1. Overview of Nui Voi An Lao (Hai Phong)
1.1. Geographical location of Nui Voi An Lao (Hai Phong)
The Nui Voi An Lao (Hai Phong) complex is located in the communes of An Truong and An Lao, about 20 km southwest of the center of Hai Phong city. When viewed from afar, the entire mountain range appears like a giant elephant lying down amidst lush green fields, creating a special mark in the Lach Tray river delta region.
1.2. Outstanding natural features
With its highest peak reaching 143 m, Nui Voi An Lao (Hai Phong) is the highest mountain in the port city. The complex consists of alternating rocky and earthen mountains, following each other in a winding manner, forming a unique elephant shape. This diverse geological composition has formed a rich system of caves with many stalactites and stalagmites of strange shapes.
The ecosystem at the foot of the mountain is the vast An Lao field, lush green all year round. During the rice harvest season, the fields turn golden yellow, creating a beautiful backdrop for photography. The fresh air and pristine natural landscape make this an ideal destination for outdoor activities.
1.3. Cultural and historical value of Nui Voi An Lao (Hai Phong)
Nui Voi An Lao (Hai Phong) is a sacred land associated with many legends and heroic historical imprints. This place was once a resistance base, evoking the image of female militia members hanging on cliffs to shoot down planes, a symbol of the indomitable spirit of the people of An Lao. According to folklore, Nui Voi is also a place to worship the female general Le Chan and heroes who contributed to building and defending the nation. Annually, the Nui Voi festival is held to commemorate the merits of ancestors and pray for national peace and popular well-being. Over time, Nui Voi has become not only a famous tourist destination but also a cultural and spiritual symbol of Hai Phong.
The archaeological historical value of this site is confirmed by the discovery of relics belonging to the transitional period between the Dong Son and Ha Long cultures, dating back over 3000-4000 years. On April 28, 1962, Nui Voi An Lao (Hai Phong) was officially ranked as a national historical and scenic relic, affirming the important cultural stature of this place.
Nui Voi An Lao is ranked as a national historical relic. (Source: Collected)
2. Directions to Nui Voi An Lao (Hai Phong)
2.1. Directions from Hai Phong center
The route from Hai Phong center to Nui Voi An Lao (Hai Phong) is quite convenient with a distance of only 20 km. Visitors depart along National Highway 5, cross Niem Bridge, go through Truong Chinh Street, Le Duan Street, Hoang Thiet Lam Street, then turn into Road 360 and Hoang Quoc Viet Street.
From there, you continue to turn onto the dike of the Lach Tray River to reach the foot of the mountain. Travel time ranges from 30-45 minutes depending on the vehicle and traffic conditions. Motorbikes, cars, taxis, or motorbike taxis can all travel conveniently on this route.
Overview of the road around Nui Voi An Lao (Hai Phong). (Source: Compilation)
2.2. Directions for traveling from Hanoi
Visitors departing from Hanoi can choose a bus with ticket prices ranging from 120,000-420,000 VND/way, or drive their own car via National Highway 5. The total travel time is about 2-2.5 hours, including rest stops and vehicle checks.
Upon arriving at the center of Hai Phong, visitors continue to follow the instructions mentioned in the section above to reach Nui Voi An Lao (Hai Phong) . In 2025, improved transportation infrastructure will make travel more convenient than in previous years.
3. Exploring the cave system of Nui Voi An Lao
3.1. Notable caves at Nui Voi An Lao (Hai Phong)
Hang Hong Voi is the first highlight when exploring Nui Voi An Lao (Hai Phong) , with a large cave entrance resembling the mouth of a giant elephant. Inside the cave, there are many unique stalactites and important archaeological traces discovered by scientists. Natural light filtering through the rock crevices creates beautiful photo opportunities.
Inside An Lao Elephant Mountain caves with unique stalactites. (Source: Collected)
When visiting Hai Phong's Elephant Mountain, visitors will have the opportunity to explore fascinating natural cave systems such as Long Tien, Nam Tai, Carp Cave, or Elephant's Throat Cave. Each cave has a unique geological structure, with layers of stalactites and stalagmites creating a magical scene. Formed over thousands of years, the caves here still retain their pristine beauty, like a vibrant natural painting in the heart of the Port City.
3.2. An Lao Elephant Mountain (Hai Phong) - A Major Archaeological Site of the Dong Son Period
In 1930, French archaeologists officially confirmed An Lao Elephant Mountain (Hai Phong) as one of the major archaeological sites, belonging to the late Bronze Age and early Iron Age, dating back over 2,500 years. These discoveries have changed the perspective on human settlement history in the Northeast coastal region.
Typical artifacts excavated include stone tools, bronze objects, and numerous living remains, clearly demonstrating the development of the Dong Son-Ha Long culture. The scientific value of this site contributes significantly to building knowledge about the origins and traditional identity of the Vietnamese people in the coastal region.
4. An Lao Elephant Mountain Festival (Hai Phong)
4.1. An Lao Elephant Mountain Festival - A Major Traditional Event on the 15th Day of the First Lunar Month
The An Lao Elephant Mountain Festival (Hai Phong) takes place on the 15th day of the first lunar month annually, and is the most representative cultural event of An Lao district. The festival atmosphere begins early in the morning with a solemn procession of the deity, followed by traditional sacrificial ceremonies expressing the local people's reverence.
Annual traditional festival of Nui Voi An Lao. (Source: Collected)
Folk games such as tug-of-war, swing, and wrestling create a lively atmosphere, attracting a large number of visitors. Local art and cultural exchange programs help visitors gain a deeper understanding of the cultural identity of the Hai Phong region.
4.2. Nui Voi An Lao (Hai Phong) in literature, art, and life
Nui Voi An Lao (Hai Phong) has become an endless source of inspiration for many local literary and artistic works through generations. The image of the giant elephant lying amidst the rice fields has been described by many poets and writers in works praising their homeland.
Legends about King Hung, mountain gods, and the story of chess players on the mountaintop chessboard have become an indispensable part of the folk cultural heritage. These stories not only enrich spiritual life but also contribute significantly to educating the younger generation about traditions.
5. Visiting experience of Nui Voi An Lao (Hai Phong)
5.1. Ideal time to explore Nui Voi
Spring, especially the time of the full moon in the first lunar month, is the best time to visit Nui Voi An Lao (Hai Phong) . Visitors can both participate in traditional festivals and enjoy pleasant weather with fresh scenery after the Lunar New Year. The fresh air and cool temperature create ideal conditions for hiking and cave exploration.
Summer and early autumn are also worth considering when the rice fields turn a beautiful golden color. This scenery creates a perfect landscape painting for commemorative photos. Especially at dawn and dusk, the light from the summit of Nui Voi An Lao (Hai Phong) offers the most beautiful photographic moments.
Admire the lush green rice fields from the summit of Voi An Lao Mountain. (Source: Collected)
5.2. Notes and necessary equipment
Lightweight, easy-to-move-in clothing is important when exploring Voi An Lao Mountain (Hai Phong) . Sports shoes or hiking boots with non-slip soles will help you move safely on the rocky trails. A wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, and sufficient drinking water are essential items, especially in summer.
A camera or phone with a full battery to capture beautiful moments during the journey. Travel in groups and follow trail signs to ensure safety, especially do not enter deep caves without a guide. The ideal time to check-in is when beautiful light shines down on the rice fields and stalactites in the caves.
5.3. Services and amenities around Voi An Lao Mountain (Hai Phong)
The area at the foot of Voi An Lao Mountain (Hai Phong) has convenient parking for both cars and motorbikes at reasonable prices. Some local eateries serve regional specialties, however, visitors should bring snacks and drinks for picnics on the mountaintop.
Currently, there are no large accommodation facilities right next to Voi An Lao Mountain (Hai Phong) , but visitors can choose homestays or guesthouses in An Lao commune. Many tourists choose to stay in hotels in Hai Phong city and then travel for the day to optimize costs and time.
6. Combining visits to tourist attractions in Hai Phong near Voi Mountain
After exploring Voi An Lao Mountain (Hai Phong) , visitors can continue their journey to Cat Ba Island to experience Lan Ha Bay or go swimming. Bus routes from Hai Phong to Cat Hai station operate frequently, convenient for travel. Notably, the Sun World Cat Ba cable car offers a wonderful aerial sightseeing experience.
The scenery of Sun World Cat Ba cable car seen from above.
Do Son Beach is about a 45-minute drive from Nui Voi An Lao (Hai Phong), an ideal stopover for relaxation and swimming. The Trang Trinh historical site is also located on the same tourist route, helping tourists optimize their itinerary to explore the major cultural and historical sites of Hai Phong in one trip.
Nui Voi An Lao (Hai Phong) is an ideal destination for tourists to return to majestic nature, explore historical traces, and immerse themselves in the unique cultural space of Hai Phong. Entering 2025, this place becomes even more attractive thanks to the combination of pristine landscapes and diverse experiential tourism activities. Take time to visit, personally feel the unique beauty of Nui Voi, and share your authentic impressions to make the exploration journey more meaningful.
