Bach Ma National Park

Intro

Bach Ma National Park is one of the most important nature reserves in central Vietnam. Located between the historic city of Huế and the coastal city of Da Nang, the park is famous for its dense tropical forests, cool mountain climate, and rich biodiversity.

Rising to more than 1,400 meters above sea level, Bach Ma Mountain forms part of the Annamite Range and overlooks the stunning coastal landscapes of Lăng Cô Bay and the surrounding lagoons.

Because of its unique climate and scenic views, the area was once developed as a hill station during the French colonial period. Today, Bach Ma National Park attracts travelers interested in hiking, wildlife observation, and exploring waterfalls deep within the jungle.

Pronunciation

Vườn Quốc Gia Bạch Mã

History

Bạch Mã National Park gained attention during the early 20th century when French colonial officials searched for cooler mountain climates in central Vietnam.

In the 1930s, the French began developing the summit area into a hill station with villas, roads, and leisure facilities. The cool weather and panoramic views made it a retreat from the tropical heat of the lowlands.

However, the hill station was abandoned during the wars in the mid-20th century. Many of the old villas gradually fell into ruin and were reclaimed by the surrounding forest.

In 1991, the Vietnamese government officially established Bach Ma as a national park to protect its diverse ecosystems and wildlife.

Today, the park covers more than 37,000 hectares and plays an important role in conserving biodiversity in central Vietnam.

Architecture / Highlights

Bach Ma summit (Hai Vong Dai)

The summit viewpoint known as Hai Vong Dai offers one of the most spectacular panoramic views in the region.

From here, visitors can see:

• the mountains of central Vietnam
• the coastline near Lăng Cô Bay
• lagoons and forests stretching toward the sea

On clear days, the scenery extends far across both mountains and coastline.

Do Quyen waterfall

One of the most famous attractions inside the park is Đỗ Quyên Waterfall.

The waterfall drops nearly 300 meters through the forest cliffs, making it one of the tallest waterfalls in central Vietnam. Visitors must descend hundreds of steps through the jungle to reach the base of the falls.

During spring, the surrounding forest blooms with rhododendron flowers (đỗ quyên), which gave the waterfall its name.

Five Lakes (Ngũ Hồ)

The Five Lakes area consists of a series of natural pools connected by small waterfalls. Clear mountain water flows through the forest and forms beautiful natural swimming spots.

Many visitors hike through the jungle trail to relax and swim in these cool streams.

Biodiversity

Bạch Mã National Park is known for its rich biodiversity.

The park contains:

• more than 2,000 plant species
• hundreds of bird species
• rare mammals such as langurs and civets
• a wide variety of butterflies and insects

Because of this biodiversity, the park is considered one of the most important conservation areas in Vietnam.

The abandoned French villas

One of the most intriguing historical traces in Bạch Mã National Park is the remains of the French hill station built during the colonial period.

In the 1930s, French administrators discovered that the summit of Bach Ma Mountain had a cool climate similar to mountain resorts in Europe. They developed the area into a hill retreat with more than 130 villas, hotels, and recreational buildings.

The hill station quickly became a popular escape from the heat of the lowlands for French officials living in nearby cities such as Huế.

However, the villas were abandoned during the conflicts of the mid-20th century. Over time, the tropical forest gradually reclaimed many of these structures.

Today, visitors can still find the ruins of several old villas hidden among the trees. Moss-covered walls, stone staircases, and broken foundations provide a glimpse into the colonial past of the mountain.

These atmospheric ruins make Bach Ma one of the most unique historical nature destinations in central Vietnam.

Cloud hunting at Bach Ma summit

Because of its elevation of more than 1,400 meters, the summit of Bạch Mã National Park is also famous for cloud hunting.

Early in the morning, thick layers of clouds often gather in the valleys below the mountain. From viewpoints such as Hai Vong Dai, visitors can watch the clouds drift slowly across the forested mountains while the sun rises above the horizon.

On clear days, the summit offers breathtaking views stretching across the coast toward Lăng Cô Bay and even the distant sea.

This phenomenon makes Bach Ma a popular destination for photographers and nature lovers who want to experience the dramatic mountain scenery of central Vietnam.

Location

Bạch Mã National Park lies in Phú Lộc District.

Distances from nearby cities:

• about 40 km from Huế
• about 65 km from Da Nang

The park is also located near scenic destinations such as Lap An Lagoon and Hải Vân Pass.

Map

View Bach Ma National Park on Google map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/rUyTWVzrcmasvY7B7

Ticket price

Entrance fee (approximate):

• Adults: 60,000 VND
• Children: 20,000 VND

Additional fees may apply for transportation or guided tours inside the park.

Opening hours

The park is generally open from: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Visitors should arrive early if planning to hike to waterfalls or mountain viewpoints.

Suggested visiting duration

A typical visit lasts half a day to one full day, depending on hiking routes.

Popular activities include:

• hiking jungle trails
• visiting waterfalls
• wildlife watching
• enjoying panoramic mountain views

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Bạch Mã National Park is between March and September, when the weather is relatively dry.

The park receives heavy rainfall during the rainy season from October to December.

How to visit

Motorbike or car

Visitors can drive from Huế or Da Nang along National Highway 1A.

From the park entrance, a mountain road leads to the summit area.

Guided tours

Some travel agencies in Huế organize hiking tours that include transportation and guides.

Souvenirs and local products

At the park entrance and nearby villages, visitors may find:

• local honey
• dried forest herbs
• traditional handicrafts
• regional food specialties

Nearby attractions

Travelers visiting Bạch Mã National Park often combine the trip with:

• Lăng Cô Bay
• Lap An Lagoon
• Hải Vân Pass
• Huế historical sites

FAQ

Why is Bach Ma National Park famous?

It is famous for its tropical forest, waterfalls, and panoramic mountain views.

How high is Bach Ma Mountain?

The highest peak reaches about 1,450 meters above sea level.

Can visitors hike in Bach Ma National Park?

Yes. Several hiking trails lead to waterfalls, lakes, and scenic viewpoints.

Can visitors stay overnight in Bach Ma National Park?

Yes. Visitors can stay at guesthouses near the summit or inside the park. Spending the night allows travelers to experience sunrise, cloud formations, and the cooler mountain climate.

How far is Bach Ma National Park from Hue?

It is about 40 km south of Hue.