Yen Tu Mountain, Quang Ninh

A prominent pilgrimage destination with scenic natural beauty

Many Vietnamese locals and international Buddhist visitors flock to Tu Mountain annually, especially during the festival season. The pilgrimage often involves climbing the mountain on foot or by cable car to the top of the mountain, showing respect, making offerings, and seeking spiritual enlightenment. Additionally, apart from religious significance, you should not miss a chance to capture the stunning natural beauty of Yen Tu Mountain. The tourist site is covered with lush forests and numerous waterfalls, streams, and wildlife to be discovered along the way.

Stunning landscapes on top of Yen Tu mountain!

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Yen Tu Mountain is during the spring (March to May) and autumn seasons (September to November) with mild and pleasant weather. It would be scorching and humid in the summer months (June to August) and you should avoid traveling to Yen Tu Mountain in the winter (December to February) since it is very cold and misty.

Best things to do in Yen Tu Mountain

1. Trekking: For a challenging and immersive experience, you can choose to hike up Yen Tu Mountain. This is among the most famous trails in the region with varied difficulty levels. The most common trail is the 6-kilometer route from the foot of the mountain to Dong Pagoda. You should wear comfortable shoes and pack essential items as well as water for uphill climbs.
2. Visiting pagodas: Yen Tu Mountain is home to numerous pagodas and temples. The main attraction is Dong Pagoda, located at the peak. You can soak up the spiritual atmosphere and admire the traditional architecture. Remember to be respectful, follow any instructions or guidelines, and remove your shoes before entering sacred sites.
3. Joining Yen Tu Festival: If your visit coincides with the Yen Tu Festival, you will have the opportunity to witness and participate in vibrant cultural festivities. The festival usually takes place from the 10th day of the first lunar month to the end of the third lunar month with many interesting activities.

How to get to Yen Tu Mountain from Hanoi

The nearest major city to Yen Tu Mountain is Hanoi. From Hanoi, you can take a bus or hire a private car to Uong Bi City to access Yen Tu Mountain. The journey takes around 3-4 hours following Hanoi-Hai Phong Expressway. Alternatively, you can also take a train to Uong Bi Railway Station.

How to Get Up the Mountain

Upon arrival at Uong Bi City which serves as the gateway to Yen Tu, you can take a taxi to the destination. Yen Tu Mountain is accessible by cable car or foot.

1. By cable car: Taking a cable car is the easiest way to reach the mountain peak. You can take a cable car halfway up the mountain, and then after a short hike, there is a second cable car that takes you to the top.
2. By foot: Hiking up by foot is a common practice for pilgrims. It is a little more strenuous and not recommended for people who are old or more prone to heart attack. It takes about 3.5 hours to get to the top. As there are stairs going to the top, it is a pretty straightforward climb.

Essential tips when visiting Yen Tu Mountain

1. Plan sufficient time and start early: It is recommended to spend at least a full day to fully experience the site. You’d better start early in the morning to avoid the crowds. If you're planning to hike up the mountain, you need to allocate extra time for the ascent and descent.
2. Wear comfortable clothing and sports shoes: Dress in comfortable, breathable clothing suitable for hiking or walking. You should also choose a good pair of sports shoes to climb up uneven paths.
3. Pack essentials: Useful items such as sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, insect repellent, and a small backpack to hold your belongings are essential. Additionally, do not forget to bring a water bottle to stay hydrated during your journey.
4. Check the weather forecast before your trip: You need to know about the weather and prepare accordingly. Bring rain gear if there's a chance of rainfall, and pack an extra layer of clothing for cooler temperatures, especially if you are visiting during the autumn or winter months.
5. Be mindful of local customs: Yen Tu Mountain is a religious site, and you have to respect local customs and traditions and dress moderately.