Bach Ma National Park is a hidden gem nestled in the Truong Son Mountain Range, on the border between North and South Vietnam. Just 40 kilometers away from Hue and 65 kilometers from Da Nang, this natural wonderland is waiting to be discovered. Once the preferred retreat for affluent French citizens in the 20th century, the park is now an oasis of ancient French architectural villas, breathtaking waterfalls, dense jungles, and vibrant flowering rhododendrons in the valley.
A Journey to Bach Ma National Park
Getting There
Reaching Bach Ma National Park is convenient and hassle-free, with Hue and Da Nang serving as common starting points. Whether you prefer air travel, railway, or road transport, both cities offer various options to suit your needs. Situated halfway between Hue and Da Nang, the journey to the park is straightforward. Taxis, cars, or motorbikes are all viable modes of transportation.
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From Hue center: Follow Highway 1A towards Da Nang, then head straight to Phu Loc commune until you see the Bach Ma National Park signpost. Continue until you reach the site, covering a total of 40 kilometers.
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From Da Nang center: Follow Highway 1A towards Hai Van Pass and Phu Loc Commune until you reach Bach Ma National Park, spanning a total of 65 kilometers.
Alternatively, there are numerous day tours available from both Hue and Da Nang that will take you directly to Bach Ma National Park. These tours include round-trip transfers and knowledgeable guides, making them highly recommended for a stress-free experience.
Unforgettable Experiences at Bach Ma National Park
Conquer Bach Ma Peak and Witness the Panorama View from Hai Vong Dai
Hai Vong Dai, a breathtaking sea observation post atop Bach Ma Mountain, offers an awe-inspiring panoramic view. From its lofty height of 1450 meters above sea level, you’ll be treated to a spectacular vista of lush mountains, verdant valleys, picturesque lagoons, the idyllic Lang Co bay, and the poetic Hue city. To reach Hai Vong Dai, be prepared to hike a 1.5-kilometer trail. Trust me, the amazing view is undoubtedly worth every step.
Swim at Ngu Ho
Just a 2-kilometer trek downhill from Bach Ma Peak lies Ngu Ho, a tranquil paradise you simply cannot miss. Starting from Do Quyen villa, the hour-long trek will take you through forest trails and steps, leading you to Ngu Ho. Featuring five beautiful lakes situated on different levels, Ngu Ho is connected to a waterfall, creating an ideal spot for relaxation and immersing yourself in its crystal-clear waters after a long day of trekking and exploration.
Trek to Do Quyen Waterfall
Named after the vibrant Rhododendron flower, Do Quyen Waterfall is among the most captivating landscapes in Bach Ma National Park. In addition to admiring the blooming flowers, witnessing the cascading waterfall and the picturesque mountain scenery here is an experience you won’t regret. For the best views and stunning photos of the Rhododendron, plan your visit between March and June.
Discover Wildlife in Bach Ma National Park
Bach Ma National Park is not only a serene getaway but also a haven for nature lovers. With over 2,147 species of flora, including rare and valuable orchids, ferns, and frankincense, and a recorded 1,493 animal species, the park is a treasure trove of biodiversity. Here, you’ll have the priceless opportunity to explore the rich ecosystem, encounter fascinating wildlife, and gain a deeper understanding of the natural world.
Visit Truc Lam Bach Ma Zen Monastery
Nestled at the foot of Linh Son Mount, Truc Lam Bach Ma Zen Monastery is an enchanting addition to your Bach Ma National Park adventure. Surrounded by the tranquil Truoi Lake, the monastery can be reached via a 15-minute boat ride. After ascending 172 steps to the Three-Entrance Gate, you’ll be rewarded with a panoramic view encompassing the surrounding architectural wonders and the idyllic lake.
Accommodation Options
For a memorable day trip, many prefer to bring their own camping equipment or rent tents to spend the night in the park. If you prefer a more comfortable stay, Bach Ma National Park offers a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. Homestays at the foot of Bach Ma Mountain provide a budget-friendly choice, while better-equipped guest houses and villas inside the park offer a more luxurious experience. Recommended villas include Do Quyen, Kim Giao, Phong Lan, Morin, and Bach Ma Villa.
Best Time to Visit
Bach Ma National Park enjoys pleasant weather year-round. However, the climate is characterized by a rainy season and a dry season. The rainy season, from September to December, brings high rainfall and occasional typhoons that may disrupt sightseeing, mountain trekking, and other outdoor activities.
To make the most of your visit, it’s best to plan your trip during the summer or early autumn, which falls within the dry season. During this time, rainfall is infrequent, forest paths are drier, and the park is perfect for jungle walks and outdoor adventures. Escape the heat of the city and relish the fresh air and cool breeze of the verdant forest.
Useful Information
- Location: Vườn Quốc Gia Bạch Mã
- Best for: Families, couples, solo travelers
- Entrance fee: VND 40,000
- Operating hours: 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM
- Distance to city center: 46.6 kilometers (29.0 miles)
For further details about Bach Ma National Park, visit Rừng Cúc Phương. Embark on an unforgettable journey and immerse yourself in the beauty of Bach Ma National Park, where nature’s wonders await at every turn.
