As March arrives, white rhododendrons and red maple leaves bloom across the ancient villas and mountain peaks of Bach Ma National Park, creating a breathtaking landscape reminiscent of Europe.

At the summit of Bach Ma (Hue), the season’s most stunning scenery unfolds as white rhododendrons burst into bloom, blending harmoniously with other vibrant flowers.

Bach Ma National Park is a pristine destination known for its extraordinary beauty, often described as a “paradise on earth.” The park’s peak is frequently shrouded in mist, and as the sun sets, the landscape becomes even more mesmerizing.

A unique natural and cultural heritage

Bach Ma is Vietnam’s only remaining primeval forest stretching from the East Sea to the Vietnam-Laos border. With its picturesque scenery, cool climate, and French-style villas reminiscent of Da Lat, the park is also home to a rich diversity of rare tropical flora and fauna.

Spanning a total area of 37,487 hectares, Bach Ma National Park offers visitors the chance to explore its diverse ecosystem, admire its majestic mountain landscapes, and experience a unique climate where all four seasons can be felt within a single day.

Travelers often recommend visiting the park between March and December, as this period provides the best weather conditions - dry and free from heavy rains, making it ideal for exploration.

Exploring the ancient villas and rhododendron forests

At the beginning of March, white rhododendrons bloom in abundance, covering the mountain peaks and surrounding forests.

These small trees, ranging from 10 to 26 feet (3 to 8 meters) in height, thrive at elevations above 3,280 feet (1,000 meters).

To witness them up close, visitors must trek through dense forests and pass abandoned French villas that have stood for decades.

These rhododendrons have flourished in the villa gardens for generations. The vast and lush surroundings create an immersive experience, allowing visitors to reconnect with nature and soak in its purest beauty.

Maple trees and a European-like landscape

Bach Ma is also home to the sau sau tree, a species with distinctive three-lobed leaves. In March, its leaves gradually turn red, adding to the park’s picturesque scenery. Many refer to it as the "Bach Ma maple" due to its resemblance to traditional maple trees, which have five-lobed leaves.

Thanks to the cool climate, maple trees thrive near the summit, particularly in humid areas. Around the historic French-style villas, naturally grown maple trees stand tall, some nearly a century old. Unlike in other regions, where maple leaves typically turn red in autumn, the transformation in Bach Ma occurs between January and February, marking the arrival of spring.

The legacy of Vong Hai Dai and Bach Ma’s historic past

One of the park’s most prominent landmarks is Vong Hai Dai, a scenic viewpoint standing at 4,600 feet (1,400 meters) above sea level.

During the French colonial era, the mid-mountain area was developed into a summer retreat, featuring approximately 139 villas. Today, Bach Ma National Park has become a favored destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Hai Mi