When contemplating your inaugural journey to Vietnam, the usual suspects that spring to mind include Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa, Danang, Hoian, Nha Trang, Phu Quoc, and Saigon. Yet, Vietnam isn’t just a tapestry of vibrant cities, serene pagodas, and pristine beaches; it’s also renowned for its awe-inspiring mountain ranges.
Vietnam boasts an array of impressive mountains, each exhibiting diverse landscapes and a rich cultural tapestry. From the towering peaks of the northeast to the picturesque hills of the central highlands, these mountains provide excellent opportunities for hiking and climbing. This guide delves into some of the top mountains in Vietnam, showcasing their distinctive features and popular trails. Whether you’re an avid adventurer or a casual hiker, these mountains promise incredible landscapes and unique attributes. For climbing enthusiasts and those who relish panoramic vistas, explore the top famous Vietnam mountains with Viland Travel’s expert recommendations, ensuring your journey through these majestic peaks is both thrilling and unforgettable.
The best of Vietnam mountains for a thrilling adventure
Vietnam mountains consistently secure a spot among the world’s best destinations for exploration, celebrated for their pristine allure and captivating vistas. Beyond their notable heights on the global scale, Vietnam’s mountains reveal stunning landscapes and a multitude of unique features that set them apart.
Brimming with geological marvels, Vietnam’s mountainous terrain boasts a diverse range of formations, from rugged peaks to serene plateaus. The country’s mountains tell a tale of tectonic activity, with the convergence of various plates shaping these awe-inspiring landscapes. The geological history etched in the rocks and contours of these mountains serves as a testament to Vietnam’s rich natural heritage. Delving into the enchanting realm of Vietnam mountains holds a trove of discoveries, and Viland Travel is your guide to unraveling these mysteries.
Fansipan Mountain
Fansipan, part of the Hoang Lien Son mountain range, stands proudly at 3,143 meters above sea level, earning its reputation as the “roof of Indochina.” Conquering this majestic peak offers two distinct experiences: a thrilling cable car journey or an exhilarating hike.
For those seeking a convenient ascent, the cable car option beckons, with tickets priced at 750,000 VND for adults ($32.34) and 550,000 VND for children ($23.72), covering a round trip. The cable car grants breathtaking panoramic views of the Hoang Lien Son valley, providing an awe-inspiring sensation of gliding through clouds while inhaling the crisp mountain air.
Alternatively, the hiking expedition to Vietnam’s tallest mountain demands endurance, spanning approximately 2 to 4 days. Adequate physical preparation and essential equipment are crucial. Enlisting a guide can ease the ascent.
At an elevation of 2,200 meters, a designated stop offers a tent-pitching opportunity, inviting a unique experience of sleeping amidst the forest in the sky. With temperatures ranging from 2 to 10°C, preparation with sleeping bags and warm attire is essential. Explorations include visits to notable sites such as Sapa Sky Gate, Van Son Tra Tea Shop, Fansipan Pagoda Complex, and various renowned attractions in Sapa Town.
Ma Pi Leng Mountain Pass
Ma Pi Leng Pass stands as a lofty mountain pass, soaring at an altitude of 1,500m (4,921ft) above sea level, and is an integral segment of the Dong Van Karst Plateau. Nestled within the Happiness Road network that links Ha Giang City, Dong Van, and Meo Vac, this 200km route is a testament to collective effort. Constructed over six years (1959-1965) by numerous youth volunteers representing 16 ethnic groups from 8 Northern Vietnamese provinces, the road, especially the treacherous 20-km Ma Pi Leng Pass, stands as a symbol of sacrifice. Suicide troops volunteered, clinging to rock cliffs, moving centimeter by centimeter during the perilous 11-month building process.
Ma Pi Leng, translated as “horse’s nose,” encapsulates the topography’s peril, where mountains rise dramatically, resembling a horse’s nasal bridge. It ranks among the “greatest four mountain passes” in Northern Vietnam, alongside Khau Pha in Yen Bai Province, O Quy Ho in Lao Cai Province, and Pha Din in Lai Chau Province.
Embarking on the exhilarating journey to conquer Ma Pi Leng Pass is a dream for adventurous motorbike enthusiasts. The Ma Pi Leng Skywalk, adorned with a statue commemorating the Happiness Road’s construction, stands as one of the initial stops. Further south, the Ma Pi Leng Viewpoint offers an unparalleled panorama of the valley sculpted by the Nho Que River. Opting for Ha Giang Tours with Vietnam Travel grants tourists the opportunity to traverse the Happiness Road, witness sunrise or sunset over Ma Pi Leng Pass, and stand amidst the awe-inspiring mountains, an experience beyond the reach of words or photos.
Hang Mua Mountain
Located in Khe Dau Ha village, Ninh Xuan commune, Hoa Lu district, Ninh Binh province, the Mua Mountain (Dancing Mountain), also known as Ngo Long Mountain, stands as a captivating marvel recognized by UNESCO as Vietnam’s “great wall miniature.” To reach the summit of this extraordinary mountain, adorned with cultural and natural treasures, visitors embark on a scenic ascent, conquering nearly 500 stone steps. The admission fee for this enchanting journey is 100,000 VND ($4.31) per person.
Ascending the stone steps, explorers encounter notable landmarks such as Hoang Ho Cave, the Stupa, the Bodhisattva statue’s sacred worship place, and the majestic dragon statue. Each step unveils a piece of Vietnam’s rich cultural tapestry etched into the landscape. Upon reaching the pinnacle of Dancing Mountain, a breathtaking panorama unfolds, offering sweeping views of Tam Coc – Bich Dong (Bich Dong Pagoda), Trang An complex, Bai Dinh Pagoda, and more. The ascent becomes not merely a climb but a voyage through time and heritage, revealing the diverse facets of Vietnam’s cultural and natural legacy.
Bach Ma Mountain
Among the exquisite mountains in Vietnam, Bach Ma stands as a must-visit destination, capturing the hearts of those seeking natural wonders. Nestled within the expansive Bach Ma National Park, this mountain range serves as the natural demarcation between Thua Thien Hue province and Danang city. Accessing the National Park requires a modest fee of 40,000 VND per person ($1.72), opening the door to a realm of scenic splendor.
As you venture into Bach Ma, you can opt for a car ride to the mountain’s summit at 900,000 VND for a round trip ($38.79) or embrace the adventurous spirit by embarking on a 19 km climb. En route, discover unique sites like the Hai Vong Watch Tower and the enchanting Do Quyen Waterfall. It’s worth noting that the tourism infrastructure in this Vietnamese mountain is still under development, making it advisable to carry ready-to-eat food or portable cooking equipment like a mini gas stove or charcoal grill. Embrace the untamed beauty of Bach Ma, where nature’s allure unfolds against a backdrop of lush landscapes and serene vistas.
Marble Mountain
Marble Mountains, also known as Non Nuoc mountain, nestled in Hoa Hai ward, Ngu Hanh Son district, Da Nang city, stand as an iconic natural marvel in Vietnam. Comprising five distinct peaks named after the five elements, namely Kim Son (Metal), Thuy Son (Water), Moc Son (Wood), Hoa Son (Fire), and Tho Son (Earth), these mountains encapsulate a rich blend of cultural and geological significance.
Thuy Son, or Water Mountain, reigns as the largest and the first among the five peaks, its summit accessible by ascending over a hundred steps or opting for a glass elevator ride at a nominal fee of 30,000 VND ($1.29) per person for a round-trip. Surrounding this majestic peak are noteworthy attractions like Linh Ung Pagoda, Huyen Khong Cave, and Am Phu Cave. The summit of Water Mountain offers a panoramic spectacle of the vibrant and bustling cityscape of Danang.
Each peak unfolds a unique character within the Marble Mountains cluster. Metal Mountain resembles an inverted bell, Wood Mountain features a white marble stone reminiscent of human forms, often affectionately referred to as “Co Mu” or Guan Yin. Fire Mountain boasts a dual-mountain profile, with one displaying extensive caves and the other towering with steep slopes, while Earth Mountain stretches as a lowland terrain. Embark on an exploration of these elemental wonders with Viland Travel, where each step unveils a harmonious blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Son Tra Mountain
Son Tra Mountain, colloquially known as Monkey Mountain during the Vietnam War, is situated on Son Tra Peninsula, just a 35-minute drive from Danang City in the Son Tra District. Towering at 693 meters above sea level, the mountain offers a panoramic view of the Danang Bay and the East Sea. Initially serving as a U.S. military base during the war, the mountain now hosts two radar domes under Vietnamese military control, along with a helicopter pad.
For nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers exploring Danang, Monkey Mountain is a cherished destination. Designated as a nationally prohibited forest regime, it is a biodiversity hotspot with rare wildlife, notably the endangered red-shanked douc monkeys listed on the IUCN Red List. The verdant mountain is enveloped by pristine beaches such as Bai Bac, Bai Nam, Bai But, and Tien Sa Beach. Positioned facing the sea, Son Tra acts as a natural barrier protecting Danang City from sea-borne storms and typhoons.
A notable attraction atop the mountain is the Linh Ung Pagoda, constructed in the 18th century, featuring a 67-meter tall white statue of the Goddess of Mercy. This pagoda, renowned for its scale and artistic architecture, overlooks the sea and is believed to shield the locals from severe storms. Adjacent to the mountain’s western face lies Tien Sa Port, a vital deep-water seaport in central Vietnam, welcoming numerous international tourists annually. Son Tra Mountain’s strategic location makes it a popular escape for both tourists and locals seeking respite from the urban bustle.
Bana Hills
Perched atop the Truong Son Mountains in the western outskirts of Danang City, Bana Hills stands as a captivating mountain resort complex with a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1919 by French colonists. Originally conceived as a leisure destination for French tourists, Bana Hills now beckons visitors with its enchanting charm and breathtaking vistas. Situated over 1500 meters above sea level, the mountain retreat offers panoramic views of the East Sea and the surrounding mountains, providing a refreshing escape with temperatures 10 to 15 degrees cooler than the coastal areas.
Renowned for its French village adorned with medieval castle-like structures, Bana Hills unfolds a world of wonder within its stone walls, including the iconic Golden Bridge and vibrant entertainment hubs. Access to this mountaintop haven is a picturesque journey via the cable car system, which holds several Guinness World Records, including the widest gap between stations and the greatest change in elevation. As you ascend, lush forests unfold beneath, creating a mesmerizing backdrop.
In recent years, Bana Hills has garnered global attention, with the Golden Bridge emerging as a focal point. This architectural marvel, stretching 150 meters and perched at 1,414 meters above sea level, was inaugurated in June 2018. Recognized by TIME magazine as one of the “Top 10 best destinations of the world 2018,” and hailed by The Guardian as “The world’s most impressive pedestrians’ bridge,” the Golden Bridge adds an extra layer of allure to the captivating Bana Hills experience.
Ba Den Mountain
Ba Den mountain, also known as the Black Virgin mountain, lies in Thanh Tan commune, Tay Ninh city, Tay Ninh province, proudly claims the title of “the roof of the Southeast region” with its lofty peak soaring to 986 meters. Accessible by a cable car spanning approximately 1,200 meters or the contemporary slide method, this mountain can also be conquered through the traditional and favored method of climbing. The ascent unfolds against a backdrop of enchanting natural scenery, offering an ideal setting for daytime recreational climbing.
Ascending Ba Den mountain typically spans from half a day to two days, contingent upon one’s skills and chosen route. An early morning start is recommended for a one-day climb, while those seeking an immersive experience can opt to set up a tent overnight, commencing their ascent at night. Avoiding stormy periods or festival seasons, particularly in January and February, is advisable to steer clear of crowded tracks in this mountainous expanse. Notable attractions awaiting exploration on Black Virgin mountain include Ha pagoda, Ba Co cave (Three Ladies cave), Ong Ho cave (Mr. Tiger cave), and the serene Hang pagoda.
Final thoughts
Vietnam’s diverse topography offers a playground for those seeking breathtaking vistas and an immersive connection with nature. Embarking on a journey to Vietnam mountains regions promises an adventure filled with awe-inspiring natural landscapes, majestic peaks, and a plethora of exciting activities waiting to be explored.
To ensure a seamless and thrilling travel experience in Vietnam’s mountainous areas, consider Viland Travel’s customized tours. These tailored itineraries are designed to cater to your specific preferences, providing a hassle-free and enriching adventure. Viland Travel’s expertise allows you to delve into the heart of Vietnam’s mountainous beauty, unlocking the extraordinary landscapes and cultural gems that make this country a unique destination.
Whether you aspire to conquer challenging peaks, explore vibrant hill tribes, or simply soak in the serene atmosphere of mountainous retreats, Viland Travel’s customized tours offer a personalized touch. Revel in the thrill of discovery, immerse yourself in the local culture, and create lasting memories against the backdrop of Vietnam’s stunning mountainous terrain. With Viland Travel, your journey to Vietnam becomes an exhilarating and tailored exploration of this captivating country.
