www (where we hike)

In the vicinity of Vang Vieng there are various caves, five so-called 'blue lagoons' and some 'view points'.

As passionate hikers, it was clear that we would climb such a viewpoint. The owner of our guesthouse 'magic monkey garden' recommended the Pha Ngern Silver Cliff Mountain to us.

We set off by bike.

We had already paid the entrance fee of 10,000 Kip (1.10 €) per person when we passed a rough description of the path and warning signs.

250 meters in altitude over a distance of 650 meters, not bad! No wonder there are warnings about age, weight, or health risks, - but only after the entrance fee has been paid.

About 40 cm of elevation gain per meter is quite something! Even if it's only a distance of 650 m to cover.

The first fifty meters were still moderate and secured with artificial steps. But then it got serious, and that at over 30°C. It went steeply uphill, over stones, roots, dried earth, and ladders.

Just before the summit there is a small shelter where you can catch your breath before the final ascent.

After 45 minutes of climbing, we reached the summit and were proud and happy.

Since we still had some energy left, we also climbed the slightly lower neighboring summit.

Going downhill was actually even more difficult than going uphill, as this path can definitely be called an alpine trail. We were surprised by the safety measures along the path, which were quite appropriate for the level of difficulty.

All in all, a challenging but beautiful summit ascent.

Afterwards, we went straight to our accommodation by bike.