Providing a unique mix of post-card perfect natural scenery with its cultural legacy being revealed in every nook and corner, Da Nang today counts as one of the prime attractions of central Vietnam. Da Nang has numerous captivating places to visit, with the mountain areas being arguably the best among them. While the mountains provide stunning views and omnifarious ecosystems, they are also heritage sites of immense cultural and historical importance. This article explores the mountains in Da Nang without missing out on travel or sightseeing
Marble Mountains (Ngũ Hành Sơn)
Marble Mountains (Ngũ Hành Sơn)
Historical Background
The Marble Mountains, or Ngu Hanh Son, are a cluster of five marble and limestone hills that are named after the five elements: Metal, Wood, Water, Fire, and Earth. For centuries, these mountains have been an important site of religious significance, with countless pagodas and shrines found throughout the caves and perched on summits. The Marble Mountains are steeped in folklore and history, giving visitors a deep insight into the cultural legacy of past centuries in Vietnam.
Geological Features
There is a set of special geologies for each of the five mountains. Thuy Son, the biggest and most visited peak, houses a lot of caves as well as temples. Quan Am Cave, is one of a series of beautiful caves with natural stalactites and stalagmites in Kim Son The other peaks, while not as grand, boast their gems like hidden caves and ancient pagodas.
Key Attractions
- Thuy Son: The most popular of the peaks, Thuy Son is also home to many important sites such as Tam Thai Pagoda, Linh Ung Pagoda, and the magnificent Huyen Khong Cave. Climbing to the top offers spectacular views of the beautiful countryside.
- Kim Son: Is renowned for its little Quan Am Cave, but the whole mountain is a spiritual land with a clean and peaceful atmosphere, all peculiar fengshui rocks.
- Hoa Son, Moc Son & Tho Son: The remaining three mountains are no less captivating offering hidden caves and less trodden treks for the adventurous let alone an opportunity to venture off the beaten path in Cat Ba.
Visitor Experience
To visit by visitors, the best time to come to the mountains in Da Nang is in the early morning or late afternoon because it is very hot to climb in the middle of the day. Please wear appropriate walking shoes as the ground can be a little bit steep and uneven. Open year-round, tourist-oriented guided tours are available for those eager to learn about the site’s historical and cultural significance.
Son Tra Peninsula (Monkey Mountain)
Son Tra Peninsula (Monkey Mountain)
Location and Significance
The Son Tra Peninsula, sometimes called Monkey Mountain, is an incredibly green and pristine peninsula just a short drive from the city center. The peninsula is rich in biodiversity and home to many endangered species of flora and fauna, including the red-shanked douc langur.
Natural Attractions
- Diverse Fauna: The peninsula hosts an alarmingly rich variety of wildlife with one exceptional case being the red-shanked douc langur, a primate species endemic to the region.
- Bai But Beach and Ban Co Peak: Not only can you relax at these beaches and peaks but also shoot excellent photos. From several spots around the peninsula, visitors can enjoy epic vistas looking out over Da Nang and the waters surrounding it.
Cultural Sites
One of the ancient relics, Linh Ung Pagoda located at Son Tra Peninsula. With a gargantuan 67m (220ft) tall statue of the Lady Buddha, she is hard to miss from many parts of Da Nang. A spiritual pagoda, a pilgrim site featuring symbolism in the surrounds, and peaceful gardens in architectural beauty.
Activities
There are various activities at Son Tra Peninsula for visitors to indulge in, namely: hiking, wildlife spotting, and photography. These well-paved trails are perfect for novices and experienced trekkers wanting to take on the mountains of Da Nang themselves.
Ba Na Hills
Ba Na Hills
Historical Context
Ba Na Hills is an original colonial French Resort that is now well-known in Vietnamese tourism. Some 25 kilometers from Da Nang city, the place is a mixture of ancient and contemporary attractions.
Modern Attractions
- Cable Car Ride: Ba Na Hills boasts one of the longest and highest cable cars in the world, offering unforgettable views of the verdant landscape below.
- French Village: A charming French town complete with European architecture authentic cobblestone streets, shops, and restaurants
- Golden Bridge: Held up by a pair of oversized stone hands, the Golden Bridge tends to be the centerpiece attraction at Ba Na Hills.
Climate and Environment
The microclimate there is unique, with very pleasant and fresh air due to being relatively cool all year. This spot is usually called by the name “the second Da Lat" because it is similar to the original Da Lat with an enjoyable climate and green trees surrounding it.
Visitor Tips
Do yourself a favor and arrive in the early hours of the morning that way you can avoid long queues! It helps you to avoid the rush and enjoy walking when it is much cooler. The operating hours of the cable car are daily and tickets can be booked in advance to save time.
Thần Tài Mountain
Thần Tài Mountain
Location and Access
Near Ba Na Hills, Thần Tài mountain is easy access to a less commercialized recollection of nature. This is one of the mountains which are quite world renowned for their hot springs and tourism of wellness.
Hot Springs and Wellness Tourism
Hot spring park in Thần Tài Mountain with onsen experiences, based on Japanese hot springs.
Natural Beauty
The lush mountainous landscape of Thần Tài Mountain alongside healing hot springs provides the ideal atmosphere that allows visitors to de-stress and soak their troubles away.
Visitor Amenities
The hot spring park contains a variety of facilities such as private baths, mud baths, and spa treatments. There are food and lodging options as well, making it an easy day trip or even a weekend destination.
Hai Van Pass
Hai Van Pass
Scenic Significance
Hai Van Pass – the famous scenic mountain pass provides great ocean views. With winding roads and stunning scenes, it is frequently regarded as one of the most beautiful drives on Earth.
Historical Importance
Hai Van Pass used to be a natural border, separating the Champa Kingdom and Dai Viet in the past. It has lived on to this day as a testament to the region’s colorful past and strategic importance.
Tourist Experience
The Hai Van Pass is best experienced by driving through as there are so many great little viewpoints if you want to take a stop on your road trip. The pass is a favorite with photographers and motorbike enthusiasts.
Conclusion
Situated in Da Nang, several giant mountains in the destination attract visitors with wonderful services. Whether your interests are in the history and spirituality tied up with the Marble Mountains and Linh Ung Pagoda on Son Tra Peninsula or the new age wonder of Ba Na Hills, a visit to Da Nang is not complete without a stop in at the mountains. Make sure you visit these mountains in Da Nang on your next trip. Get your Da Nang Tour with IMPRESS TRAVEL and experience the stunning landscapes and the unique culture of the city. Don’t forget to regularly follow our Fanpage for more interesting information about traveling Danang to and to book Danang Tours at the best prices.