Bach Ma National Park Travel Guide

Looking for an outdoor adventure in Vietnam? Check out this comprehensive travel guide to Bach Ma National Park for tips on where to go, what to do, and where to stay.


Your Ultimate Guide to Bach Ma National Park in Vietnam

If you are looking for an outdoor adventure in Vietnam, look no further than Bach Ma National Park. Nestled in the Central Coast region, this park is a natural wonderland full of stunning vistas, lush forests, and diverse wildlife. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will cover everything you need to know to make the most of your trip, from where to stay to what to do and where to eat.

Introduction to Bach Ma National Park

Bach Ma National Park is located about 40km south of Hue and covers an area of nearly 140 square kilometers. The park is home to a range of habitats, including tropical rainforests, mountains, and coastal wetlands, which support a diverse range of flora and fauna.

The park has a rich cultural history and was once a favourite summer retreat for French colonial officials. Today, Bach Ma National Park is a popular destination for visitors and locals alike who come to hike, swim, bird-watch, and explore.

List of Places to Visit in Bach Ma National Park

Here are some of the must-visit places and attractions in Bach Ma National Park:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Do Quyen Waterfall: This iconic waterfall is located just a short hike from the park entrance and is one of the most photographed sights in the park.
  • Bach Ma National Park Centre: Learn about the history, culture and environment of Bach Ma National Park through interactive and educational exhibits.

Natural Attractions of Bach Ma National Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Five Lakes Trail: This popular trail will take you past five stunning lakes, each with its own unique character and charm.
  • Hai Vong Dai Observation Tower: At 1,450 meters above sea level, this tower offers picturesque views of the park and the surrounding countryside.
  • Do Quyen Stream: This stream flows through the heart of the park and is a popular spot for swimming, picnicking and relaxing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bach Ma National Park

If you are a fan of hiking and biking, Bach Ma National Park is the perfect destination. Here are some of the best routes to explore:

  • The Summit Trail: This challenging trail will take you to the summit of Bach Ma Mountain, the highest peak in the park.
  • The Three Peaks Trail: This moderate hike will take you past three scenic peaks, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
  • The Truc Lam Pagoda Trail: This leisurely walk will take you to the Truc Lam Pagoda, a serene and peaceful spot in the heart of the park.

Best Things to Do in Bach Ma National Park: Activities and Tours

Whether you are an adrenaline junkie or a nature lover, Bach Ma National Park has something for everyone. Here are some of the best things to do in the park:

  • Zip-lining: Experience the park from a unique perspective by zip-lining through the treetops.
  • Bird-watching: Bach Ma National Park is home to over 300 species of birds and is a popular destination for bird-watchers.
  • Swimming: Take a refreshing dip in one of the park’s many waterfalls or natural pools.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bach Ma National Park

If you want to spend a week exploring the park, here is a suggested itinerary:

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrive at Bach Ma National Park and check-in
Day 2 Hike the Summit Trail
Day 3 Visit Truc Lam Pagoda
Day 4 Take a zip-lining tour
Day 5 Explore the Five Lakes Trail
Day 6 Relax at Do Quyen Stream
Day 7 Depart from Bach Ma National Park

Food and Drink Scene of Bach Ma National Park

Vietnamese cuisine is famous around the world for its perfect balance of flavours and textures. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages in Bach Ma National Park:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bun bo Hue: A spicy beef noodle soup that is a signature dish of the Hue region.
  • Banh mi: A Vietnamese baguette sandwich filled with pork, pate, and fresh vegetables.
  • Cao lau: A pork noodle dish that is unique to the city of Hoi An.

Local Beverages

  • Cafe sua da: A delicious iced coffee made with sweetened condensed milk.
  • Fresh sugarcane juice: A refreshing and healthy drink made from freshly squeezed sugarcane.

Where to Stay in Bach Ma National Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are plenty of options for accommodation in and around Bach Ma National Park. Here is a list of some of the best places to stay:

  • Ana Mandara Hue Resort: A luxurious and eco-friendly resort located in nearby Hue.
  • Hue Family Homestay: A budget-friendly Homestay option located near the park entrance.
  • Dan Sinh Guesthouse: A mid-range option in nearby Da Nang.

What to Buy in Bach Ma National Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Looking for the perfect souvenir to bring home from Bach Ma National Park? Here are some ideas:

  • Handicrafts: Pick up traditional Vietnamese handicrafts like lacquerware and pottery.
  • Clothing: Buy traditional Vietnamese clothing like the ao dai, a traditional tunic worn by women.
  • Spices: Buy local herbs and spices to bring home and add to your cooking.

Local Culture and Customs of Bach Ma National Park

Vietnamese culture is rich and diverse. Here are some of the most important cultural customs to keep in mind when visiting Bach Ma National Park:

  • Respect: Respect is very important in Vietnamese culture, especially for older people and those in authority.
  • Dress: Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and temples.
  • Tipping: Tipping is not always expected in Vietnam, but it is appreciated.

Best Time to Visit Bach Ma National Park

The best time to visit the park depends on what you want to do. The dry season from March to September is best for hiking and outdoor activities, while the rainy season from October to February is best for bird-watching and river tours.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bach Ma National Park

When visiting Bach Ma National Park, it is important to be respectful of the local environment and culture. Here are some do’s and don’t’s to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Take your rubbish with you.
  • Respect wildlife and do not disturb their natural habitats.
  • Be respectful of local customs and dress appropriately.

Don’t:

  • Take any flora or fauna from the park.
  • Litter or pollute the park’s natural resources.
  • Disrespect local customs or traditions.

Safety and Health

When visiting Bach Ma National Park, it’s important to take steps to stay safe and healthy. Here are some tips:

Safety in Bach Ma National Park

  • Stay on designated trails and follow all posted signs and warnings.
  • Bring plenty of water and food.
  • Be aware of weather and trail conditions.

Health in Bach Ma National Park

  • Drink only bottled or purified water.
  • Use insect repellent to avoid mosquito bites.
  • Bring any necessary medication with you.

Getting to Bach Ma National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Getting to Bach Ma National Park is easy. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Bach Ma National Park

  • Phu Bai International Airport, Hue (about 50km away)
  • Da Nang International Airport (about 80km away)

Bus Stations Near Bach Ma National Park

  • Hue Bus Station (about 40km away)
  • Da Nang Bus Station (about 80km away)

Other Options

  • Private car: You can also hire a private car or taxi to take you to the park.
  • Motorbike rental: Motorbike rentals are available in nearby cities and towns.

How to Get Around in Bach Ma National Park

The best way to explore Bach Ma National Park is to hike or bike. There are also taxi and motorbike rental options available.

Where to Go Next from Bach Ma National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

After you have explored Bach Ma National Park, there are plenty of other destinations to visit in the surrounding region. Here are some ideas:

  • Hue: Visit the historic city of Hue and see the Imperial Citadel and the Tombs of the Emperors.
  • Da Nang: Relax on the beaches of Da Nang and explore the city’s many cultural and historical landmarks.
  • Hoi An: Visit the charming town of Hoi An and explore its many shops, markets, and temples.

Conclusion

Bach Ma National Park is one of Vietnam’s most beautiful and diverse natural wonders. From hiking and biking to cultural attractions and delicious food, there is something for everyone in this stunning park. Use this comprehensive travel guide to plan your adventure and make the most of your trip to Bach Ma National Park.

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