Bach Ma National Park is a beautiful natural reserve in Hue, Vietnam, that is known for its cool climate, rich biodiversity, and beautiful hiking trails. It’s the perfect getaway for nature lovers to find peace in Mother Nature.
Introduction To Bach Ma National Park
Bach Ma National Park lies within the verdant Annamite Range, only 40 km south of Hue. With an area of approximately 220 km², Bach Ma Park rises from tropical lowlands to misty mountaintops, nearly 1,450 meters in vertical lift. Bach Ma is recognized as a biodiversity hotspot and conserves over 1,400 plant species, including rare orchids, ferns, and more than 500 animal species, including the critically endangered Saola, red-shanked douc langur, and the brilliant Vietnamese crested argus.
Bach Ma’s mountainous terrain with plateau forests, cooler climate, cascading waterfalls, and legacy of French colonial villas delivers visitors a mixture of nature, history, and tranquility, resulting in an enriching experience for adventurers and eco-seekers.
History Of Bach Ma National Park
Bach Ma National Park originated from the French colonial era. In 1925, the French colonial government began a conservation program to protect Edwards’s pheasant (Lophura edwardsi), which was endangered in 1932. The work of M. Girard, an engineer, who built a mountain resort, grew to have over 139 French colonial-style villas, a market, a post office, and a 19-kilometer mountain road to the well-known Morin Hotel on the main road.
Known as the “Dalat of Central Vietnam,” this mountaintop resort town created a cool-climate destination with beautiful destinations such as Vong Hai Dai, Do Quyen waterfall, and Five Lakes trail. In the Vietnam War, Bach Ma was strategically important; U.S. troops occupied the high point, built a temporary helicopter base in 1973. On September 6, 1973, Vietnamese forces retake the high point and establish a large tunnel network, now known as the Bach Ma Tunnels, it is designated a national historic site in 2009.
After reunification, the Vietnamese Government garnered attention to nature conservation, and on July 15, 1991, Bach Ma was designated a national park of 22,031 hectares; the park’s size was changed in 2008 to over 37,400 hectares, including the two provinces Thua Thien Hue and Quang Nam, which enhances the significance of biodiversity protection and eco-tourism.
Top 6 Iconic Attractions in Bach Ma National Park
Bach Ma National Park isn’t just known for its green forest and cool climate, but also for its famous attractions with great views and features associated with those experiences. Below are the must-visit places that you shouldn’t miss on your visit:
Hai Vong Dai
Located on the summit of Bach Ma Mountain, Hai Vong Dai is a great spot to enjoy a 360-degree view of the sea, the forest, and, on clear days, even the city of Hue! The name means “sea-watching pavilion”, and when you’re there, you’ll see why it was called that as well. The climb is shorter than it is daunting, and after you reach the top, you will be greeted by a cool breeze and open sky, which makes for the perfect material for a stunning sunrise or sunset photo.
Do Quyen Waterfall
Do Quyen Waterfall is one of the park’s biggest attractions that you should visit in Hue, and one of its best natural features. Named after the beautiful rhododendron flowers on the cliffs, Do Quyen Waterfall cascades around 300 meters into a deep valley. Visitors can make the downward trek along hundreds of moss-covered stone steps to the base for the full experience of seeing, feeling, and otherwise known as one of those once-in-a-lifetime experiences!
Five Lakes (Ngu Ho)
You will love the Five Lakes trail (Ngu Ho), which takes you through lush forest to five natural lakes that were formed by streams in the mountains. Each lake is a different depth and has a different feel to it, making it perfect for resting, taking pictures, or dipping your toes into the water to cool off. The trail isn’t too challenging and offers you an opportunity to relax in the serene surroundings of nature, while listening to the birds and surrounded by trees.
Truc Lam Zen Monastery
Located in the mountains, Truc Lam Zen Monastery is a calm Buddhist retreat set in traditional Vietnamese architectural style. The monastery has lotus ponds, red clay roofs, and cooling breezes from the mountain – indeed, a nice stop for meditation, spiritual reflection, or just appreciating the silence of the forest. The monastery offers not only spiritual insight but an opportunity to connect with the beauty of the Bach Ma National Park’s natural world.
French Colonial Villas
Hidden in the green foliage of Bach Ma National Park are the picturesque ruins of French colonial villas built in the early 20th century. Overgrown with moss and tropical plants, these remnants of the past were summer retreats for French officials to enjoy the cool mountain air along with stunning views.
Though time and war have taken their toll on the mansions, the fine architectural details, arched windows, stone staircases, and crumbling façades still hint at a grander era. Exploring the ruins feels like wandering through a lost chapter of history – a bucket list item for travelers who love heritage, architecture, and mystery.
Hobbit Village
At the foot of Bach Ma Mountain is Hobbit Village – a quirky experience based on the Hobbit’s Shire from The Lord of the Rings trilogy. With its round wooden doors, little houses, and landscaping straight out of a storybook, this endearing little village transports you to a world of fantasy.
It is also a perfect attraction for families, couples who look for charming photographic spots and corners to hang out. Kids have plenty of room to play outside in safety, and adults can have fun with the creative designs as well as enjoy the calm atmosphere.
Ticket price: 100,000 VND/adult | 60,000 VND/child
4 Cultural Experiences You Shouldn’t Miss
In addition to its beautiful landscapes and famous attractions, Bach Ma National Park has a variety of cultural and outdoor activities for visitors. Whether you want adventure or a period of contemplation, these activities will add depth to your experience in wonderful ways.
Trekking Through The Ancient Forest
Bach Ma is a trekker’s dream with some truly spectacular trails, such as the trek to Vong Hai Dai, the Five Lakes, Do Quyen Waterfall trek, or the Tri Sao Waterfall. On a trek, you will lose yourself in dense jungle, cross hanging bridges, leap across sparkling streams, and traverse rugged hills. Each trek reveals the untouched charm of the rainforest and provides a refreshing respite from the hustle and bustle of urban life.
Bird Watching And Wildlife Experiences
For birdwatchers and wildlife lovers, Bach Ma National Park is a birdwatcher’s and wildlife lover’s dream with more than 350 species of birds and countless others. As you explore under the ancient canopy, native birds will serenade you. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled, as you may just come across the rare crested argus, silver pheasant, hornbills, and so on. There is astounding and deep, rewarding biodiversity for those who have the time to appreciate it.
Camping Beneath The Forest Canopy
Reconnect with nature by camping under the giant, ancient trees in the pristine forests of Bach Ma. You will inhale crisp, fresh mountain air while enjoying the sound of leaves rustling above you and distant waterfalls gurgling below. The surrounding atmosphere creates tranquility and connection that can be hard to replicate. You can either bring your tent or rent camping gear from the many local services operating within the park.
Cycling To The Summit
For physically active individuals, riding a bicycle to the summit of Bach Ma is an exhilarating challenge. The 16-kilometer route climbs steep, forest-lined roads that will tax your endurance, but the rewards are unparalleled scenery and the exhilaration of cycling to the top under your power.
Note: This is a one-way cycling tour. Visitors and bicycles are transported back down (driven) for safety. Remember to contact park management and book your bicycle excursion 5-7 days in advance.
Entrance Fee
Before your exploration of Bach Ma National Park begins, please make sure to pick up an entrance ticket at the main entrance gate. The entrance fees and transport services for Vietnamese visitors and international visitors are currently:
| Visitor Type | Route | Group Size | Price (VND) |
| Vietnamese Visitors | Round-trip: Barie – Bach Ma Summit | 7 – 12 people | 850,000 |
| 1 – 6 people | 750,000 | ||
| One-way: Barie – Bach Ma Summit or vice versa | 7 – 12 people | 600,000 | |
| 1 – 6 people | 500,000 | ||
| International Visitors | Round-trip: Barie – Bach Ma Summit | 5 – 8 people | 850,000 |
| 1 – 4 people | 750,000 | ||
| One-way: Barie – Bach Ma Summit or vice versa | 5 – 8 people | 600,000 | |
| 1 – 4 people | 500,000 |
Opening Hours
Bach Ma National Park is typically open from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and entrance is not allowed after 3:00 PM to allow time for travel and exploration. Opening hours may change according to season or specialty, so you may want to check the following contact information in advance:
- Phone: 0234 3897 360
- Email: vpddbachmahue@gmail.com
- Website: Bach Ma National Park
Best Season: From March to December, when the weather in Hue is dry and less rainy for trekking and outdoor activities.
How to Get to Bach Ma National Park
Bach Ma National Park is easily reached if you’re in Hue, located between the main thoroughfare of Hue to Da Nang, and can be reached by both bikes and cars. So, depending on your origin points, use the following routes and tips for getting there:
From Hue City
You can take National Highway 1A, which travels south toward Da Nang. After Phu Loc town, look out for a green round road sign “Bach Ma National Park” on the right-hand side. Once you turn here, take Tran Dinh Tuc street, and you will end up at the main entrance.
Note: Please don’t confuse this with the road leading to Truc Lam Bach Ma Zen Monastery – they are separate places!
From Da Nang City
To begin your adventure, head north on National Highway 1A. After passing through Hai Van Pass and driving 60km, you will arrive at Cau Hai market. From there, drive another 1km and turn left onto Tran Dinh Tuc Street, where you will arrive at the park’s entrance.
From The Park Entrance To The Summit
Once you’ve reached the main gate, you have two options – walk 16km (4-5 hours) to the summit, or pay extra and rent a car to save energy and time. The fact that there are rental cars available at the gate makes traveling as a group sensible.
Things to Know Before Traveling to Bach Ma National Park
Some helpful tips will help you have the most successful trip to Bach Ma National Park, so be prepared to maximize your time.
- Where to sleep: You can camp in the forest, stay in one of the colonial-style villas like Do Quyen, Kim Giao, or Phong Lan, or, for budget travelers, stay in one of the homestays or guesthouses at the base of the mountain.
- What to dress in: You should wear long-sleeved and light clothing, a light jacket, and some good hiking shoes. It is also recommended to wear long socks to prevent getting leeches while trekking.
- What to bring: Insect repellent, any basic medicines, phone/camera fully charged, and any snacks if you need to bring them.
- Trekking or driving to the top: You can trek 19 km to the top of the mountain, or you can have a driver at the park entrance. Choose what is best for your fitness level.
- Respect the environment: Littering, breaking branches, or harming any flora or fauna is strictly prohibited. Make sure to respect park rules to promote the well-being of the ecosystem
Final Thoughts: Is Bach Ma National Park Worth Visiting?
Bach Ma National Park is an absolute paradise for nature lovers. The park is renowned for its cool climate, lush jungles that are perfect for exploration, wildlife discoveries, and stunning viewpoints. If you’re looking for something different that is off the beaten path while in Vietnam, we highly recommend a visit to Bach Ma. Let Seni World create your ideal Vietnamese itinerary to this peaceful site.
