Buzz
Chua Chan Mountain, where clouds drift gracefully.
The Path to Chua Chan
Embark on the journey to conquer Chua Chan Mountain, also known as Gia Ray or Gia Lao Mountain, located in Xuan Loc district, Dong Nai province. With an elevation of 837 meters, it stands as the second-highest peak in the South (after Ba Den Mountain in Tay Ninh). The mountain is approximately 100 km away from Ho Chi Minh City, along National Highway 1A towards Dong Nai. There are various ways to explore this mountain, such as taking the path to the pagoda. However, based on our experience climbing Gia Lao Mountain, following the power line route to the summit is more manageable.
Follow my footsteps in conquering Chua Chan Mountain!
Dedicated feet on an adventurous journey.
Starting at 14:00 from the mountain base, it took us 3 hours to reach the summit, hoping to catch the sunset. The ascent is steep and demanding but not overly challenging (especially for those who have climbed Ba Den Mountain). The path traverses cashew orchards, bamboo forests, occasionally encountering forest workers cutting and bundling dozens of bamboo shoots to sell downhill.
The view from the middle of the mountain.
However, things are not as simple as they seem. After covering one-third of the journey, the sky opens up with rain. Despite walking beneath the forest canopy, raindrops find their way through, dampening our gear. The slopes become more challenging, and the baggage gets heavier with every step due to the rain. Yet, determined feet persist in each step of the expedition.
Individuals hauling bamboo down from the summit.
As we ascend, the mist thickens, and the air grows colder. Higher altitudes bring more mist, and the weather becomes chillier.
Craving the wilderness adventure
Originally, the northern mountains and forests are the distinctive specialties, so the desire to stand on the summit, where clouds and wind abound, only fuels me more. Tirelessly taking each step until I lift my head, seeing the mist has dissipated, the sunset light gleams through the peaks, the expansive scenery unfolds before my eyes, and the feeling of fatigue is completely forgotten.
The moment of self-conquest.
Gazing into the world.
The sounds of the land and sky beckon the soul.
Far from the bustling urban life
From the mountain top, it seems like the city is just a tilt of the head away, where the vibrant lights sparkle below, yet everything becomes distant. It's like standing in the darkness, observing the flow of life outside, where oneself is free from any entanglements, just sitting still, savoring life alone.
The serene space on the mountain top instills in us a sense of relaxation, free from worries and troubles. Quickly preparing firewood for a barbecue before nightfall, two young boys earnestly try to ignite a fire from the damp branches, then cheer joyfully as a flicker of flame appears.
The city seems just a tilt of the head away…
…yet all worries seem to vanish.
Awakening above the layers of clouds
Throughout the chilling night of relentless rain, we huddled in the tent, hoping for a quick break in the morning. After a restless night, upon waking up, we opened our eyes to find ourselves immersed in a sea of clouds.
Opening my eyes, finding myself submerged in clouds.
The mountain peak, veiled in the morning mist, then the moment the sun dawned, radiating a magical light full of enchantment, what I call the color of happiness, blanketing the entire surrounding space. The color of happiness only appears for a brief moment, gently gliding over the scenery, leaving hearts stirred. Time seems to stand still in that moment, as the soul and nature harmonize.
The morning light of dawn captivates like a enchanting spell on people.
Hastily boiling some water, brewing a cup of coffee, and then just gazing at paradise, when an entire sky of happiness awakens every sense within, arousing emotions that the camera cannot capture in full.
There are emotions that cannot be captured by a camera.
The early morning mist, bone-chilling, drifting from ear to ear, seeping into soaked clothing, permeating the skin, flesh, and even the poetic soul. Shivering hands, gently turning the lens, I capture a few shots, letting the moments flow through my eyes.
Capture every beautiful moment through the lens.
Clouds flowing beneath our feet.
Although we've climbed mountains several times, this is the first time we've captured this moment standing amidst countless clouds, sunlight shining over the top of our heads, wind rustling the grass, hearts filled with awe.
Above is the clouds…
…below is also nothing but clouds.
A sky to be cherished
Until returning to the city, I still fondly remember the moments on the mountain top that morning, far from the hustle and bustle of busy life, free from worries. Then suddenly realizing that, while still young, even if the shoulders ache and the feet tire, try to explore as much as possible to fill life with experiences.
A sky to be cherished.
Notes for a complete journey
Wishing you a truly joyful journey, where you'll also witness the hues of happiness and find contentment in the marvelous scenery of nature. Let's share the experience of hiking Gia Lao (Chua Chan mountain) together.
Author: Dinh Quyen Sinh
* This article participates in the Mytour Golocal program.
Mytour Golocal is a blogging program introducing beautiful destinations across Vietnam. It's a wonderful opportunity to promote local tourism to everyone. For each qualifying article, you'll receive 800,000 VND and a chance to become a contributor with Mytour. Details about the program can be found at: https://www.Mytour/en-vn/golocal
