Introduction

Nam Kang Ho Tao - A mountain with a strange name ranks as one of the most dangerous mountains in the Northwest of Vietnam. Explored in 2017, Nam Kang Ho Tao quickly became one of the most challenging treks in the Northwest, due to the long trek, steep cliffs, and fierce streams. Despite those obstacles, many trekkers persist in completing the trails to be well rewarded with the pristine and majestic beauty of the dense Vietnamese forest.

Nam Kang Ho Tao

Nam Kang Ho Tao (Source: phuotvivu.com)

The location of Nam Kang Ho Tao

Nam Kang Ho Tao is 2,881 meters above sea level and is located in Thao A hamlet, Ho Mit Commune, Tan Uyen district, Lai Chau province. It also borders Lai Chau and Lao Cai province, with complex terrain and many slippery cliffs.

The best time to visit Nam Kang Ho Tao

The best time for trekking in Nam Kang Ho Tao is from February to March and from around September to November. During this time, the weather is quite mild and comfortable, and the temperature is suitable to ensure good health throughout the long trek. Moreover, the ethnic people will go out hunting and harvesting, making the trails more clear and easy to follow. 

Challenging trails

Challenging trails (Source: limtravel.vn)

Avoid visiting Nam Kang Ho Tao in the rainy season because rainfall would make the cliffs more slippery and flash floods could happen anytime. The vision will also be reduced, which makes the navigation less precise. 

How to get there

Because Nam Kang Ho Tao is located between Lao Cai and Lai Chau Province, visitors can choose one of those 2 places to start their journey. Normally, it takes about 4-5 hours to go to Lao Cai by coach, and about 2 more hours if they head for Lai Chau Province. 

There are 2 common trails to reach Nam Kang Ho Tao Peak, the distance differs depending on travelers’ choices of destinations. The first one starts at Den Thang hamlet in Lao Cai Province, and the distance is 15km. The other is in the direction of Lai Chau with 20km to the peak in total, including 12km to Stop 1 and 8km from Stop 1 to the final destination.

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Things to do at Nam Kang Ho Tao

Trekking 

Nam Kang Ho Tao is one of the most challenging routes in Vietnam, with complicated terrain and dangerous cliffs going through dark canyons. These obstacles are key characteristics that distinguish the mountain from others, making the adventure to its peak so special and unique. This journey would require stamina, persistence, skills, and lots of effort. 

Complicated treks with many obstacles

Complicated treks with many obstacles (Source: mamtravel.vn)

For people who love challenges and want to break through their limits, a trek to Nam Kang Ho Tao will definitely be an interesting and memorable experience. At the end of the trip, trekkers can take in the panoramic view of the magnificent Hoang Lien Son mountain range from the top at 2,881 meters.

Reward for brave trekkersReward for brave trekkers (Source: Sai Gon Tiep Thi)

Wildlife watching

Discovered lately in 2017, Nam Kang Ho Tao still kept its pristine and mysterious beauty of the vast primary forests. Travelers can explore the diverse ecosystem and rich vegetation nestled in the Mount. They may encounter and observe unique species of flora and fauna at a close distance, such as Asiatic black bears, baboons, maples, etc.

Pristine and mysterious primary forests

Pristine and mysterious primary forests (Source: thegioicombo.vn)

The primary forest spreading from Nam Kang Ho Tao Peak to the direction of Lao Cai is supposed to be the most stunning Northwest forest. With picturesque streams and waterfalls, vast cardamom fields below, and rare trees above, such as red pine, green cypress, and especially the Fokienia trees, each with a diameter of over 1 meter, making visitors feel like they are wandering in a fairy tale forest.

Stunning landscapes along the trail

Stunning landscapes along the trail (Source: Migo.travel)

Culture exploring

There are some small groups of ethnicity allocated dispersively along the trails to Nam Kang Ho Tao, especially the Hmong and Dao people. Trekkers will have opportunities to interact and learn about their culture, history, and daily life. They can also try specialties as well as take part in local activities of ethnic communities.

Tips for visiting Nam Kang Ho Tao 

  • Prepare skills: physical fitness, mountaineering skills, and necessary equipment.
  • Hire a Guide: The trails are not easy and mostly unmarked. A local guide will ensure your safety and the effective negotiation of the terrain.
  • Packing Tips: Bring essentials like strong trekking shoes, warm clothes, rain gear, a first aid kit, and enough food and water. The weather on the mountain is always unpredictable.
  • Follow the team: Obey the instructions of the guide/porter during the trip. Do not separate from your team or go another trail on your own. 

Conclusion

Nam Kang Ho Tao is known as one of the most demanding and dangerous trekking routes in the trekking community. In return, it gives out unforgettable experiences for those who are persistent and willing to face difficulty. Are you ready to conquer Nam Kang Ho Tao? Contact Asia King Travel and let us help you plan your adventure!

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