Bach Ma National Park
Bach Ma National Park is one of the most attractive eco-tourism destinations of Hue city in Central Vietnam. Established in 1991, Bach Ma National Park lies 1,200 meters above sea level, covers an area of 22,000 hectares, and reaches Bach Ma Mount’s peak at 1,450 meters. Thanks to the high biodiversity and magnificent natural landscapes, Bach Ma National Park promisingly fills travelers up with diverse experiences and peaceful moments.
Location
Around 40 km from Hue and 65 km from Da Nang, Bach Ma National Park is situated in a mountainous region on the border between North and South Vietnam, as part of the Truong Son Mountain Range. Once a retreat for affluent French citizens in the 20th century, the park still features ancient French villas amidst stunning waterfalls, dense jungles, and captivating flowering rhododendrons found in the valleys.
Bach Ma National Park
How to get there
Travelers typically begin their journey to Bach Ma National Park from either Hue or Da Nang. Both cities are well-connected by air, rail, and road, making them accessible from different provinces in Vietnam. The park lies conveniently between Da Nang and Hue, allowing easy travel by taxi, car, or motorbike.
View from Bach Ma National Park
From Hue city center: Take National Route 1A towards Da Nang, continue straight to Phu Loc Commune, and follow the signposts until you reach Bach Ma National Park (approximately 40 km).
From Da Nang city center: Head along National Route 1A in the direction of Hai Van Pass, continue to Phu Loc Commune, and then to the park (approximately 65 km).
Additionally, numerous tour operators offer day trips from both Hue and Da Nang to Bach Ma National Park, which often include round-trip transfers and guided experiences.
Things to do
Conquer Bach Ma Peak and witness the panoramic views from Hai Vong Dai
Hai Vong Dai is a prominent observation point located on top of Bach Ma Mountain. At an elevation of 1,450 meters above sea level, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of lush mountains, valleys, lagoons, Lang Co Bay, and even picturesque Hue. The trek to Hai Vong Dai is about 1.5 km and undoubtedly rewards adventurers with stunning vistas.
Bach Ma Trail
Swim at Ngu Ho
Descending about 2 km from Bach Ma Peak leads travelers to the serene beauty of Ngu Ho. Starting from Do Quyen villa, a one-hour trek through steps and forest trails culminates in Ngu Ho, a series of five beautiful lakes at different elevations, connected to a waterfall, offering a perfect spot to relax and refresh in its clear waters after a long day of hiking.
A lake in Bach Ma National Park
Trek to Do Quyen Waterfall
Do Quyen Waterfall
Named after the Rhododendron flower (or "Do Quyen" in Vietnamese), Do Quyen Waterfall is one of the most stunning sights in Bach Ma National Park. Beyond the opportunity to admire these beautiful blooms, visitors can marvel at the spectacular waterfall and the surrounding mountainous scenery. The best time to visit for optimal flower viewing is from March to June.
Discover wildlife in Bach Ma National Park
Bach Ma National Park is a sanctuary for nature enthusiasts, boasting a peaceful atmosphere and rich biodiversity. The park is home to 2,147 plant species, which include numerous rare orchids, ferns, and frankincense. Among the 1,493 recorded animal species, many new mammal species have been identified, such as the saola, Truong Son muntjac, and giant muntjac. Hiking the trails of Bach Ma presents a unique opportunity to explore and learn about this vibrant ecosystem.
Discovering wildlife in Bach Ma National Park
Visit Truc Lam Bach Ma Zen Monastery
Nestled at the foot of Linh Son Mount, Truc Lam Bach Ma Zen Monastery is a remarkable addition to your visit to Bach Ma National Park. Surrounded by the tranquil waters of Truoi Lake, the monastery is accessible via a 15-minute boat ride. After ascending 172 steps to the Three-entrance Gate, an open view of the stunning surroundings and the peaceful lake awaits, offering an enchanting experience.
Truc Lam Bach Ma Monastery
Accommodation
For a day trip to Bach Ma National Park, bringing or renting a tent for camping is a popular choice among travelers. For those planning an overnight stay, various accommodations are available, ranging from budget-friendly homestays at the foot of Bach Ma Mountain to more upscale lodgings such as guesthouses or villas that typically range from around VND 600,000 to VND 1,200,000 per room. Recommended villas within the park include Do Quyen, Kim Giao, Phong Lan, Morin, and Bach Ma Villa.
Bach Ma Villa
Best time to visit
Bach Ma National Park enjoys a temperate climate, characterized by both rainy and dry seasons. The rainy season spans from September to December, bringing high rainfall and the potential for typhoons, which can hinder sightseeing and mountain trekking activities.
Bo Ghe Waterfall in Bach Ma National Park
The ideal time to visit is during the summer and early autumn months of the dry season when rainfall is minimal, and forest paths are easier to navigate, making it perfect for jungle walks and outdoor pursuits. This period is also an excellent opportunity to escape the heat of the city and enjoy the refreshing air and gentle breezes of the lush forest.
Useful Information
- Location: Vườn Quốc Gia Bạch Mã
- Best for: Family, couple, solo
- Entrance: VND 40,000
- Hours: 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM
- Distance to city center: 46.6km (29.0 mi)
Tu Hieu Pagoda
In Hue - one of Vietnam's most sacred lands of Buddhism, Tu Hieu is regarded as the largest and oldest pagoda, and also a famous sightseeing spot with historical and cultural value.
Hon Chen Temple
Hon Chen Temple is situated on a lovely slope of Ngoc Tran Mountain, 10km upstream from Hue Centre. The name “Ngoc Tran'' means Pearl Bowl, originating from the bowl-shape of the mountain. That also gives the temple its name: Hon Chen.
Hue Imperial Citadel
Famously being one of Vietnam’s seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the Imperial City of Hue has long been a must-see attraction for tourists visiting a hidden charm of Vietnam.
