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TRAVEL GUIDEBan Co Peak

If you are looking for a majestic yet romantic location to enjoy a panoramic view of Da Nang from above, then Ban Co Peak is the perfect choice. Located on Son Tra Peninsula, at an altitude of over 700m above sea level, this place is famous for the legend of the "deity playing chess", the drifting clouds, and the panoramic view of the entire city, My Khe beach, and the distant Hai Van Pass.

In this Ban Co Peak travel guide, Sovava Travel will share detailed directions, sightseeing experiences, and value-for-money experiences for you to have a complete trip. Whether it's trekking, checking in next to the statue of De Thich, or enjoying local seafood, the journey to Ban Co Peak will surely be an unforgettable memory in your Da Nang trip.

Where is Ban Co Peak?

Ban Co Peak is one of the iconic landmarks of Son Tra Peninsula, located in Tho Quang Ward, Son Tra District, Da Nang. Standing at over 700 meters above sea level—the highest in the city, surpassing even Tien Sa Lighthouse (223m) and Vong Canh Pavilion (650m)—this place is known as the “Roof of Da Nang”. From the peak, the landscape unfolds dramatically: the tranquil Han River, the graceful Dragon Bridge, the turquoise My Khe Beach, and the distant Hai Van Pass shrouded in clouds.

Đỉnh Bàn Cờ gắn liền với truyền thuyết bàn cờ tiên
Photo: Ban Co Peak associated with the legend of the fairy chessboard 

More than just a viewpoint, Ban Co Peak is also a “check-in paradise”. It is an ideal spot for camping enthusiasts, cloud hunting, or simply enjoying the fresh air. Best of all, admission is completely free and suitable for all ages, requiring only a bit of stamina to conquer the winding steep road leading to the peak.

The Legend of the Fairy Chessboard

The name Ban Co Peak is tied to a poetic folk legend passed down through generations by the people of Son Tra. Legend has it that long ago, a celestial deity traveling to the mortal world fell in love with the majestic mountain and sea scenery here. He magically created a giant chessboard on a wide flat rock to entertain himself. By chance, De Thich – the king of the heavenly realm – passed by and asked to join the game. Thus, a legendary match unfolded over many days and nights without a victor.

Until one day, fairies descended onto the beach at the foot of the mountain; their clear laughter distracted De Thich, causing him to make a wrong move. The celestial deity quickly capitalized on the mistake and flew back to heaven, leaving De Thich sitting silently in deep thought beside the stone chessboard. Later, local residents erected a statue of De Thich right on the peak in memory of the tale and named the place Ban Co Peak. Today, the statue stands majestically amid the clouds and sky, serving as a symbol of Son Tra that attracts visitors to check in, admire the view, and feel the harmony of culture and nature.

How to Get to Ban Co Peak

Ban Co Peak is about 9–17 km northwest of central Da Nang (depending on the route), easily accessible from Da Nang International Airport (about 25 km). There are two main routes, each with its own beauty:

  • Route 1 (from Thuan Phuoc Bridge): Turn left onto Yet Kieu Street, pass the Naval Region 3 military barracks, and follow the mountain trail to the peak. This route is shorter but offers fewer scenic views.
  • Route 2 (from Hoang Sa Beachfront): Follow Nguyen Cong Tru Street, pass Linh Ung Pagoda and Bai But, then continue up the mountain pass. This route is longer (15 km) but features spectacular sea views, ideal for those who love sightseeing along the way.

Note: The pass road is winding, with steep inclines of 10–18%, fog, and wild animals. Check the weather forecast before setting off and make sure your gas tank is full!

Trekking đến Đỉnh Bàn Cờ
Photo: Trekking to Ban Co Peak 

Ideal Time to Visit Ban Co Peak

Visiting Ban Co Peak is best during the dry season (January–February), when fluffy clouds roll in and the weather is pleasant (temperatures around 20–25°C). Golden times of the day:

  • Sunrise: Before 5:00 AM (October–February) or 6:00 AM (March–September) 
  • Sunset: Before 5:00 PM (October–February) or 6:00 PM (March–September) 

Avoid the rainy season (September–December) due to slippery roads. Combine with a 3-day 2-night Da Nang travel itinerary to optimize your time.

Bắt gặp các lòai động vật quý hiếm trên đường đi
Photo: Encountering rare wildlife along the way 

Attractions Near Ban Co Peak

Don't stop at Ban Co Peak, because there are many interesting nearby attractions waiting to be explored:

  • Linh Ung Bai But Pagoda (11 – 13 km): Famous for having the tallest Lady Buddha statue in Southeast Asia, this is a sacred pilgrimage site and a spiritual symbol of Da Nang.
  • Bai But (11 km): Pristine beauty with fine white sand, an ideal spot for camping, swimming, and snorkeling.
  • Obama Beach (10 km): A paradise for water sports like windsurfing and kayaking, while also famous for fresh seafood served by local fishermen.
  • Nom Beach (9 km): Located near Monkey Mountain, suitable for nature-loving travelers and resort relaxation along the coast.

Combining visits to these attractions in a single day will give you a complete journey, perfectly balancing cultural experiences, adventure, and relaxation.

 Kết hợp các điểm du lịch khác gần Đỉnh Bàn Cờ
Photo:  Combining other tourist attractions near Ban Co Peak 

Ban Co Peak is not only the highest point in Da Nang with spectacular views, but also a confluence of legends, culture, and wild nature on Son Tra Peninsula. A trip here will offer an emotional experience, from conquering winding slopes and checking in by the statue of De Thich, to relaxing your mind among clouds, sky, and ocean waves.

To make your trip safer, more convenient, and complete, you can choose the Ban Co Peak tour with Sovaba Travel. With well-organized itineraries, knowledgeable local guides, and quality services, Sovaba Travel will accompany you in exploring the “Roof of Da Nang” to the fullest.

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