Over the weekend of August 16-17, the management board of Ba Den Mountain National Tourist Site rescued three climbers who ran into trouble while attempting to conquer the peak.
All of them are visitors who lost their way after nightfall and were unable to determine their location. When rescued, they were uninjured but exhausted after failing to find their way.
Ba Den Mountain (Photo by Duong Duc Kien)
Ba Den Mountain is relatively easy to climb during the safe hours from 6 am to noon. However, with its maze of winding paths, the risk of getting lost at night is high, especially for inexperienced hikers unfamiliar with the terrain.
The incidents were primarily caused by adverse weather, with rain and early nightfall making the trails slippery and hazardous.
Rising 986 metres above sea level, Ba Den Mountain, dubbed the Roof of the South, is renowned for its sacred pagodas, breathtaking natural scenery, and popularity as a destination that attracts millions of visitors annually. It also appeals to many adventure seekers.
In July 2024, a group of four hikers lost their way while descending a trail and became exhausted. One member slipped, was injured, and had to call for help. Dozens of rescuers were deployed and brought the group safely down the mountain. In August 2024, another inexperienced visitor without proper gear also lost his way and had to call for rescue.
Tourists are advised to register with the site management board before climbing, follow safety and environmental rules, ensure good health and proper gear, and only hike between 6 am and noon. They are also told to avoid climbing in bad weather and immediately contact the rescue team at 0276.387.5678 if an emergency arises.