls and Bread Rolls are the Vietnamese dishes, famous around the is a list of Vietnamese Dishes that you can try!Read More April to June is the best time to visit Dien Bien Phu as it is spring season. April to June Dien Bien Phu is located in Northwestern Vietnam of its location in the North and thus, winters can be freezing and rough. The spring months between April to June and September to November are good to plan your trip More History BuffsNature LoversSlow Travellers Quiet and Laidback Town E-visa does not allow you to cross borders to Laos from this town Language Barrier may be present Have a Question on Dien Bien Phu? Ask a question from the travellers who have experience. Dien Bien Phu Reviews Find out how to plan the most enjoyable trip to Dien Bien Phu Vietnam with our hand-picked collection of best Dien Bien Phu tour and Dien Bien travel guide including Dien Bien Phu loop, off the beaten path Dien Bien Phu trekking, hiking itinerary, guided Dien Bien Phu trek, budget Dien Bien Phu hikes. For many people, Dien Bien Phu is well recognized as the place where, in 1954, Vietnam broke the French colonization efforts in Vietnam and Indochina. Dien Bien Phu now bears few scars except for the occasional scattered tank to bear witness to its horrendous past, though it is still one of the remotest areas you could visit. The museums in the area also offer snapshots and glimpses into the past. The hilltribes living around the area of Dien Bien Phu make up 70% of the regions population, and the ethnic minority groups include the Black Thai, Nung, Meo, Loa and others. Dien Bien Phu things to do Dien Bien Phu Battle In an attempt to halt Viet Minh Vietnam Independence Association incursions into Laos, the French commander, Navarre, decided to establish a “super garrison” at the top end of a valley called Dien Bien. This was to police the strategic cross-roads between Laos to the West, Son La to the South and Lai Chau to the North. He believed that with this base firmly established in the Far Northwest, he would be able to launch sorties against the Viet Minh, and greatly reduce their strength in the area. He was to be proved terribly wrong. The Viet Minh commander, Vo Nguyen Giap, finally saw an opportunity for an open confrontation with the French and started working towards it. By mid 1953, the base was completed and regarded in French circles as virtually impregnable. With twelve battalions of French, Morrocan and Algerian soldiers, two airstrips, a heavily mined perimeter and surrounded by a number of smaller defensive positions, named Dominique, Elaine, Claudine and Huguette. These were named, supposably, after the four mistresses of the base commander Colonel Marie Ferdinand de la Croix de Castries. The troops within the compound slept fairly soundly at night! The French even went to the extent of flying in an entire brothel of French women to keep the soldiers happy! For Giap and his comrades, however, the struggle had hardly begun. They embarked on an incredible logistical feat of dragging up, in pieces, various heavy field guns that were then hidden in caves and dense forest cover in the hills surrounding the Dien Bien Phu base. By early 1954, Giap had over 40,000 men in the hills, completely surrounding the base. It was estimated that just to keep Giap’s men fed, over 250,000 porters were used to ferry food. For the French it was their ignorance amongst other things that led to their downfall. Though they knew the Viet Minh had some troops in the surrounding hills, nothing was done about it, until it was too late. On 10 March 1954, to the horror of the French, Viet Minh shells started landing on the airstrip. Giap possessed a comprehensive plan, first if which was the neutralisation of the airstrips, thus completing the siege. The French were taken completely by supprise, and after the first day of shelling, an assault was made on Gabrielle. By midnight 13 March, Beatrice had fallen. The fighting was fierce, with the Viet Minh often following up hours of shelling with human wave tactics, incurring shocking casualties. At times the fighting was hand to hand and always chaotic, with the French utterly frustrated by their inability to hit Giap’s well-concealed guns. Within five days, both the airfields had been completely destroyed and the garrison could only be re-supplied by airdrops, an increasingly perilous pastime, proven by the wrecked planes on the ground. As the Viet Minh edged closer and closer in trenches, the airdrops increasingly fell into Vietnamese hands. The position was becoming truly desperate. At the start of April there was a lull in the fighting during which Navarre parachuted in some of his crack troops adding to his garrison now totalling about 16,000. Giap also brought in his reserves, edging his forces up towards the 50,000 mark. The French were desperate and they appealed to the US for assistance, preferring bomber strikes from their bases in the Philippines. By this stage the US was funding 78% of the French war effort, so they hardly had unstained hands. They came back with a proposal for limited tactical nuclear strikes on the Vietnamese positions along with a series of strikes on China, fearing another Korea’, all of which would be performed on French behalf. Thankfully this insanity was avoided by the British giving the idea a big no and congress getting cold feet. In the end there was nothing forthcoming from the US. For the French, the end was near. On 4 May following a series of attacks, the Viet Minh attacked with a force previously unwitnessed and by 8 May the garrison finally surrended. By this stage the conditions within were unimaginable, with maggots in the wounds of the injured and an incredibly demoralised fighting force. It was estimated that during the battle 7,000 French and close to 20,000 Vietnamese had lost their lives. This loss finally caused the French to withdraw from Vietnam. Read more Dien Bien Phu Vietnam Tours Browse for more Dien Bien Phu Vietnam tours or Customize your own trip to Dien Bien Vietnam.

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