An Lao

An Lao (An Lão) is a rural district of Hai Phong, located about 20 km southwest of the city centre. Covering approximately 122 km², the district has a population of around 130,000. An Lao is primarily an agricultural area, known for its rice paddies, vegetable farms, and the distinctive limestone formation of Elephant Mountain (Núi Voi).

The district is named after the An Lao River, which flows through the area and provides water for irrigation. An Lao has a relaxed, rural character with traditional villages, local temples, and scenic countryside. It is best known among travellers as the location of Elephant Mountain, a popular day-trip destination from Hai Phong for hiking and sightseeing.

An Lao experiences a humid subtropical climate with hot, rainy summers (May to October) and cool, relatively dry winters (November to April). The best time to visit is during the dry season when hiking conditions are optimal.

By Plane

Cat Bi International Airport (HPH IATA) is about 28 km from An Lao, approximately a 35–40 minute taxi ride.

By Car / Road

An Lao is accessible via National Route QL10. Buses run regularly from Hai Phong's southern bus terminals to An Lao town. From Hanoi, take the Hanoi–Hai Phong Expressway, then head south on QL10 — about 2 hours total.

Local buses and taxis are available but limited. The best way to explore the district, especially for reaching Elephant Mountain, is by motorbike or bicycle. Many visitors hire a taxi from Hai Phong for the day.

• Elephant Mountain (Núi Voi) — The main attraction in An Lao. A complex of rocky limestone mountains shaped like a reclining elephant, located in Trương Thành, An Tiến, and An Thắng communes. Entry 20,000 dong. Offers hiking trails and scenic views. Tel: +84 975200357.

• Traditional Villages — Several villages in the district retain traditional architecture and rural lifestyles.

• Local Pagodas — Buddhist temples scattered throughout the district, often in scenic rural settings.

• Hike Elephant Mountain — The primary activity in An Lao. The trail takes about 1–2 hours and offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

• Explore rural Hai Phong — Cycle or motorbike through rice paddies and traditional villages.

• Visit local markets — Experience rural Vietnamese market culture at An Lao's central market.

• Photography — The limestone karst landscape and rice fields provide excellent photo opportunities.

Small local eateries serve traditional Vietnamese fare: phở, bún, cơm (rice dishes), and fresh spring rolls. The district is agricultural, so ingredients are notably fresh. For a wider selection of restaurants, head to Hai Phong city centre.

Local cafes serve Vietnamese coffee and iced tea. Bia hơi (fresh beer) is available at small bars in An Lao town.

An Lao has very limited accommodation options — a few basic guesthouses in the district town from 150,000–250,000 dong. The closest tourist hotels with fuller amenities are in Hai Phong city centre (20 km) or Do Son Beach (15 km). Day trips from Hai Phong are the most practical arrangement.

The district market in An Lao town sells fresh produce, local snacks, and household goods. There is no significant tourist shopping. An Lao is known for its locally grown vegetables and fruits.

• Hai Phong City Centre — 20 km northeast. Museums, opera house, colonial architecture, and the Hai Phong Brewery.
• Do Son Beach — 15 km east. Popular beach resort with seafood restaurants and a casino.
• Vinh Bao — 15 km south. Rural district with fruit orchards and traditional craft villages.
• Cat Ba Island — About 1.5 hours via Hai Phong ferry terminal. National park, beaches, and rock climbing.
• Hanoi — 115 km west via expressway.