(TITC) – Sa Pa, a mountainous region lies in northern Vietnam, with minority ethnics villages flickering within mountains, hidden waterfalls and endless untouched nature, there is more to explore in this heavenly nature, written by German Blogger Laura Eddelbüttel from ASI Reisen Blog. And here are 5 tips for travel lovers to enjoy Sa Pa to its core.
Where is Sa Pa?
Sa Pa, the natural paradise, located in Lao Cai Province in the Northwest Vietnam, about 350 km from Ha Noi, is popular with 38,000 people and most are ethnic tribes. It is well-known for its untouched nature, rice terraces and high mountains. The people here sell their crops and brightly coloured weavings for living expenses.
How to get there
As many mountainous areas, , thus it is recommended to plan for the trip to Sa Pa. Taking an overnight train from Ha Noi is the popular choice and it takes about 8-9 hours to Lao Cai. Other option of transportation is taking a bus or taxi with during time of 5 – 6 hours to Sa Pa Town.
Best time to travel and duration of stay
The best time for travelling and enjoying Sa Pa with hiking, culture and tradition is within its dry season from March to May or September to November. In the wish of luck in the winter, visitors can have an opportunity to witness the first snow here. The journey to the northern part of Vietnam should be 2-3 days to explore every corner of Sa Pa. Visitors do need a thick sweater and a good jacket to keep warm during the cold in the mountains.
Fansipan Peak - the roof of Indochina
Accommodations in Sa Pa are now varied from cosy homestays, moderate hotels to comfortable lodges in the middle of nature. Book one in advance to shelter yourself during the stay.
Highlight activities
According to Laura, various exciting activities are awaiting visitors to experience. Travel lovers can admire the magnificent terraced fields, or stop at the fanciful and sacred Tien cave, admire the beautiful waterfalls such as Love waterfall, Silver waterfall or Tien Sa waterfall. For tourists who love sports, why not rent a mountain bike, crossing the forest to mingle with nature and enjoy the fresh air of heaven and earth.
The first and foremost that draws adventurous travellers is Fansipan Peak - the roof of Indochina. It is surely to stir any adventure hearts. Alternatively, visitors can take the cable car up and down comfortably while admiring the overview of Sa Pa from above.
Not only possessing beautiful natural scenery, coming to Sapa, visitors can also explore the traditional small villages of ethnic groups, experience the culture and lifestyle of the local people. Especially famous villages are Cat Cat village, Pho village, Ta Van village, Ho village…
Visitors should pay a visit to the Sa Pa Culture Museum to learn about the region’s history and handicrafts. There are over 200 relics from the past on display here.
A trip to Sa Pa will always be one of the most worthwhile trips for a long time and will remain a beautiful memory about the green mountains and heart-warming culture of the mountain villages.
Tourism Information Technology Center