Chua Chan Mountain is a hidden pearl of Southeastern Vietnam
Standing 837 metres tall, Chua Chan Mountain is the second-highest peak in southern Vietnam after Ba Den Mountain. It is not only renowned for its majestic natural scenery but also its profound cultural and spiritual significance, steeped in tradition. These untapped potentials are waiting to be awakened.
Also known as Gia Lao Mountain, Chua Chan is in Xuan Loc District, Dong Nai Province. It has earned poetic nicknames such as the “Second Heavenly Mountain” and the “Da Lat of the Southeast” due to its wild beauty with diverse forest ecosystems, cliffs hidden under cool green trees and clear streams flowing all year round.
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Chua Chan Mountain, also known as Gia Lao Mountain, is located in Xuan Loc District, Dong Nai Province. |
From its summit, visitors are treated to sweeping views of the Southeast's vast lowland plains.
Thanks to its elevation and terrain, Chua Chan enjoys a cool climate all year, reminiscent of a miniature Da Lat. When mist cloaks the mountain, its peak transforms into a dreamy, mystical landscape, like a sleeping fairy.
Beyond its natural splendour, Chua Chan is also a revered spiritual destination. One of its most notable landmarks is Buu Quang Pagoda, commonly known as Gia Lao Pagoda.
Built in the early 20th century, the pagoda nestles within a natural cave, shaped like a dragon’s mouth, halfway up the mountain.
Its unique architecture harmonises with the natural surroundings, and its tranquil atmosphere has made Gia Lao Pagoda a sacred site that draws thousands of pilgrims and tourists each year.
In addition to Gia Lao Pagoda, Chua Chan is home to other spiritual sites such as Lam Son Pagoda, Linh Son Pagoda, and the “three-root, one-crown” banyan tree, a sacred symbol surrounded by mythical legends. Locals believe this tree is a dwelling place of divine spirits, drawing many to pray and pay their respects.
The mountain also holds historical significance, with relics such as the Ham Hinh Revolutionary Base, a resistance stronghold during the war, and the former tea gardens once associated with Emperor Bao Dai.
One of Chua Chan Mountain’s greatest advantages is its strategic location, just 100 km from the heart of Ho Chi Minh City. This makes it an ideal weekend getaway for relaxation and adventure.
Located in the southern key economic region, Chua Chan is well connected to neighbouring provinces such as Binh Duong, Ba Ria-Vung Tau, and Binh Thuan.
As a gateway to southeastern Vietnam, major infrastructure projects like the Ben Luc–Long Thanh Expressway, the Dau Giay–Phan Thiet Expressway, and especially Long Thanh International Airport are underway.
These developments promise not only to shorten travel time to Chua Chan but also to enhance its appeal to international tourists.
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