Nestled behind Sapa’s iconic stone church, Ham Rong Mountain rises dramatically amid the peaks of the Hoang Lien Son range. Locals gave it the name “Ham Rong,” meaning Dragon’s Jaw, because the jagged cliffs resemble a dragon’s head reaching toward the sky. But its true allure lies not only in its shape—but also in the romantic legends and breathtaking scenery that make it one of Sapa’s top eco-tourism destinations.
The Legends of Ham Rong Mountain
Like many mystical places in Vietnam, Ham Rong Mountain is steeped in legends of love and devotion.
✨ The Legend of the Dragon Lovers:
Long ago, a pair of dragons called Ham Rong Mountain home. One day, while playing together, a devastating flood swept through the land. The male dragon fought the raging waters and managed to escape, but the dragon princess, exhausted, could only lift her head as she watched her beloved vanish into the sky. Over time, her body turned to stone, becoming the majestic Hoang Lien Son range—while her upturned head became Ham Rong Mountain.
✨ The Legend of the Three Dragon Brothers:
In another version, three dragon brothers were tasked by the Jade Emperor to find new lands for creatures. When they couldn’t find space in the East, they hurried west. The youngest, unable to keep up, became frightened and froze, transforming into Ham Rong Mountain. The other two brothers tried to rescue him but also turned into mountains, forming the three adjacent ranges you can see from Sapa town today.
Though different in detail, both legends speak of love, loyalty, and the bond between family and nature.
Where is Ham Rong Mountain?
Ham Rong Mountain is only 3 km from Sapa town center, right behind the famous Sapa Stone Church. The path is easily walkable, but you can also rent a motorbike or take a quick taxi ride.
Since 1996, Ham Rong has been developed as a tourist area, with stone pathways winding through lush gardens, mystical rock formations, Cloud Yard, and Heaven’s Gate. To fully enjoy the mountain, plan to spend at least half a day exploring its wonders.
Explore the Enchanting Zones of Ham Rong Mountain
Sprawling over 148 hectares and sitting at an altitude of 1,850 meters, Ham Rong Mountain offers endless corners for discovery:
🌺 Orchid Garden
Begin your journey through a fragrant world of over 200 orchid species, including rare mountain orchids that thrive in Sapa’s cool climate. Springtime transforms this garden into a colorful paradise.
🐲 Garden of 12 Zodiacs
Stroll through floral displays inspired by the 12 zodiac animals, featuring flowers like gerberas, dahlias, and hydrangeas. In the center is a picturesque concrete bridge—a popular photo spot for visitors.
🍑 Peach Garden
Ham Rong’s Peach Garden dazzles visitors with delicate Japanese peach blossoms and ancient native peach trees with wide canopies and thick clusters of blooms. During Lunar New Year, it becomes one of Sapa’s liveliest attractions.
🌼 Central Flower Garden
A highlight for flower lovers! This garden bursts with vibrant European flower varieties arranged to spell out “SAPA.” Future plans include cultivating these blooms on-site so visitors can take home a piece of Ham Rong’s floral magic.
🪨 Thach Lam Rock Garden
One of the mountain’s most Instagram-worthy spots, Thach Lam Rock Garden features towering, layered stone formations resembling dragon scales—a natural sculpture perfect for stunning photos.
🏞 Sapa Telecommunication Station
Climb higher to reach the telecommunications station, where you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Fansipan, the “Roof of Indochina,” often wrapped in swirling mist.
☁️ Cloud Yard and Heaven’s Gate
The crown jewel of Ham Rong Mountain! Standing at Cloud Yard, you’ll feel as if you’re floating above the clouds. From this magical vantage point, marvel at sweeping views of:
- Sapa town
- Muong Hoa Valley
- Cat Cat Village
- Terraced rice fields in Ta Van Village
A 10-minute walk further takes you to Heaven’s Gate, where sunlight streaming through the clouds creates a scene that feels truly otherworldly.
Best Time to Visit Ham Rong Mountain
Spring (January to April) is the most enchanting time, when the Northwest mountains burst into color under sunny, mild skies. It’s perfect for exploring gardens in bloom and enjoying clear panoramic views.
Summer (April to June) offers stunning views of water-filled terraced fields, glimmering like mirrors across the hillsides.
Cloud hunting is best from October to December, when the mountains often wear a cloak of mist and fog, adding mystery and magic to your trek.
⚠️ Avoid climbing during July and August, as heavy rains can make paths slippery and dangerous.
Tips for Visiting Ham Rong Mountain
- Wear comfortable sports shoes or hiking boots. The pathways are paved, but there are stairs and slopes to navigate.
- Bring water and light snacks for energy during your climb. Small shops along the way also sell drinks.
- Dress in layers—mountain weather changes quickly.
- Entrance tickets cost approximately 70,000 VND per adult and 20,000 VND per child, though prices may vary.
Ham Rong Mountain isn’t just a natural wonder—it’s a living storybook of legends, gardens, and breathtaking views. Whether you’re captivated by folklore, enchanted by flowers, or yearning for panoramic vistas over Sapa’s terraced valleys, Ham Rong promises a journey you’ll never forget.
