1. Overview of the Ba Den Mountain Trekking Journey
1.1. Ba Den Mountain is a premier destination for challenges in the South
Ba Den Mountain (Tay Ninh), with a height of 986 m, is nicknamed the 'roof of the South'. Located northeast of Tay Ninh, about 11 km away, this place is not only a majestic natural landscape but also carries deep spiritual and cultural imprints. With diverse terrain, from basalt cliffs and natural caves to forests and cloud-covered hills, Ba Den Mountain is truly an ideal destination for those who love exploration and challenges.
The route up Ba Den Mountain always holds great appeal for tourists who love the trekking experience. (Source: Collected)
Not only famous as a place for pilgrimage and worship, Ba Den Mountain is increasingly known as a “trekking paradise” for those who want to overcome their limits: mountain climbing, cloud hunting, and enjoying the highland atmosphere in the Dong Nam Bo region.
1.2. Trekking Ba Den Mountain attracts tourists
Trekking Ba Den Mountain offers a unique experience, combining physical challenges with admiring the majestic natural beauty of Tay Ninh. On this journey, tourists will pass through diverse routes, from rocky slopes and forests to winding stairs leading to the “roof of the South”. Each step is a journey of discovery and feeling the breath of the forest, the sound of the wind, and the sound of birds.
Beyond just trekking, tourists can also combine the experience with the modern Sun World Ba Den Mountain cable car system, admiring the panoramic view of Tay Ninh from above. The feeling of “overcoming personal limits” upon reaching the summit, watching the drifting clouds and sky, and the Statue of the Bodhisattva Tay Bo Da Son shining in the air is an unforgettable moment.
2. Popular Ba Den Mountain trekking routes
2.1. Pagoda Path
Tourists following the Pagoda Path trekking route will start at the wide staircase, leading from the foothills to the pagoda grounds of Ba Den Mountain. The path has been well-maintained with sturdy stone steps and handrails in many sections, making the journey easier and suitable for first-time trekkers.
On this journey, tourists will enjoy lush green forests, small streams, and sheltered resting spots. As they ascend higher, they will have a panoramic view of the Tay Ninh valley in the light mist. With a length of about 6 km and a duration of about 3–4 hours, this is an ideal route to start conquering the “roof of the South”.
2.2. Power Pole Path
The Ba Den Mountain trekking route, the Power Pole Path, is a familiar choice for tourists with some experience or who want to challenge themselves further. On the way to the summit, tourists will see markers from pole number 1 to 55 placed parallel to the path, clear signs to help you navigate.
Trekking the power pole route is a familiar choice that offers an interesting experience for tourists. (Source: Collected)
The terrain here consists of steep rocks, natural steps, and forests interspersed with strong winds, making the journey more challenging but still very worthwhile. The total distance is about 3.2 km, taking 3–5 hours depending on physical fitness. Tourists should prepare shoes with good grip and avoid choosing this route if it rains because the rocks are slippery.
2.3. Water Pipe Route
If tourists want to reach more wild and adventurous experiences, the water pipe route trekking path is a suitable choice. This route has many rocky climbing sections, little shade, streams, and slippery mud, creating a true feeling of “pushing one's limits”.
With a length of about 6–7 km or more, taking 4–5 hours or more for large groups, this route is suitable for groups of 3–5 people and should be accompanied by a local guide for safety.
2.4. Trekking Route Combined with Sun World Ba Den Mountain Cable Car
An ideal option for tourists who want to experience trekking and relax is to climb one of the walking routes and then descend by cable car at Sun World Ba Den Mountain. The cable car system shortens the travel time to the summit to only about 8 minutes, while also offering a spectacular view of Dau Tieng Lake and the Tay Ninh plains.
This combination is suitable for tourists who want to feel the challenge of climbing but still have rest and a higher-class experience, a journey that is both conquering and enjoyable.
3. Preparation Before Trekking Mount Ba Den
3.1. Ideal Time for Trekking
To ensure the trekking journey of Mount Ba Den is as smooth and complete as possible, tourists should choose the dry season (from December to April), when the weather is dry, the sky is clear blue, the visibility is far, and it is easy to admire the beautiful “sea of clouds” at the summit.
The dry season is a suitable time for safely trekking Nui Ba Den (Ba Den Mountain) and enjoying beautiful scenery. (Source: Collected)
During the rainy season (May to November), the path is often slippery, the grass is wet, and rocks are easy to fall on, so careful consideration is needed if climbing during this period. Especially, visitors should start early from 4:30–5:00 AM to enjoy the cool air, catch the brilliant sunrise on the mountaintop, and avoid the harsh midday sun.
3.2. Necessary Clothing and Equipment
Suitable clothing helps visitors be comfortable and safe throughout the Nui Ba Den (Ba Den Mountain) trekking journey. A pair of specialized trekking shoes with good grip is the top priority choice, combined with climbing gloves, breathable sports t-shirts, stretchy pants, and a wide-brimmed hat for sun protection.
Don't forget to bring sunglasses, sunscreen, a compact backpack, along with drinking water (1–2 liters) and snacks like cakes, bananas, or energy gels to maintain endurance. Visitors should also prepare trekking poles if available and bring a mini trash bag to collect trash, contributing to preserving the fresh environment around the Nui Ba Den area.
3.3. Physical and Mental Preparation
To ensure the journey to conquer Nui Ba Den (Ba Den Mountain) goes smoothly, visitors should do light physical training about 1–2 weeks in advance, such as walking, climbing stairs, or short runs to increase endurance. Before climbing, one should eat lightly to have enough energy but avoid feeling full.
Throughout the journey, maintain a relaxed spirit, do not "race against time" but enjoy every moment, feel the natural beauty, and the fresh air of the Tay Ninh mountains. Good physical strength combined with a positive attitude will help visitors easily reach the summit of the "roof of the South" and have a truly memorable trekking experience.
4. The Trekking Journey and Experience Step-by-Step Up the "Roof of the South"
4.1. Starting from the Foot of the Mountain
The Nui Ba Den (Ba Den Mountain) trekking journey begins from the foot of the mountain, where the fresh air and lush green scenery bring an exhilarating feeling from the very first steps. Visitors can park their vehicles at the Sun World Ba Den Mountain parking lot, prepare personal belongings carefully, and do light warm-ups. Before starting the climb, many visitors often visit Chua Ba Den (Ba Den Pagoda) to offer incense for peace, as a way to send good luck and peace for the journey ahead.
4.2. The Middle Section
As you go higher, the journey to conquer Nui Ba Den (Ba Den Mountain) becomes more exciting. The middle section is both challenging and interesting, as visitors have to overcome natural stone steps, follow slopes shaded by forest trees, and listen to birdsong echoing in the peaceful space. The electricity poles or windy bends not only mark the way forward, but also moments when visitors can stop, take a deep breath to feel the grandeur of the Tay Ninh mountains. At many resting points, visitors will admire the panoramic view of the plains stretching out below.
4.3. Reaching the Summit, Touching the Clouds, and Admiring the Panoramic View of Tay Ninh
The moment of setting foot on the summit is the most rewarding part of the Nui Ba Den (Ba Den Mountain) trekking journey. From here, visitors can admire the majestic statue of Phat Ba Tay Bo Da Son (Lady Buddha Tay Bo Da Son), shining amidst the clouds, gaze at the modern Tay Ninh panorama below, and the sparkling Dau Tieng Lake in the distance.
The best times for sightseeing and photography are usually from 6:00–8:00 AM or 4:00–5:00 PM, when the gentle golden sunlight bathes the space. The feeling of "standing among clouds and sky", enjoying the mountain breeze, and the pride of reaching the "roof of the South" is an unforgettable experience for all visitors.
4.4. Descending by Cable Car
After conquering the summit, visitors can choose to descend by Van Son cable car, one of the most modern and safest cable car routes in Vietnam invested by Sun Group. The journey lasts about 8 minutes, offering spectacular panoramic views: the emerald Dau Tieng Lake, the vast Tay Ninh plains, and the trekking paths just conquered below. This is a moment of complete relaxation, as visitors rest, and reflect on their memorable journey, concluding the Nui Ba Den (Ba Den Mountain) trekking trip with a sense of satisfaction and pride.
After trekking, visitors can choose to descend the mountain by cable car to relax and admire the panoramic view of Tay Ninh. (Source: Compiled)
5. Notes and experience trekking Mount Ba Den
5.1. Go in groups, with a guide if it's your first time
For visitors trekking Mount Ba Den for the first time, going in groups is the safest and most effective choice. Climbing in groups helps support each other when encountering steep sections, fatigue, or complex terrain. Especially, if choosing the water pipe route or climbing in gloomy weather, visitors should go with a local guide who understands the terrain, can point out safe paths, and help handle arising situations. Avoid going alone, especially during the rainy season or when unfamiliar with the path, to ensure the journey to conquer the “rooftop of the South” is always complete and safe.
When trekking Ba Den mountain, always go in groups to ensure safety. (Source: Collected)
5.2. Always maintain hygiene and environmental awareness
Throughout the trekking Ba Den mountain journey, preserving the natural environment and spiritual space is extremely important. Visitors should prepare small trash bags to collect personal waste, and absolutely do not litter along the way. When passing through the Ba Pagoda area or other sacred stops, maintain order, respect the spiritual space, and other pilgrims.
5.3. Ensure physical safety
The journey to conquer Ba Den mountain requires endurance and attention to physical fitness. Visitors should walk at a moderate pace, rest when tired, and avoid overexertion that could lead to cramps or exhaustion. Drink water regularly in small sips to keep the body hydrated and avoid heatstroke. If it rains, absolutely do not continue moving on slippery rocks; instead, find a safe shelter and wait for the weather to stabilize. Listening to your body and moving at the right pace will make the trekking journey easier and more sustainable.
5.4. Common mistakes of new trekkers
Many new trekkers of Ba Den mountain often make some mistakes that make the journey more difficult. Common mistakes include carrying too heavy a backpack, wearing inappropriate shoes, or lacking drinking water. Some people climb too fast, easily run out of energy midway, and have to stop early. Additionally, not checking the weather forecast before going is also a reason why many climbs are interrupted. Thorough preparation, proper equipment, and a proactive mindset will help visitors have a safe and complete trekking trip.
The Ba Den mountain trekking journey is a complete experience of conquering and enjoying, where visitors can challenge themselves, immerse themselves in nature, and admire the majestic beauty of the “roof of the South”. Don't forget to end the trip with a cable car ride at Sun World Ba Den Mountain to admire the panoramic view of Tay Ninh from above, a moment that concludes the emotional and memorable trekking trip.
