1. Introduction to Nui Cam Ha Nam
1.1. Where is Nui Cam Ha Nam?
Nui Cam Ha Nam is located in Quyen Son village, Ly Thuong Kiet Ward, Ninh Binh. From the center of Phu Ly city, visitors only need to travel an additional 8 km, and if starting from Hanoi, the distance is about 60 km to the south. Thanks to its location right on the bank of the Day River, which is the southern gateway to the Red River Delta, this destination is very convenient for combining visits with famous scenic spots such as Tam Chuc Pagoda and Bai Dinh.
1.2. What makes Nui Cam stand out
Nui Cam Ha Nam is a unique combination of spiritual value and majestic natural beauty. This place has long been considered a sacred land, associated with the legend of national hero Ly Thuong Kiet. The Nui Cam - Den Truc - Ngu Dong Thi Son complex along with the ancient bamboo forest creates a destination that is both rich in cultural imprint and full of natural greenery.
The beauty here offers visitors a rare sense of peace. The mountain resembles a lion lying dormant by the Day River, surrounded by lush green bamboo groves, creating a serene and tranquil atmosphere.
It is thanks to this blend that Nui Cam Ha Nam increasingly attracts many tourists, from nature lovers to pilgrimage groups visiting festivals and historical sites in Ha Nam.
1.3. Historical and cultural values of Nui Cam.
The complex of Den Truc, Ngu Dong Thi Son, and Nui Cam was recognized as a National historical site in 1994. This recognition not only acknowledges its architectural values but also affirms the important role of the relic complex in preserving the traditional heritage of the Red River Delta region.
Furthermore, Nui Cam is associated with heroic historical legends, especially the story of national hero Ly Thuong Kiet and the legend of "The Flag Flies to the Mountaintop". These anecdotes have made Nui Cam a symbol of patriotism and the resilient will of the Vietnamese nation through centuries.
Nui Cam - National historical site. (Source: Collected)
2. Legends and culture at Nui Cam Ha Nam
2.1. Legend of the "Flag flying to the mountaintop", Ly Thuong Kiet's altar
The anecdote about Nui Cam Ha Nam and Ly Thuong Kiet began in 1069. Legend has it that when the army crossed the Day River by water, they encountered a fierce storm, which broke the mast and blew the flag to the mountaintop. Ly Thuong Kiet found it strange and ordered his soldiers to rest at the foot of the mountain.
In the middle of the night, Ly Thuong Kiet dreamed that two gods came to inform him in a dream. Accordingly, after winning the battle, he returned to this place to cultivate the land. The next morning, when he went up the mountain to find the flag, he unexpectedly discovered a strange grass with medicinal properties.
From then on, the mountain was named Nui Cuon Son (rolling mountain). Ly Thuong Kiet ordered a ban on cutting down forests on the mountain, hence the place is also called Nui Cam. To commemorate his merits, the local people built a temple in 1117.
2.2. Meaning of the name "Nui Cam" and anecdotes.
The name Nui Cam carries a strong sense of sacredness in the minds of the ancient people. This place has long been considered a forbidden area, where trees cannot be arbitrarily cut or the landscape altered. The word "cam" (forbidden) is a reminder of its sacredness, encouraging people to maintain reverence for nature, relics, and deities.
2.3. Natural features: Mountain shape, scenery, surrounding bamboo forest
Nui Cam Ha Nam has a very special shape, resembling a lion lying down with its head facing the Day River. This symbol in folklore signifies protection for the entire Kim Bang region and everyone living around it. When viewed from afar, one can clearly see the powerful features of the "king of the jungle" by the cool riverbank.
The green bamboo forest stretching around Nui Cam evokes a feeling of stepping into a fairy tale. Den Truc is located amidst the green bamboo, creating a peaceful and pristine landscape throughout the four seasons. There are also many ancient trees on the mountain, and the rich natural terrain makes this place an interesting ecosystem in the North.
The road leading up the mountain with green trees on both sides. (Source: Collected)
3. Discover Ngu Dong Thi Son: The mysterious cave system under Nui Cam
3.1. Introduction to Ngu Dong Thi Son: Location, scale.
Located on the slope of Nui Cam Ha Nam and only about 200m from Den Truc, Ngu Dong Thi Son is a complex of interconnected caves, burrowing deep into the mountain. This place is likened to a giant "tòa lâu đài" (castle) with 5 caves connected by small corridors. The entrance is located high up, overlooking the Song Day river, while the exit is on the other side of the mountain cliff, keeping the air inside the caves cool and airy.
Inside the caves, visitors will admire countless stalactites and stalagmites with unique shapes, given interesting names by locals such as turtle, elephant, monkey, mother's breast, lotus flower, swan,... Notably, on the cave ceiling, there is a shape resembling the great flag of Ly Thuong Kiet.
During the resistance war against France, Ngu Dong Thi Son was a military base, where our soldiers were stationed and weapons were stored. On January 20, 1994, this complex, along with Den Truc, was recognized as a National Historical-Cultural Relic.
3.2. Historical traces within the caves.
Not only possessing natural beauty, Ngu Dong Thi Son also retains many historical vestiges. During the resistance war against France, this place served as a safe garrison, a place to store weapons, and a hiding spot for the local revolutionary forces. Every nook and cranny of the cave is filled with the heroic memories of the nation.
Additionally, on the summit of Nui Cam Ha Nam, there is a stone chessboard for immortals. Legend has it that this is where immortals often descend to the mortal world to hold festivals, drink wine, play chess, and admire the earthly scenery on bright moonlit nights. Nearby, there is also a deep square indentation, popularly known as the Emperor's Abyss.
Historical traces are deeply imprinted in each stalactite at Ngu Dong Thi Son. (Source: Collected)
4. Experience visiting Nui Cam Ha Nam in 2025
4.1. Guide to the itinerary for visiting Nui Cam – Ngu Dong – Den Truc.
Most tourists visiting Nui Cam Ha Nam choose a day trip itinerary. The morning starts at Den Truc to offer incense, immersing yourself in the tranquil green bamboo space. Noon is an opportunity to explore Ngu Dong Thi Son, enjoy the fascination of the stalactite walls, the “natural orchestra,” and take photos with the unique scenery.
In the afternoon, pleasant weather is ideal for climbing to the summit of Nui Cam , admiring the panoramic view of Ha Nam and the winding Day River. Afterwards, you can choose to return to Ha Noi or visit Tam Chuc if time permits. The paths are clearly signposted, suitable for all ages.
The ideal time to visit is from the 2nd to the 4th lunar months when the air is cool and fresh, or in the autumn months of September - October when the bamboo forest is lush and the scenery is pleasant. Visitors should go early to fully enjoy and avoid peak hours.
4.2. Spiritual tourism and festivals at Den Truc.
The Den Truc festival in Ha Nam is a traditional cultural event to commemorate the merits of the national hero Ly Thuong Kiet. The festival takes place annually, officially opening from the 1st to the 10th of the 2nd lunar month. This is not only a commemoration ritual but also an occasion for local people and tourists to participate together in lively activities such as palace processions, offering sacrifices, tug of war, wrestling, and especially Dam singing and dancing.
The most unique aspect of the festival is Hat Dam Quyen Son. This art form originates from the story of Ly Thuong Kiet holding a victory celebration after defeating the Chiem Thanh army in 1069. Hat Dam is performed by 'con dam' (unmarried girls), demonstrating the spirit of solidarity and cultural vitality of the people. In 2019, Hat Dam Quyen Son was recognized as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage, affirming its historical and artistic value.
4.3. Outdoor activities: Trekking, picnic, exploring the landscape.
Trekking at Nui Cam Ha Nam is suitable for many types of visitors: from young people, large families to those seeking a peaceful place in nature. The paths shaded by green bamboo create an enjoyable experience as the scenery constantly changes along the way.
Picnicking under the bamboo forest or by the Day River is a great choice for relaxation, enjoying light snacks with friends and family, and immersing yourself in the peaceful atmosphere. The spacious environment helps relieve fatigue after stressful and pressured working days.
For a convenient trip, be sure to prepare water, snacks, shoes with good grip, and a light jacket for warmth. Having such items prepared will make the journey safer and more comfortable when climbing mountains and visiting caves.
Trekking at Cam Mountain, Ha Nam is an unmissable experience for active travelers. (Source: Collected)
5. Ha Nam Cuisine and dining suggestions near Cam Mountain
5.1. Signature dishes of the Kim Bang – Ha Nam region.
Exploring Cam Mountain, Ha Nam will be more complete when enjoying unique local cuisine. The fragrant Vu Dai village braised fish, smooth Phu Ly rolled cakes with grilled pork, and tender and sweet Kim Bang goat meat are flavors that are highly recommended. Additionally, Dai Hoang royal bananas and Kim Son wine are also popular specialties.
Around the foot of Cam Mountain, there are many small eateries serving specialties with fresh ingredients, prepared to retain their traditional flavors. Visitors can easily find rustic delicacies to refuel for their exploration journey.
5.2. Suggestions for eateries/drink stalls for visiting tourists.
La Co 2 Restaurant, located right near Cam Mountain, has become a familiar spot for many visitors when visiting Cam Mountain, Ha Nam. Here, a variety of Ha Nam specialties are served, such as mountain goat, free-range chicken, and wild boar, at reasonable prices and with attentive service. Additionally, Doc Nui Se restaurant in Kim Bang is also a suitable choice with a diverse menu, meeting the needs of many diners.
Around Nui Cam, there are many dining options for visitors. (Source: Collected)
6. Comparison of Nui Cam Ha Nam with other Nui Cams in Vietnam
6.1. Differences in history, legends, and culture.
Nui Cam Ha Nam has many distinct marks compared to mountains of the same name on the map of Vietnam. If Nui Cam An Giang is a religious center with large Buddhist works in the Southern region, this place is deeply associated with Ly Thuong Kiet and the legend of “The flag flies to the mountaintop”, bearing the epic colors of the Northern region.
6.2. Why Nui Cam Ha Nam is a unique choice for exploring the Northern region.
Only at Nui Cam Ha Nam can visitors find a harmonious beauty: a mountain shape resembling a crouching lion, a unique interconnected cave system, and a serene bamboo forest year-round. The historical and cultural value associated with the heroic figure makes this place always attractive.
Returning to Nui Cam Ha Nam, people can immerse themselves in the Hat Dam festival, have picnics under the bamboo forest, explore the De Vuong cave, and capture moments with the image of the “flag flying” on the mountaintop. These are memories that only the land of Ha Nam can fully provide.
The path to Truc Temple is shaded by trees. (Source: Collected)
7. Experience and notes when visiting Cam Mountain Ha Nam
7.1. Clothing, items to prepare for the journey.
To make the journey to explore Cam Mountain Ha Nam safer, visitors should choose good sports shoes, quick-drying clothes, and a wide-brimmed hat for sunny days. Remember to bring a light jacket as the temperature inside the caves is always cool.
Equipment such as flashlights and hiking poles will make it easier to move, especially when going deep inside the cave. Prepare a small first-aid kit, a fully charged phone, sufficient drinking water, and a camera to help capture all the beautiful moments at Cam Mountain .
7.2. Notes on spiritual culture and relic protection
When visiting Cam Mountain Ha Nam , please pay attention to preserving the relics and respecting the spiritual space. When entering Truc Temple, you must dress politely, maintain order, and follow the management's instructions. A calm, devout attitude is a way to show respect for tradition.
Let's preserve the natural beauty together by not breaking bamboo, not drawing on the cave walls, and not littering. Spots like the bamboo forest, stalactite cave, natural "music band", and the mountain peak are very attractive photo spots that everyone should capture after the trip.
Maintain a respectful and polite attitude when visiting Nui Cam for a civilized trip. (Source: Collected)
Nui Cam Ha Nam, with its majestic beauty of mountains and forests, the mystery of caves, and cultural depth, is worthy of being an ideal tourist destination in 2025. Explore and fully experience the natural and historical values in the beloved North.
