Top 5 Highest Mountains in Vietnam that are worth Exploring
“It is not the mountain we conquer but ourselves.” — Sir Edmund Hillary. Does spending time climbing the mountains seem like a mere physical adventure to you? Let me tell you it is more than just physical; it is emotional, spiritual and liberating. If you have ever spent time in the wilderness or on the mountains, you would know that it is irresistible to not to go back into the unknown. Mountains attract us with their magnetism and when you truly enjoy their beauty, it purifies your soul.
I was in a perception that Vietnam is all about bustling cities, rice fields and unspoiled beaches until I learnt about the magnificent mountains the country celebrates. This incredible tropical country of Vietnam has something in store for every traveler whether you are a gypsy, an adventure seeker, a lover of nature, coffee lover or a person who loves pristine beaches. As most of the population in Vietnam encircles plains, majority of its landmass is covered with mountain ranges. Northern Vietnam offers some of the most spectacular mountains and this definitely should be in your bucket list of to do things in Vietnam. Check out some of the options for mountain tours in Vietnam.
Among the world’s best and untouched mountains are the ones in Vietnam. This accolade is due the entrancing appearances and distinct features it exhibits. Mountains in Vietnam are not only majestic and captivating but among the highest peaks in the world.
Meanwhile, check out how BLV (Better Life Vietnam) has been instrumental in bringing hope into the lives of children in Vietnam.
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If these facts about mountains in Vietnam mesmerize you, then I suggest you read on to discover some of the highest mountains in Vietnam. I have listed below top five highest mountains in Vietnam for you. So, without blinking your eyes, read on and fill them with fascination.
Fansipan
Fansipan is the highest mountain in Vietnam and broadly known as “the Roof of Indochina”. This mountain is located on the mountain range of Hoang Lien Son and a perfect confluence for adventure seekers. During rainy season, the fog not only masks the spectacular views of Fansipan, but also becomes cold and slippery. Therefore, the best time to climb Fansipan is between Octobers to April. However, when you do, make sure you are in great health to embark on a climbing expedition to this humongous beauty.
Altitude: 3, 143 m
Difficulty: High
Time to peak: 3 days
Tip: This trekking adventure requires a special permit. Get this permit at the Hoang Lien Centre for Ecotourism and Environmental Education.
Check out the best Fansipan tour here.
Phu Si Lung
Phu Si Lung is the mountain range in Southeast Asia and shares international border between China and Vietnam. This mountain is in the district of xã Pa Vệ Sử, Mường Tè, Lai Châu Province. As you conquer this mysterious, pristine and ravishing peak, you will witness beautiful alpine trees that are standing there for tens of thousands of years, which is a visual treat. This mountain surely makes a traveler's dream destination.
1. Altitude: 3, 076 m
2. Difficulty: High
3. Time to peak: 2–3 days
Tip: This is a cross-country journey and requires appropriate paperwork before embarking on the trekking adventure. To obtain required permits, contact HQ of Lai Chau border guards.
Phu Luong
Phu Luong is the fourth most prominent mountain in Indochina comprising Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia. While on your journey, you will enjoy the local culture as the locale will treat you with their kind-heart and hospitality.
1. Altitude: 2, 985 m
2. Difficulty: Medium
3. Time to peak: 2–3 days
Phu Xai Lai Leng
Phu Xai Lai Leng is a mountain of the Annamite Range in Southeast Asia and situated on the international borders between Vietnam and Laos. The region houses rare fauna such as: home to rare creatures such as Indochinese tiger, Annamite rabbit, saola, Chinese pangolin, the large gaur and Douc langur.
1. Altitude: 2, 720 m
2. Difficulty: Medium
3. Time to peak: 3 days
Ngọc Linh
Ngọc Linh Mountain is considered as “the roof of Southern Vietnam”. It houses two Vietnam’s provinces Quảng Nam and Kon Tum. As you start your journey towards Ngoc Linh Mountain, you will pass through tens of hills and slippery roads to reach a cinnamon forest. The cinnamon trees in the forest are hundreds of years old and large enough for three people to embrace.
Check this out for booking a tour to Ngọc Linh.
1. Altitude: 2, 598 m
2. Difficulty: Medium
3. Time to peak: 2–3 days
Summary
If you are a true traveler, there are more mountains for you to explore than just the ones listed above. You will probably be spoilt for choices for how much Vietnam offers for the adventure-seeking souls. When you are on your next trekking expedition, make sure you prepare all the necessities, gears, camps and health check-up too. I urge you to comment below if the list seems humble and if you want to read about the mountains that are not on this list.
Author: Vinay Ananth
About the Author: Vinay Ananth is a Technical Writer from India currently based in the city of Gurgaon. He thinks the whole world is his family and it is his duty to take care of it. With this idea, he joined Better Life Vietnam as a Volunteer in Tours For Books division. He hopes to learn more about NGOs and help BLV in every possible way to better the life of Vietnamese children. When he is not writing, he enjoys travelling, bird watching, nature photography and biking.
