A group of tourists from Hanoi recently trekked the peak of Putaleng, Vietnam's third highest mount, in an exhilarating journey. 

Putaleng, located in Tam Duong District, Lai Chau Province, ranks third in height after Fansipan (3,143 meters) in the neighboring province of Lao Cai and Pusilung (3,089 meters) in Lai Chau. 

The 35 km trekking route is considered a big challenge to conquer, at a height of 3,049 meters and with dangerous terrain. 

In late last year, the nine trekkers took on this mountain, accompanied by a guide and three porters.

The group of Truong Minh Thuy (third from right) started off from Hanoi at 9 p.m. on December 30 and reached resort town Sa Pa in Lao Cai at 4 a.m. the next day where they met Giang, their Dao ethnic guide. 

Breakfast was served at Giang's house in Lai Chau Province, 55 km from Sa Pa, before the trek commenced in earnest.

The first of three steep slopes featured many streams.

Although the average time to scale each slope is around three hours, the group soon ran out of steam and, at 11 a.m., had to break for lunch.

The third slope proved the steepest for the out-of-breath posse. 

Having beaten the third challenge, the trekkers were rewarded with a unique sunset spectacle.

They reached their rest spot, 30 minutes' walk away, at 6 p.m. and after dinner, hit the sack early to prepare for the second day. 

That night, the temperature dropped to less than five degrees Celsius.

After breakfast, the trekkers set out to traverse 12 small slopes to reach the peak of Putaleng, a quest of around five hours. 

Most of the route is located in the forest, resplendent with blooming red and yellow Azalea flowers between March and April.

By noon, the group had finally summited Putaleng. 

On the last day, the group descended the mountain in the early morning amid a beautiful sunrise, lunching beside a stream.

At 2 p.m., the group returned to Ta Leng Commune and hopped on a bus to Giang’s home to wrap up the tour.

“I think people who have just started trekking could still conquer challenging destinations if they are well prepared. The most important thing is your will and spirit. I’m glad this trip was a success for us,” said trekker Truong Minh Thuy.