Aside from extraordinary terraced fields, there are many places to go to Sapa that will leave you in awe.
Speaking of Sapa, you are probably impressed by the beautiful scenery of golden terraced fields lining alongside the mountain. However, Sapa has more than that to offer. Sapa is not just a place of leisure but also attracts lots of adventurers and nature-lovers because of the diverse attractions. AA Vietnam Travel would like to suggest five places to go to Sapa that you would not want to miss.
1. Fanxipan Mountain by Cable Car
Fanxipan mountain is one of the best places to go to Sapa. Situated 3,124m above sea level, Fanxipan is called “the rooftop of Indochina,” where you can grasp the best view above the ocean of cotton-like fluffy cloud.
One thing you shouldn’t miss is experiencing the mountain railway connecting Sapa town and Fanxipan cable car station. Departing from Mgallery Hotel, the train traverses two tunnels and goes over Muong Hoa Valley, providing guests a splendid scenic view on both sides. The train arrives at Muong Hoa station, which will impress you with unique European architecture.
How to go to Fanxipan mountain
The fastest and most convenient way to visit Fanxipan mountain is by cable car, which is suitable if you travel in a large group with elders and children. After you reach the last station, you need to take 600 stairs to reach the top. The price for cable car ticket is 700,000VND/adult and 500,000VND/children
If you are an adventurous traveler with plenty of time to explore, you can sign up for a hiking trip organized by AA Vietnam Travel to conquer Fanxipan. This is a 3-day trip starting from Ta Phin village and being accompanied by an enthusiastic local guide.
2. Ta Van Village
When it comes to the most original places to go in Sapa, Ta Van village is called out often as a peaceful ethnic minority village that reserves its local beauty and authentic culture. Nestling insides serenely a valley more than 10km away from the central town, the town is home to many lovely homestays, bars, and local cafe restaurants. It is easy to fall in love with the landscape, mountains, waterways, rice paddies, bridges, and the pace of life of indigenous people.
How to go to Ta Van Village
Located at the mountain base, Ta Van village has the most beautiful and enjoyable trek route from Sapa town. It takes about 3-4 hours to trek, but the journey is worth trying. Another choice of transportation is riding a scooter/motorbike to the village, which is, however, quite dangerous in the rainy season as the road gets muddy.
3. O Quy Ho Pass
O Quy Ho Pass is listed among five incredible mountain passes in Vietnam. Therefore, it is placed in the top list of must-see places to go to Sapa. It is a daunting destination for tourists, especially for adventurous souls. The driving track appears either dangerous or thrilling to travelers with its endless curves and deep abyss on one side of the road.
However, every effort will pay off at the moment of standing on the top of O Quy Ho, capturing the breath-taking view. Limitless rugged mountain, mesmerizing sky, floating cloud and terraced fields tracing down the hill create a picturesque scenery that will win any hearts. Many travelers have confessed their impression on the journey of grooving through hills and mountains in O Quy Ho Pass, expecting to return one day.
How to go to O Quy Ho Pass
O Quy Ho Pass is located on Highway 4D connecting Lao Cai and Lai Chau province, which is 15 km away from Sapa town. Departing from Sapa, you have to pass the Silver Waterfall and Hoang Lien Son National Park, the go straight to Highway 4D. You’d better be a good driver and travel in a group to make sure your safety while traveling in quite exotic and winding roads.
4. Cat Cat village
Different from Ta Vat village, Cat Cat village is more tourist-friendly because of its proximate position and the neatly paved path to the town. Cat Cat village resembles a small living museum of H’Mong and Dzao tradition. You can get a glimpse of traditional houses displaying material of cultural significance and an array of souvenir shops selling local products.
How to go to Cat Cat Village
You can head down to Cat Cat village by yourself very quickly. Following the “Cat Cat trail” 3km from Sapa, you will weave your way down to the bottom of Muong Hoa Valley, where the Cat Cat village nestles. The entrance fee for Cat Cat village is 25,000VND per person.
5. Sapa Square
Sapa Square is the heart of Sapa town, probably the most visited places to go to Sapa. The Catholic Church, Sapa Market, the legend MGallery Hotel, Bus Station are located around the perimeter of the square. The Square has an oval shape with significant steps of white marble stones, which is authorized as a place to organize local events and festivals.
Sapa Square is an excellent place to relax after a long day of exploring the northwest mountain. You can enjoy a sip of coffee on a lovely sidewalk cafe while watching tribal women embroidering materials and children on colorful traditional dress playing on the street. Nightlife at Sapa Square is also busy with the night market, food market, and numerous restaurants and bars nearby.
How to go to Sapa Square
Sapa Square is located in the center of Sapa Town which is only 5 minutes walk from the bus stop. After you reach Sapa Town by bus, you can easily find it since it is the most crowded location in town. Just ask local people then they will happily show you the direction to Sapa Square.
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