On 1/9, a representative from the Ba Den Mountain National Tourist Area Management Board announced that during the three-day holiday (30/8-1/9), they welcomed and guided 4,514 visitors trekking to the mountain's summit. The average daily visitor count reached approximately 1,500, tens of times higher than on regular days when only dozens of people typically hike, mainly on weekends. The trekking route, stretching 5-6 km, features many steep and rocky sections that demand physical fitness.

Tran Chien, 33, a resident of Tay Ninh, shared that upon arriving at the mountain's base at 5 a.m. on 1/9, he already saw hundreds of people queuing to register for the climb. While he normally takes about two hours to reach the summit, the holiday congestion meant frequent stops and waits, nearly doubling his travel time. According to Chien, the weather was favorable, with mostly fog on the mountain, which did not significantly impede the climb.

A section of Ba Den Mountain on the morning of 1/9. Photo: Dinh Chien

Nguyen Khanh, a photographer who has frequently visited Ba Den to train, noted that this was his first time witnessing "an unimaginable crowd of visitors." He attributed part of the congestion to many young people stopping to take photos for check-ins, often not yielding to others while moving.

Ba Den Mountain, standing at 986 meters, is the highest peak in the southern region. It attracts young trekkers on weekends, complementing its cable car system. In 10/2025, trekking activities were temporarily suspended due to Typhoon Bualoi, which caused landslides and slippery conditions, before resuming on 12/12/2025 with new regulations.

Currently, visitors are only permitted to use the Cot Dien route and the foot of the mountain - Ba Pagoda route. They must register personal information at the security checkpoint before starting their ascent between 5 a.m. and 11 a.m.

During this time of year, the southern region often experiences rain, making trekking routes slippery and posing a risk of falling rocks. The Management Board has installed warning signs and advises visitors to prioritize their safety. They should avoid venturing onto dense, overgrown trails, prepare adequately with physical fitness, sufficient drinking water, first-aid supplies, and refrain from bringing prohibited substances or flammable items.

Tuan Anh