Nestled in the heart of An Giang’s mystical Thất Sơn (Seven Mountains) range, Ngoa Long Mountain, also known as Núi Dài, stretches an impressive 8,000 meters, making it the longest mountain in the region and one of Vietnam’s most striking natural wonders. Rising 580 meters above the Mekong Delta’s lush plains, this majestic peak, often likened to a “sleeping dragon” for its serpentine form, captivates travelers with its rugged beauty, dense forests, and deep cultural roots. Spanning the communes of Châu Lăng, Lương Phi, Lê Trì, and Ba Chúc town in Tri Tôn district, Ngoa Long Mountain drew over 30,000 visitors in 2024, according to An Giang tourism reports, and 2025 promises even more allure with enhanced trails and cultural festivals. 

The Mystique of Ngoa Long Mountain

Ngoa Long Mountain is a cornerstone of the Thất Sơn range, a region steeped in legend and revered as a spiritual hub in southern Vietnam. Known as the “Sleeping Dragon” due to its 8-km length, it ranks as the third-highest peak in Thất Sơn at 580 meters, trailing only Núi Cấm and Núi Cô Tô. Its untouched landscapes, lush forests, rocky outcrops, and hidden streams, offer a stark contrast to the Mekong Delta’s flat rice paddies. The mountain’s name, derived from Chinese mythology, evokes a dragon resting across the communes of Châu Lăng, Lương Phi, Lê Trì, and Ba Chúc, creating a sense of timeless grandeur.

Beyond its natural splendor, Ngoa Long Mountain holds profound historical and cultural significance. It served as a strategic hideout during Vietnam’s resistance movements, notably as the site of the Ô Tà Sóc base during the Vietnam War, where revolutionaries leveraged its rugged terrain for defense. Today, sites like the Ma Thiên Lãnh cave, where a memorial honors seven fallen soldiers, draw history enthusiasts. The mountain also resonates with spiritual travelers, as Thất Sơn is believed to be a sacred land where Buddhist monks and healers once practiced. In 2025, expect vibrant festivals, such as the Ba Chúc Pagoda Festival (April, lunar calendar), attracting thousands to honor the region’s heritage. With entry to most trails free and guided tours starting at 200,000 VND ($8 USD), Ngoa Long Mountain is an accessible gem for all.

Top Experiences at Ngoa Long Mountain in 2025

Embark on a journey through Ngoa Long Mountain with these must-do activities that blend adventure, history, and culture:

• Hike the Ma Thiên Lãnh Trail: This 3–4-hour trek (moderate difficulty, free entry) leads to the Ma Thiên Lãnh cave, offering panoramic views of Tri Tôn’s rice fields and Khmer villages. The trail, lined with ancient trees like banyan and teak, is best tackled at sunrise (6 AM) for cooler temperatures (25–30°C). Bring sturdy shoes and water (20,000 VND/$0.80 USD per bottle).
• Visit the Ô Tà Sóc Historical Site: Located in Lương Phi commune, this former revolutionary base features bunkers and a memorial plaque. Free to visit, it’s a 30-minute walk from the trailhead. Guided tours (150,000 VND/$6 USD) provide insights into its role during the Vietnam War.
• Explore Khmer Culture: In Ba Chúc town, visit the Ba Chúc Pagoda (free entry, open 7 AM–5 PM) to admire its colorful architecture and learn about Khmer Buddhist traditions. During the April festival, enjoy folk music and traditional chhay yam performances (free, donations appreciated).
• Discover Hidden Caves and Streams: Wander to smaller caves like Hang Grotto (Lê Trì commune, free) or cool off at natural streams near Châu Lăng. These spots, shaded by vông rừng trees, are perfect for picnics (bring snacks, 50,000 VND/$2 USD for local banh xeo).
• Photograph the Dragon’s Spine: From the mountain’s higher ridges, capture stunning vistas of its dragon-like contours against the Mekong Delta’s green expanse. Early morning (6–8 AM) offers the best light and fewer crowds.

These experiences, spanning 4–6 hours, cater to adventurers and cultural explorers alike, making Ngoa Long Mountain a highlight of any An Giang itinerary.

Pairing Your Ngoa Long Mountain Visit with An Giang’s Treasures

Enhance your Ngoa Long Mountain adventure by exploring nearby attractions in Tri Tôn and beyond. Just 15 km away, the Ba Chúc Massacre Memorial (free entry, open 7 AM–5 PM) offers a sobering look at history, with exhibits commemorating victims of the 1978 tragedy. For a lighter outing, visit Tức Dụp Hill (10 km, 50,000 VND/$2 USD entry), known as the “Two Million Dollar Hill” for its wartime significance, featuring caves and lush trails. In Ba Chúc, savor local Khmer dishes like bun nuoc leo (fish noodle soup, 40,000 VND/$1.60 USD) at roadside stalls near the pagoda.

For a broader An Giang experience, head 30 km to Châu Đốc’s iconic Lady Chua Xu Temple (free entry, open 6 AM–8 PM), a spiritual hub bustling with pilgrims, especially during its April festival. Pair it with a visit to the Châu Đốc Floating Market (tours 200,000 VND/$8 USD, 5–8 AM) to see vendors in vibrant boats selling fresh mangoes and jackfruit (20,000 VND/$0.80 USD per kg). For souvenirs, shop for woven Khmer scarves (100,000 VND/$4 USD) or palm sugar candies (50,000 VND/$2 USD) at Ba Chúc’s local market. These pairings create a full day of adventure, blending Ngoa Long Mountain’s rugged charm with An Giang’s cultural and culinary richness.

Tips for Visiting Ngoa Long Mountain in 2025

To ensure a seamless Ngoa Long Mountain experience, follow these practical tips for 2025:

• Visit in Dry Season: November to April offers mild weather (22–32°C), ideal for hiking and exploring. Avoid June–August for heavy rains (300–500 mm monthly) that make trails slippery.
• Start Early: Begin hikes at 6–7 AM to avoid midday heat (up to 35°C) and enjoy quieter trails. Most sites, like Ba Chúc Pagoda, open by 7 AM.
• Dress for Adventure: Wear breathable clothing, sturdy hiking shoes, and a hat for sun protection. Carry a light raincoat during shoulder seasons (April, October).
• Bring Cash: Trail entry is free, but food stalls, guides, and local markets require cash. Carry 10,000–50,000 VND notes for convenience.
• Hire a Guide: Book a local guide (200,000 VND/$8 USD) via An Giang tourism agencies for safe navigation and historical insights, especially for Ma Thiên Lãnh.
• Respect Local Culture: Dress modestly at pagodas (no shorts) and ask permission before photographing locals, especially during festivals.
• Stay Hydrated and Safe: Carry water and snacks, as facilities on the mountain are limited. Stick to marked trails to avoid uneven terrain.

For a personalized adventure, connect with Tubudd to pair you with a Local Buddy who can navigate Ngoa Long Mountain’s trails and share insider stories about its history and culture.

Final Thoughts on Ngoa Long Mountain

Ngoa Long Mountain is a captivating blend of natural grandeur, historical depth, and cultural richness, making it a must-visit in An Giang for 2025. Its 8-km “sleeping dragon” silhouette, sacred caves, and vibrant Khmer festivals offer an authentic escape from Vietnam’s urban bustle. Affordable (daily costs under $20 USD) and accessible, it’s perfect for hikers, history lovers, and spiritual travelers. Recent X posts from 2025 praise its “wild beauty” and “hidden trails,” though some note limited signage, so a guide is recommended. Pair your visit with Châu Đốc’s temples or Ba Chúc’s markets for a full Mekong Delta experience. Step into Ngoa Long Mountain, and let its timeless allure inspire your journey.

Ready to conquer Ngoa Long Mountain? Book a Local Buddy with Tubudd for a tailored trek through An Giang’s majestic landscapes and cultural gems.

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