Introduction
Last updated 27 Jan 2012
Dien Bien Phu is one of Vietnam's most important battlegrounds. It'also one of its best preserved. Armed with war correspondent Bernard Fall's classic, Hell in a Very Small Place: The Siege at Dien Bien Phu, it's easy to be completely immersed in the 1954 French military disaster that established once and for all the military credentials of Ho Chi Minh's revolutionary forces.
While many of the landmarks of battle are easily identified, good information for travellers is more scarce. Most local tour guides seem to only have a basic grip on the battle as well.
For those with a passing interest in the war history, half a day will suffice for visiting the main sights in and around Dien Bien Phu. It's a small town and the sights are close by one another. If you're interest runs deeper, allow a day or more - but remember to bring your historical resources with you. What's available locally is very limited.
Outside of town, the Viet Minh headquarters from which General Giap commanded his forces is worth visiting even if your historical interest is modest. Set amidst Thai villages in beautiful countryside, you can pass on the history and explore the location if you prefer.
Outside of town, the Viet Minh headquarters from which General Giap commanded his forces is worth visiting even if your historical interest is modest. Set amidst Thai villages in beautiful countryside, you can pass on the history and explore the location if you prefer.
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