Phun Abyss awaits: trek to tranquility in central Vietnam

By Anh Tuan   July 27, 2024 | 04:00 am PT
Phu Yen's hidden gem, Phun Abyss, offers natural beauty with clear waters, towering rock walls, and an untouched atmosphere for visitors seeking adventure.
Phun Abyss awaits: trek to tranquility in central Vietnam

Phu Yen, a central coastal province roughly 400 kilometers from Ho Chi Minh City, boasts Phun Abyss, located 20 kilometers southwest of Tuy Hoa City, in Hoa My Tay Commune, Tay Hoa District.

Phun Abyss is formed by streams from the Deo Ca Pass at the headwaters of the Ban Lai River. It is described as having clear waters and towering rock walls stacked on top of each other, making it a favorite among tourists.

Phun Abyss awaits: trek to tranquility in central Vietnam

The abyss has a depth of about 50 meters from the rock edge to the water surface. When water from the upper reaches falls onto the large rocks below, it creates a powerful force that causes the water to spray back up, creating a white mist. From a distance, visitors feel like the water is being sprayed up from the bottom of the abyss.

Phun Abyss awaits: trek to tranquility in central Vietnam

The journey from the city to the abyss is accessible by car or motorbike. However, the final 2 kilometers from the parking area to the abyss is challenging, requiring a trek along a rugged stream path, navigating stacked rocks, and crossing a lake.

Phun Abyss awaits: trek to tranquility in central Vietnam

Luu Ba Phuoc, 28, who lives in Phu Yen, explored the area with friends from Ho Chi Minh City at the end of June. Phuoc has visited the place many times and often brings friends along as it "is quite untouched and has many things to offer."

Phun Abyss awaits: trek to tranquility in central Vietnam

The amount of water flowing from the upper reaches varies, depending on the rainfall, so it is not always possible to explore. To experience this place at its fullest, aim for a visit between January and August. Phu Yen's drier weather during these months translates to smoother travel, and by June, the lakes are brimming with water, creating perfect conditions for a paddleboard adventure.

Phun Abyss awaits: trek to tranquility in central Vietnam

The area retains its natural charm, untouched by tourism development. For this reason, Phuoc emphasized the importance of wearing life jackets and following the guidance of local experts when engaging in water activities.

Phun Abyss awaits: trek to tranquility in central Vietnam

Water holes nestle between the rocky crevices, embraced by a forest canopy. "The hotter the summer, the more you'll crave the coolness of the abyss," Phuoc said.

Phun Abyss awaits: trek to tranquility in central Vietnam

Joining his friends on this trip, Tam Ngo, 30, from Ho Chi Minh City, expressed her admiration for the scenery. "Phu Yen is hot, but it's wonderful to immerse yourself in the cool, clear water when you get here."

Besides paddleboarding, visitors can organize picnics, barbecues, and treks through the surrounding forests. After enjoying their activities, visitors should remember to carry their trash to designated collection points.

Phun Abyss awaits: trek to tranquility in central Vietnam

Reaching the abyss is an adventure in itself. The path involves trekking under the sun, navigating rivers, and scrambling over rocks, making it unsuitable for those with limited mobility or seeking a leisurely stroll. As Phuoc advised, tackling this terrain is best done with a guide.

Photos by Luu Ba Phuoc

 
 
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