There’s something magical about standing on a mountaintop, breathing in crisp forest air, and gazing at the world below. In Vietnam, where mountains meet the sea, nature offers an endless invitation to explore. From the far north to the sunny south, here are ten mountain destinations that promise both adventure and serenity.
1. Ham Lon Mountain – Hanoi
Rising 462 meters, Ham Lon is the highest peak in Hanoi, often called “the roof of the capital.” Just 30 km from the city, it’s a favorite weekend escape for young travelers.
Nestled in Soc Son’s pine forests, Ham Lon is perfect for camping, hiking, or simply unwinding with nature. Each season paints a different picture here, from fresh spring greens to autumn’s golden light—just check the weather before you go to avoid slippery trails.
2. Tram Mountain – Hanoi
About 25 km from Hanoi’s center, Tram Mountain (Tu Tram Son) is a blend of scenic beauty and spiritual charm. Three ancient temples—Tram Pagoda, Hang Pagoda, and Tram Vo Vi Pagoda—rest peacefully on its slopes.
Visit in late March or early April for a dreamy sea of white Sua blossoms, or in spring to join the vibrant Tram Pagoda festival on the 2nd day of the second lunar month. Cool April and May days are ideal for climbing or camping.
3. Than Tai Mountain – Da Nang
Home to the famous Than Tai Hot Springs Park, this mountain offers warm mineral baths, fun water parks, and a refreshing escape from Da Nang’s summer heat.
Only 30 km from the city, its cool climate makes it a year-round retreat. The best time to visit is between April and September, when you can pair mountain relaxation with days on Da Nang’s golden beaches.
> Besides the mountains, you might also like to see the most beautiful beaches in Vietnam.
4. Ta Cu Mountain – Binh Thuan
Beyond Binh Thuan’s sunlit beaches lies Ta Cu Mountain, a cool-climate getaway 170 km from Ho Chi Minh City.
Trek over 1,000 steps to the summit and discover forest paths, rocky slopes, and viewpoints you’d miss on the cable car. At the top, find peaceful pagodas and the striking 49-meter-long Reclining Buddha. Spring visitors are treated to blooming apricot blossoms in the hills.
5. Chua Chan Mountain – Dong Nai
About 100 km northeast of Ho Chi Minh City, Chua Chan Mountain rises from Xuan Loc district like a green giant. Sacred temples, such as the unusual Buu Quang Pagoda, add a spiritual touch to its wild beauty.
This is a haven for picnics, camping, and even paragliding. Visit between December and April, when dry, clear skies make the journey safe and spectacular.
6. Dinh Mountain – Ba Ria–Vung Tau
Just over an hour from Ho Chi Minh City, Dinh Mountain rises above Ba Ria City with cool forest air and a blend of nature and culture. Standing more than 500 meters high, it’s home to ancient temples with distinctive architecture, making it a favorite for spiritual travelers.
Beyond its serene side, the Dinh Mountain tourist area offers a full day of fun—from an adventure park and lush green reserve to a charming “French village” recreation. It’s a destination where families can balance nature walks with playful escapes.
7. Ba Den Mountain – Tay Ninh
Nearly 100 km from Ho Chi Minh City, Ba Den Mountain is the “roof of the South” and a symbol of Tay Ninh. A modern cable car glides you to the summit, where a dreamy “balcony in the clouds” gives sweeping, photo-perfect views.
From December to April, the dry season makes for easy travel. Visit between the 4th and 16th of the first lunar month to join the vibrant Ba Den Pagoda Festival, when pilgrims from across Vietnam gather to celebrate.
8. Cam Mountain – An Giang
The highest peak of the That Son range, Cam Mountain rewards travelers with a cool breeze and peaceful views of the Mekong Delta. From Ho Chi Minh City, it’s a 250 km journey—best followed by a cable car ride or a trek for the adventurous.
Stay overnight in hillside lodges to catch a spectacular sunrise, visit Van Linh Pagoda or the giant Reclining Buddha, and hear tales of this “Forbidden Mountain.” From September to November, the floating season transforms the nearby melaleuca forests into a green mosaic of duckweed-covered waters, paired beautifully with An Giang’s seasonal dishes like linh fish and dien dien flowers.
9. Sap Mountain – An Giang
In Nui Sap town, this modest mountain charms with fresh air and sweeping views of rice fields below. Its eco-tourism area includes the tranquil Ong Thoai Lake and the historic Thoai Ngoc Hau Temple, home to the centuries-old Thoai Son stele.
A motorbike ride up the narrow road makes the trip more intimate. Try paddle-duck rides on the lake or admire statues of deities like Shiva and Linga. If visiting in the third lunar month, don’t miss the Ky Yen Festival, held here with colorful traditions.
10. Sam Mountain – An Giang
At 228 meters, Sam Mountain may not be towering, but it’s rich in culture and history. This sacred site in the That Son range is dotted with temples, including the famous Ba Chua Xu Temple, Hang Pagoda, and the storied villa of Doctor Mo.
Nearby, Tra Su Melaleuca Forest offers peaceful boat rides through emerald waterways, accompanied by the songs of native birds. Visit from December to April for the best weather, or join the Ba Chua Xu Festival from the 22nd to 27th of the fourth lunar month—the Mekong Delta’s largest and most vibrant celebration.
