Bai Tho Mountain: A Guide To The "Poem Mountain"
Not so much a mountain as a hill, Bai Tho Mountain is only 650 feet (200 meters) high. This makes the mountain easy to climb and to get to the top should not take more than 30 minutes. Once you reach the top you will be rewarded with a splendid view of the Bay and of Halong City. It is said that here is where you’ll truly understand why it’s called Halong or in English: Descending Dragon.

Overview
Experiencing Halong Bay from a cruise has become a popular activity, but if you're looking for something unique, consider hiking to the summit of Bai Tho Mountain. This destination is renowned for its breathtaking views of Halong Bay, and while mountain climbing may seem daunting, Bai Tho Mountain is accessible to many adventurers. The ascent promises unforgettable experiences surrounded by stunning natural beauty.
Updates: After being closed for several years, Bai Tho Mountain has reopened to visitors as of June 2023, with renewed pathways and facilities to enhance the experience.
Halong Bay view from the top of Bai Tho Mountain!
Location
Bai Tho Mountain is conveniently situated just 9 kilometers from the center of Halong City, making it an easy 10-minute drive. The climbing trail is relatively gentle, with the peak rising approximately 200 meters above sea level. Visitors can expect to reach the summit in about 30 minutes, where they can take in the breathtaking vistas of countless limestone islets dotting the bay.
Distance to Bai Tho Mountain
Location | Distance | Time |
Hanoi | 160 km | 2h 20m |
Noi Bai International Airport (Hanoi) | 179 km | 2h 30m |
Hai Phong | 51 km | 50m |
Van Don International Airport | 53 km | 55m |
Halong City | 9 km | 10m |
History
Bai Tho Mountain, which translates to “Poem Mountain” in Vietnamese, is famed for its incredible natural scenery that has inspired many Vietnamese poets, including King Le Thanh Tong, to create timeless literary works. This mountain has also played a significant role in Vietnam's history, marking the country's resilient stand against invaders throughout the centuries.
The Royal Poem
During his visit in 1468, King Le Thanh Tong paused at Bai Tho Mountain and, captivated by its beauty, carved a poem into one of its stones. Although the original poem has faded over time, its legacy endures in literature. This significant historical moment is reflected in the mountain's name.
The poem in Nom script on the mountain (Photo: Baoquangninh.com.vn)
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time for hiking Bai Tho Mountain aligns with the best season to visit Halong Bay, which typically spans from November to April. During these months, the weather is moderate and generally dry, providing excellent visibility for spectacular views, especially on clear, sunny days.
Bai Tho Mountain at Sunrise
How to Get There
Reaching Bai Tho Mountain from Halong City is simple and straightforward. You can choose to take a Grab taxi or rent a motorbike for the journey. Start by following the 18 Highway, crossing the Bai Chay Bridge, and then take the Dang Ba Hat - Ba Deo - Le Thanh Tong route. Continue along Le Thanh Tong Street to Hang Noi Street, where you will find Nam Phong Cafe. From there, you can ask locals for directions to the foot of Bai Tho Mountain. After a brief hike of around 30 minutes, the summit awaits.
Coastal road around Bai Tho Mountain foot
Best Things to Do
- Enjoy the panoramic view of Halong Bay: A short hike to Bai Tho Mountain's summit rewards visitors with stunning vistas of the bay and the city below. Witnessing a sunrise or sunset from this vantage point is truly spectacular.
- Capture moments at the flagpole and historical stone stele: As a site of historical significance, be sure to take photos at the flagpole and the commemorative stone on the mountaintop.
Nearby Places of Interest
Given its proximity to the city center and other popular attractions, combining a visit to Bai Tho Mountain with explorations of nearby sites is quite easy.
- Halong Bay: Embarking on either a day cruise or an overnight cruise is a must-do for visitors. Not only can you soak up the stunning scenery, but you can also participate in numerous activities like kayaking, swimming, cave exploration, and visiting floating fishing villages.
- Bai Chay Beach: Enjoying the sun and swimming at Bai Chay Beach should definitely be on your itinerary, with its expansive sands perfect for relaxation and team-building activities.
- Sun World Halong Entertainment Complex: If you choose to stay in Halong City, don’t miss the entertainment offerings at Sun World Halong Entertainment Complex. It's packed with activities for visitors of all ages, from families to groups of friends.
What to Pack
- A sturdy pair of sports shoes to navigate the potentially slippery trail.
- Comfortable, breathable clothing; check local weather forecasts to dress appropriately.
- Sun protection such as a hat, sunscreen for sunny days, and insect repellent.
- Bottled water and light snacks as there are no vendors on the mountain.
- A camera to capture the stunning views.
- A flashlight if you plan to return late in the afternoon.
Local Tips
Keep these important tips in mind for a memorable trekking experience at Bai Tho Mountain:
- Though the trek is relatively straightforward and suitable for beginners, assess your health condition before embarking on the journey.
- Individuals with heart conditions, hypertension, or those who are pregnant should refrain from participating.
- Bring your own snacks and water, as there are no shops at the mountain.
- Hiking with a group is highly recommended for safety reasons.
Be sure to monitor weather conditions and pack accordingly. For a sunrise experience, aim to arrive by 4:30 a.m., and for sunset views, plan to be at the mountain by 4:00 p.m.