Those fond of mountain climbing and trekking but not having sufficient time for long trips could contemplate Chua Chan Mountain in Xuan Loc District, Dong Nai Province which can be easily accessible by either motorcycle or bus in one day.

Around 130 kilometers southeast of HCMC, Chua Chan is the second highest mountain in the south of the nation, at 800 meters above sea level, after the 986-meter-high Ba Den Mountain in Tay Ninh Province. The lesser-known mountain has in recent years become a destination for tourists thanks to its magnificent scenery and breathtaking caves.

The mountain has gained fame with a pagoda called Buu Quang on the peak and a strange banyan tree with three roots nestled in the middle of the mountain, which has drawn attention from large numbers of pilgrims in neighboring provinces.

From HCMC, tourists can start their journey along National Highway No.1 to reach Long Khanh Town, and then drive about 30 kilometers on Provincial Road 766 to Xuan Loc Town and continue another three kilometers to get to the mountain.

Upon arrival, travelers have two options to reach the peak of the mountain. The first option is to take a cable car ride costing at VND200,000 (US$8.78) for a round trip or negotiate around 400 stone steps to the mountain top. Along the stairway, there are souvenir shops and food stalls.

After conquering the mountain, tourists can camp overnight on the summit with a rented hammock at VND60,000 per night in order to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.

The 800-meter-high Chua Chan Mountain in Dong Nai Province is recognized as a national scenic spot by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism in 2012 and has since then drawn many tourists  From the top of the mountain, nature lovers can admire pristine nature surrounded by mountains, tropical jungles and blue sky Pilgrims burn incense and pray at Buu Quang Pagoda on the peak of the mountain

SGT/VietNamNet