Chop Chai Mountain - The Pyramid of Natural Beauty

Chop Chai Mountain in Phu Yen: A Tranquil and Picturesque Destination

Geographical Location of Chop Chai Mountain

Chop Chai Mountain in Phu Yen stands at an elevation of 394 meters above sea level. It is situated between the Binh Kien and Hoa Kien communes, in the outskirts of Tuy Hoa City, approximately 4 kilometers northwest of the city center, right next to National Highway 1. The circumference around the mountain's base is about 10 kilometers. Chop Chai Mountain, along with the Ba River, are well-known landmarks in Phu Yen.

Origin of the Name Chop Chai

Chop Chai is also known by other names such as Quy Son (Turtle Mountain) or Hon Co Rua because the mountain's shape resembles a turtle crawling across a field. Visitors standing at the summit of the mountain can enjoy a panoramic view of Tuy Hoa City.

Chop Chai Mountain has several distinctive features, including the Hang Doi Cave, which is 5 meters wide and consists of flat, smooth rocks. The mountain's slopes are surrounded by temples such as Khanh Son, Hoa Son, Minh Son, and Bao Lam. Below, there is the "Lien Tri Duc Nguyet" area, spanning 1.2 hectares.

Locals refer to Chop Chai Mountain as the "lightning-struck mountain" due to the many broadcasting and military transmission towers at its summit. Consequently, it is prone to lightning strikes during the rainy season. Visitors should be cautious and avoid approaching tall towers on the mountain during this time.

Getting to Chop Chai Mountain in Phu Yen

Getting to Chop Chai Mountain is relatively straightforward, with a variety of modern transportation options available.

Starting from the city center of Tuy Hoa, head straight on Mau Than Street for approximately 2.6 kilometers. At the end of this road, turn onto Nguyen Tat Thanh Street, and then take a left onto a side road. Finally, travel another 4 kilometers, and you will reach Chop Chai Mountain.

If you want to combine your visit with a trip to Bao Lam Temple, from Nguyen Tat Thanh Street, just drive a little further to reach the temple. Travelers can use various modes of transportation, including buses, Limousines, or motorbikes.

Attractions of Chop Chai Mountain

Conquering the Summit of Chop Chai Mountain: Climbing to the summit of Chop Chai Mountain is not too challenging. The path leading here is convenient, allowing visitors to dedicate time to reach the peak. Although there are some steep sections, the terrain is mostly flat and easy to traverse. Gazing at the natural beauty from the mountain's summit is a unique experience, offering diverse landscapes, unique culture, and the people of Phu Yen.

Scenic Views from Chop Chai Mountain: From the top, you can see endless rice fields, cornfields, and lush hills that catch the breeze from the distant sea. The most beautiful view is when you look down at the bustling city of Tuy Hoa, leaving an unforgettable impression of the lively natural scenery. When you visit, make sure to conquer the mountain's summit and take in all the beauty of Phu Yen within your sight.

Visiting Bao Lam Temple at the Foot of Chop Chai Mountain: If you're undecided about what to explore at Chop Chai, you can visit Bao Lam Temple during your journey. This temple has witnessed the changes and development of Tuy Hoa City throughout its history. Having gone through ups and downs in different historical periods, the temple has been renovated and repaired, with a combination of modern and traditional elements. As soon as you enter the temple grounds, you'll be amazed by the peaceful natural surroundings, and your worries and anxieties from everyday life will seem to fade away.

Bao Lam Temple at the base of Chop Chai Mountain is open to visitors every day of the week and becomes even more crowded and lively during festivals, especially during the Lunar New Year when it attracts many local residents and tourists from afar.

Savoring Local Delicacies at Chop Chai Mountain in Phu Yen

Mountain Goat Specialties: They say you haven't truly experienced Chop Chai until you've tasted mountain goat dishes. Indeed, the goat meat here is renowned as one of Phu Yen's finest delicacies.

Grilled Goat with Wild Betel Leaves: This dish is prepared with great care and skill. First, the chef finely chops the goat meat, adds well-balanced seasonings, lemongrass, and sesame seeds, and then grills it to perfection. Grilled goat with wild betel leaves is served with fragrant white salt, a famous condiment in the Central region.

Beer-Braised Goat: The meat from female goats is cut into bite-sized pieces, simmered with a small flame, and stewed with a bit of beer and additional seasonings. When served, beer-braised goat is accompanied by bread, vegetables, and dried grapes. This dish is known for its ability to relieve fatigue and cool the body.

Steamed Goat Rolled in Mau Fruit Leaves: The goat meat is steamed to be slightly undercooked, then served with a dipping sauce and various herbs like cilantro, corn, and mau leaves. The highlight of this dish is the dipping sauce, which is prepared with a special blend of fish sauce and soy sauce. Diners will experience a unique taste when enjoying the tender steamed goat meat combined with aromatic herbs.

Notes for Visiting Chop Chai Mountain

If you visit during the rainy season, be sure to stay away from broadcasting or television towers, as they are prone to lightning strikes during heavy rains.

On the summit of Chop Chai Mountain, there is a special military base. Visitors should avoid getting too close to it to avoid any inconveniences.

Sunrise is the best time to enjoy the panoramic view of Phu Yen from Chop Chai Mountain. Avoid coming during sunset as the scenery may be obscured, and visibility will be limited. Moreover, nightfall occurs quickly and can pose a danger.

When visiting Bao Lam Temple, dress modestly and respectfully. Please also be mindful of maintaining cleanliness and not littering to preserve the landscape and environment.

In conclusion, through this article, we have introduced you to Chop Chai Mountain in Phu Yen, a dreamy and romantic destination. This place boasts breathtaking natural landscapes, tranquility, and is suitable for travelers looking to escape the daily hustle and bustle of life.