Lost in a fairytale land atop Putaleng

Nestled beneath the canopy of ancient rhododendron trees.

The rhododendrons are in full bloom, displaying a dazzling array of white, yellow, pink, red, and purple hues, making anyone who visits feel as if they have stepped into a fairytale land in the sky.

The March climbing season each year always attracts mountaineering enthusiasts who flock to the summit of Putaleng in the majestic Hoang Lien Son mountain range.

Nestled beneath the canopy of ancient rhododendron trees.

At an altitude of 3,049 meters, Putaleng peak is one of the three highest mountains in Vietnam after Fansipan and Pusilung, and is home to a stunning rhododendron-lined road.

To conquer Putaleng peak, there are four starting point options: two in Ho Thau commune, namely Si Thau Chai village and Ho Thau village; Sin Chai village in Giang Ma commune; and Ta Leng village in Ta Leng commune, all located in Tam Duong district, Lai Chau province.

The starting point is Ho Thau village, and the end point is Si Thau Chai village.

The Si Thau Chai-Putaleng route is considered the most challenging, as the climbing distance is over 16 km/way, with many steep sections requiring rope access or ladder climbing. However, despite the difficulty, the route offers a wealth of experiences.

If you're lucky enough to encounter a day with pleasant weather, you'll see floating sea of ​​clouds, babbling streams, and moss-covered ancient trees. Mountain climbers can relax on large rocks, listening to the wind whistling through the dense bamboo forest. And most importantly, they'll be amazed and astonished by the vibrant patches of forest covered in thousands of azalea blossoms, glowing brightly in the sunlight.

According to Mr. Lu A Pao, owner of Pao Bach homestay in Si Thau Chai village, who frequently leads teams to conquer Putaleng, some people climbing for the first time lack experience, are not physically prepared, or are afraid of heights. Many steep sections are impossible to climb, requiring porters to help them. But when they see the sea of ​​clouds and the rhododendrons blooming in the mountains, everyone exclaims, "It's so beautiful!" At that moment, they forget all the fatigue from the journey they just completed.

Having conquered many of the top 10 highest mountains in Vietnam, Mr. Ha To (Long Bien district, Hanoi ) said that for those who enjoy mountain climbing, each route and each time of year offers different feelings and experiences. But perhaps this was the most impressive, visually stunning, and challenging route of all. Fortunately, his team of 18 members, along with the help of 7 porters, completed the journey successfully, thanks to favorable conditions – timing, location, and people.

To reach the summit of Putaleng, visitors must embark on a 16km journey to a campsite nestled in the forest, beside a babbling stream and vast cardamom plantations. At 4 am the following morning, the group wakes up early to ascend to the summit of Putaleng at an altitude of 3,049m to witness the sunrise over a sea of ​​pink clouds. On the way down, visitors will check in at the Rhododendron Peak at 2,619m, surrounded by countless ancient rhododendron trees.

From mid-February each year, rhododendron flowers paint a stunningly beautiful tapestry of colors across the majestic mountains and forests. The more arduous the journey to experience this breathtaking scenery, the greater the excitement and amazement at this fairytale-like landscape.

High above the ground, you can relax your body and soul, harmonizing with nature, listening to the babbling stream, the birdsong in the rustling forest wind, and temporarily forgetting the hustle and bustle of life.

However, it's essential to note that when climbing mountains, in addition to health issues and safety knowledge, experienced hikers should observe and monitor the weather, and especially seek assistance from local people to ensure the safest and most enjoyable experience.

If you enjoy experiential travel and are passionate about mountain climbing, don't hesitate any longer, the rhododendron season is almost over.

Rhododendron Peak is 2,619m high.

Behind us stretched an endless expanse of rhododendrons in a multitude of colors.

Capture the beautiful moments.

Through the forest, across streams...

Through the bamboo forest

Cardamom forest

Across the stream

... villages

HA (according to Nhan Dan newspaper)

Source: https://baohaiduong.vn/lac-vao-chon-co-tich-tren-dinh-putaleng-377566.html