Solo Adventure in the Misty Mountains of Tam Dao

Seeking Serenity in the Mountains

Today was all about embracing the tranquility that Tam Dao offers, a stark contrast to the bustling tech world I usually inhabit back in Bristol. I set out to explore some of the region's spiritual sites and soak in the fresh mountain air. It's amazing how a change of scenery can shift your perspective.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Tam Dao Sky Garden. I opted for a traditional Vietnamese breakfast, which included *phở* and strong coffee – a perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploring. The Sky Garden lived up to its name, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains shrouded in mist. It was a serene way to start the day, contemplating the journey ahead. The temperature was mild, with a high of 78°F (25°C) and a low of 61°F (16°C), making it ideal for exploring.


Explore Tam Dao Sky Garden: A serene retreat with stunning views, delightful dining options, and cozy accommodations amidst nature's beauty.

After breakfast, I made my way to Thiền viện Trúc Lâm An Tâm, a Zen Buddhist temple nestled in the mountains. The temple is located on Thạch Bàn mountain, surrounded by green forests. The winding roads leading to the temple were an adventure in themselves, offering glimpses of the stunning landscape. The temple was built in 2008 on the foundation of an ancient pagoda and completed in 2012. As I walked through the temple grounds, I was struck by the peaceful atmosphere. Monks quietly went about their duties, and the air was filled with the gentle sound of chanting. I took some time to meditate, finding a sense of calm that’s often elusive in my daily life. The temple has several gardens depicting the life of the Buddha, including the garden of Prince Siddhartha's birth, his travels, his renunciation, enlightenment, first sermon, and final nirvana.


Experience tranquility at Truc Lam Zen Monastery, a beautiful Buddhist temple in Tam Dao, Vietnam, surrounded by lush nature and breathtaking views.

Sometimes, the most productive thing you can do is relax.

Next on the itinerary was the Tay Thien Tam Quan Gate. This gate marks the entrance to the Tay Thien Pagoda complex, an area rich in history and spiritual significance. Tay Thien is considered the birthplace of Vietnamese Buddhism, with a Buddhist monk from India believed to have propagated the religion here in the 3rd century BC. The gate itself is an impressive structure, and the surrounding area is dotted with temples and shrines. I explored the area, taking in the mix of Buddhist monuments and temples dedicated to the Mother of the Nation. The views from here were simply breathtaking, offering a panoramic vista of the Tam Dao mountains and forests. The Tay Thien complex is vast, covering around 148 hectares with nearly 500 plant species and 300 wildlife species.


Explore the majestic Tay Thien Tam Quan Gate in Vinh Phuc, Vietnam, where history meets stunning natural beauty in a serene setting.

For lunch, I stopped at Sake Restaurant, known for its delicious Vietnamese cuisine with a modern twist. I sampled some local delicacies, including *chả giò* (spring rolls) and *gỏi cuốn* (fresh spring rolls), savoring the flavors of the region. It was a welcome break, and the food was excellent.


Discover the culinary delights at Sake Restaurant in Tam Đảo - where authentic Vietnamese cuisine meets stunning natural beauty.

In the late afternoon, I headed back towards Tam Dao town, stopping at Kyama Tam Đảo - Cocktail & Beer for a refreshing drink. It was a great spot to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures. I enjoyed a local beer while watching the sunset over the mountains, a perfect end to a day of spiritual exploration.


Discover the charm of Kyama Tam Đảo, an enchanting bar in Vietnam offering exquisite cocktails and breathtaking views in a cozy ambiance.

For dinner, I chose Nhà Hàng Tuấn Nam, a local restaurant known for its authentic Vietnamese dishes. I ordered *cơm gà* (chicken rice), a simple yet satisfying meal that perfectly captured the essence of Vietnamese cuisine. The restaurant was bustling with locals and tourists alike, creating a lively atmosphere.


Experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine at Nhà hàng Tuấn Nam in Tam Đảo—delicious dishes with breathtaking mountain views await.

As I reflect on today, I am struck by the profound sense of peace and serenity I experienced. Tam Dao has a way of slowing things down, allowing you to connect with nature and yourself. It's a reminder that sometimes, the most productive thing you can do is relax and embrace the present moment.

Tomorrow, I plan to visit the Lady Chua Thuong Ngan Temple and the TV tower Tam Dao. I'm also hoping to explore the Tam Quan market for some local souvenirs. I'm looking forward to another day of adventure in this beautiful region.