Ngoc Linh Mountain

Ngoc Linh rises to 2,598 metres on the Kon Tum and Quang Nam border and is the highest mountain in Vietnam south of the Hoang Lien range. Its forest holds Panax vietnamensis, Vietnamese ginseng, which grows wild only on this massif above about 1,500 metres and which was unknown to science until Xo Dang informants led botanists to it in 1973 - it is now among the most expensive agricultural products in the world by weight, cultivated under the forest canopy by Xo Dang households with the plants guarded and the trade heavily regulated because of counterfeiting. Access to the growing areas is controlled.

What you actually see

• Southern Vietnam's highest peak - 2,598 metres on the provincial border.
• Vietnamese ginseng - growing wild only on this massif.
• Identified in 1973 - after Xo Dang informants led botanists to it.
• Guarded cultivation - under the canopy, with a regulated trade.

When to go

November to April. Two to three days with permits arranged.

Honest expectations

Climbing requires permits and guides arranged in advance and is not casual. Ginseng growing areas are guarded and closed to visitors. Roads are rough and remote. Cold, rain and leeches are the conditions.

Nearby

Tu Mo Rong and Nam Tra My are the two approach districts; Kon Tum is south.