Hữu Lũng climbing guide for first-timers
Getting there, the crags of Yên Thịnh, Hữu Liên and Đồng Lâm, the season and what to pack for your first limestone trip in Lạng Sơn.
Hữu Lũng in Lạng Sơn province has the largest concentration of sport-climbing routes in northern Vietnam, about two hours’ drive from Hanoi. Here is what you need to know before your first trip.
Getting there
- Car / motorbike: take the Hanoi – Bắc Giang – Lạng Sơn expressway and exit at Hữu Lũng. Roughly 100 km.
- Train: the Hanoi – Đồng Đăng train stops at Hữu Lũng station; the homestay can pick you up.
- Bus: any bus heading to Lạng Sơn stops in Hữu Lũng town.
Main crags
| Crag | Routes | Grades | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yên Thịnh | ~60 | 5a – 8a | Closest to the homestay, many easy routes |
| Hữu Liên | ~40 | 5c – 7c+ | Inside the community-based tourism village, lake nearby |
| Đồng Lâm | ~20 | 6a – 7b | Beautiful meadow, camping possible |
Season
October to April is dry and cool with great friction. Summer is hot and humid; climb early morning or late afternoon only.
What to bring
- A 70 m rope and 14 – 16 quickdraws.
- Climbing shoes, chalk bag, helmet.
- A topo – the homestay has printed copies to lend.
Tip: bring cash; few places in the village take cards.
Need a guide or gear rental? Contact Mỏ Nóng Homestay and we will connect you with the local climbing crew.