Conquering Bach Moc Luong Tu - an unforgettable first love

Bach Moc Luong Tu, also known by its original name Ky Quan San, is located between Sin Suoi Ho commune (Phong Tho district, Lai Chau province) and Sang Ma Sao commune (Bat Xat district, Lao Cai province). This mountain peak is about 3046 m high, in the list of top 4 highest mountains in Vietnam, just behind Fansipan, Putaleng and Pusilung. Although the name is often confused with Bach Moc Luong in China, in fact Bach Moc Luong Tu is the name given to this mountain by the trekker community, while its original name is Ky Quan San.

"I was intrigued by the story a sister told me on a previous trip, then we made an appointment to trek to a place she liked. In the end, we decided to climb Bach Moc Luong Tu," Trung Anh - a photographer in Hanoi who just conquered this mountain peak excitedly shared.

This route is one of the must-see attractions for those who have a passion for conquering nature and challenging themselves. The Bach Moc Luong Tu mountain climbing journey can start from both directions, that is, from Lao Cai province and Lai Chau province. Usually, the direction from Lao Cai is more preferred, because on this route there are pre-developed trails, helping to reduce some of the difficulty of moving through the forest. On the Lao Cai side, there is also a rest stop at an altitude of 2100 m, helping trekkers to stop to rest, recharge and prepare for the final leg of the journey.

The distance from the foot of the mountain to the top is about 30 km, passing through many different types of terrain, from green grassy hills, fresh bamboo forests, dense tall forests, to steep mossy cliffs. Trung Anh said: "For someone who is also in the process of physical training like me, I find that conquering this peak is not too difficult. There are many young friends and even uncles and aunts, or some who are also climbing for the first time like me. Personally, I find this sport to be done with willpower, not physical strength."

For those who love and intend to conquer Bach Moc Luong Tu, perhaps you should plan to climb the mountain during the transitional period, between spring and summer. At this time, the weather is not too cold, nor too hot. Climbing in the summer, when the sun is harsh, you have to travel long distances, which often makes the body quickly dehydrated and feel tired. However, climbing in the winter is also an experience worth trying, in years with very cold weather, the white mountain climbing route with snow covering the surrounding area is extremely poetic.

"I was lucky to go on a day when the weather was quite stable, so the path was much easier. However, I wore a pair of shoes not suitable for climbing, which made the climb painful and very difficult," Trung Anh said. It can be said that conquering Bach Moc Luong Tu in any season is beautiful, but make sure to avoid climbing on drizzly days, when the path becomes slippery and dangerous. Because the journey is quite difficult, it is recommended that participants go with a group, use a porter service and have a guide, and avoid going alone.

It is no coincidence that Bach Moc Luong Tu is loved by many trekkers, because throughout the journey, the Bach Moc Luong Tu trekking route has created an extremely irresistible attraction. For the most part, the whole process of conquering the mountain only has to go up and a little flat road. Therefore, the journey will be divided into two quite long and tiring sections: the long road (about 2 km), and the slope from 1600 m, with a slope up to 2100 m.

Bach Moc Luong Tu is not only a mountain with rich vegetation, but also a natural treasure with a mysterious primeval forest. Rare flowers and unique plants bloom in the wild nature, giving those who love to conquer an interesting and new experience. That is also what Bach Moc Luong Tu made Trung Anh "fall in love" with in the first meeting, he confided: "Standing in a position surrounded by majestic high mountains, makes me feel so small in the middle of this nature".

However, the real impression came not only from the beautiful nature but also from the affection and solidarity of the entire climbing team that Trung Anh felt. Conquering Bach Moc Luong Tu peak was so challenging, but the words "keep it up" from each person passing by him, seemed to give Trung Anh more motivation and strength to try to complete this journey.

As a photographer, it was not surprising that at the end of this trip, he had for himself an album of photos of the incredibly beautiful mountains and forests here. He confided: "As a photographer, I often observe everything around me and feel the scenery slowly. I also often look for wild places to take pictures that capture the true nature of the mountains and forests."

Bach Moc Luong Tu's appearance will surely make anyone who conquers him fall in love:

Climbing Bach Moc Luong Tu is a challenging journey and requires careful preparation. Here are some valuable tips if you intend to conquer this mountain:

- If you choose to climb the mountain from Phong Tho, Lai Chau, remember to ask for permission at the border post in this area. This helps ensure safety and compliance with local regulations.

-Before you set off on your journey, learn about the mountain. This includes the terrain, weather conditions, and possible emergencies.

- Exercise before climbing. You should practice basic exercises such as climbing stairs, walking, jogging, etc.

- Weather is an important factor. Check the weather carefully before your trip. Avoid climbing on days with bad weather, including heavy rain, landslides, and floods.

- Spend 3 days 2 nights or 4 days 3 nights to conquer this mountain. Because the road is quite long and full of hardships and challenges.

- Keep the mountain clean by always picking up trash after each rest. This helps maintain the beauty of the mountain and protect the natural environment.

- Absolutely do not separate too far from the group, because it will increase the risk of getting lost, this is really dangerous.

- Weather after rain can make roads slippery. Be careful when moving and always ensure the safety of yourself and your teammates.

- Bring warm clothes because the weather in the forest as well as on the mountain top is very cold.

Ha Mai Trinh - Photo: Trung Anh