• VM Car
  • VM Car

Monkey Mountains In One Day

I’ve always been captivated by nature and cultural experiences, and one of my most memorable adventures has been exploring the hidden gems of Monkey Mountain (also known as Son Tra Mountain) in Da Nang, Vietnam. Read more
  • Trip start
    August 25, 2024

    Arrival at Monkey Mountain

    September 25, 2024 in Vietnam ⋅ ☀️ 29 °C

    The journey to Monkey Mountain begins as you ascend its winding roads, and it’s here that the excitement starts. Located about 10 kilometers northeast of Da Nang’s city center, Monkey Mountain stands tall at over 690 meters above sea level. The drive up offers incredible panoramic views of the coastline and the city skyline. On the way, I felt the breeze cool down as the higher altitude provided a nice break from the coastal heat.

    While the mountain is officially named Son Tra, it’s affectionately referred to as “Monkey Mountain” because of the rare species of monkeys that inhabit the area, including the endangered Red-shanked douc langur. It’s a little slice of paradise for nature lovers and hikers like me.

    For more informationa about Monkey Mountains Da Nang, you can read https://vmcar.com.vn/monkey-mountain-da-nang-vi…
    Read more

  • Linh Ung Pagoda: A Sanctuary of Serenity

    September 25, 2024 in Vietnam ⋅ ☀️ 29 °C

    Linh Ung Pagoda is undoubtedly one of the most famous landmarks on Monkey Mountain. From the moment I arrived, I was taken aback by its sheer scale and spiritual beauty. The pagoda is set on a hill overlooking the sea, and it offers a stunning view of Da Nang’s coastline stretching far into the distance.

    What immediately caught my attention was the 67-meter-tall statue of the Lady Buddha (Quan Am), standing majestically against the backdrop of blue skies. This is the tallest statue of its kind in Vietnam, and it’s visible from many parts of the city. As I walked closer, I was able to appreciate the intricate details of the statue, which stands as a symbol of peace and protection for the local fishermen.

    The pagoda itself is a peaceful place, filled with beautiful statues of the Buddha and serene gardens where I spent some time reflecting and soaking in the tranquility. The architecture of the pagoda mixes traditional Vietnamese design with modern elements, creating a unique blend that’s truly mesmerizing.

    The atmosphere here was deeply spiritual, with the scent of incense lingering in the air and the soft sound of prayers being chanted by the monks. It felt like a place where time slowed down, offering me a chance to find a bit of peace in the midst of my journey.

    After spending a couple of hours at Linh Ung Pagoda, I headed toward Ban Co Peak, one of the most exhilarating parts of my trip.

    See more about Linh Ung Pagoda at https://vmcar.com.vn/linh-ung-pagoda-son-tra-da…
    Read more

  • Ban Co Peak: Touching the Sky

    September 25, 2024 in Vietnam ⋅ ☀️ 27 °C

    Ban Co Peak is the highest point of Monkey Mountain, and reaching it feels like an achievement in itself. The road to the peak is not for the faint-hearted – it’s a steep, narrow trail that winds through the thick forest. But trust me, the journey is worth it.

    Once I arrived at the peak, I was greeted with what felt like a 360-degree view of the world below. The city of Da Nang, with its bustling streets, seemed so small from this height, while the coastline and the islands on the horizon stretched endlessly before me. The feeling of standing so high above everything was humbling and exhilarating at the same time.

    Ban Co Peak is named after an ancient legend about two deities who played a chess game on the summit. Legend has it that one deity got so frustrated after losing the game that he stomped his foot and flew away, leaving the chessboard behind. A stone chessboard has been placed at the peak in honor of this story, and I found myself taking a moment to enjoy the legend while basking in the beauty of the surrounding nature.

    The air at the top of Ban Co was incredibly refreshing, and I took a deep breath as I gazed out at the endless blue of the South China Sea. Up here, everything felt peaceful, and I knew that this moment would stay with me long after I left Monkey Mountain.
    Read more

  • Tien Sa Beach: A Tranquil Retreat

    September 25, 2024 in Vietnam ⋅ ☀️ 29 °C

    After exploring the mountain’s heights, I made my way down to Tien Sa Beach, a hidden gem located on the northern side of Monkey Mountain. This small, secluded beach was the perfect place to unwind after a day of adventure.

    Tien Sa Beach is much quieter than some of Da Nang’s more famous beaches, and that’s exactly what makes it so special. The soft, white sand and clear, turquoise water create a serene atmosphere that’s ideal for relaxation. I spent the afternoon here, enjoying the calm waves and the sound of the wind rustling through the nearby trees.

    What I loved most about Tien Sa Beach was its untouched beauty. Unlike the more developed beaches, Tien Sa feels like a peaceful retreat where nature is still the main attraction. I spent my time swimming in the crystal-clear water, lying on the sand, and simply enjoying the quietness of the beach.

    As the sun began to set, the sky turned into a painting of orange, pink, and purple hues, casting a magical glow over the water. It was the perfect way to end my day at Monkey Mountain.
    Read more

    Trip end
    August 25, 2024