Poem Mountain (Bai Tho Mountain): History and Travel Guide

Bai Tho Mountain (Poem Mountain) is a majestic 200-meter limestone peak in Halong City, Vietnam, renowned for offering breathtaking panoramic views of the iconic Halong Bay. The mountain earned its name in 1468 when Emperor Le Thanh Tong, mesmerized by the magnificent scenery, carved a historic poem directly into its cliffside. As of 2025, Poem Mountain remains officially closed to tourists due to safety and regulatory concerns; however the destination remains an important Vietnamese cultural and historical landmark.

1.Where is Poem Mountain (Bai Tho Mountain)?

The mountain sits on Hang Noi Street in the Hon Gai ward of Ha Long City. This location is approximately 9 kilometers away from the city center. Most travelers find the base of Bai Tho Mountain easily using local transport.

Bai Tho Mountain is one of the most popular hiking and sightseeing destinations in Ha Long

The peak rises just over 200 meters above sea level. While it resembles a large hill, the vista from the top is unmatched. Many travelers claim that only from Bai Tho Mountain can you truly understand the name "Ha Long" or "Dragon's Landing." You will see limestone karsts scattered across the water like jewels.

2. History of Poem Mountain and Its Name

The story of Poem Mountain combines military strategy with high art. Long ago, locals called it Truyen Dang Son, which translates to "Shining Light Mountain".

In 1468, King Le Thanh Tong visited Halong bay. The majestic scenery moved the monarch deeply. He composed a poem and carved it directly into the southern cliff face. This act of royal artistry gave the peak its modern name: Poem Mountain (Bai Tho Mountain). Later, other leaders and poets added eight more inscriptions to the rocks.

Before it became a poetic landmark, Bai Tho Mountain served as a vital watchtower. During the resistance against the Mongol Yuan Dynasty in 1288, soldiers lit signal fires here to warn of enemy ships. In 1930, the mountain regained its revolutionary status. The Vietnam Communist Party raised its flag on the summit to show national resilience.

The story of Bai Tho Mountain is deeply rooted in history, legend, and poetry

3. How to Get to Poem Mountain

Reaching Poem Mountain is straightforward if you are already in Ha Long City. Most visitors travel from Hanoi via daily buses. We recommend using reliable booking platforms to secure a comfortable seat for the three-hour journey.

Once you arrive in the city, you have two primary options:

• Rent a Scooter: This costs around 70,000 VND ($3 USD) for a few hours. It gives you total freedom to explore the surrounding streets.
• Use Grab: The Grab app works efficiently in Ha Long. A ride from the Bai Chay tourist area takes only 15 minutes.

4. Top Things to Do on Poem Mountain

Although the official entrance sometimes closes for maintenance, the allure of Poem Mountain never fades. When you visit, prepare for an immersive experience that touches all five senses.

4.1. Hiking 

The journey to the summit of Poem Mountain offers an exhilarating hiking experience. You will spend between 20 minutes and one hour reaching the high peak. The trail is short but steep and provides a very good workout.

The path begins with cement stairs that remain in good condition today. You must navigate through thick foliage as the trail is often overgrown. Travelers often scramble over mud and rocks near the top of Poem Mountain. This climb is challenging but provides an unforgettable adventure for every visitor.

The journey to the summit of this mountain offers an unforgettable hiking experience

4.2. Sightseeing

The panoramic views from the summit of Poem Mountain are spectacular and unique. You can admire Ha Long Bay and its emerald waters from above. Thousands of limestone islets stretch toward the horizon in a stunning display.

The view feels especially magical during the hours of sunrise or sunset. You may even spot floating villages and the iconic Bai Tho Mountain from a unique perspective on the water. For an unforgettable evening, you can admire the sunset over the mountain while cruising on the Paradise Delight for 4 hours at night.

Enjoy a 4-hour Halong Bay cruise tour aboard Paradise Delight to see the mountain sunset for an unforgettable evening

As night falls, guests aboard Paradise Delight can enjoy stunning views of the glowing Bai Chay Bridge and the sparkling Sun Wheel. This luxury journey combines an extensive buffet of nearly 100 dishes with a spectacular multimedia show directed by Hoang Nhat Nam. This combination creates a truly multi-sensory experience for every traveler with Paradise Vietnam.

This vantage point allows you to see the harmony of the entire region. The colorful sky reflects off the quiet waves beneath the high cliffs. You will find endless inspiration for your photographs while standing on the mountain.

The panoramic views from the summit of Poem Mountain are unique

4.3. Relaxation on the summit

The summit of Bai Tho Mountain offers a serene escape from the city. Once you conquer the climb, take time to relax and reflect deeply. You can immerse yourself in the peaceful atmosphere far above the crowds.

The combination of natural beauty and history makes Poem Mountain perfect for mindfulness. You can unwind and contemplate the stunning vista in total silence. This quiet moment of peace helps you recharge your mind and body.

The summit of Poem Mountain offers a serene escape from the city

5. Best Time to Visit Poem Mountain

Weather plays a crucial role in your experience on Bai Tho Mountain. You want clear skies to appreciate the vastness of the bay.

• The dry season (October to April): This is the ideal window. The air is cooler, and the trails remain dry and safe.
• Sunrise and sunset: These hours offer the most magical lighting. The sky turns shades of orange and purple, reflecting off the emerald water.
• January to March: Expect cooler temperatures and occasional mist. This creates a mysterious, ethereal atmosphere around the peaks.

The best time to visit Poem Mountain is during the dry season from October to April

Avoid hiking during heavy rain. The limestone rocks become very slippery and dangerous when wet. Always check the local forecast before you begin your trek.

6. Tips When Visiting Bai Tho Mountain

A successful trip requires careful preparation and respect for the local community. Follow these professional tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable adventure.

• Choose reliable transport: Catch a Grab or rent a scooter to reach the entrance. These are both cheap and easy options for travelers.
• Wear proper shoes: You must wear trainers or hiking boots for the steep sections. Flip-flops increase the risk of slipping on the jagged rocks of Bai Tho Mountain.
• Stay hydrated: Bring at least one large bottle of water for each person. You can also buy drinks at several shops near the entrance.
• Bring small cash: Keep a few hundred thousand Vietnamese dong in your pocket. You may need to pay a small fee to the house owner at the trailhead.
• Allocate enough time: Plan for a two-hour round trip to enjoy the summit. This timeframe allows you to climb, relax, and descend safely.
• Pack your camera: Bring your camera to capture the spectacular views of the bay. The scenery at the top of Poem Mountain looks especially good during sunset.
• Check Halong Bay weather: Avoid the hike after heavy rain. The unpaved and muddy trails become very dangerous and slippery when wet.
• Manage your energy: The constant uphill climb makes this a moderately difficult hike. Prepare to rest every few minutes to maintain your physical health.
• Pack essentials: Bring weather-appropriate clothing, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Carry a flashlight if you plan to hike during the late afternoon.
• Respect the locals: Keep your voice low when passing through private residential areas. Always stay on the designated trails and avoid littering on Bai Tho Mountain.

Poem Mountain remains one of the most significant landmarks in Northern Vietnam. At Paradise Vietnam, we believe every traveler deserves a luxury experience in this paradise. Our cruises offer the perfect balance of adventure and maritime serenity. Would you like me to help you book a luxury cabin for your upcoming trip to Ha Long Bay?