Buzz
If luck takes you to Forbidden Mountain – the 'Dalat of the Western Region', on a day veiled in clouds, you'll forget you're amidst the perennial heat of the Southern region.
Explore An Giang tourism: Discovering the 'Dalat of the Western Region'.
As summer arrives, the land and sky of the Southern region are always scorching hot. Yet, just about 15 minutes of aerial ride, the intense heat vanishes, leaving only a serene azure lake in sight, accompanied by a gentle, cool breeze. Sitting amidst flower-covered hills, one can't help but marvel at the resemblance to Dalat.
Located around the slopes of Forbidden Mountain (Tinh Bien district, An Giang province) at an altitude of approximately 500m, the scenic landscape of Thuy Liem Lake and the monumental sites of Big Buddha Temple, Van Linh Pagoda, and the statue of Maitreya Buddha not only offer picturesque views but also serve as refuges from the scorching heat of summer days.
To fully immerse in the refreshing air and magnificent nature of Forbidden Mountain, it's recommended to take the cable car, priced at 155,000 VND for a round trip. Although the cable car system at Forbidden Mountain doesn't boast extravagant features compared to others across the country, the gradual ascent and views of the plains below, adorned with forests resembling tiny green dots, evoke tranquil emotions.
Comparing the tourist area of Forbidden Mountain to Dalat might be a stretch, but the idyllic natural scenery here often triggers daydreams. The azure lake, smooth as glass. Sitting on a rock under the shade of ancient banyan trees, listening to the wind rustle through the leaves, it soothes the soul. Here, a small hill adorned with a variety of vibrant flowers and grasses adds an extra layer of fragrance to the scenery.
According to a local fish vendor, on days when the clouds descend, it's no different from Sapa here. Clouds spill down from the mountaintop to the lake's surface, enveloping everything for about 5-10 minutes before dispersing. This spectacle often occurs early in the morning or before rain sets in.
After a satisfying stroll, if hunger strikes, indulge in some authentic Mekong Delta snacks like boiled sweet potatoes, sponge cake, silkworm cake, or savory pork hash, all served at hand and reasonably priced. Especially noteworthy is the wild vegetable pancake, a dish that makes anyone who loves greens drool.
Priced between 10,000 and 20,000 VND per pancake, depending on the filling, guests can enjoy their choice of vegetables, and some places even offer complimentary herbal drinks.
While the scenery is beautiful and the food delightful, the planning of the Forbidden Mountain tourist area leaves something to be desired. Makeshift metal-roofed eateries and motorbikes bustling in and out somewhat distract visitors from fully enjoying the experience. With better organization and tidier eateries, freeing up views for tourists, this place could truly live up to its reputation as the Dalat of the Western Region.
According to 24h.com
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Reference: Travel guide by Mytour
MytourMarch 14, 2019
