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Tay Con Linh is considered the highest peak in the Northeast mountainous region of Vietnam. Originating from the upper reaches of the Chay River, this mountain range lies deep within the districts of Hoang Su Phi and Vi Xuyen in Ha Giang province. The highest peak of Tay Con Linh is 2428 meters, characterized by its high mountain terrain. At the foot of the mountain, the climate is tropical monsoon, while the summit has a temperate climate typical of high altitudes. Temperatures decrease with altitude, so the summit is always shrouded in cold, foggy, and cloud-covered areas, creating an indescribable, wild, and majestic beauty.
The sacred land of Ha Giang is called Tay Con Linh.
Taking a break from her office life, Linh Phan (26 years old, Quang Ninh) recently shared her experience of climbing Tay Con Linh mountain: "Actually, at first I didn't intend to go climbing this time because I was worried that after the climb I wouldn't be healthy enough to participate in the Half Marathon the following week. But one beautiful day, while browsing Facebook, I saw a post from someone recruiting members to climb the Tay Con Linh route, so I decided to check it out. Seeing that the mountain was quite easy to climb and the scenery was very beautiful, I decided to join the group to conquer it right away."
The calls of birds echoing through the cliffs, the chirping of insects in the tranquil space, make visitors feel as if they have wandered into a fairytale land only seen in science fiction films.
Tay Con Linh is not only a sacred mountain but also home to many diverse ethnic communities such as the La Chi, Dao, Nung, and many others. Their lives are closely intertwined with nature, and they possess unique customs, traditions, and beliefs.
Legend tells of Tay Con Linh as the birthplace of Saint La Chi, who imparted to the people the secrets of farming, hunting, and community building. The area is also renowned for its diverse flora and fauna, with primeval forests containing many rare tree species and a wide variety of animals. This creates an attractive environment for the convergence of many rare bird species.
The ideal time to hike is during the dry season, starting in late September and lasting until April. During this period, you have the opportunity to experience all the grandeur of the landscape, from the vibrant golden rice terraces in autumn, to the cascading waterfalls in April, or the brilliant red rhododendron blossoms in early spring.
The whole group stopped to rest by a small waterfall in the middle of the forest.
Having gone trekking before, this was Linh Phan's first trip in a group she didn't know. Sharing with Travellive, she said: "At first, I was very hesitant. As a girl, joining a group of strangers and climbing a high mountain made me a little apprehensive. Also, I was worried that there wouldn't be anyone to take pictures for me. Although the main purpose of hiking is to connect with nature and relieve stress, having beautiful photos to bring back is always better. In the end, I took the risk, considering it an experience to step outside my comfort zone. And indeed, fate smiled upon me; I had a wonderful trip with everyone and took many beautiful photos."
The journey to conquer Tay Con Linh begins with a 6km motorbike ride from the village to the foot of the climbing point. This section of the road is very bad, requiring only skilled local drivers to navigate the rough, rocky terrain. The route isn't too long, but you'll get to pass through the houses of the villagers, admire the terraced rice fields, and cross babbling streams.
Linh Phan recalled: "We crossed the forest, traveling on dirt, gravel, and sometimes even muddy roads. And it wasn't a one-way trip to the summit; we had to stop twice, just so the bikes could rest after each exhausting stretch of climbing up the steep slopes. I had climbed a few mountain peaks before, but this was truly the route that left the deepest impression on me."
The majestic natural landscape and impressive vegetation offer countless fascinating discoveries for curious travelers.
During their journey to conquer Tay Con Linh, curious travelers will discover many interesting things, not only about the unique culture but also about the stunning beauty of the mountainous region's nature. They will admire the landscapes that wild nature offers, something rarely found in city life.
The path to the summit of Tay Con Linh Mountain leads through a series of dense and pristine forests, home to diverse vegetation, from centuries-old trees to herbaceous plants and lush green reeds. With each step upwards, visitors will experience the ever-changing landscape, from tranquil forests to mysterious, hidden areas. The area has a cold, humid climate, so it's not uncommon to see moss-covered trees and bizarre tree trunks growing on top of other trees, creating a stunning and incredibly mysterious natural landscape.
The journey was memorable not only because we conquered the highest peak in Northeast Vietnam and explored the majestic nature, but also because of the companionship we shared with new friends.
Throughout the trip, every memory was truly unforgettable for Linh Phan. From everyone sitting around the campfire, the fragrant smell of roasted potatoes, and the stories that connected the whole group. It wasn't fancy food, but the experience of eating roasted potatoes high in the mountains gave her a unique feeling, adding a special touch to the trip.
"When I got to eat a piece of hot roasted pork leg, just taken off the fire, biting into the crispy skin was so satisfying. And I'll probably always remember the drinking session in Northwest Vietnam that afternoon, getting me drunk. That day, our group decided to go down the mountain to the porter's house to eat and drink comfortably, and then I realized, 'Ah, the porters' enthusiasm and thoughtfulness are all genetic.' From the porter's grandparents to his parents, everyone was very hospitable and treated us very thoughtfully, from the food to the drinks, so that day was truly a memorable meal," Linh Phan recalled.
The rays of light piercing through the primeval forest were as beautiful as a film scene.
Notes for those who want to conquer Tay Con Linh.
Tay Con Linh is a newly emerging mountain climbing route with an altitude of 2428m, completely conquestable for all ages, as long as you have sufficient physical fitness and perseverance. Most trips are meticulously prepared by porters; you only need to take a bus to Ha Giang City, and the porters will take care of everything else. Based on her experience climbing several peaks before, Linh Phan advises those planning to climb Tay Con Linh or other peaks to wear brightly colored and eye-catching clothing. This will increase your visibility in a group and help you take stunning photos amidst the lush green forest. Especially, don't forget to bring lightweight, quick-drying clothing. If climbing in winter, thermal shirts and windbreakers are two things you should prioritize.
In addition, bring cloth gloves in case you have to cling to branches or tree trunks on the way up the mountain, which could injure your hands. Prepare a hat, arm sleeves, a power bank, emergency medicine, and basic first aid supplies. According to Linh Phan, for a 2-day, 1-night trip like Tay Con Linh, tourists should also bring an extra set of clothes to change into the next day. Although it's an easy route, participants should exercise at least a week before climbing to ensure they are in good health and can fully enjoy the trip.
Another glimpse into Vietnamese tourism that you may not have yet experienced.
"A good pair of shoes and a hiking stick will help you a lot when walking on muddy, slippery paths. If you don't have a stick, the porter can cut bamboo branches from the roadside for you. I think a stick is really essential for the trip; it's both a support to help you conserve energy and helps you find your way when you encounter muddy areas. The porter will ensure you have enough food and water throughout the trip, but I think you should also bring your own water because on the way down the mountain, the drinking water will be spring water boiled over a wood fire, and it's unavoidable that the smell of charcoal will linger in the water, which might be difficult to drink for those who aren't used to it."
For those with a history of low blood pressure or poor health, it's a good idea to bring some snacks and sweets. Finally, because this is a new and not very high trail, there's currently only one rest area, about 15-30 minutes' walk from the summit. The rest area is quite small, a bit muddy, and the toilets aren't as close to the rest area as on some other peaks, requiring a few minutes' walk and not very clean. Actually, when going mountain climbing, everyone is determined to immerse themselves in nature, so I'm just mentioning this beforehand so everyone can prepare mentally," Linh Phan enthusiastically shared.
Thorough preparation is also a way to fully experience a journey.
