Ham Rong Mountain "awakens"

Ham Rong Ecotourism Area was once the most famous destination in Sa Pa, a source of pride for Lao Cai tourism. However, over time, with the emergence of numerous new destinations, Ham Rong seemed to be forgotten, quietly standing outside the vibrant flow of the tourism industry. Yet, recently, Ham Rong is gradually "awakening".

Malcolm, a tourist from Australia, and his wife spent three days in Sa Pa. They were introduced to Ham Rong Mountain by the locals and, after experiencing it firsthand, were very pleased with the scenery and climate of the area.

The Ham Rong eco-tourism area covers 100 hectares. Ham Rong mountain peak, at an altitude of over 1,800 meters above sea level, enjoys a temperature consistently ranging from 15 to 18 degrees Celsius, making it ideal for growing many types of flowers. From the summit of Ham Rong mountain, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Sa Pa town.

According to Mr. Nguyen Truong Quan, Head of Business Department, Ham Rong Ecological Tourist Area Management Board: During its heyday (2014-2016), about 70-75% of tourists visiting Sa Pa chose Ham Rong as their destination for exploration and discovery . At the peak of the 2015 tourist season, Ham Rong welcomed approximately 600,000 visitors, with over 15,000 visitors per day.

However, for a long time, Ham Rong Tourist Area fell into a state of desolation. Infrastructure deteriorated, services lacked innovation, and there was no investment in upgrades… When tourists think of Sa Pa, they think of Fansipan peak, Cat Cat village, or luxurious resorts instead of the mountain peak associated with the legend of the awakening of the sacred dragon. Especially after the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, Ham Rong tourist area became even more deserted.

"The transfer of management of Ham Rong Eco-tourism Area has led to limited investment and upgrades, which is why the area has seen fewer visitors recently," Mr. Nguyen Truong Quan shared.

However, in recent times, Ham Rong is gradually "awakening" with the return of tourists. Many important aspects of this eco-tourism area have been renovated and upgraded; the stone paths have been cleaned and beautified; new flower gardens have been planted in vibrant colors; and services for tourists such as drinking water and costume rentals for photography have been invested in. In particular, the tourist area also organizes sports events, including a race to conquer the summit of Ham Rong, attracting many athletes and providing an opportunity to promote and attract tourists.

Visiting Ham Rong these days, the hustle and bustle has gradually returned, with many tourists flocking to viewpoints, photo spots, and flower gardens. The return of Ham Rong is not only a positive sign for Sa Pa tourism but also a testament to the enduring vitality of old values ​​if preserved and developed in the right direction. Domestic and international tourists are returning to Ham Rong, not only to admire the scenery and take pictures, but also to slow down and enjoy the cool, fresh air amidst the clouds.

During the recent April 30th - May 1st holiday, Ham Rong welcomed over 4,000 visitors, an increase of approximately 30% compared to the same holiday period in 2024.

Ms. Nguyen Thi Xuyen, a tourist from Phu Tho, shared: "I find Ham Rong Mountain very beautiful, with abundant services, and the nature and people are all wonderful. If I return to Sa Pa next time, I will still choose Ham Rong for my experience."

Sharing the same sentiment as Ms. Xuyen, tourist Keanu from the Philippines said: "The scenery is beautiful. I like the mountain peaks, the roads, and the way people plant flowers here."

Bringing Ham Rong back to its former glory required considerable effort from the local government and the Tourism Management Board. In Sa Pa town's five-season tourism development plan, the Ham Rong eco-tourism area has received significant attention and focus, with numerous activities organized.

Mr. Nguyen Truong Quan, Head of Business Department, Ham Rong Ecological Tourist Area Management Board, added: For the Tourism Management Board, in the coming time, there will be plans to continue renovating, improving, and beautifying the landscape; strengthening the promotion and introduction of this attractive destination to a large number of tourists through the press, media, and social media platforms.

Today, Ham Rong boasts a new look while retaining its ancient soul – a place where nature and culture, memory and the present, intertwine. If you may have overlooked this place during your trip to Sa Pa, perhaps it's time to return and experience a Ham Rong that is gradually reviving, more beautiful, more welcoming, and more memorable.

Source: https://baolaocai.vn/ham-rong-thuc-giac-post402281.html