Sapa, tucked amidst the misty mountains and terraced rice fields of northern Vietnam, is a haven for those seeking solace in nature's embrace. From the bustling markets of Cat Cat to the tranquil waters of Ban Ho, Sapa's villages offer the opportunity to immerse in the rich tapestry of local life and natural beauty.

Whether you're a trekking enthusiast, a cultural explorer, or simply seeking serenity amidst breathtaking scenery, Sapa's villages promise an unforgettable experience that will leave a lasting impression on your soul. Join us as we delve into the top 8 must-visit villages in Sapa. 

Cat Cat Village

This village is nestled at the foot of the majestic Hoang Lien Son mountain range, a 5 - 6 hour drive from Hanoi via the expressway. If you start from the center of Sapa town, it's just over 2 km to reach Cat Cat Village. The name Cat Cat is said to originate from the H'Mong language, meaning "below the market," referring to the waterfall below the market. Another version suggests that when the French explored the region, they were impressed by a beautiful waterfall. In French, "waterfall" is pronounced "cascade," similar to "cat cat." Hence, this small village is named Cat Cat.

In the village, the Tien Sa Waterfall and majestic terraced fields are absolute must-visits. You can also explore and learn about traditional crafts such as stone rolling, fabric weaving, and beeswax painting on traditional clothing or participate in exciting festivals.

To visit and experience the unique indigenous cultural activities in Cat Cat, Sapa, you first need to buy entrance tickets.

Entrance fee

Adults and children over 1.4m tall: 90,000 VND/ticket/person

Children between 1 m and under 1.4m tall: 50,000 VND/ticket/person

Children under 1 m tall: Free

Additionally, if you want to put on authentic H'Mong costumes, you can rent them right at the entrance for about 100,000 - 150,000 VND per set.

Sin Chai Village

Sin Chai is one of the villages that is still able to retain its pristine and original charm, even with the growth of tourism in Sapa. Located at the foot of the Hoang Lien Son mountain range, Sin Chai is the largest village in Sapa, with a history dating back hundreds of years.

People often visit the village from September to October each year, when the entire village is covered in the enchanting golden color of ripe rice fields. If you visit the village in April-May, during the watering season, you will witness firsthand the farmers at work. At this time, the terraced fields resemble giant mirrors, reflecting the sunlight, creating a shimmering, magical sight.

The village not only possesses majestic landscapes but also offers incredibly enticing local specialties, deeply imbued with the character of the Northwest mountainous region. The cost of food and drinks in Sin Chai village is quite affordable; with just 50,000 VND to 100,000 VND, you can enjoy dishes such as thang co (horse meat hotpot), corn wine, cat apple wine, corn cakes, and more.

Entrance fee:

Adults and children over 1.4m tall: 40,000 VND/ticket/person

Children between 1 m and under 1.4m tall: 20,000 VND/ticket/person

Children under 1 m tall: Free

Ta Phin Village

Ta Phin village is a remote village located in Ta Phin commune, about 13 km northeast of the center of Sapa town. Ta Phin village would be a wonderful destination if you are looking for a private place to escape the city's dust and noise. Spend some time in the afternoon to explore Ta Phin, get to know the people, marvel at the terraced rice fields, and get close to the trees and grass along the road.

Ta Phin Village also offers a variety of things to see and do, such as

Taking herbal baths: Ta Phin is famous for its herbal bath service. With a variety of rare herbs from the vast forests, the Dao people in Ta Phin have utilized these precious gifts of nature, processing them into medicinal water for bathing. It is both mentally relaxing and beneficial for health, making it an activity not to be missed when visiting Ta Phin.

Strawberry picking: Ta Phin strawberry garden starts ripening from the end of January until the end of February. If you travel to Sapa during this time, you can stop by and pick juicy, delicious strawberries right in the garden.

Ancient monastery in Ta Phin: There is a monastery abandoned for over half a century, but it attracts many tourists due to its ancient and mossy beauty, along with its unique classic architecture. Built with laterite, the walls still stand firm without having gone through any renovation.

Ta Phin Cave: Located at the foot of the mountain and about 3km from the center of the village, Ta Phin Cave was formed thousands of years ago, housing stalactites of all shapes and sizes. It is believed to be the first place chosen by the Dao ancestors as their living place. Therefore, besides being an interesting tourist attraction, Ta Phin Cave also holds great significance for the Dao.

Entrance fee:

Adults and children over 1.4m tall: 40,000 VND/ticket/person

Children between 1 m and under 1.4m tall: 20,000 VND/ticket/person

Children under 1 m tall: Free

Lao Chai–Ta Van Villages

Lao Chai and Ta Van are two small villages nestled within the Muong Hoa Valley. These are among the most beautiful villages in Sapa, renowned for their terraced fields, majestic mountains, and unique cultural heritage of ethnic minorities.

Lao Chai and Ta Van villages in Sapa are surrounded by the Hoang Lien Son mountain range and Mount Ham Rong. When visiting, you will have the opportunity to admire hundreds of terraced fields and vast hillsides stretching endlessly. The weather in these villages is typically cool during the day and chilly and cold at night.

In the early spring, from February to April, plum blossoms and white mountain ebonies bloom abundantly on the mountain slopes. This is also the time when locals organize Tet markets and sell many typical highland dishes. Additionally, both villages host many cultural festivals, such as the Roong poọc festival (going down to the field) of the Giay people.

From September to October, the entire village will be covered in the golden color of ripe terraced rice fields. The weather is dry and sunny this time around, making it convenient for trekking. If you have the opportunity to visit Lao Chai village, don’t miss out on the ancient rock field. Discovered in 1925, the area has more than 200 rock blocks with various patterns, scripts, and motifs. Scientists and historians have yet to determine the meaning of these characters.

Hang Da Village

Hang Da Village in Sapa is perhaps a relatively new destination for many tourists. When it comes to villages in Sapa, names like Cat Cat, Ta Van, Lao Chai, etc., always come first. However, if you have the opportunity to visit Hang Da Village, you won’t be disappointed.

Hang Da Village is almost completely separated from the central areas, which is nice because you get to escape from all the hustle and bustle. You will have the opportunity to experience a 7 km-long road running through the village. This picturesque road is adorned with forests on both sides, sometimes beautiful wildflowers. In other sections, you’re blessed with the view of majestic mountains and traditional stilt houses.

Everything here is peaceful, serene, and slow-paced, unlike the town center, which can be a little too crowded. The thing that sets Hang Da Village apart is its pristine, natural beauty and the lack of many tourists. During your exploration, you will come across very few eateries and services, and homestays are also limited. But in return, the village still retains its natural, pristine charm.

When it comes to Hang Da Village, walking and exploring its paths alone isn’t ‘enough.’ One of the reasons people visit Hang Da is to go “cloud hunting.” Check the weather forecast before you go; there’s a higher chance of running into clouds if it’s going to be a sunny day.

Y Linh Ho Village

If you love trekking, then Y Linh Ho village is definitely an ideal choice when visiting villages in Sapa. To reach Y Linh Ho village, you will pass through a long and winding road while admiring the majestic beauty of the mountain forests.

The village offers the opportunity to immerse yourself in a picturesque landscape with the sound of babbling streams, golden terraced fields, and lush green cornfields. The people are very hospitable and sincere. Visitors also have the opportunity to enjoy specialty dishes prepared by the locals themselves.

Ho Village

Ho Village is probably the farthest away village, about 30 km southwest of the Sapa town center. The center of Ban Ho is Ban Den hamlet, home to the La Ve and Muong Hoa streams and the Hmong, Dao, Nung, Giay, and Tay.

The La Ve stream flows from the high mountains to Ban Den, creating gentle cascades. Perhaps that's why the stream is densely populated with fish, jumping tirelessly under the waterfall. This is why the locals usually refer to it as “Jumping Fish Waterfall.”

You can visit local homes to see handicrafts or buy woven fabrics as gifts for your loved ones. On weekend evenings, you can gather at the communal house to participate in singing and dancing with the locals. Each ethnic group will showcase their unique cultural features through games, dances, and their distinctive cuisine.

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