Poem Mountain Ha Long: The Ultimate Ha Long Bay Viewpoint

Poem Mountain is the only accessible high point that offers a true, jaw-dropping 360-degree panoramic view of the entire Ha Long Bay UNESCO World Heritage site and the modern, developing skyline of Ha Long City. The reward for climbing this mountain is an unparalleled view that is simply unmatched by any other viewpoint in the area. This is an adventure for the traveler who loves a bit of a challenge. While access to the mountain is currently unofficial, the experience is one of the most rewarding you can have. This guide from Vietnam Story will provide you with all the essential, up-to-date details you need to embark on this unique and unforgettable trek.

A breathtaking view of Ha Long Bay from Poem Mountain Ha Long

Table of Contents

The current status and How to access the “Secret” trail

Is Poem Mountain open for tourists? How do I find the entrance to the Bai Tho Mountain trail? This is the most important information you need to know before you plan your hike. As of now, the official public entrance to the mountain remains closed. Access is unofficial, requires you to navigate through a local residential property, and is undertaken at your own risk. Finding the start of the trail is part of the adventure. Here’s how you do it.

The mountain is located in the Hon Gai district of Ha Long City, which is on the other side of the Bai Chay Bridge from the main tourist area. The trailhead is generally found on a small street called Hang Noi Street, near its intersection with the larger Le Thanh Tong Street.

The trail begins behind a local family’s residence. You will need to look for a small alleyway. The entrance is often marked by a distinctive blue door or gate, usually located next to a small photocopy shop or a local market area. To get access, you will need to interact with the local homeowner who manages the gate. Be prepared to pay a small “unofficial fee” to this family, which is typically between 50,000 to 100,000 VND (approximately 2–4 USD). This small payment is for them to unlock the gate and allow you to pass through their property.

The route to the trail involves passing through very narrow residential alleys. It is very important to be respectful of the private property you are passing through. Please maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor as you walk through these residential areas, especially if you are climbing for sunrise.

READ MORE: Tuan Chau International Port: Ha Long Bay’s Cruise Gateway

The difficulty, the duration and the incredible rewards

Take stunning photos of Ha Long Bay from Bai Tho Mountain

What is the difficulty level of hiking Poem Mountain? How long does it take to climb? The hike is considered to be of moderate difficulty with some very steep sections, but it is generally manageable for anyone with an average level of fitness.

The short but challenging climb leads to one of the most spectacular views in all of Vietnam. Here is what to expect from the trek. The peak of Poem Mountain stands at approximately 200 meters (about 656 feet). The ascent is a continuous climb and will take you about 30 to 60 minutes one way, depending on your fitness level. The path is quite rugged. It is rocky, very steep in parts, and can be extremely slippery after it has rained. The trail involves climbing many stone steps, navigating narrow dirt paths, and a final, short scramble up some rocks near the summit’s radio tower.

Your essential gear:

Sturdy, non-slip shoes are absolutely essential. Do not attempt this hike in sandals or flip-flops.
Always pack plenty of water, as the climb will make you sweat.
Bring sun protection (a hat and sunscreen) and insect repellent.
It is very important to avoid hiking immediately after rainfall, as the path becomes dangerously slippery.

The reward for your effort is a spectacular, 360-degree panorama. From the top, you will see:

The expansive and breathtaking Ha Long Bay karst landscape, with thousands of limestone islands stretching out to the horizon.
The bustling and ever-growing Ha Long City skyline.
The impressive Bai Chay Bridge and the giant Sun Wheel in the distance.

The best time to climb and our top photography tips

When is the best time to visit Poem Mountain for the most amazing photos? The time of day you choose to climb will dramatically affect your experience and the quality of your photographs. Timing is everything for this hike. Let’s look at the best options.

Time of day	Rationale for climbing	Photography light and viewpoints
Sunrise (Climb starting around 4:30 AM)	This is the best time. The temperatures are at their coolest, and there will be the fewest crowds. It is also the ideal time to capture the magical morning mist that often hangs over the bay.	The light is soft and golden. However, this requires you to climb in the dark, so you must bring a flashlight or a headlamp.
Sunset (Climb starting around 4:00 PM)	This is the time for the most dramatic and beautiful golden hour lighting, perfect for stunning photos. You will also get to see the city lights begin to illuminate as you make your descent.	The light creates warm, dramatic hues over the bay. Like the sunrise hike, this will require you to descend in the dark, so a flashlight is essential.

The best time of year to do this hike is during our dry season, from October to April. This period offers cooler and more comfortable weather (around 18°C–25°C) and much clearer skies for the best possible visibility. If you find that the very top of the summit is too crowded with other hikers, a great tip is to stop at the rooftop of the green-painted building that you will pass on the way up. This spot offers a reliable and beautiful high vantage point that is almost as good as the summit itself.

READ MORE: Tuan Chau Island: The gateway to Ha Long Bay and entertainment hub

The culture, the history and the nearby attractions

A panoramic view of Ha Long Bay from Poem Mountain

Are there really poems carved on the rocks of Poem Mountain? Yes, and this is what gives the mountain its name and its deep historical significance. This mountain is not just a viewpoint; it is a cultural and historical landmark.

The Ancient Inscriptions: The mountain holds a very special place in our history because of the ancient poems that are carved directly into its rock face. The most famous of these inscriptions was left by our great King Lê Thánh Tông in the year 1468, and it is this poem that gave the mountain its name. Because of its strategic location, it was also historically known as Truyền Đăng (Signal Lantern) Mountain, where signal fires were lit.
Long Tien Pagoda: Located just a 5-minute walk from the trailhead of the mountain, this is the largest and most historically significant pagoda in all of Ha Long City. It features beautiful architecture from the Nguyen dynasty and is a wonderful place to visit for a moment of peace and reflection before or after your climb.
Other nearby sights: The mountain is also just a short distance from the impressive Quang Ninh Museum, which is an architectural landmark in itself, and the main commercial center of the Hon Gai district.

Conclusion

The rugged, unofficial climb up Poem Mountain offers a wonderful and authentic contrast to the polished, comfortable experience of a luxury Ha Long Bay cruise. It is a chance to connect with the raw, natural beauty of the landscape in a very personal and physical way. It is for the traveler who doesn’t just want to see the sights, but wants to feel them, to conquer them, and to be a part of them. It speaks to the true spirit of adventure that I know so many of our Indian guests possess. Let Vietnam Story help you embrace that spirit of adventure safely and seamlessly. We can arrange your transfers and provide you with all the local knowledge you need to make this incredible hike a highlight of your trip. Get in touch with us to plan your journey, and get ready to experience Ha Long Bay from a perspective that will take your breath away.