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Awesome Views Abound in Bach Ma National Park
Published by Jared Dellinger, Writer
Country: Vietnam 
The Experience
Hue is one of the cultural centres of Vietnam, and at the core of its allure is the Bach Ma National Park. Located about 40 km south of the city, it was set up in the early nineties to protect wildlife and to regenerate some of the tropical rainforest that was lost during colonial times. The Bach Ma National Park is one of the most critical biospheres in Indochina, sheltering some 2,150 floral species and approximately 1,500 fauna species. In a quest to explore a more temperate and tranquil side of the Vietnamese countryside, I prepared to hike into Bach Ma National Park and search out the beautiful Rhododendron Falls.
Setting out by motorbike, we were lead along our ride to Bach Ma by enormous mountains and tranquil ocean waters. The journey down was very enjoyable as the sun remained low in the sky and the seascape radiated with sensations of a remote and secluded retreat. The smell of saltwater and the sticky humidity slowly became more prevalent as the sun crawled its way higher into the sky.
The road to Bach Ma National Park snakes its way up a mountain, bending with each switchback and giving clearer and clearer glimpses of the valley below. Near the base, where my driver and I parted ways, the humidity is thick and heavy as you begin your journey. At this point of the expedition, the top-passing waterfalls appear miniature. Around the 10 km mark, all of the moisture in the air seems to disappear and you have a revelation that out of nowhere you have just risen to a great height. The cool cleanliness of the air is a welcome contrast to the stuffiness so close behind, and the views over the valleys below are nothing short of amazing. The incline was manageable, not exactly something you could ride your bike up, but walking it slowly allowed you to hold a decent pace.
Silence disappears as you approach the heart of Bach Ma National Park, and it is replaced with the buzzing of a lively rainforest. Swarms of wild animals and insects seemingly scream for your attention. In pursuit of spectacular views, I set out for the voluminous waterfall named Thac Do Quyen or Rhododendron Falls. Not easily visible from many locations, the only real way to get the unsurpassed view of Rhododendron Falls I desired was by descending to its base. Following well-marked paths that fluttered with purple winged butterflies, I embarked down a set of 689 slippery steps bound by rusted handrails. In the face of this awesome life force of nature, I edged out onto the lookout point (which I should clarify, could be more commonly associated with a protruding rock). The 300-metre descent produced a humbling sense of accomplishment and spectacular views of such an exquisite natural wonder.
The water, glistening on the rocks and reflecting the bright sunlight, makes a beautiful scene to stop and admire as you rest on the warm stones beneath. It is possible to swim in some of the many pools of Rhododendron Falls, but as I found out from the rangers, it is best to be careful when doing this due to all the leeches. The crystal clear water is rather chilly but is refreshing, and a brisk dip is much deserved after the trek up the mountain.
Setting out by motorbike, we were lead along our ride to Bach Ma by enormous mountains and tranquil ocean waters. The journey down was very enjoyable as the sun remained low in the sky and the seascape radiated with sensations of a remote and secluded retreat. The smell of saltwater and the sticky humidity slowly became more prevalent as the sun crawled its way higher into the sky.
The road to Bach Ma National Park snakes its way up a mountain, bending with each switchback and giving clearer and clearer glimpses of the valley below. Near the base, where my driver and I parted ways, the humidity is thick and heavy as you begin your journey. At this point of the expedition, the top-passing waterfalls appear miniature. Around the 10 km mark, all of the moisture in the air seems to disappear and you have a revelation that out of nowhere you have just risen to a great height. The cool cleanliness of the air is a welcome contrast to the stuffiness so close behind, and the views over the valleys below are nothing short of amazing. The incline was manageable, not exactly something you could ride your bike up, but walking it slowly allowed you to hold a decent pace.
Silence disappears as you approach the heart of Bach Ma National Park, and it is replaced with the buzzing of a lively rainforest. Swarms of wild animals and insects seemingly scream for your attention. In pursuit of spectacular views, I set out for the voluminous waterfall named Thac Do Quyen or Rhododendron Falls. Not easily visible from many locations, the only real way to get the unsurpassed view of Rhododendron Falls I desired was by descending to its base. Following well-marked paths that fluttered with purple winged butterflies, I embarked down a set of 689 slippery steps bound by rusted handrails. In the face of this awesome life force of nature, I edged out onto the lookout point (which I should clarify, could be more commonly associated with a protruding rock). The 300-metre descent produced a humbling sense of accomplishment and spectacular views of such an exquisite natural wonder.
The water, glistening on the rocks and reflecting the bright sunlight, makes a beautiful scene to stop and admire as you rest on the warm stones beneath. It is possible to swim in some of the many pools of Rhododendron Falls, but as I found out from the rangers, it is best to be careful when doing this due to all the leeches. The crystal clear water is rather chilly but is refreshing, and a brisk dip is much deserved after the trek up the mountain.
When to Go to Bach Ma National Park
Bach Ma National Park gets a little busy during the summer months because of the school break in Vietnam. A great time to visit is during the late part of the dry season, around May, which is when the Park is relatively empty. If you are looking for a little outdoors time and are in Vietnam, Bach Ma is a great place to check out. Plenty of activities and things to do make Bach Ma National Park a must see for anyone who enjoys the outdoors.
Odds n' Ends
It is wise to keep in mind that after heavy rains the complex streams and river systems throughout the mountains can be dangerous or difficult to cross due to floods. The rain also tends to bring out some of the many leeches, and it is advisable to wear long pants. If you wish to explore Bach Ma beyond Rhododendron Falls, there is a crashed "Huey" (US HU-1A helicopter) from the 1970s which is worth seeing. The Summit House has excellent panoramic views of the valley as well as bird watching and animal observation stations creating a great experience for just about any taste. If pure rest and relaxation is what you seek, you might enjoy a nice afternoon at Ngu Ho (also known as Five Lakes) where you can swim and unwind.
Bach Ma National Park is located in central Vietnam about 40 km south of Hue and 60 km north of Danang. Tours can be organized rather easily through almost any travel agent in the area for a modest price; which depends on the amount of people in your group. The closest airport is located in Danang. If you prefer to go it alone, a motorbike can be arranged for about US$25 or US$30 per day. The ride from Hue is around an hour long and Danang would be a little longer—an hour and a half, depending on traffic.
Entrance to Bach Ma National Park is 20,000 Dong for an adult (about US$1); however, the bus ride to the top is 500,000 Dong (US$30) so it gets a pricey if you are an individual. It is possible to walk the road to the top but extreme care must be given to the amount of water and food taken with you as there are no places to get water until you reach the restaurant (14 km). This also limits the amount of things you would possibly see in a day as the road is long and can be tiring. If you are walking, the road gets steeper as you approach the top, meaning you should be in fairly decent physical shape to attempt it. The ranger station at the base is 13 km from the first trail, making it a decent hike just to get to the main attractions. There are numerous options for trekking depending on your mood for the day, whether it is waterfalls, animals or just great views throughout.
Camping in Bach Ma is available for those who wish to stay on top (approximately US$6 a day) as well as a guesthouse (100,000-200,000 per night) and a fairly decent restaurant that isn't too pricey. There are three different guesthouses; although the nicest one is on the top, which is located about 1,250 metres above sea level, making it the ideal location to stay.
Bach Ma National Park is located in central Vietnam about 40 km south of Hue and 60 km north of Danang. Tours can be organized rather easily through almost any travel agent in the area for a modest price; which depends on the amount of people in your group. The closest airport is located in Danang. If you prefer to go it alone, a motorbike can be arranged for about US$25 or US$30 per day. The ride from Hue is around an hour long and Danang would be a little longer—an hour and a half, depending on traffic.
Entrance to Bach Ma National Park is 20,000 Dong for an adult (about US$1); however, the bus ride to the top is 500,000 Dong (US$30) so it gets a pricey if you are an individual. It is possible to walk the road to the top but extreme care must be given to the amount of water and food taken with you as there are no places to get water until you reach the restaurant (14 km). This also limits the amount of things you would possibly see in a day as the road is long and can be tiring. If you are walking, the road gets steeper as you approach the top, meaning you should be in fairly decent physical shape to attempt it. The ranger station at the base is 13 km from the first trail, making it a decent hike just to get to the main attractions. There are numerous options for trekking depending on your mood for the day, whether it is waterfalls, animals or just great views throughout.
Camping in Bach Ma is available for those who wish to stay on top (approximately US$6 a day) as well as a guesthouse (100,000-200,000 per night) and a fairly decent restaurant that isn't too pricey. There are three different guesthouses; although the nicest one is on the top, which is located about 1,250 metres above sea level, making it the ideal location to stay.
Places to Stay Nearby
Search over 900,000 global hotel deals from over 30 merchants. Book via Expedia, Travelocity, Hotels.com, Booking.com, Priceline and the websites of popular hotel chains.
The Vedana Lagoon Resort and Spa is easily accessible from the Danang international airport. Standing in the heart of this historic and picturesque region, visitors ... 6 miles away
$1988531 VND+
5 star contemporary resort tribute to the culture richness of the region design beach property, located within 2 walking distance from an untouched pristine beach ... 11 miles away
+ 23 others. Show all.
More Experiences Nearby
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- Vietnam’s most important holiday, Tet Nguyen Dan, is a fantastic reason to visit Hue, a major city located at the heart of the country. Here, Tet launches the New Year with boisterous joy, reverence for family and ancestors and lots of succulent food. I arrived in Hue two days before Tet Nguyen Dan began and witnessed some of its preparations. According to legend, the Kitchen God journeys to heaven one week before Tet to report to the Jade Emperor about everyone’s behavior. In hopes of a good report, families make offerings, visit ancestral grave sites and clean their homes thoroughly. ...26 miles away.
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Elsewhere on the Web
- Bach Ma National Park Website
- The website has all of the basic information you need although a few of the prices have changed and have not been updated. It is a good place to find any additional information.
- Bach Ma National Park - AdventureTours.vn
- Introducing Bach Ma National Park - LonelyPlanet.com
Media References
- Vietnam Travel Guide - NYTImes.com (newspaper)
- Bach Ma National Park - VietnamNet.vn (newspaper)
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