A video, released on 16/10, capturing a group of visitors climbing large rock formations on Da Chong mountain in Quang La commune, Quang Ninh province, has sparked debate regarding the safety of this activity.
The video shows some individuals standing atop the rock formations, while others cling to crevices below, searching for footholds. Climbers must bend low, using their hands for balance or holding onto support ropes. The large rocks are tilted and stacked, with sections jutting out from the mountainside. Notably, the photo-taking area lacks any protective railings.
Opinions are divided: some argue that mountain climbing and exploring natural terrain are normal activities for adventurers, provided they are well-prepared physically and skillfully. Others express concern that ascending these rock slabs, which are close to a deep chasm and lack safety equipment, could result in accidents from slipping or losing balance.
A visitor from Ha Noi described the rock slabs as "inclined and having slippery surfaces," adding that the area's unique landscape attracts explorers.
Da Chong mountain, often referred to by tourists as the "virtual living rock," is located approximately 40 km from Ha Long City. The mountain comprises dozens of stacked rock slabs, reaching hundreds of meters in height. At its summit, an outcrop features multiple flat rock slabs stacked and extending over a chasm, with a contact point to the main mountain of about 1m2. While its exact formation period remains undetermined, researchers suggest these stacked rock outcrops are natural geological formations.
Dong Sinh, a Quang Ninh resident, recounted his group's climb up Da Chong mountain on 13/10. They accessed the mountain via alley 143 Van Trieu street in Quang Yen. Starting their trek at 10:00, they covered approximately 8 km of mountain terrain, reaching their destination by 12:30. Sinh noted that while the path up the mountain is not overly treacherous, its length demands considerable stamina.
"Individuals with good physical fitness and regular training can complete the journey. However, climbing the rock outcrop itself is a risky endeavor," he stated.
Tourists queuing to ascend Da Chong mountain peak, October. *Source: xuan_k2*
Following the viral spread of the Da Chong mountain climbing video, representatives from the Quang La Communal People's Committee consulted with specialized departments to review management protocols and ensure safety in the area. The committee has also dispatched official correspondence to the Dong Mai Ward People's Committee and the Western Special-Use Forest Management Board, urging collaborative efforts in management and safety enforcement.
Given that the mountain is situated deep within the forest, far from Quang La commune's administrative hub yet accessible from adjacent areas, regulating entry and exit necessitates coordination among multiple agencies. Local authorities clarify that Da Chong mountain is designated as a protected forest area, not an official tourist attraction.
Activities such as trekking, climbing, and photography at this site are primarily spontaneous. The area has featured danger warning signs and no-climbing notices since 2017, following backpacker groups posting images from the location. On the morning of 17/10, numerous Quang Ninh trekking groups issued announcements to halt all Da Chong mountain climbing excursions.
Mai Phuong
