Buzz
As one of Vietnam's largest nature reserves, Bidoup National Park – Mount Ba (50km from Dalat) is attracting many adventurers seeking the grandeur of the mountainous forest.
Exploring Bidoup National Park - Mount Ba to marvel at maple leaves
After gathering information, we learned that Bidoup forest boasts many enchanting maple trees, so our group decided to embark on a tour to 'hunt' for maple leaves.
Completing procedures with the forest ranger station, everyone attentively listened to the guide's instructions. Being our first jungle trek, our group had many worries. The primary concern was avoiding leeches, although compared to Nam Cat Tien forest, leeches are not as abundant in Bidoup. Bidoup – Mount Ba is situated on the Lam Vien Plateau, with an average elevation ranging from 1,500m to 1,800m, within the main mountainous region of the Southern Truong Son range. This national park is located in Lac Duong district, Lam Dong province – an area rich in diverse biological resources and stunning natural landscapes, thus evaluated as having potential for tourism development.
Seeing a sycamore tree, which we had previously only heard about in the media, books, now standing before us. Though not yet large, according to the local guide, it takes five years to grow to this size. While walking, the guide suddenly suggested the whole group stand silently, eyes closed, to feel the tranquil atmosphere amidst the vast forest. Following his advice, the group sensed a serene atmosphere enveloping them. Only the sound of chirping birds, the babbling of streams, and the gentle breeze carrying a slight chill through the forest... Just that alone was enough to make everyone feel enchanted by this journey.
Just last week, a fierce flood knocked down a large maple tree. The tree lay across the stream, so visitors used it as a makeshift monkey bridge to cross the water. Then before us was moss clinging tightly from the roots to the tops of the ancient tree trunks. Then orchids, Bidoup is also hailed as the kingdom of forest orchids in Vietnam.
Finally, we encountered golden maple leaves in the forest. Although the density of maple trees is not as thick as in temperate countries, it still provided awe-inspiring moments for our group in search of red leaves. The sight of maple leaves with distinct yellow and red hues beside the babbling brook was enough to fulfill the desires of maple enthusiasts.
To continue our journey, we had to barefoot through the freezing cold water. Everyone trekked through the jungle continuously for three hours, forgetting even lunch. Parting ways with the forest, bidding farewell to the colorful maple leaves, our group hopes that one day, when the number of maple trees increases, it will create dreamy images of maple leaves and attract more tourists to visit Bidoup National Park – Mount Ba.
By Nguyen Quang Minh/Entrepreneur Saigon
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Source: Travel Guide Mytour
MytourMarch 17, 2017
