A dog named Vang has become a regular companion to tourists climbing Lang Biang Mountain in Vietnam's Central Highlands, near the resort city of Da Lat. The dog escorts groups through the forest on their hike and does not leave until they have completed the route.
Linh Huynh from Ho Chi Minh City said she met Vang on September 20 at a ranger station, when she set off on a 12-kilometer hike to the summit. At the top, the dog ran around picking up litter and played with her group. "He was a caring guide, always stopping to wait for us," Linh says. Vang left the tourists only after seeing them to the end of the route. Later, Linh shared the story in a tourist group on social media, where her post collected thousands of likes.
Many members of the group confirmed that Vang had accompanied them on hikes in the Da Lat area as well. Nguyen Minh Phong, a local resident, has encountered the dog many times. According to him, Vang is about four years old, knows the route perfectly and often joins tourists of his own accord. Once, the dog appeared when Phong's group had three kilometers left before exiting the forest and led them to the end of the trail. Travelers often treat Vang to food.
Phong even created a marker for the dog on Google Maps so that other tourists could find him more easily. The place received many positive reviews, but it was removed due to a technical glitch in the app. He is now trying to create a new marker. Local guides say Vang belongs to a resident who lives near the Lang Biang tourist area and waits for tourist groups every morning, in any weather.
Lang Biang Mountain, which is called the "roof of Da Lat," lies 15 kilometers from the city. Its highest peak reaches 2,167 meters. The route to the summit is popular for day hikes and overnight camping in tents. It starts at the tourist area, passes through pine forests and has several steep sections. The best time to climb is considered to be the period from November to April.
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