Yen Tu Mountain, Quang Ninh

A prominent pilgrimage destination with scenic natural beauty

Each year, countless Vietnamese locals and international Buddhist visitors travel to Yen Tu Mountain, particularly during the festival season. Pilgrims often ascend the mountain either on foot or via cable car to the summit, engaging in acts of respect, making offerings, and pursuing spiritual enlightenment. In addition to its religious significance, visitors should take the opportunity to appreciate the breathtaking natural beauty of Yen Tu Mountain. The area is adorned with lush forests, numerous waterfalls, and diverse wildlife waiting to be explored.

Stunning landscapes on top of Yen Tu Mountain! 

Best time to visit

The optimal times for visiting Yen Tu Mountain are during the spring (March to May) and the autumn months (September to November), characterized by mild, pleasant weather. The summer months (June to August) can be extremely hot and humid, while winter (December to February) tends to be cold and misty, making it less advisable for travelers.

Best things to do in Yen Tu Mountain

1. Trekking: For an immersive experience, consider hiking up Yen Tu Mountain. The region boasts popular trails with varying difficulty levels, with the most common being a 6-kilometer route from the base of the mountain to Dong Pagoda. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and carry essential items, including water, for your hike.
2. Visiting pagodas: Yen Tu Mountain is home to numerous pagodas and temples, with Dong Pagoda being the main attraction at the mountain's peak. Visitors can enjoy the spiritual atmosphere and admire traditional architecture. Be sure to follow any guidelines or instructions, and remove footwear before entering sacred sites.
3. Joining Yen Tu Festival: If your visit coincides with the Yen Tu Festival, you will have the chance to participate in lively cultural events. The festival usually occurs from the 10th day of the first lunar month until the end of the third lunar month and features various engaging activities.

How to get to Yen Tu Mountain from Hanoi

Hanoi is the nearest major city to Yen Tu Mountain. From there, you can take a bus or hire a private car to reach Uong Bi City, the closest access point to Yen Tu. The journey takes approximately 3-4 hours via the Hanoi-Hai Phong Expressway. Alternatively, consider taking a train to Uong Bi Railway Station for convenience.

How to get up the mountain

Upon arriving in Uong Bi City, which serves as the gateway to Yen Tu, you can take a taxi to reach your destination. There are two main options to ascend Yen Tu Mountain: by cable car or on foot.

1. By cable car: The easiest way to reach the mountain's peak is to take a cable car. One cable car will take you halfway up the mountain, followed by a short hike before transitioning to a second cable car that takes you to the summit.
2. By foot: Many pilgrims prefer to hike to the top. This option is more physically demanding and may not be suitable for older individuals or those with health considerations. The hike takes approximately 3.5 hours, and the well-maintained stairs make for a straightforward ascent.

Where to stay

The serene and spiritual region of Yen Tu offers several tranquil accommodations, including the Legacy Yen Tu - MGallery and Lang Nuong Yen Tu - Yen Tu Village.

• Legacy Yen Tu - MGallery: This resort features unique architectural designs and a scenic landscape, located at the foot of Yen Tu Mountain. Blessed with an environment of seclusion and tranquility, the resort's design draws inspiration from the architectural elements of the Tran dynasty. A visit to Legacy Yen Tu serves as an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, allowing guests to immerse themselves in nature and the essence of Buddhist architecture.
• Lang Nuong Yen Tu - Yen Tu Village: Part of the Yen Tu complex of monuments, this accommodation recreates the distinctive aesthetic of Northern Vietnam during the Tran Dynasty. With traditional houses constructed from clay, brick, ironwood, and stone pavements, staying here allows guests to soak in a serene and spiritually rich ambiance.

Where to eat

Dining options at Yen Tu are abundant, with choices available within resorts or in the surrounding area.

• Tho Quang Restaurant: Located within Legacy Yen Tu - MGallery, Tho Quang offers a dining experience crafted from classic materials such as wood, copper, and ceramic tiles. The restaurant features a comprehensive international buffet along with traditional Vietnamese dishes served throughout the day.
• Thien Quan Restaurant: Also situated within the Legacy Yen Tu, this restaurant presents an elegant dining atmosphere. Guests can enjoy a diverse selection of premium drinks and light tapas snacks.
• Goc Viet Quan Restaurant: Designed in a rustic style reminiscent of Vietnamese countryside, Goc Viet Quan creates a cozy atmosphere. Known for its authentic rural specialties, the menu showcases a range of regional cuisines, particularly seafood dishes from all three regions of Vietnam, including Quang Ninh seafood specialties, crab hotpot, and braised duck with bamboo shoots.

Essential tips when visiting Yen Tu Mountain

1. Plan sufficient time and start early: It's advisable to dedicate a full day to fully experience Yen Tu Mountain. Early morning starts are recommended to avoid crowds, particularly if you intend to hike.
2. Wear comfortable clothing and sports shoes: Dress in breathable, comfortable clothing suitable for hiking or walking and choose sturdy sports shoes for navigating uneven paths.
3. Pack essentials: Bring along useful items such as sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, insect repellent, and a small backpack for personal belongings. Stay hydrated by carrying a water bottle.
4. Check the weather forecast: Stay informed about the weather conditions before your trip and prepare accordingly. Carry rain gear if rain is predicted, and pack extra layers for cooler temperatures during autumn or winter visits.
5. Respect local customs: As Yen Tu Mountain is a religious site, it's important to honor local customs and traditions by dressing modestly.