Experience of traveling to the Northwest after the merger - Journey to discover the majestic mountainous region

When we think of Northwest Vietnam , we immediately picture majestic mountain ranges, mist-shrouded villages, cloud-covered passes, wondrous terraced rice fields, forests of bauhinia, apricot, plum, and peach blossoms, and the radiant, innocent smiles of ethnic minority children… all blending together to create an incredibly captivating Northwest, inviting those who love to explore the beauty of the highlands.

1. Overview of the Northwest tourism region

Discover the natural beauty of the Northwest mountains and forests (Image source: Collected)

Northwest Vietnam, located in the northwestern part of the country, is a magnificent natural landscape with towering mountain ranges, lush green valleys, winding rivers, and peaceful villages nestled on the hillsides.
The Northwest region, after the merger, includes the provinces of Hoa Binh, Son La, Dien Bien, Lai Chau, Yen Bai , and Lao Cai, a land blessed with natural beauty and famous Northwest tourist destinations. It is also home to many ethnic groups with distinctive cultures, unique customs, and colorful traditional festivals.

2. What is the best time of year to travel to Northwest Vietnam?

According to travel experience in Northwest Vietnam, the ideal time to explore this region is from September to November. This is the season when the rice ripens to a golden yellow on the terraced fields, creating a stunning natural landscape at Northwest Vietnam's tourist destinations. Additionally, spring (February-March) is also a wonderful time to admire the blooming peach and plum blossoms during your Northwest Vietnam trip.

4. Transportation options to Northwest Vietnam

One of the key experiences when traveling in Northwest Vietnam is choosing the right mode of transportation. Motorbikes are a popular choice for those who want the freedom to explore the tourist destinations in Northwest Vietnam. However, you can also choose buses or trains (Hanoi - Lao Cai route) for convenient travel. Private cars are also a good option if traveling in a group, allowing for more control over time and itinerary during your trip.

5. The most famous tourist destinations in Northwest Vietnam

Sapa Stone Church (Image source: Collected)

5.1. Sa Pa - Lao Cai

Travel experiences in Northwest Vietnam show that Sa Pa is a must-visit destination due to its majestic beauty blended with poetic charm, especially during the year-end festivals. It's famous for the magnificent Fansipan mountain, the stunning terraced rice fields, and the unique culture of the H'Mong and Dao ethnic groups. As one of the most popular tourist destinations in Northwest Vietnam, you should allocate at least 2-3 days to fully explore Sa Pa.

5.2. Mu Cang Chai - Lao Cai

Mu Cang Chai, Lao Cai (before its merger with Yen Bai province), attracts many tourists with its majestic and poetic natural scenery. The special feature of Mu Cang Chai is its terraced rice fields, arranged like staircases leading to the sky. The most beautiful time to visit Mu Cang Chai is during the rice harvest season (September, October) and the rainy season (May, June).

5.3. Moc Chau - Son La

Located in Son La province, Moc Chau attracts tourists with its diverse nature and lush green grasslands. You can visit Moc Chau at any time of year, as each season has its own unique scenery and characteristics. Spring is the time when apricot, plum, and cherry blossoms bloom; plums ripen in May; persimmons ripen from August to December; and the tea hills are verdant, etc.

5.4. Ban Gioc Waterfall

Ban Gioc Waterfall, the largest natural waterfall in Southeast Asia, is located in Cao Bang province, on the Vietnam-China border. It's a memorable tourist destination in Northern Vietnam, boasting majestic natural scenery surrounded by mountains and lush green meadows.

You can visit Ban Gioc Waterfall between June and September, when the water is abundant, flowing strongly, and a vibrant blue color; in autumn, the scenery here is beautiful with golden rice fields and turquoise water.
5.5. Mai Chau

Mai Chau, now part of Phu Tho province (formerly Hoa Binh province), boasts a gentle, serene beauty and fresh air, making it an ideal tourist destination.

When you visit Mai Chau, you can not only enjoy local specialties but also explore famous landmarks and immerse yourself in the lives of the local people, such as Lac Village, Pom Coong Village, Mai Chau Flagpole, and experience the culture of the Thai people in Nhot Village, etc.

6. What to eat when traveling in Northwest Vietnam?

Tu Le sticky rice flakes - a gift from the mountains and forests of Northwest Vietnam (Image source: Collected)

Smoked buffalo meat: A must-try experience when traveling to Northwest Vietnam is enjoying smoked buffalo meat. This signature dish is smoked over a kitchen fire, creating a rich, delicious flavor characteristic of the mountainous region. This dish is often enjoyed with corn wine or San Lung wine when traveling to Northwest Vietnam.
Cham Cheo: Cham Cheo is a traditional dish of the Thai people in Northwest Vietnam, made from minced pork or beef, mixed with characteristic spices and wrapped in dong leaves. This dish showcases a unique culinary culture that you shouldn't miss when traveling to Northwest Vietnam.
Tu Le Green Rice Flakes: Tu Le green rice flakes are famous for their delicious flavor, chewy texture, and distinctive natural green color. They are not only a popular food item but also a common souvenir that tourists often buy when visiting Northwest Vietnam.

The travel experiences in Northwest Vietnam shared above will help you have a fulfilling journey when exploring this wonderful region. With diverse tourist destinations and unique cultural features, your trip to Northwest Vietnam will surely leave you with unforgettable memories.

Source: https://www.vietravel.com/vn/am-thuc-kham-pha/kinh-nghiem-du-lich-tay-bac-sau-sap-nhap-v16082.aspx