Hang Duong Cemetery

Hang Duong Cemetery on Con Dao Island is a sacred site of profound significance for the devoted followers of Vo Thi Sau, a venerated figure in Vietnamese spiritual history. Pilgrims journey to her hallowed grave, seeking divine blessings and good wishes, underscoring the deep spiritual connection many hold toward her enduring legacy. Within the cemetery's tranquil embrace, worshippers find a poignant reminder of resilience and sacrifice, transforming it into a holy ground. This is not merely a resting place; it is a revered sanctuary where visitors fervently express their hopes and aspirations. The atmosphere is imbued with reverence, reflecting the eternal impact of Vo Thi Sau's spirit on contemporary faith and belief, as she continues to inspire prayers and devotion among the faithful.

No shorts allowed in the cemetery (which is apparently a Vietnamese taboo), I have no problem at all with covering my legs when culturally required. However, no trouser or sarong rental service offered. This is not something I have experienced anywhere in quite literally all of Asia; Central Asia, South Asia, NEA and SEA!

The most iconic place on the island

This is a sacred place in Con Dao. Resting place of thousands of Vietnamese revolutionaries. Lots of people come to pay respects, or to pray abt everything. People often come at midnight.

Once a penal colony, this island is the final resting place of revolutionaries who fought bravely for Vietnamese independence. There are several fun activities to do on Con Son Island, but it's also worth visiting the tombs and offering deep prayers to reflect on past events.

Visiting Hang Duong Cemetery in Con Dao wasn't just a sightseeing stop for me; it was a deeply moving and personal experience. Even though I didn't know anyone buried there, the sheer number of graves – row upon row of simple markers – hit me hard. It's a powerful reminder of the immense suffering and sacrifice that took place on this island. Walking through the cemetery, a sense of quiet reverence washes over you. It's not a sad place in a depressing way, but rather a space filled with a profound sense of loss and resilience. You can almost feel the weight of history in the air. What struck me most was the feeling of connection to these individuals. They were ordinary people who endured extraordinary hardship. Seeing the names and ages (where available) brought a human element to the stories I'd read about Con Dao. It made the history feel incredibly real and personal. The most poignant moment for me was visiting the grave of Vo Thi Sau. The flowers and offerings left by visitors speak volumes about her enduring legacy. It was a moment of quiet reflection and a feeling of deep respect for her courage. Hang Duong Cemetery isn't a place you "enjoy" in the traditional sense, but it's an essential place to visit in Con Dao. It's a powerful testament to the human spirit, a place to remember the past, and a reminder of the preciousness of peace. I left feeling a profound sense of humility and gratitude. It's an experience that will stay with me for a long time. I highly recommend taking the time to visit and pay your respects.

If you visit ConDao island, make sure you have Hang Duong cemetery in the go-to-list.

You must wear pants to come inside