The value of Cao Ba Lanh Mountain in Hoanh Mo commune transcends its picturesque landscapes; it stands as a living testament to the resilience of Vietnamese soldiers and people during the 1979 northern border defense war, safeguarding every inch of soil of the Fatherland.
Cao Ba Lanh is the familiar name for three adjoining peaks, namely Upper Cao Ba Lanh, Central Cao Ba Lanh and Lower Cao Ba Lanh. The highest peak rises 1,113 metres above sea level. Its summit is dotted with numerous sharp-topped rock formations of unusual shapes. For this reason, local people call the mystical local moniker: the Cao Ba Lanh Sacred Rock Field.
Today, the Cao Ba Lanh Mountain historical, cultural and scenic site includes a memorial dedicated to the fallen soldiers who sacrificed their lives at Cao Ba Lanh in 1979. Situated about 2.7 kilometres west of the memorial lies the 1,113-metre peak, around 2.5 kilometres from the Vietnam - China border. From above, the Cao Ba Lanh range resembles a dark-green rampart in the border area, blanketed by primary and planted forests. At the foot of the mountain are villages and terraced fields cultivated by the Dao, Tay and San Chi ethnic groups.
Geologically, Cao Ba Lanh is a landform with a long history of formation, shaped by tectonic movements and natural weathering and erosion. Particularly, the summit's clusters of large oddly shaped rocks, combined with towering peaks, ancient planation surfaces, rock formations, natural lakes, forests and pristine streams lend the area the feel of a miniature “geological park”.
According to local folklore, the rocks on the summit of Cao Ba Lanh can produce distinctive sounds when struck. Historically, when invaders crossed the border, the echoes from the rocks served as warning alarms forresidents in nearby villages to prepare and take precautions. The formations therefore became known as the “sacred rocks”.
Today, Cao Ba Lanh is not only a place to commemorate those who sacrificed their lives, but also a meaningful site for patriotic education. Its trenches, fortifications, strategic heights and memorial are far from silent relics, they form “outdoor history lesson”. Local schools have organised experiential educational activities at Cao Ba Lanh, allowing students offer incense to pay tribute and learn firsthand about the 1979 northern border defense war.
Officially recognized as a provincial-level historical and scenic relic site on June 2, 2026. Vice Chairman of the Hoanh Mo Commune People’s Committee Hoang Kien Trung said: “This is an important step in establishing a legal foundation for the conservation, restoration and promotion of the site’s values. Our strategy balances historical, cultural and natural preservation. Simultaneously. we are driving data digitalization, applying technology to communication and promotion outreach, and develop suitable experiential products. The next stage will involve preparing a detailed plan and a project to restore and embellish the site, as well as compiling a dossier seeking its recognition as a national-level relic site.”
By Pham Hoc
