Explore the captivating landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Hoang Su Phi with Lily’s Travel. Nestled in the northernmost part of Vietnam, this stunning region in Ha Giang Province is known for its terraced rice fields, vibrant local markets, and unique ethnic traditions. Plan your visit during the best seasons to capture the full essence of Hoang Su Phi.
About Hoang Su Phi
Hoang Su Phi is an area encompassing six communes: Ban Luoc, Ho Thau, San Sa Ho, Ban Phung, Thong Nguyen, and Nam Ty, all located in Ha Giang Province. With its special geographical position in the northernmost part of Vietnam, Hoang Su Phi captivates visitors with its terraced rice fields, especially in September and October when the rice turns golden. Visit this place to explore many meaningful experiences.
When to Visit Hoang Su Phi?
Hoang Su Phi is a mountainous district with a strongly fragmented terrain, resulting in diverse climates, soil types, and natural landscapes. Therefore, choosing the right time to visit is essential:
- Spring is an ideal time for those who love exploring the unique festivals of Hoang Su Phi. It is also an opportunity for photography enthusiasts to capture stunning scenes in peach, pear orchards, and tea hills.
- From mid-April to June is the rice planting season. Visiting Hoang Su Phi during this time, you will witness vast rice fields stretching from one mountain range to another.
- From mid-September, the rice harvest season begins in the northern mountainous provinces, particularly in the terraced fields of Hoang Su Phi. This period is perfect for those who enjoy artistic photography and capturing the golden rice fields.
- At the end of the year, when winter arrives in the North, if you don’t mind the cold, you can visit Hoang Su Phi to explore Tay Con Linh and Chieu Lau Thi for cloud and snow hunting, which promises to be a fascinating experience.
Must-Visit Attractions in Hoang Su Phi
Ban Phung Terraced Fields
Ban Phung is a commune located near the Chinese border. To reach this location, you need to follow a nearly 30 km long pass that traverses the mountains to reach the commune’s center.
In addition to its vast valleys, Ban Phung boasts many terraced fields perched precariously on steep mountain slopes. Along with Ban Luoc, this is where the highest terraced fields in Vietnam can be found.
Admiring the Beauty of Buckwheat Flowers
Buckwheat flowers are a signature of the rocky highlands, with their endless and wild beauty. Visiting Hoang Su Phi in late autumn, you will be immersed in the purplish-blue hues of these flowers.
Chieu Lau Thi Peak
Chieu Lau Thi is 42 km from the center of Hoang Su Phi district. It is one of the largest peaks in the Northeast region. On rainy days, the mountains are often shrouded in mist, creating a fairyland-like beauty. Trekking Chieu Lau Thi is an experience worth trying!
Exploring Hoang Su Phi Market
Located at the foot of the majestic Tay Con Linh peak, the Hoang Su Phi market is held every Sunday. Here, people exchange daily necessities such as vegetables, fabrics, and embroidery. Although not very bustling, the atmosphere is always lively and cheerful. People go to the market as if they are going to a festival. Some young men and women prepare to go to the market from the night before to be on time.
Suoi Thau Temple
The temple is located on the side of a mountain in Suoi Thau village, Ban Luoc commune. Visiting this temple, you will witness the vast terraced fields winding and hear many mysterious stories passed down through generations.
Ancient Tombs of the La Chi Ethnic Group
Currently, there are hundreds of ancient tombs scattered along the mountain slopes in Hoang Su Phi district. These tombs form a crescent shape over an area of thousands of square kilometers, with each tomb approximately 1.5 meters high and 15-25 square meters in size.
Tay Con Linh
Tay Con Linh is a mountain peak located in the upstream range of the Chay River, in the west of Ha Giang province. With an altitude of 2419 meters, it is the highest peak in Northeast Vietnam and one of the highest in Vietnam. At the mountain’s foot is a well-preserved sub-tropical primeval forest. Additionally, Tay Con Linh is considered a sacred mountain range by the La Chi ethnic people.
Vinh Quang Temple
Vinh Quang Temple is located in the center of Vinh Quang town, Hoang Su Phi district, and was built around the late 19th century. Besides worshiping some deities according to the local spiritual beliefs, Vinh Quang Temple also honors Hoang Van Dang, the chief of Hoang Su Phi.
Accommodation Services in Hoang Su Phi
Hotels and Guesthouses in Hoang Su Phi
In Hoang Su Phi, there are numerous guesthouses and hotels, mostly concentrated in Vinh Quang Town. If you are not accustomed to community-based tourism or if your itinerary is not convenient for staying in remote communes, you can choose one of these accommodations. Some well-rated hotels include Ecolodge Panhou Village, Hoang Su Phi Lodge, among others.
Homestays in Hoang Su Phi
As one of the major localities in Ha Giang, Hoang Su Phi has seen a growth in accommodation options, with upgraded services. In communes such as Ban Phung, Ho Thau, Thong Nguyen, and others, local residents have invested in homestays to welcome tourists.
What to Eat in Hoang Su Phi?
When visiting Hoang Su Phi, you will have the opportunity to enjoy many dishes and local specialties. Some of the must-try dishes that are popular with tourists include:
- Com Lam (Bamboo Rice): Made from sticky rice with a complex preparation process. You will taste a delicious and enticing dish that captures the essence of the mountains and forests.
- Field Carp: If you visit during the rice harvest season, you will be able to enjoy a rustic dish from the countryside, which is field carp. This simple dish will leave a lasting impression on you.
- Sticky Rice Com: In Hoang Su Phi, you cannot miss trying sticky rice com. The flavor is delicious and captivating. It is still used by the La Chi people to treat distinguished guests.
- Rat Meat: Rats are deeply connected to the lives of the La Chi ethnic group. Rat meat is featured in their ritual offerings and has become a local specialty. If you have the chance to visit Hoang Su Phi, don’t forget to try this unique dish.
- Goat Meat: The goats here are raised naturally, making their meat very flavorful. Dishes made from goat meat are quite enticing. You should try them to fully appreciate the unique culinary traditions of the area.
- Thang Co: This dish is made from the offal of cows or horses. While it may not look very appealing, it pairs well with alcohol. You will be fascinated by Thang Co when visiting Hoang Su Phi.
- Smoked Buffalo Meat: A specialty of the Northwest region. If the previous dishes are not to your taste, you can enjoy smoked buffalo meat. With careful preparation and processing, you will have a delicious meal.
- Shan Tuyet Tea: The Shan Tuyet tea trees are grown on Pin Ho mountain at altitudes of thousands of meters. The climate here is cool year-round, with special care, and the tea trees can live up to 200 years. The tea has a very fragrant and enticing flavor.
- Red Plums: Red plums are a favorite among tourists. With their attractive appearance, this fruit is a must-try when visiting Hoang Su Phi.
Travel Itinerary in Hoang Su Phi
You will have many options if you want to explore and visit Hoang Su Phi. Naturally, when traveling to this northernmost region of Vietnam, you will not only explore Hoang Su Phi but will often combine visits to other destinations in Ha Giang. Here are some suggested travel itineraries:
Itinerary 1: Hanoi, Hoang Su Phi, Dong Van
- Day 1: Travel from Hanoi to Ha Giang, then from Ha Giang City to Hoang Su Phi. Stay overnight in the district center.
- Day 2: Explore Hoang Su Phi and return to Ha Giang City.
- Day 3: Ha Giang City, Quan Ba, Yen Minh, Dong Van.
- Day 4: Dong Van, Lung Cu, Dinh Vuong, Dong Van, Ma Pi Leng, Meo Vac.
- Day 5: Yen Minh, Quan Ba, Ha Giang City, then return to Hanoi.
Itinerary 2: Hanoi, Hoang Su Phi, Xin Man, Bac Ha
- Day 1: Travel from Hanoi through Vinh Phuc, Tuyen Quang, Bac Quang, and arrive in Hoang Su Phi.
- Day 2: Hoang Su Phi, Xin Man, Bac Ha.
- Day 3: Bac Ha, Si Ma Cai, Lao Cai, then return to Hanoi.
Some Tips for Traveling to Hoang Su Phi on Your Own
To make your journey exploring Hoang Su Phi more complete, here are a few important notes:
- You need to bring all necessary documents such as your ID card, driving license, and ensure your vehicle is in good condition. Bring reflective gear, and thoroughly check the lights and brakes before departing.
- The weather in Hoang Su Phi is quite cold, so make sure to bring warm clothing and thermal wear.
- Additionally, you should bring some snacks like cakes, candies, and drinks since there are few places to buy food along the way.
Hoang Su Phi is a hidden gem in Ha Giang Province, offering breathtaking scenery, rich cultural experiences, and delicious local cuisine. With Lily’s Travel, you can embark on a well-planned journey to explore this enchanting region. Whether it’s trekking the majestic Chieu Lau Thi peak, savoring traditional dishes like Com Lam and Thang Co, or visiting the serene Suoi Thau Temple, every moment in Hoang Su Phi promises to be unforgettable. Trust Lily’s Travel to provide you with a seamless and enriching travel experience, making your trip to Hoang Su Phi truly memorable.
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