Top Things to Do at Bach Ma National Park: Your Adventure Awaits

Bach Ma National Park is a stunning example of the country’s rich biodiversity and natural beauty. With lush forests, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes, this park offers a unique escape for those seeking tranquility and adventure in equal measure. But what exactly makes Bach Ma National Park so special? Let MOTOGO Tours dive into the wonders of this remarkable destination.

Introduction to Bach Ma National Park

Location and Historical Background

Bach Ma National Park was established in 1991 and is located across two districts, Phu Loc and Nam Dong, in Thua Thien Hue Province. Covering an area of nearly 22,000 hectares, Bach Ma plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of the region, making it an important natural reserve in Vietnam.

Geography and Climate Features

Bach Ma is known for its rugged terrain, with its highest peak, Bach Ma Mountain, towering 1,450 meters above sea level. The park boasts an intricate system of rivers and streams, which give rise to majestic waterfalls and stunning natural landscapes. The climate in Bach Ma varies according to altitude. At the foot of the mountain, the climate is tropical and humid, while the higher elevations are cooler, offering a temperate atmosphere.

Rich Flora

Bach Ma National Park is often referred to as Vietnam’s “garden of plants,” thanks to its vast biodiversity. It is home to over 2,300 species of vascular plants, providing visitors with a chance to witness lush, diverse plant life. From towering ancient trees, moss-covered boulders, to vibrant orchid species, Bach Ma is a paradise for nature lovers. It is also a sanctuary for rare and endemic species, such as the Bach Ma Rhododendron, Pơmu trees, and Da Lat pines, which thrive in this protected environment.

Abundant Fauna

Not only is Bach Ma rich in plant life, but it also boasts a diverse range of animal species. The park is home to more than 1,700 species of wildlife, including several endangered species listed in Vietnam’s Red Book, such as the Chàm Langur, the Trường Sơn Deer, and the Blue pheasant. In addition to mammals, the park is teeming with a wide variety of birds, reptiles, and insects, contributing to a vibrant and dynamic ecosystem.

Essential Preparations for Your Visit

Planning a trip to Bach Ma National Park requires some careful preparation. While it’s a short trip, it’s important to bring along the right gear to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Given the park’s rugged terrain, walking is the best way to explore its beauty. Comfortable and durable walking shoes are essential for traversing the trails. Lightweight, sports clothing combined with a hat or cap is perfect for hot summer days and outdoor activities.

If you’re traveling independently, it’s also a good idea to bring a map, snacks, medicine, and camping gear (if you plan on spending the night camping on the mountain). Remember to pack light, but ensure you have all the essentials for a memorable adventure.

Best Time to Visit Bach Ma National Park in Hue

Bach Ma National Park in Hue experiences two distinct seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. Based on the travel experiences of many visitors, the best time to explore the park is during the dry season, from December to April. During this period, the weather is cool, dry, and less rainy, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as trekking, swimming, and other explorations.

The rainy season lasts from August to December, and while the weather remains cool, intermittent showers can affect your travel plans. However, depending on your preferences and schedule, you can still visit Bach Ma National Park at any time of the year.

How to Get to Bach Ma National Park

Bach Ma National Park is located 40 km from Hue city, making it easily accessible by various means of transportation.

Getting from Hue to Bach Ma National Park:

• Rent a motorbike or car: Start from the center of Hue and head along National Road QL1A towards Da Nang. Continue to Phu Loc District, where you’ll see signposts directing you to Bach Ma National Park. Follow the signs to reach the park entrance and purchase your entry ticket.
• Taxi: Many visitors opt for a taxi ride, which takes approximately 50 minutes to reach the park. This is a convenient and safe option.

Getting Around Bach Ma National Park: The distance from the park entrance to the summit is about 19 km. You can explore the park in two ways:

• On foot: For a more immersive experience, you can walk and explore the park’s diverse ecosystem in detail. However, be prepared for a physically demanding journey.
• Rent a vehicle: The park offers vehicle rental services at a price of 900,000 VND per trip, allowing you to explore the entire area of Bach Ma National Park comfortably.

Entrance Fees and Transportation of Bach Ma National Park

For visitors, there are affordable entrance fees. Children, students, and those with ID cards enjoy discounted tickets at 20,000 VND per ticket, while adults pay a reasonable fee of 60,000 VND per ticket. This fee gives you access to the park’s natural wonders and trails, providing great value for money.

The distance from the park’s entrance to the summit of Bach Ma is 19 kilometers, which can be quite a challenge for walking. Therefore, it’s recommended to take a car for transportation. This not only saves energy but also allows more time to explore the area. The round-trip fee for a car ride from the barrier station to the summit ranges from 750,000 VND to 1,200,000 VND, depending on whether you plan to return the same day or stay overnight on the mountain.

Beautiful Sights to Explore in Bach Ma National Park

At Bach Ma National Park, you and your friends will find endless opportunities for stunning photos, thanks to the park’s breathtaking scenery. The majestic landscapes, featuring clouds drifting across the sky, dense forests, and crystal-clear streams flowing continuously, provide the perfect backdrop.

Hai Vong Dai

After about a 45-minute drive, you’ll arrive at a granite-paved road that leads to Hai Vong Dai. This is the highest point in the Bach Ma tourist area, sitting at an altitude of approximately 1,430 meters. From Hai Vong Dai, you can enjoy panoramic views of Lang Co Bay, Truoi Lake, and the surrounding majestic mountains.

The dense forest seems to stretch endlessly, with nature’s beauty unfolding before your eyes. The refreshing mountain breeze blends with the salty scent of the sea, sweeping away all your worries and bringing a sense of peace, freedom, and tranquility to your soul.

Ngũ Hồ (Five Lakes) – Bach Ma National Park

From Hai Vong Dai, it’s a 5 km drive and a 2 km walk to Ngũ Hồ. The name “Ngũ Hồ” evokes much curiosity. The five crystal-clear lakes here were formed by a large stream, and they sit sequentially beside each other. Waterfalls cascade down, creating a picturesque and poetic scene that feels like stepping into a painting.

Located high in the dense forest, the lakes’ water remains clear and cool, making it a perfect spot for visitors to immerse themselves in nature. Swimming in the clear waters of Ngu Ho is a memorable experience for those who venture here. However, seasoned travelers recommend that children or those in poor health avoid swimming in these lakes, as the water can be quite cold, and it’s easy to catch a chill.

Do Quyen Waterfall (Rhododendron Waterfall)

The journey to Do Quyen Waterfall is relatively easy, passing through a historic forest filled with ancient trees. The waterfall itself stands at over 300 meters tall. To fully admire the grandeur of this natural wonder, you’ll need to climb almost 700 steps to reach the base of the falls. Surrounded by fields of white rhododendron flowers, Đỗ Quyên Waterfall offers a stunning combination of delicate beauty and the powerful majesty of nature, making it a must-see landmark in Bach Ma National Park.

Exploring the Black Pine Forest

Bach Ma National Park is home to a rich and diverse ecosystem, with the black pine forest standing out for its towering ancient trees. These majestic pines, with their straight trunks and conical canopies, grow close together, some with trunks exceeding 1 meter in diameter and reaching heights of over 30 meters. The forest offers an awe-inspiring experience, allowing visitors to connect deeply with nature in its purest form.

Visiting the Truc Lam Bach Ma Zen Monastery

A trip to Bach Ma National Park would not be complete without a visit to the Truc Lam Bach Ma Zen Monastery. Located in the center of Truoi Lake on Mount Linh Son, the monastery offers stunning views of the surrounding natural beauty.

Here, you can explore the peaceful atmosphere of the monastery and admire its harmonious architecture, including the main hall, meditation halls, dining halls, and the monks’ quarters. The serene surroundings and the spiritual ambiance make this an essential part of your journey through Bach Ma.

Tips for Visiting Bach Ma National Park

• Clothing and Essential Items: Given the steep terrain and many trails in Bach Ma, visitors should wear comfortable, non-slip footwear to make movement easier and safer. Additionally, it’s important to bring sunscreen, a hat, and a light jacket, as the weather can be chilly, especially in the evenings.
• Best Time to Visit Bach Ma National Park: Bach Ma is beautiful year-round, but the ideal times to visit are in autumn (from September to November) and spring (from March to May). During these seasons, the weather is cool and dry, making it perfect for hiking and exploring the natural landscapes.
• Visitation Rules: Visitors to Bach Ma National Park should adhere to the following regulations:
  • Do not litter; keep the environment clean.
  • Do not pick flowers or break branches.
  • No hunting of wildlife.
  • Do not start campfires illegally.
  • Maintain security and order, and protect common property.

Bach Ma National Park is undoubtedly one of Vietnam’s most spectacular natural wonders. Whether you’re an avid hiker, a wildlife enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates stunning landscapes, Bach Ma offers an unforgettable experience. Its diverse ecosystems, rich cultural history, and commitment to sustainability make it a must-visit destination for any nature lover.