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Nestled amidst the majestic mountains of the Truong Son range, the route from Phong Nha to Khe Sanh via the Western Truong Son Road is a rare journey where nature and culture enthusiasts can find a blend of history and pristine beauty. Although less popular than other trekking routes in Northwest Vietnam, this route offers a worthwhile experience with its unique scenery and unforgettable stories.
The route from Phong Nha to Khe Sanh via the Western Truong Son Road is a rare journey, offering many experiences for Van Hai and his team.
The unexpected beauty of Khe Sanh
Khe Sanh – a small town once a famous battlefield in history – now surprises visitors with its blend of modernity and the tranquility of the mountains and forests. Giant wind turbines stand out against the sea of clouds, creating a spectacular scene. "Although I heard the chances of seeing clouds here are very high, I wasn't lucky enough to encounter the sea of clouds this time," shared Le Van Hai (also known as Hai Anh), a traveler from Hanoi. However, simply driving around the hills, visitors can find countless photo opportunities with breathtaking views.
The giant turbines of wind power projects stand out against the sea of clouds, creating a spectacular sight.
Khe Sanh is not just a place to admire the scenery, but also a space to feel the interplay between the past and the present. Historical relics stand silently alongside modern structures, adding to the majestic beauty of this town.
Legend of Western Truong Son
The Western Trường Sơn route is an excellent choice for the journey from Phong Nha to Khe Sanh. Approximately 230 km long, the road winds through pristine mountains and dense forests, creating a vast, unspoiled landscape with virtually no human footprints. Hai shared: “We only encountered a few small villages and rarely saw any people. This made me feel incredibly small amidst the vastness of nature.”
Enjoy the picturesque scenery along the way.
Along the way, travelers can enjoy the fresh air and the majestic mountain scenery. However, careful preparation regarding fuel is essential, as gas stations are almost non-existent along this route. Hai's group was fortunate to be using an Aprilia SR GT scooter with a large fuel capacity, enough for the entire journey without needing to refuel.
Memorable moments on the journey
One of the unexpected highlights of the trip was the experience of crossing the Long Dai River. "We happened to meet a local and were invited to join a rapids crossing on this river. It was a fun and exciting experience, as the small boat sped through the rocky, uneven sections of water," Hai recounted. Along the way, the cool water combined with the sound of the rocks crashing against the rocks created a feeling of both suspense and enjoyment.
The sea of clouds captivates the hearts of travel enthusiasts.
In addition, this route offers opportunities to enjoy peaceful moments, such as stopping by streams in Phong Nha, or driving amidst a gentle sunset. "We swam in the streams, took photos, and felt the tranquility of nature – experiences that can't be found anywhere else," said Hai.
Challenges and advice for backpackers
Although this route isn't as challenging in terms of terrain as other routes in Northwest Vietnam, caution is still necessary. Sections with gravel, late afternoon fog, or slippery surfaces can be dangerous. Hai emphasized: "Choosing a good vehicle and maintaining it well before the trip is extremely important. Also, bring your own food and water because there are almost no shops or restaurants along this route."
The weather here also offered a pleasant surprise. Despite traveling in September – the hottest time of summer – the climate along the route was very cool and comfortable. "The clear blue sky, fluffy white clouds, and fresh air made me feel like I was reliving old memories that are hard to find in Hanoi these days," the traveler recounted.
230 km of sparsely populated area, with only towering mountains and the sounds of the ancient forest.
The journey from Phong Nha to Khe Sanh is not just a trip through famous landmarks, but also an opportunity to connect with nature, overcome challenges, and discover oneself. The primeval forests, the poetic rivers, and the unspoiled beauty of this place have touched the hearts of anyone who has ever set foot here.
“Phong Nha – Khe Sanh is a road trip I will remember forever. It not only provided a relaxing experience but also opened up a new perspective on the hidden beauty of our country,” Hai concluded. For those seeking a memorable journey, this route is definitely a must-see.
