Tranquil mountain hideaway

A tourist poses at Tien (Fairy) Creek on Dinh Mountain in the southern province of Ba Ria-Vung Tau
Dinh Mountain, also known as Bong Lai (Heaven) Mountain, is located just over 30 kilometers from the famous beach town of Vung Tau, about 90 kilometers from Ho Chi Minh City.

The foot of the mountain, situated along National Highway 51 in Kim Dinh Ward of Ba Ria Town, is covered in a dense forest of lush green foliage and rugged outcrops. The long roots of ancient, gnarled trees appear to smother the large rocks, making for great photo opportunities.

While it is possible to take a motorbike or car up the peak, hiking is also a great option, allowing for more time to take in the wild scenery and listen to the sounds of nature.

Along the way, visitors can explore the hidden beauty of Da (Rock) and Tien (Fairy) creeks. These two creeks start from the mountain peak at nearly 500 meters above sea level, formed by smaller streams on the mountainside.

Many pools in the springs are large enough to accommodate up to 10 people. Nearby, smooth, flat rocks make for a pleasant area to relax after splashing in the cool water.

According to local residents, the mountain was named Dinh Mountain after a French governor built a mansion (known in Vietnamese as ‘dinh’) in the area, wanting to spend his holidays in a cool, quiet environment.

Dinh Mountain is part of a mountain range which covers an area of nearly 60 square kilometers and is the highest peak in Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province. It also boasts many mysterious caves and several Buddhist monks call the mountain home because of the great solitude the area allows.

While sitting in the shade of the mountain’s ancient trees and springs, visitors cannot help but feel a tranquil calm wash over them. The soft ringing of bells from distant Buddhist pagodas, the chirping of birds and the babbling of brooks, is a treat for the senses and a great escape from the chaos of daily life.

Reported by Nguyen Long