VietNamNet Bridge – For those seeking the tranquility and mystery of nature for a nice weekend, Buu Long Park could be a good place to relax.

Visitors then can escape the noise and air pollution in the industrial city and enjoy the fresh air and poetic scenery of Long An Lake (Hidden Dragon Lake) nestled in the park. The 20,000-square-meter lake is an artificial reservoir formed after hundreds of years of stone exploitation by humans.

The water in the lake is blue and shaded with huge trees which hang down on stone “islands” and by the lakeshore, making the air cooler. The lake is often referred to as a “miniature Ha Long Bay”.

In the center of the lake is a suspension bridge from which tourists may contemplate the panorama of the lake. Or they can take a trip around the lake on a motorboat at a cost of VND100,000 for a group of four to eight, or on swan pedal-boats at a price of VND50,000 per couple.

Next to Long An lake are two low mountains. Nearly 100 steps must be climbed to reach the peak of Binh Dien Mountain and the ancient Buu Phong Pagoda, looming behind a big bodhi tree. Built in the 17th century the pagoda was renovated and enlarged in 1829 and again more recently. From the top of the mountain, tourists are rewarded with a panoramic view of the city, boats and activities in Dong Nai rivers.

The second mountain is Long An Mountain where Long Son Cave is positioned upward like a vaulted shape with stalactites hanging down mysteriously.

The park authorities can assist anyone interested in climbing the mountains after trekking around the park. Adventurers will be equipped with a helmet, gloves and other safety equipment as well as instruction on how to have a safe and interesting adventure.

However, it is necessary to register in advance so that the operators may prepare security forces, instructor and relevant equipment. At reasonable prices, depending on the number of climbers, tourists can have a unique and amazing experience.

Tran Van Thuong, director of Buu Long tourism site, said that tourists are interested in taking a trip around the lake and climbing the mountain. Those trips are exciting because they offer a chance not only to experience the beauty of nature but also to get some exercise in the pure air and tranquil space.

Buu Long Park is around 80 hectares in size. It was honored as a national cultural tourism site in 1990.

For more information, contact Buu Long Park, tel: (0613) 951 109, email: tvthuong.dldn@gmail.com.

(Source: SGT)