Crowned as Vietnam’s fourth-tallest mountain with a height of 9,990.157 feet (3,045 meters), Bach Moc Luong Tu is enjoying the spotlight amongst the country’s young travelers. Now a hit destination, the mountain’s cloud-covered landscape has become a much-loved feature in Vietnam.

Summiting Bach Moc Luong Tu takes a while and hikers need to prepare for a hard trek, but once at the top, visitors are rewarded with an absolutely breathtaking view.

History

Similar to Vietnam’s three tallest mountains, the fourth is also located in the Hoang Lien Son Mountain Range. These mountains are part of the eastern extension of the Himalayas, rising up 250-260 million years ago during the Mesozoic era.

A winter hike up to Bach Moc Luong Tu’s peak. Photo: QuangAnh Nguyen

In a similar tune, not very much has been published about this mountain’s history or name, however, more modern tales state that Bach Moc Luong Tu was discovered by backpackers in 2012. The mountain is visible from Fansipan’s cable car, allowing those riding it to appreciate Bach Moc Luong Tu’s beauty from afar.

In recent years, the mountain has been frequented by young travelers and adventurers. Many wish to see Vietnam’s untouched landscape before word spreads too far and the site becomes overly populated by visitors.

The summit of Bach Moc Luong Tu. Photo: Hieu Nguyen

Most worry that a cable car or an influx of tourists would destroy the landscape, but, as of now, the only access to Bach Moc Luong Tu’s summit is by foot. There are no easy options to reach the top of this peak, and for many, they hope that the mountain remains this way for years to come.

Location

Close to Fansipan, Bach Moc Luong Tu is located in the Lao Cai Province. As a part of the Hoang Lien Son Mountain Range, the peak covers a section of northwest Vietnam close to the country’s border with China. Local transportation services can take you around the area, especially between Sapa and the outlying villages.

Sapa is the closest town, which is why many hikers start their journey there. And while smaller villages in the area are also options for travelers, they provide more limited choices in lodging and dining. Local guides can be hired in Sapa and the town’s museums can give tourists more information about the peak.

Summiting Bach Moc Luong Tu

The trail to Bach Moc Luong Tu’s summit is very difficult to navigate. The main path winds along the slopes and steadily increases in steepness as hikers progress, taking most hikers 5 days to complete their expedition.

Hikers will need to be prepared to spend multiple nights in Vietnam’s dense vegetation, bringing enough food and water as well as shelter, to get them through the trip. For these reasons, travelers are recommended to hire a local guide.

Ascending Bach Moc Luong Tu. Photo: QuangAnh Nguyen

Local guides can not only assist by leading the way but also help you carry gear and establish the camp each night. Travelers with guides won’t have to struggle to find the various base camps on the mountain, which are semi pre-established to make the journey easier.

Weather

Access to Bach Moc Luong Tu is granted throughout the year without a permit or license, but hikers can make it easier on themselves by visiting during the dry season, from January until June. Rain gear should be packed regardless, as short showers can occur randomly throughout the year.

Bach Moc Luong Tu (Ky Quan San). Photo: kyquansan.bachmoc

See the Peak

Young travelers rave about the beauty and pristine remoteness of Bach Moc Luong Tu, placing this mountain on the top of many hiker’s bucket lists. Featuring local flora and fauna, the journey to the summit will be a beautiful one, especially at the top, where those who have made it can relax amid the clouds.