Bach Ma Mountain: Location, Altitude, and Fascinating Facts About the Legendary Peak of Hue

Bach Ma Mountain belongs to the Northern Truong Son Range, located in Phu Loc District, Hue City, bordering Da Nang City. This is the end point of the Truong Son Range before reaching the East Sea, about 40 km south of Hue city center and only about 18 km as the crow flies to the coast. Bach Ma Peak stands at 1,444 m above sea level, making it one of the highest and most prominent peaks in the Central region. Surrounding the peak is Bach Ma National Park, established in 1991 with an area of over 37,000 hectares, possessing a rich primary forest ecosystem and many peaks over 1,000 m high.

Thanks to its special geographical position, Bach Ma is likened to a "climatic boundary" between the North and the South, forming a cool microclimate year-round. Even during hot summer days in the Hue plains, the peak area maintains a pleasant temperature, making it an ideal destination for trekking, relaxation, and nature exploration.

The name Bach Ma (White Horse) is associated with poetic folk legends of Hue. According to local lore, in ancient times, fairies often rode white horses down to the mountain peak to play chess. While their masters were absorbed in sightseeing, the herd of horses roamed across the mountains grazing. When the fairies returned to heaven, the horses patiently waited and eventually transformed into white clouds covering the peak year-round, creating a magical image like a herd of white horses amidst the vast forest. Another explanation comes from the mountain's topography itself. When observed from afar, especially from the Luong Dien Bridge area or Ngu Binh Mountain, the mountain range surrounded by layers of white clouds resembles the shape of a warhorse facing the East Sea. From then on, the mountain was affectionately called "The Great Forest of White Horses" by the locals, symbolizing the majestic and sacred beauty of the Ancient Capital.

Whether viewed through the lens of legend or natural topography, the name Bach Ma contributes to its unique mystery and charm, turning every journey to conquer the peak into a voyage of discovering not only nature but also the long-standing cultural and historical values of Hue.

Thanks to its altitude of 1,444 m above sea level, Bach Ma Mountain enjoys a cool climate year-round, completely different from the Hue plains. The average temperature at the summit area is only around 19°C, while annual rainfall can reach up to 8,000 mm – among the highest in Vietnam. Humidity is consistently high, creating ideal conditions for the forest ecosystem to thrive.

One of Bach Ma's signature features is the phenomenon of "four seasons in a single day": chilly mornings, mild sunny mid-days, rainy afternoons, and foggy evenings. The constant weather changes offer unique experiences for visitors while trekking and exploring nature.

Not only famous for its climate, Bach Ma National Park is also one of Vietnam's important biodiversity centers, with over 2,400 species of plants and fungi, along with more than 1,700 animal species. It serves as a habitat for many rare species such as the saola, red-shanked douc langur, Truong Son muntjac, pheasant, and many valuable plant species like Fujian cypress, gu wood, and agarwood. It is the combination of a mild climate and a rich ecosystem that makes Bach Ma an attractive destination for nature lovers, scientific research, and ecotourism.

Exploring Bach Ma is a challenging journey yet filled with memorable experiences. Here are the destinations you shouldn't miss when conquering this peak:

• Vong Hai Dai: Located at an altitude of 1,444m, Vong Hai Dai is the highest point of Bach Ma National Park. From here, visitors can take in panoramic views of Hai Van Pass, Cau Hai Lagoon, Tu Hien Estuary, and even the cities of Hue and Da Nang emerging through the mist.
• Do Quyen Waterfall: Dubbed the highest waterfall in Southeast Asia, Do Quyen Waterfall is majestic with white water cascading from a height of 300m down the cliff. The name originates from the rhododendron flowers growing on both sides of the waterfall, blooming vibrantly in spring and painting the entire area red.
• Five Lakes (Ngu Ho): Five Lakes is a cluster of 5 small lakes situated close together, forming a large stream. The lake water is crystal clear and cool, perfect for visitors to swim and relax amidst the wild, romantic mountain scenery.
• Hobbit Village at the foot of the mountain: This is an exciting picnic area right at the foot of Bach Ma Mountain. With lush green hills, natural bathing pools, and cute sheep, the Hobbit Village offers an ideal recreational and camping space for families and groups of friends.

Conquering Bach Ma is not just a journey to discover majestic nature, but also an opportunity to immerse yourself in a peaceful space, listen to the breath of the mountains and forests, and find wonderful moments of relaxation in the heart of the ancient capital.

To get to Bach Ma National Park, you can travel from Hue City or Da Nang along National Highway 1A. The distance from the foot of the mountain to the summit is about 19 km, which can be traveled by motorbike (if you are in good physical condition) or by renting a 12-seater car. Entrance fees are:

• Adults: 65,000 VND/person
• Children, pupils, students: 25,000 VND/person

The best time to travel to Bach Ma is during the dry season (from December to April of the following year), when the weather is dry and favorable for travel and exploration. Additionally, you can also visit during the rainy season (August - December) to admire the romantic, mystical beauty of the mountains and forests.

When traveling, you should prepare essential items such as:

• Clothing: Wear light, sweat-absorbent clothes and bring a light jacket as the weather on the mountain can change unexpectedly.
• Shoes: Choose sports shoes or specialized trekking shoes for easy movement on steep terrain.
• Medical supplies: Prepare basic medications such as cold medicine, insect repellent, and bandages.
• Food: Bring light snacks and drinking water, as restaurants are mainly concentrated at the foot of the mountain.

With its pristine beauty and fresh air, Bach Ma Mountain is an unmissable destination for those who want to return to nature and temporarily set aside the hustle and bustle of city life.

Closing your journey at Bach Ma, what remains is not only the beauty of the sacred mountains, waterfalls, or misty skies, but also the feeling of being completely at one with nature. To make every step of your conquest a memorable memory, let Sovaba Travel accompany you. With specially designed Bach Ma mountain tours, we will help you explore every magnificent corner, from foggy Vong Hai Dai to jade-clear Ngu Ho. Your trip will not just be a vacation, but a meaningful adventure where you find peace and fresh energy.