Backpacking Laos: A Full Travel Guide for You

Being an average of 30 to 70km away from Hanoi, these low-cost one-day destinations are ideal places to escape the crowds of the city for those who prefer the beauty of nature.

1. Tram Mountain ( Núi Trầm)

Tram mountain is positioned about 30 km southern Hanoi, in the region of Phung Chau commune, Chuong My district, which is very fitting for a trekking or picnic day. This mountain is often regarded as the “mini plateau of Hanoi.”From the peak of Tram mountain, you can see the scenery of the Day River and beautiful rice field. The mountain is not very high, but the adventurous team will be interested in climbing its risky white cliff.

Coming to Tram Mountain, you can freely set up campfire, cook and go around the mountains to admire the natural landscape. The highlight of Tram Mountain is probably the ancient trails created by the people here climbing mountains over time.

The road to Tram Mountain is also very simple. Follow the direction of Ha Dong (Highway No. 6) to the beginning of Chuc Son Town (Chuong My District), cross a small bridge and turn right 2 km to Tram Mountain then.

2. Table of Contents

   Ham Lon

With the majestic natural landscape, deep blue lake, romantic as Xuan Huong Lake, there are many trees, purple blossom beside the road, and special spots here are the quiet pine forests along with the cool mountainous atmosphere. Ham Lon was added to the list of places worthy to spend a day from Hanoi

Ham Lon belongs to the Doc Ton range, Soc Son. It is 462m high and is the highest peak in Hanoi which is known as the “roof of the capital”. Climbing up to the top of Ham Lon, you will feel the tranquility of your feet on the thick pine leaf carpet.

On the way to Ham Lon Mountain, you will see a trail heading to Nui Bau lake located near the foot of the mountain. This is also the shortest path leading to Ham Lon. Wandering in the pine forest, picking up the pine cone, smelling the pine resin flows out, you will be awed in full of enchantment.

When it is dark, you can have a fun campfire, gather together. Delicious barbecue skewers, grilled corn, and hot potato are the specialty for tourists. Having fun in the moonlight night will be the unforgettable feeling of those who have been here.

3. Duong Lam ancient village

Duong Lam is one of the antique Vietnamese villages dating back over 300 years. The village of Duong Lam brings you the traditional red clay rooftops, brick paths, laterite walls, or wells. This village is also famous for its delicious roast meat dish.

Only 50km away from Hanoi, it is easy to move to this old village. From Ha Noi, follow Thang Long Avenue to Hoa Lac Fork then turn right, follow Highway No. 21, pass Son Loc to the intersection with Street No.32, you will see the signposted road to Duong Lam Village.

With the culture of bold Vietnamese culture, this place brings you the experience of an ancient culture of the Vietnamese. After the chaos of city life, one day to the village of pure, watching the rustic house with the bright red roof, the quiet temple, with birds singing is such a great idea.

4. Tam Dao

The scenery in Tam Dao is out of controversy, with beautiful mountains, trees, flowers, cool air, and clouds in a peaceful morning or a great night.

Tam Dao is about 80km from Hanoi, it will take you 2 hours to go from the capital to Tam Dao. You can select many vehicles to move up here such as motorbike, car or bus.

Weather in Tam Dao is no different from the atmosphere in Sapa or Da Lat. You will easily feel all four seasons in just one day. By the morning in Tam Dao will be spring, midday is hot summer, the afternoon is windy fall and evening brings you a true Northern cold winter.

Some wonderful spots here are the Old Church, Television Tower, Silver waterfalls. The most famous and tasty dish here is chayote (vegetable pear).

5. Ha Long

Ha Long is not a place you can go for just one day, regularly 2 days and 1 night, but a must-go place in the North if you finish visiting Hanoi.

You can travel to Ha Long Bay at any time of the year, however it is recommended to avoid cloudy and rainy days during summer time.

Get to Ha Long Bay, tourists can take a cruise around the bay. You will see hazy mist as in the dream, crystal clear sea water reflecting the image of the islands from far distance.

In addition, you can take a yacht or dive and watch the magnificent coral reefs. This place is also suitable for wildlife tourists, not crowded like other places. Ha Long also has a massive grotto system, each grotto has its own beauty and the tales attached to it.