1. Overview of Elephant Mountain An Lao (Hai Phong)
The shape of the mountain range reminds visitors of an elephant. (Source: Collection)
About 20 km from Hai Phong city center, Nui Voi (in An Lao commune) is a magnificent limestone mountain complex, standing out amidst a picturesque river landscape. Through long-term erosion by nature, the mountain range has taken the shape of an elephant curling up between heaven and earth, creating a unique and impressive scene.
Not only attractive for its natural beauty, Nui Voi An Lao (Hai Phong) is also a land of spiritual significance and heroic figures, associated with many glorious historical milestones of the nation. From the era of kings founding the country to the resistance wars against the French and Americans, this place was once an important battlefield, reflecting the patriotism and resilient spirit of the Vietnamese people.
Today, visitors to Nui Voi come not only to admire the beautiful natural scenery but also to return to their roots and commemorate the contributions of their ancestors in defending the country. With its special natural and historical values, the Nui Voi complex was recognized by the State as a national historical relic – scenic spot on April 28, 1962.
2. Exploring the Nui Voi An Lao (Hai Phong) Complex
2.1. Natural Features and Architecture
This limestone mountain complex is called Nui Voi because the central mountain range resembles a giant elephant casting its reflection on the water. In Eastern culture, elephants are symbols of strength, wisdom, and loyalty, carrying sacred and auspicious meanings. The name “Nui Voi” therefore not only evokes an image but also contains the cultural depth of this spiritually significant land.
The landscape around Nui Voi retains its wild and picturesque beauty, surrounded by the Lach Tray and Da Do rivers winding around the foot of the mountains. The area boasts many magnificent caves such as Gia Vi Cave, Chieng Cave, Trong Cave, and Ca Chep Cave… Inside are sparkling stalactites and stalagmites with unique shapes, formed over millions of years of rainwater erosion, possessing invaluable geological value.
Notably, Ho Voi Cave is also famous for a deep, mysterious well connected to the Da Do river. The local people believe that this “magic well” holds many mystical legends, contributing to the unique charm of Nui Voi An Lao.
Picturesque scenery of An Lao Elephant Mountain. (Source: Compilation)
2.2. Relics and spiritual structures
The An Lao Elephant Mountain tourist area is not only attractive for its natural landscape but also preserves profound cultural and historical values. Prominent within the complex is the ancient Long Hoa Pagoda, built in the 11th century during the Ly dynasty. The pagoda is a testament to the pure Buddhist spirit and the benevolent aspirations of the Vietnamese people. Having gone through many upheavals and war destructions, the pagoda now only has some ancient vestiges, recalling a prosperous period of Buddhism here.
Besides, Chi Lai Communal House, built in the 19th century, is also a special spiritual structure in the Elephant Mountain area. The house is made entirely of wood, with exquisite dragon and phoenix carvings, demonstrating the unique artistic and folk cultural level of the ancient Vietnamese people.
The ancient Long Hoa Pagoda is located on Voi Mountain. (Source: Collected)
3. Significance of Voi An Lao Mountain (Hai Phong)
3.1. National Archaeological Site
Voi Mountain is not only an attractive tourist destination but also an important national archaeological site, bearing the characteristic imprint of the Dong Son culture. In 1930, archaeologists discovered here many stone and bronze artifacts dating back to the period of King Hung founding and defending the nation.
These discoveries are vivid evidence of the formation and development of the wet-rice civilization, the ancient cultural roots of the Vietnamese nation.
3.2. Historical Significance – Fortress Protecting Hai Phong
Hundreds of years ago, Voi An Lao Mountain became an important strategic location. According to local historical records, this place was once a gathering and garrison base for Female General Le Chan, who contributed to the development of the ancient An Bien region, the predecessor of Hai Phong city today.
Temple of General Le Chan majestically located at the foot of Nui Voi. (Source: Collected)
In 1968, amidst the fierce war period, the Hai Phong Party Committee organized a secret meeting at Nui Voi, where many important decisions were made, contributing to the nation's victory. Today, Nui Voi An Lao remains a historical witness, preserving the resilient spirit and indomitable will of the Vietnamese people.
4. Outstanding tourist experiences at Nui Voi An Lao (Hai Phong)
4.1. Mountain climbing, cave exploration
Visitors to Nui Voi An Lao can freely explore mysterious cave systems such as Long Tien Cave, Bac Dau Cave, Voi Cave, or Carp Cave. Stepping deep into the mountain, visitors will admire magnificent stalactites. Each corner of the cave is a vivid natural painting, where visitors can take photos to capture memorable moments.
4.2. Nui Voi Resort Ecotourism Area
At the Nui Voi Resort ecotourism area, visitors can immerse themselves in a unique folk cultural space with many interesting experiences such as catching fish, rowing boats on the river, visiting ancient houses, and enjoying local cuisine with the rich flavors of the Northern Vietnamese countryside.
4.3. Nui Voi Festival
To commemorate the merits of the ancestors who built and preserved peace for the country, the people of An Lao commune organize the Nui Voi Festival annually to express gratitude, honor the patriotic tradition, and the spirit of national unity. The event is not only an occasion for spiritual gathering but also contributes to spreading profound humanistic values to a large number of visitors from all directions.
The festival is usually held in the first lunar month, attracting thousands of visitors and Buddhists from near and far. Participating in the festival, visitors can immerse themselves in the jubilant and vibrant atmosphere of cultural activities, palanquin processions, bonfires, folk games, and many performances imbued with local cultural identity.
Voi Mountain Festival with special artistic performances. (Source: Collected)
5. Suggested tourist destinations near Voi Mountain An Lao (Hai Phong)
To make the journey to explore the port city of Hai Phong more complete, after visiting Voi Mountain An Lao, tourists can combine visits to many other famous tourist destinations in the city. These stops will bring tourists a more comprehensive view of Hai Phong, from a land rich in historical and cultural traditions to majestic landscapes.
5.1. Cat Ba Island
Clear blue beach on Cat Ba Island. (Source: Collected)
Located about 30 km from Hai Phong city center, Cat Ba is known as the "green pearl" of the North, a resort paradise for those who want to return to a fresh natural space. There are many transportation options such as boats, ferries, or cable cars, among which the Sun World Cat Ba cable car is a favorite experience for many due to its convenience and time-saving.
The modern cable car line connects Cat Hai station with Phu Long station, with a total length of 3,955m, shortening the travel time to only about 15 minutes. From high above, visitors can take in the majestic scenery of mountains and the vast sea.
Modern 3-wire cable car Sun World Cat Ba. (Source: Collected)
Upon arriving on the island, visitors can begin their exploration journey with famous beaches such as Cat Co 1, Cat Co 2, Hon Dua… The clear blue sea, fine sandy beaches, and gentle waves make this a perfect stopover to relieve fatigue after stressful working days.
Additionally, visitors can conquer the summit of the Than Cong Fortress mountain – a famous attraction on the island. From this vantage point, you can gaze upon the majestic Cat Ba archipelago, with its mountains, bays, and small boats appearing amidst the clear blue water – a particularly unforgettable experience in your island exploration journey.
5.2. Do Son Beach
About 20 km from Hai Phong city center, Do Son Beach is one of the most famous and long-standing beaches in the North. It attracts visitors with its long stretch of fine sand and calm waves.
The Do Son tourist area is divided into three main zones: Zone 1, Zone 2, and Zone 3, each with its own unique beauty. Visitors can swim, stroll along the sandy shore, or experience vibrant recreational activities such as kayaking, jet skiing, and parasailing.
The cuisine here is also very rich, with fresh and delicious shrimp, crab, squid, green crab, mantis shrimp… prepared at beachfront restaurants. Here are some recommendations for famous seafood restaurants:
Hoa Lan Seafood Restaurant: Located near the beach, with a spacious atmosphere, it stands out for its steamed, stir-fried, and grilled seafood dishes. Address: Yet Kieu, Van Huong, Do Son.
Do Son 689 Restaurant: Open all day; offers a variety of dishes from steaming, grilling to seafood hot pot. Address: Yet Kieu, Do Son.
Con So Restaurant: Open-air space, sea view, serving a diverse range of Asian-European dishes. Address: Located in the Do Rong tourist area, Hai Phong.
5.3. Bao Dai Villa
This structure was built in the early 20th century and was once the private retreat for King Bao Dai and Queen Nam Phuong during their visits to the North. Over time and through wartime upheavals, the original mansion was damaged, but the villa today has been restored based on the old design. It is a relic associated with the last king of the Nguyen dynasty, a rare remaining trace of the feudal dynasty in the North.
The interior space of the villa displays many valuable historical documents, images, and artifacts, helping visitors understand more about a special period in the nation's history. From the balcony, visitors can gaze upon the panoramic view of Do Son beach, making this place a very artistic and interesting check-in spot.
The resort of the last king of Vietnam's feudal dynasty. (Source: Collected)
5.4. Bach Dang Giang Historical Site
A sacred destination that visitors should not miss when coming to Hai Phong is the Bach Dang Giang Historical Site, where the imprints of famous naval battles in the nation's history are preserved.
On the majestic Bach Dang River, King Ngo Quyen once planted wooden stakes in the riverbed, creating a glorious victory that annihilated the Nam Han army in 938. Later, this place continued to witness the heroic exploits of National Duke Tiet Che Tran Hung Dao and Le Dai Hanh in the cause of resisting foreign invaders, creating a golden page in the history of the Vietnamese nation.
Today, the Bach Dang Giang Historical Site is not only a memorial site but also a special cultural and spiritual space, where visitors come to commemorate the merits of heroes, learn about history and national culture. Notably, the historical site is open for free, does not engage in tourism services, offering a rare solemn and tranquil space in the heart of the port city.
6. Travel Experience to Voi Mountain An Lao (Hai Phong)
The road to Voi Mountain An Lao is quite steep, with many sections of exposed rock and dense bushes, so visitors should choose light, sweat-absorbent clothing. A pair of sports shoes or hiking boots with good grip will make your movement easier and safer.
When visiting, tourists should maintain a solemn attitude, choose polite attire, and limit noise to ensure the quiet space of the sacred place. At the same time, it is necessary to avoid writing, carving names, or scribbling on rock walls and Buddha statues, contributing to the preservation of the landscape and the cultural-spiritual values of the historical site.
Voi Mountain has many beautiful viewpoints, but the ideal time for photography is early morning or late afternoon, when the mist still lingers on the mountain and the sunlight bathes the valley in gold.
Voi Mountain An Lao (Hai Phong) is not only a unique complex of scenic spots but also a place that preserves heroic historical pages along with sacred cultural-spiritual values. This is not only a destination to admire but also a place for everyone to return to their roots, and to be more proud of their homeland's heritage. Don't miss the opportunity to experience it firsthand, capture memorable moments, and share your feelings about the journey to explore Voi Mountain.
