Hue is not only famous for its ancient tombs and sacred pagodas but also boasts magnificent natural landscapes. If you are a fan of exploration and passionate about conquering, then Bach Ma mountain trekking is definitely an activity not to be missed. Let’s discover the interesting and useful things for your journey to conquer Bach Ma peak right here!
Bach Ma National Park – “Common Home” of Rare Flora and Fauna
Located between Thua Thien Hue and Da Nang provinces, Bach Ma National Park (Bach Ma NP) is a nature reserve with a diverse and rich ecosystem. This place is home to thousands of species of flora and fauna, many of which are rare and listed in the Red Book. The year-round cool climate, especially in the summer (18-23 degrees Celsius), makes Bach Ma an ideal destination to escape the sweltering heat of Central Vietnam.
Aerial view of Bach Ma National Park
In the 1930s, the French built Bach Ma into a resort area with more than 130 villas, hotels, markets, and nature trails. Today, Bach Ma NP is being restored and developed with many modern tourism services to meet the needs of visitors. Coming to Bach Ma, you not only have the opportunity to relax but also explore attractive tourist destinations such as Ngu Ho (Five Lakes), Vong Hai Dai (Sea View Tower), Do Quyen Waterfall, ancient villas, Cho Den (Black Ebony) forest, Tri Sao Waterfall, and more.
Ideal Time for Bach Ma Mountain Trekking
Experience shows that the best time to go Bach Ma mountain trekking is during the dry season, from December to April or from June to July. During this time, the weather is dry and cool, the natural scenery is beautiful, which is favorable for travel and exploration.
You should avoid going to Bach Ma during the rainy and storm season (August to December) because the roads are slippery and dangerous. If you still want to go during this time, follow the weather forecast and choose sunny days.
Directions to Bach Ma National Park
There are two main routes to get to Bach Ma NP:
- From Hue: Follow National Highway 1A towards Da Nang to Phu Loc commune. Here, you will see a blue sign indicating the turn to Bach Ma.
- From Da Nang: Go in the direction of Hai Van Pass (tunnel or pass optional) to National Highway 1A, then go straight to Phu Loc commune and look for the sign on the left.
Scenic view of Bach Ma National Park from above
After buying an entrance ticket to the NP, you need to travel about 19km further to reach Bach Ma peak. You can trek on foot or rent a motorbike or car at the gate. If traveling in a large group, renting a private car will be more convenient.
Note: On the way, you will see a sign to Truc Lam Bach Ma Zen Monastery, do not turn in this direction because that is not the road to Bach Ma NP.
Bach Ma National Park Entrance Fee
- Entrance ticket: 40,000 VND/person
- Motorbike rental: 100,000 VND/motorbike (including gasoline)
- Car rental: 900,000 VND/car
Bach Ma Conquest Journey – Discovering Magnificent Nature
Bach Ma mountain trekking experience is not only a physical challenge but also an opportunity for you to immerse yourself in nature, explore the rich flora and fauna, and admire the beautiful landscapes. On the journey, you will trek long distances, climb mountains, cross streams, conquer waterfalls, and relax in a peaceful space, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Must-Visit Destinations in Bach Ma NP
Hai Vong Dai (Sea View Tower)
Hai Vong Dai is the highest point of Bach Ma NP, where you can take in panoramic views of the majestic mountains and vast ocean. From here, you will see the blue Lang Co and Canh Duong beaches, creating a beautiful natural picture.
Do Quyen Waterfall
Do Quyen Waterfall is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Hue, with water flowing from a height of over 300m. To reach the waterfall, you need to climb about 689 stone steps. When you successfully conquer it, you will admire a white silk strip stretching from the top of Bach Ma.
Majestic Do Quyen Waterfall
Ngu Ho (Five Lakes)
Ngu Ho is a system of 5 small interconnected lakes, forming a large stream with cool, clear water. This is an ideal place for you to stop to rest, relax, and soak in the cool water.
Bach Ma Peak
Conquering Bach Ma peak is the goal of every visitor when coming to the NP. From the mountain peak, you can admire the panoramic view of mountains, sea, and neighboring cities. The natural scenery from above will bring you unforgettable experiences.
Bach Ma Peak panoramic view
Other Destinations
In addition to the famous destinations above, you can also explore many other interesting places such as Tri Sao Waterfall, Do Quyen trail, Ngu Ho trail, Vong Hai Dai trail… On these trails, you will admire precious ancient trees, wild animals, and beautiful natural landscapes.
Tri Sao Waterfall in Bach Ma National Park
Accommodation in Bach Ma National Park
In Bach Ma NP, you can choose from many different types of accommodation:
- Guesthouses, hotels: There are many guesthouses and hotels in the Bach Ma NP area, with prices ranging from 500,000 – 1,000,000 VND/night.
- Homestays: In the Bach Ma foothills area, there are many homestays with unique designs, suitable for those who like to “live virtually”. Homestay prices are usually cheaper than hotels.
- Camping: If you like to immerse yourself in nature, camping is a great option. The NP has many flat, empty plots of land, ideal for setting up camp.
Dining When Traveling to Bach Ma
Because Bach Ma NP is still quite pristine, dining services are not well developed. You should bring a mini gas stove and ready-to-eat food to cook yourself. In addition, guesthouses, hotels, and homestays also have food ordering services upon request.
Prepare Luggage for Bach Ma Mountain Trekking
- Clothing: Lightweight clothes, thin jacket (daytime) and thick jacket (nighttime), sportswear.
- Shoes: Hiking boots, trekking shoes or sports shoes, sandals or flip-flops.
- Trekking poles: Support movement on difficult terrain.
- Backpack: To store personal belongings, drinking water, snacks.
- Sunscreen, insect repellent.
- Medication: Flu medicine, headache medicine, stomachache medicine, bandages, antiseptic…
- Personal toiletries: Toothpaste, toothbrush, soap, face towel…
- Electronic devices: Camera, phone, power bank.
- Tent, sleeping bag, mat (if camping overnight).
- Food, drinking water.
Important Notes When Traveling to Bach Ma NP
- Plan and schedule specifically before going.
- Choose the appropriate time to go.
- Check the weather carefully before going.
- You should go on a tour with a guide.
- Follow the guide to avoid getting lost.
- Do not go alone if you are not familiar with the road.
- Prepare all necessary luggage.
- Protect the natural landscape.
- Only light campfires when permitted.
- Do not litter indiscriminately.
Conclusion
Bach Ma mountain trekking experience is a wonderful nature discovery journey, bringing you unforgettable memories. Prepare carefully and set off to conquer the “roof” of the ancient capital of Hue!