Da Ba Chong - A rock wonder in the heart of Dong Nai land

Amid the fertile land of Dinh Quan lies a magnificent rock formation sculpted by nature over millions of years, the Da Ba Chong scenic site.

Formed over millions of years, the Da Ba Chong complex has become a symbol of the Dinh Quan land. Photo: Thuy Tien

Located along National Highway 20 in Dinh Quan Commune, Dong Nai Province, the rock complex spans more than 8 hectares and rises to an average height of over 100 meters above sea level. The entire formation, created centuries ago, is composed mainly of granodiorite, a hard, durable igneous rock that has withstood the test of time.

The rocks here are all enormous in size, with some boulders larger than entire buildings, surrounded by densely growing vegetation. Photo: Thuy Tien

The complex features numerous rock clusters of varying sizes, shaped in a variety of unusual forms. Most striking is a trio of colossal rocks stacked miraculously atop one another, rising nearly 40 meters high, precariously positioned yet remarkably stable for centuries. It is from this formation that locals have come to affectionately refer to the site as “Da Ba Chong.”

Located right next to National Highway 20, Da Ba Chong has become a popular stop for many visitors. Photo: Thuy Tien

Despite enduring geological changes and the passage of time, Da Ba Chong has retained its original form, becoming a unique symbol of the region.

Three colossal rocks stacked atop one another, standing tall through the ages. Photo: Thuy Tien

In addition to the central rock cluster, the complex also includes Hon Dia, Elephant Rock Mountain (also known as Bach Tuong), and several smaller rock formations. Hon Dia stands out with its large rock slabs stacked atop one another, creating a sense of precariousness. Elephant Rock Mountain, meanwhile, resembles two giant elephants lying side by side. At its peak stands a statue of Buddha Shakyamuni from Thien Chon Pagoda, built in the 1970s, adding a spiritual highlight to the majestic landscape.

The stacked rocks are uniquely interconnected. Photo: Thuy Tien

To the southwest of the Elephant Rock Mountain cluster, also known as Bach Tuong, the rock bearing the Buddha statue is likened to a male elephant, while the one beside it is referred to as the female. Photo: Thuy Tien

Trees growing between the colossal rocks form mysterious natural caves, closely associated with fascinating folk legends passed down through generations.

Massive rocks clustered together, combined with dense vegetation, create mysterious caves. Photo: Thuy Tien

Situated in the heart of a bustling residential area, this site has retained its natural beauty, an element that further enhances its majestic allure.

For a long time, locals have built homes, carried out daily activities, and cultivated land right beside these massive rocks. Photo: Thuy Tien

Beyond its striking landscape, the Da Ba Chong complex holds significant archaeological value. Researchers have identified the site as part of the Oc Eo-Phu Nam cultural relics, an ancient civilization that flourished in the southern region of Vietnam. Numerous artifacts, including stone and bronze tools, as well as pottery from the ancient residents, have been discovered in the caves and along the streams, providing evidence of human presence dating back thousands of years.

The stones appear precarious yet are remarkably stable. Photo: Thuy Tien

With its rare natural beauty and geological, archaeological, and cultural significance, the Da Ba Chong complex has been designated a national scenic relic since 1988.

The colossal rocks, in a variety of shapes, stretch across an area of over 8 hectares. Photo: Thuy Tien

Today, the site serves not only as an ideal stopover and check-in spot for visitors but also as a symbol of pride for Dong Nai people, promising to become a key highlight in the development orientation of local eco-cultural tourism.

If you have the chance to visit Dinh Quan, make sure to stop by the Da Ba Chong scenic site to take in the grandeur of nature. Photo: Thuy Tien

By Thuy Tien - Translated by Huyen Trang, Minho