Vietnam is a country blessed with diverse landscapes, and its breathtaking mountains are no exception. From the towering peaks in the North to the picturesque heights in the South, Vietnam’s mountainous terrain offers numerous opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and sightseeing. In this article, we will introduce you to the top 10 mountain destinations in Vietnam that are not to be missed. From challenging climbs to leisurely walks, these mountains have something for everyone.
1. Fansipan Mountain: The Rooftop of Indochina
Location: Tam Duong District, Sa Pa, Lai Chau Province
Ideal for: Climbing
Height: 3,143 meters
Time to summit: 2 to 3 days
Difficulty level: Difficult
Fansipan Mountain, located in the picturesque Sa Pa region, is often referred to as the “Rooftop of Indochina.” At 3,143 meters, it is the highest peak in the region, offering a challenging yet rewarding climb for adventure seekers. The journey to the summit takes 2 to 3 days and requires the assistance of an experienced guide due to the rugged terrain and unpredictable weather conditions.
The climb to Fansipan’s summit will test your physical and mental endurance, but the stunning views of the Hoang Lien Son mountain range and the surrounding landscape make it all worth the effort. The best time to conquer Fansipan is between November and March when the weather is relatively dry and stable.
Travelling tip: For those who prefer a more leisurely experience, a cable car is available, allowing visitors to reach the summit in just 20 minutes. However, the cable car may detract from the adventure and sense of achievement that comes with conquering the mountain on foot.
2. Pu Ta Leng Mountain: The Hidden Gem
Location: Ta Leng, Tam Duong District, Lai Chau Province
Ideal for: Climbing
Height: 3,049 meters
Time to summit: Around 4 days
Difficulty level: Very difficult
Pu Ta Leng Mountain may not be as well-known as Fansipan, but it is a dream destination for climbing enthusiasts. The mountain stands at 3,049 meters and offers a challenging yet rewarding trek that takes around 4 days to complete. A local guide and a permit from the authorities are mandatory for this climb.
The trail begins with a gentle walk through lush forests and alongside picturesque streams. However, don’t let this deceive you – the path soon becomes steeper and more challenging, demanding a variety of climbing skills to navigate the rocky terrain. The effort is well worth it, though, as the pristine, untouched scenery and sense of accomplishment upon reaching the summit are truly unforgettable.
Travelling tip: Pu Ta Leng’s ‘Fair Route’ offers a beautiful, remote experience away from the crowds, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area. The enchanting streams that emerge along the way serve as perfect rest stops during your climb.
3. Pu Si Lung Mountain: The Borderline Adventure
Location: Pa Ve Su, Muong Te District, Lai Chau Province
Ideal for: Climbing
Height: 3,076 meters
Time to summit: Around 3 to 4 days
Difficulty level: Very difficult
Situated on the border between Vietnam and China, Pu Si Lung Mountain is a dream destination for hikers and climbers alike. The 100-kilometer route features a variety of terrains, from narrow, winding mountain roads to steep, rocky slopes. The trek to the summit takes around 3 to 4 days and offers a truly unique and remote experience.
The pristine, untouched nature of Pu Si Lung is one of its main attractions. As you journey through the dense jungle, you will encounter a diverse range of flora and fauna, as well as the breathtaking streams of Nam Si Luong. The only way to cross these streams is by traversing the makeshift bridges made from fallen trees.
Travelling tip: If you’re a nature enthusiast or interested in exploring Vietnam’s border regions, Pu Si Lung should definitely be on your bucket list. Be sure to contact local agencies to arrange schedules and obtain the necessary paperwork before embarking on your adventure.
4. Bach Moc Luong Tu Mountain: The Cloudy Paradise
Location: Trung Leng Ho, Bat Xat District, Lao Cai Province
Ideal for: Climbing
Height: 3,046 meters
Time to summit: Around 2 to 3 days
Difficulty level: Very difficult
Bach Moc Luong Tu Mountain, located in the northwestern region of Vietnam, is not for the faint-hearted. The challenging trail takes around 2 to 3 days to complete and begins with a pleasant yet muddy walk through bamboo and fruit forests. However, the foggy weather can be disorienting, so it’s crucial to follow your guide closely to avoid getting lost.
As you continue your ascent, the sky clears and the breathtaking scenery of Bach Moc Luong Tu reveals itself. From the misty mountain ranges to the pristine, icy streams, the landscape is nothing short of spectacular. Reaching the summit at 3,046 meters, you will be rewarded with the mountain’s signature sight: a mesmerizing sea of clouds.
Travelling tip: Climbing groups usually take a long break at the 2,100-meter camping point before tackling the most challenging section of the climb. From this point onwards, you will push your limits and reap the rewards as you reach the summit.
5. Tay Con Linh Mountain: The Cultural Trek
Location: Hoang Su Phi District, Ha Giang Province
Ideal for: Climbing
Height: 2,427 meters
Time to summit: Around 2 days
Difficulty: Difficult
Tay Con Linh Mountain, situated in the remote region of Ha Giang Province, is home to the ethnic Dao people. Motorbike lovers might want to ride Ha Giang Loop. The mountain may not be as popular as others in the region, and the rough, underdeveloped climbing trail may prove more challenging, but the unique cultural features of the Dao people along the route make it a truly captivating experience.
Trekking on Tay Con Linh, you will encounter a variety of landscapes, from dense jungles to sparsely populated areas. The vast terrain surrounding the mountain is used for agricultural development, and the sight of green tea fields and rice terraces is simply phenomenal. The 100-year-old Shan Tea Tree, a specialty of Ha Giang Province, can be found at an altitude of 1,500 meters, adding a touch of magic to the misty landscape.
Travelling tip: Upon reaching the 1,800-meter mark, climbers can rest overnight at a local house before continuing their ascent to the summit the following day. Local agents can help arrange a porter and accommodation for your trip.
6. Ba Vi Mountain Range: The Nature Lover’s Dream
Location: Ba Vi District, Hanoi
Ideal for: Trekking and Sightseeing
Nestled within the Ba Vi National Park https://vietnamdiscovery.com/hanoi/activities/ba-vi-national-park/, the Ba Vi Mountain Range is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts. The park serves as a conservation center, housing 1,209 plant species and 66 animal species. There are numerous trekking routes within the park, with the most popular ones leading to King Mountain and Tan Vien Mountain.
Although the trails in Ba Vi National Park are well-maintained and marked with instructional signs, the steep terrain requires a decent level of physical fitness. The park’s diverse attractions, from soaring pine forests to the glass house of exotic cactus species, ensure an unforgettable experience for all nature lovers.
Travelling tip: Allocate enough time for breaks and bring some snacks to maintain your energy levels during the trek. The routes can be quite steep, so it’s important to pace yourself and enjoy the journey.
7. Langbiang Mountain: The Romantic Getaway
Location: Lac Duong District, Lam Dong Province
Ideal for: Trekking and Sightseeing
Just 12 kilometers from the city of Dalat, Langbiang Mountain holds a fascinating tale reminiscent of Romeo and Juliet. A forbidden love story between members of two rival tribes ultimately led to the couple’s tragic demise, and the mountain now stands as a testament to their enduring love.
There are two main ways to reach the peak of Langbiang Mountain: by riding in a vintage Russian Jeep or by trekking through a forested trail that leads to the 2,169-meter summit. The Jeep ride takes you along a scenic route through pine forests, while the trekking option offers a more challenging and immersive experience.
Travelling tip: To fully enjoy the scenic beauty of Langbiang Mountain, it’s best to start your trek early in the day. The picturesque blend of pine forests and coffee plantations, combined with the serene atmosphere, make for an unforgettable experience.
8. Son Tra Mountain (Monkey Mountain): The Coastal Haven
Location: Son Tra District, Da Nang
Ideal for: Sightseeing
Affectionately known as Monkey Mountain due to the abundance of primates in the area, Son Tra Mountain offers a unique and breathtaking scenery. With lush greenery on one side and pristine ocean views on the other, this destination is perfect for those seeking a tranquil escape.
Two main paths lead to the mountaintop: a dense jungle trail and a steep, winding road. The latter option is more popular, as it allows visitors to reach the summit more quickly and with less physical exertion.
Travelling tip: For a close encounter with the mountain’s primate residents, visit the Linh Ung Pagoda https://vietnamdiscovery.com/da-nang/attractions/linh-ung-pagoda/. Located along the main road, the temple offers ample parking and an opportunity to observe playful monkeys and impressive Buddhist statues.
9. Ngu Hanh Son Mountain (Marble Mountain): The Five Forces
Location: Ngu Hanh Son District, Da Nang
Ideal for: Sightseeing
The Ngu Hanh Son Mountain, also known as Marble Mountain, is comprised of five peaks, each named after one of the five forces of nature: Metal, Water, Fire, Wood, and Earth. Among them, Water Mountain (Thuy Son) is the most famous, boasting an ancient pagoda that dates back several centuries. To reach the temple and enjoy the panoramic views, visitors must climb a 160-step marble staircase.
Travelling tip: To avoid overheating and exhaustion, visit the temple during cooler times of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon. This will allow you to fully appreciate the stunning landscape and serene atmosphere of the Marble Mountain https://vietnamdiscovery.com/da-nang/attractions/marble-mountains/.
10. Ba Den Mountain (Black Virgin Mountain): The Weekend Escape
Location: Tay Ninh Province
Ideal for: Climbing and Sightseeing
Height: 986 meters
Time to summit: 5 to 6 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Just a short drive from Ho Chi Minh City, the Black Virgin Mountain offers a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Standing at 986 meters, it may not be as tall as the peaks in the North, but it makes for a perfect weekend getaway. The climb to the summit takes around 5 to 6 hours, offering a mix of physical challenge and relaxation.
The trek begins at the foot of the mountain, where a footpath leads through a lush forest filled with towering trees, massive rocks, and small streams. At the 200-meter mark, visitors will encounter the Linh Son Thien Thach Pagoda, which features beautiful Buddhist statues and decorations. From there, the trail becomes steeper and more challenging, requiring climbers to navigate a via ferrata to reach the summit.
Travelling tip: A cable car is available for those who prefer a more relaxed journey to the top of the mountain. The ride takes about 10 minutes and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
In conclusion, Vietnam’s majestic mountains offer an array of experiences for all types of travelers. From challenging climbs to leisurely walks, there is something for everyone. Embarking on a journey through these diverse landscapes will not only challenge your physical limits but also provide you with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for the beauty of Vietnam.
