CAM MOUNTAIN AN GIANG – DISCOVERING ITS SACRED BEAUTY

28/04/2024

Mount Cấm – An Giang’s Spiritual Paradise

Known as a “spiritual paradise” of Vietnam, Mount Cấm in An Giang has long attracted the attention of travelers. This place is not only a pilgrimage destination for devotees from across the country but also a hub of unique architecture and pristine natural beauty.

Explore with Mỹ Khánh Travel Village and admire the uniqueness and stunning beauty of this tourist destination.

1. Where is Mount Cấm?

(Image: Mount Cấm – Source: Collected)

Thiên Sơn Cấm, also known as Mount Cấm, is located in Tịnh Biên District, An Giang Province. It is a spiritual, ecological, and resort tourism destination attracting thousands of visitors each year. Rising nearly 700 meters above sea level, Mount Cấm stands like a towering limestone pillar. The climate here is usually cool and dry, making it ideal for tourism activities.

The name “Mount Cấm” carries a historical memory. According to legend, the mountain once served as a refuge for the Nguyễn lords during the pursuit by the Tây Sơn army. To protect the lords and high-ranking officials, a rumor was spread that the mountain was home to many wild animals and that people were forbidden to enter. From then on, the name Mount Cấm became widely known.

2. How to Get to Mount Cấm

(Image: Mount Cấm – Source: Collected)

Mount Cấm is approximately 90 km from Long Xuyên City and 37 km from Châu Đốc. Depending on your starting point, there are different routes to reach the destination. Here are two main starting points:

From Long Xuyên: Start from National Highway 19, pass through Bình Hòa Industrial Park, continue on Provincial Road 94, then take Provincial Road 948 through Tri Tôn and An Hảo to reach Mount Cấm Tourist Area.

From Châu Đốc: Travel via National Highway 91, pass Nhà Bàng Market, continue on Provincial Road 948, and follow the signs to reach the Mount Cấm Tourist Area.

Once at Mount Cấm, you have three options to reach the summit:

Cable Car: Since 2020, the cable car has become the most popular way to go up Mount Cấm. Tickets can be purchased combined with admission. Current prices:
- Adults: 180,000 VND/round-trip, 120,000 VND/one-way up, 100,000 VND/one-way down
- Children 0.9–1m: 90,000 VND/round-trip, 60,000 VND/one-way up, 50,000 VND/one-way down
Motorbike Taxi: If you want to enjoy the scenery on the way up, you can hire a motorbike taxi. Look for experienced drivers to ensure safety. Fares usually range around 50,000 VND/one-way, depending on timing, and it’s recommended to agree on the price beforehand.
Hiking: For those who enjoy physical activity and want a more immersive experience, you can walk up the mountain. Note that the route has many steps and may take a considerable amount of time.

3. Best Time to Visit Mount Cấm

To fully enjoy Mount Cấm, plan your visit during these periods:

First three months of the lunar year: This is the beginning of the new year when Mount Cấm bursts with blooming flowers and lush greenery. Days are cool, and nights are slightly chilly—perfect for exploration.
Fourth lunar month: The mountain becomes especially romantic and lively. This period also coincides with the Vía Bà Chúa Xứ Festival, creating a vibrant atmosphere.
Eighth lunar month: Visitors can experience the Khmer Dolta Festival and the Bảy Núi bull race, creating memorable and unique experiences.

Additionally, from August to November, you can enjoy the harmonious beauty of Mount Cấm and the distinctive landscapes of An Giang during the flood season.

4. Must-Visit Spots at Mount Cấm

Chùa Phật Lớn (Great Buddha Pagoda)

(Image: Mount Cấm – Source: Collected)

Built in 1912, Chùa Phật Lớn is remarkable for its classic architecture, reflecting the solemnity and tranquility of East Asian culture. The highlight is a giant 33-meter-tall Maitreya Buddha statue, visible from afar. The statue, shining in pristine white with a gentle face and charming smile, evokes a sense of peace and serenity.

Chùa Vạn Linh (Vạn Linh Pagoda)

(Image: Mount Cấm – Source: Collected)

Constructed in 1927, this is the largest pagoda on Mount Cấm. With a 9-story structure, including ground and rooftop levels, Chùa Vạn Linh stands near the mountain’s highest point. From the top floor, you can admire a panoramic view of Mount Cấm and its surroundings.

Vồ Bồ Hong

(Image: Mount Cấm – Source: Collected)

Vồ Bồ Hong, the highest point of Mount Cấm, is a must-visit for every traveler. From here, you can see Chùa Phật Lớn with its massive Buddha statue and the peaceful Thủy Liêm Lake. On clear days, Hà Tiên City is visible from a distance. Although reaching it involves a 2 km trek and some slopes, the stunning beauty of Vồ Bồ Hong makes it worth the effort.