Have you ever stepped away from the vibrant rhythm of the city to find stillness in the mountains? To the west of Da Nang, a different world unfolds – a place where nature and local life blend seamlessly in the quiet embrace of the Truong Son range. Pack your bag, prepare for the journey, and set out to discover a side of Da Nang that feels untouched, authentic, and deeply inspiring.
Da Nang is often known as a modern coastal city, where long sandy beaches, iconic bridges, world heritage sites, and lively festivals shape a dynamic urban lifestyle. Yet just a short journey west reveals a striking contrast – a vast mountainous landscape where forests, rivers, streams, and peaks come together, preserving the raw and original beauty of nature.
Here, ancient forests stretch endlessly, clear streams wind through misty valleys, and traditional villages rest quietly along mountain slopes. It is a place where nature breathes in its purest form, inviting travellers to step out of the city’s pace and immerse themselves in a landscape of calm, sound, and space.
Within the “Return to Origin” journey, Da Nang’s mountainous region offers a wide range of experiences: trekking through moss-covered forests, cloud hunting on mountain peaks, exploring terraced fields, bathing in forest streams, camping in nature, or engaging with the vibrant community life of ethnic groups such as the Co Tu, Cor, Xe Dang, and Bh’nong.
Each destination becomes a different way to connect – with nature, with culture, and with authentic emotions shaped by the land.
NATURAL LANDSCAPES – PATHWAYS INTO UNTOUCHED BEAUTY
The western highlands of Da Nang reveal a distinctive landscape of the Truong Son range – a rich ecosystem where forests, streams, clouds, and rolling hills blend into one continuous natural tapestry. Here, nature retains its original wildness, offering journeys filled with inspiration and discovery.
Along this route, Dong Giang Tea Hills (Song Vang Commune) often surprise visitors as the first stop. Layers of green tea plantations flow across mountain slopes like soft waves, creating a peaceful landscape in the heart of the forest. Walking through these hills, breathing fresh air, and watching clouds drift across valleys offers a calming experience far removed from urban life.
Further along, Que Peak (Hung Son Commune), rising over 1,300 metres above sea level, is ideal for cloud hunting and quiet reflection. At dawn, a sea of clouds blankets the valleys, creating a serene and expansive view. Nearby, Loc Troi Eco Site offers nature-based experiences such as homestay stays, light trekking, stream bathing, and local cuisine – a gentle way to connect with the highlands.
For those seeking deeper exploration, K’lang Peak presents a more adventurous journey. At nearly 2,000 metres high, it features ancient moss forests where trees, rocks, and ground are covered in lush green layers, creating a dreamlike atmosphere. In April, blooming rhododendron forests transform the mountain slopes into vibrant natural scenery.
Chuôr terraced fields (Hung Son Commune) add another layer to the landscape, reflecting the connection between people and nature. Changing colours with the seasons, these fields create a striking visual rhythm across the mountains.
Deep within the forest lies the Po Mu Heritage Forest (Hung Son Commune), home to nearly 1,400 ancient trees, some over 1,000 years old. Towering trunks and dense canopies create a majestic, sacred atmosphere. For the Co Tu people, Po Mu is not only a valuable species but also a symbol of spiritual and cultural significance.
To the south of the city, atop Ngoc Linh – the highest peak of the Truong Son range, the Ngoc Linh Ginseng Garden – Tak Ngo (Tra Linh commune) unfolds within a pristine primary forest. Dense vegetation and rare medicinal plants thrive in the distinctive highland climate, creating a rich and layered ecosystem. Trekking routes weave through deep forests, mist and ancient canopies, forming an almost dreamlike landscape where visitors can truly sense the untouched beauty and ecological depth of the great mountains.
Nearby, Tak Po cloud-hunting spot (Tra Tap commune) has become a favourite among young travellers, known for its majestic mountain scenery and fresh, invigorating air. At dawn, drifting clouds glide across the mountain slopes, painting a breathtaking natural panorama and offering a sense of adventure, immersion and connection with the vast expanse of the Truong Son highlands.
The natural experience continues through a network of waterfalls and reservoirs such as R’cung Waterfall (A Vuong Commune), Grang Waterfall (Ben Giang Commune), Nam Tang Waterfall (Nam Tra My Commune), and the reservoirs of Song Tranh and A Vuong hydropower plants. Each offers a unique setting – from cascading waters to tranquil lakes – creating peaceful retreats within the forest.
This landscape is further enriched by areas such as Song Thanh National Park and the Elephant Species and Habitat Conservation Area, where biodiversity remains largely intact and offers deeper ecological exploration.
COMMUNITY CULTURE – TOUCHING THE IDENTITY OF THE MOUNTAINS
In the mountainous areas of Da Nang, community life continues to preserve cultural traditions in everyday rhythms. Within villages nestled along mountain slopes, the sounds of gongs, traditional performances, weaving looms, and shared fires form part of daily life. Culture here is not staged – it is lived.
Dhrôồng Community Tourism Village (Dong Giang Commune) offers an immersive experience into Co Tu life, with the Guol communal house, traditional weaving, local cuisine, and cultural performances.
Bhơhôồng Village (Song Kon Commune) presents a quieter atmosphere, where visitors can explore traditional crafts, experience local life, and relax near natural hot springs.
Zara Village (Ben Giang Commune) stands out as a community-based tourism destination where visitors can engage directly with local life, enjoy traditional dishes, and experience the rhythm of the highlands.
Pơr’ning Ecotourism Village (Tay Giang Commune) showcases a well-preserved cultural space with traditional stilt houses, communal structures, rituals, and forest-based experiences.
Ta Lang Village (A Vuong Commune) offers interactive activities such as stream bathing, bamboo rafting, participating in rituals, and enjoying traditional music and cuisine – creating a vivid sense of living within the community.
Ta Lang – Gian Bi Community-Based Cultural Tourism Center (Hai Van Ward) is a new tourism space of the Co Tu people in Northwest Da Nang. More than just a stop along the journey, it opens up a vibrant cultural setting where visitors can connect with local life through authentic, hands-on experiences. The highlight of the center is its creative community space—a place where cultural exchanges between locals and visitors come to life. Here, the rhythmic sounds of gongs accompany the tung tung da da dance, while traditional brocade weaving and bamboo weaving are presented in a natural and approachable way. Rather than simply observing, visitors are invited to take part, listen, and feel—turning each moment into a meaningful connection with the cultural essence of the highlands, where traditions continue to be preserved and passed down through generations.
Beyond the Co Tu culture, the region also reflects the diversity of other ethnic communities. In Bh’nong villages across Khâm Đức and surrounding communes, visitors can join seasonal festivals and gong performances. In the cinnamon-growing highlands of Tra Lien, Tra Giap, and Tra My, unique rituals such as the New Year pole ceremony and Gu ritual (recognized as national intangible cultural heritage), along with traditional performances of the Cor people, enrich the cultural landscape.
ECHOES OF THE LEGENDARY TRUONG SON
The western mountains of Da Nang also preserve historical traces of the legendary Truong Son route, once a strategic lifeline during wartime. Travelling through this region is not only about nature but also about connecting with history and resilience.
The Truong Son road (Ben Giang Commune) recalls memories of wartime logistics routes, while the Khâm Đức – Ngok Tavak Victory Monument offers insight into historical battles.
Further along, the Nuoc Oa Historical Site (Tra Tan Commune) served as a key revolutionary base of Military Region V. Today, visitors can explore preserved sites and reflect on the region’s historical significance within a peaceful natural setting.
ECO-TOURISM AND LOCAL EXPERIENCES – DISCOVERING THE MOUNTAINS IN MANY WAYS
Beyond natural landscapes and community villages, the western mountains of Da Nang open up a diverse range of eco-tourism destinations, offering different ways to experience nature. Here, visitors can connect with the landscape, immerse themselves in the rhythm of the forest, and enjoy the many emotional layers of the highlands. Each destination carries its own character – from majestic mountain scenery and hot mineral springs to waterfalls, outdoor adventures, and nature-based retreats.
One of the most notable stops along this journey is Dong Giang Heaven Gate (Ben Giang Commune), where the Truong Son mountains reveal a dramatic landscape of waterfalls, caves, and cloud-filled valleys. Visitors can wander along forest trails, explore natural caves, pause at scenic viewpoints, or discover Co Tu culture through the Guol communal house, traditional dances, and local cuisine. The vastness of the landscape makes this a place where nature and culture come together in a seamless experience.
For those seeking relaxation and wellness, Nui Than Tai Hot Springs Park (Ba Na area) offers a gentler escape. Nestled within lush mountain forests, it is known for its natural mineral springs. Visitors can soak in warm waters, stroll through green gardens, enjoy local cuisine, and breathe in the fresh mountain air – a perfect way to recharge after busy days.
Closer to the city, ToomSara (Hoa Vang area) offers a more intimate connection with nature. Small streams wind through forest canopies, quiet trails lead into hidden valleys, and the peaceful atmosphere invites visitors to walk, swim, camp, or simply unwind. During the blooming season, the scenery becomes even more poetic as golden forest flowers reflect on clear streams.
For those seeking more active experiences, Hoa Phu Thanh (Hoa Vang area) offers adventure in nature. The highlight is waterfall sliding along forest streams, alongside activities such as trekking, ziplining, and team-building programs. In this open mountain setting, visitors can embrace a sense of excitement and exploration.
Alongside these well-known destinations, new experiential spaces are gradually emerging. Leaf Village & Farm (Hai Van area) is one such place, where visitors can enjoy a day of picnicking, camping, staying in bungalows or homestays, tasting local cuisine, and relaxing in a green valley setting.
Other destinations such as Lang Me, An Phu Farm, Yen Retreat, Nam Yen Valley vineyards, Nam Yen Homestay, Lua Café House, Huong Buoi Farmstay, and Alang Nhu Homestay also offer diverse options. From agricultural gardens and valley cafés to charming farmstays, each place provides its own way to experience the mountains – walking through green landscapes, enjoying local produce, and embracing a slower, more peaceful rhythm of life.
In the journey through the western mountains of Da Nang, these destinations are not just places to visit, but spaces where travellers can connect with nature, meet local communities, and experience the region in a more authentic and meaningful way.
RETURN TO ORIGIN – A JOURNEY OF CONNECTION
The western mountains of Da Nang invite travellers into a different rhythm – one where forests, streams, and communities coexist in harmony. It is a place to reconnect with nature, encounter local life, and rediscover balance.
Each step along this journey reveals new layers of experience – from forest trails to village life, from quiet moments in nature to meaningful cultural encounters.
More than a trip, this is a journey of “Return to Origin” – where travellers can reconnect not only with the land, but also with their own sense of presence and emotion.
DA NANG TOURISM PROMOTION CENTER
