Mu Cang Chai
Overview
Terraced rice fields recognized as a Special National Monument: golden at harvest and mirror-like in the flooding season.
Detailed information
Mu Cang Chai is a highland area of Yen Bai with more than 2,200 hectares of H'Mong terraced fields, outstanding in La Pan Tan, Che Cu Nha and De Xu Phinh communes. The Mu Cang Chai terraces were classified as a Special National Monument in 2016.
Top sights
Khau Pha Pass – one of the four great passes of the north, with views of sea-of-clouds and terraces from above.
La Pan Tan, Che Cu Nha and De Xu Phinh – the three best terrace viewpoints.
Mam Xoi Hill (Tu Le) and Lim Mong village – panoramic views of the Tu Le Valley.
Paragliding – the paragliding festival is usually held in September – October.
Muong Lo Field (Nghia Lo) – the Northwest's second largest field, a stop on the way.
Local food
Bamboo-tube rice (com lam), sticky rice, thang co, grilled stream fish, free-range chicken, corn wine, wild vegetables and bamboo shoots.
Best time to visit
Harvest season runs from late September to mid-October; the flooding season is around May – June. Harvest season is very busy, so book rooms and tours early.
Getting there
From Hanoi it is about 280 km, 6 – 7 hours (take the Noi Bai – Lao Cai expressway, then turn off at Nghia Lo). The mountain road has many bends, so choose a limousine or car with a driver unless you are experienced.
Itinerary
3 days
- Day01
Leave early and lunch in Nghia Lo. In the afternoon cross the Khau Pha Pass and watch sunset over the terraces. Overnight in Mu Cang Chai.
- Day02
Catch the sunrise and sea of clouds, visit a H'Mong village and try making sticky rice cakes. Photograph the terraces at Che Cu Nha and De Xu Phinh in the afternoon.
- Day03
Visit Mam Xoi Hill and the Tu Le Valley, eat bamboo-tube rice and buy Tu Le sticky rice as a gift. Drive back to Hanoi, arriving in the evening.
Best price guarantee
Competitive prices, with a refund policy if you find a better deal.
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From
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