Located about 10 km from the center of Cho Ra commune, Don Den peak, over 1,000 m high, is becoming a popular winter check-in spot for young people seeking to witness the sunrise amidst a sea of clouds. From 4–6 am, many groups sit along Provincial Road 257B waiting for the moment the sun rises. The pristine landscape, winding mountain passes, and lingering mist create an unforgettable scene.
Highland scenery and Route 257B
Nestled amidst vast forests and mountains, Don Den in Don Den village, Ba Be commune, emerges with light mist, winding mountain passes, and a pristine beauty. Although tourism services are not yet well-developed, it still attracts many visitors thanks to its spectacular cloud-hunting moments and magical sunrises.
A journey across the mountain pass to witness the sunrise.
At dawn, departing from Cho Ra commune, the journey along the mountain passes to Don Den offers the feeling of stepping into another world as mist blankets the path and the air is chilly. Along the way, many young people sit along provincial road 257B, holding cups of hot coffee, patiently waiting for the sun to emerge from behind the clouds.
The 45-kilometer marker on Route 257B is one of the ideal locations for cloud watching and sunrise viewing. At roadside stops, visitors often gaze at the rolling mountain ranges as the early morning light paints the clouds in the valley below a rosy hue.
Experience cloud hunting on the spot.
Mr. Hua Duc Ly, a local resident, said: "The air here is very cool and the scenery is beautiful. Visitors come not only to chase the clouds but also to watch the sunrise and sunset. It's crowded every weekend."
According to him, the trick to cloud hunting is: "If it was sunny the day before, it will be cloudy the next day. Tourists should go between 4 and 6 in the morning; in autumn, the clouds take longer to dissipate."
Mr. Hieu (from Ba Be commune) shared his desire for more investment in services because, "Don Den is very beautiful, but no one has invested in services yet. Visitors to Ba Be Lake all stop by here. If there were more services, it would definitely attract even more tourists."
The service is still simple, keep this in mind when traveling.
Currently, most of the rest stops are spontaneously cleaned up and furnished with chairs by locals. Because they arrived early in the morning in the cold weather, many young people chose to wear warm jackets and scarves to wait more comfortably. "Today we didn't get to see many clouds, which is a bit disappointing, but the cold weather, wearing warm jackets and scarves, just like winter, made it very enjoyable. This place is trending online, so we definitely have to try it," said Nguyet Anh ( from Thai Nguyen ).
Indigenous culture and the blend of elements
The Don Den area is home to the Mong, Dao, and Tay ethnic groups, preserving many of their traditional customs. Nearby is the Phja Khao bamboo forest – a popular check-in spot, perfect for combining with a cloud-hunting trip.
Quick Facts
- Distance: Approximately 10 km from the center of Cho Ra commune.
- Altitude: The summit of Don Den is over 1,000 meters high.
- Route: Follow provincial road 257B; kilometer marker 45 is a beautiful spot for cloud watching.
- Ideal time: 4–6 AM; sunny the day before is usually cloudy the next; clouds take longer to dissipate in autumn.
- Services: Not yet standardized; roadside rest stops are arranged by local people.
As dawn breaks, the sea of clouds and the mountain range at the foot of Don Den peak turn a pinkish-orange hue, offering an unforgettable winter experience for those who wake up early.
Source: https://baonghean.vn/don-den-don-binh-minh-and-san-bien-may-tu-46-gio-sang-10314706.html
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