Huong Pagoda: Discover the scenic trekking route through Tuyet Son.
Leaving behind the hustle and bustle of Huong Tich Cave, the Bao Dai Pagoda - Tuyet Son Cave route offers a trekking experience through ancient apricot forests and the exploration of mysterious caves.
Unlike the usual hustle and bustle at Huong Tich Cave during the festival season, the route to explore Bao Dai Pagoda and Tuyet Son Cave, part of the Huong Son scenic area (Hanoi), is a tranquil and poetic journey. Here, visitors can not only admire the ancient pagoda dating back to the 17th century but also experience trekking through the protected forest, passing through centuries-old apricot orchards in a picturesque landscape.
Historical landmarks at Bao Dai Pagoda
The journey begins when the boat docks at Tuyet Son. After a short walk of about 200 meters, visitors will reach Bao Dai Pagoda, located at the foot of the mountain. According to the stele at Tuyet Son Cave, this pagoda was built in 1694 (the 15th year of the Chinh Hoa era) by Princess Hoang Thi Ngoc Huong during the reign of King Le Hy Tong.
The architectural highlight of the temple is the imposing triple-arched gate leading into a spacious courtyard, flanked by two rows of straight royal palm trees. This space is completely separate from the hustle and bustle, providing a sense of peace and tranquility for pilgrims and visitors.
Experience trekking through ancient apricot forests.
After visiting the temple, tourists begin a trekking journey of about 1km to reach Tuyet Son Cave. This route follows the cliff face, xuyên through a protected forest with carpets of wild orchids clinging to the jagged rocks. This is an ideal experience for those who love physical activity and exploring pristine nature.
Most notably, the road winds through an ancient apricot forest. The centuries-old, gnarled apricot trees, bearing the marks of time, have been carefully preserved by the local people for generations. During the apricot blossom season, the entire forest turns a pure white, creating an attractive backdrop for tourists to take photos. Huong Son apricots are also a branded specialty with higher economic value compared to those from other regions.
Discover the mysterious Snow Mountain Cave.
Passing through the dense forest canopy, Tuyet Son Cave emerges with its diverse system of stalactites and stalagmites. The interior of the cave is divided into two main branches: one side is dedicated to the Three Jewels (Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha), while the other is arranged like a shrine to the Mother Goddess, with ancient bas-reliefs carved directly into the rock walls.
Surrounding the temple area are ancient, gnarled frangipani trees bearing the marks of time. From a high vantage point, visitors can enjoy the solemn, tranquil atmosphere and admire the winding paths like silk ribbons through the old forest, creating a feeling of being lost in a secluded paradise, far removed from the outside world.
Practical experience for the journey
To keep the exploration journey fresh, visitors can choose to travel by boat on the way in and return by land (or vice versa). One of the most memorable experiences is resting in the shade of orchards along the trekking route, enjoying fresh fruit and the cool breeze from the mountains.
