Home to breathtaking mountain landscapes, harlequin green rice terraces, and diverse hill tribes, the Sapa region is northwest Vietnam’s best kept secret.
A district-level town in the Lào Cai Province of Vietnam, Sapa offers some absolute gems to its visitors.
Here’s a handpicked list of the best places to see in this picturesque little town!
Fansipan Mountain …
… is the largest mountain in the Indochina region with diverse topography, which is very popular with trekking enthusiasts.
If you don’t like trekking, you can take the recently installed cable car and directly get to the summit to capture some captivating views from up top.
Thac Bac Waterfall …
… a.k.a. Silver Waterfall is the beautiful cascade of water near Sapa main town that completely lives up to its name.
You can climb up to the height of 30 meters from the base of the waterfall for some enchanting sights of lush green pine forests on the other side of the hill.
Mường Hoa Valley …
… is the largest farmland in the Lào Cai Province. The valley sits along the Mường Hoa river, right at the intersection of two mountains, which offers ample trekking opportunities.
Home to the H'moong and Gaiy tribes, the valley also boasts awe-inspiring rice terraces, which will simply mesmerize you.
Sapa Stone Church …
… more officially the Church of Our Lady of the Rosary, stands in the center of the Sapa town.
This 20th century Roman Gothic church built by the French is a very popular tourist spot in Sapa.
Tram Ton Pass …
… is nestled between two mountains at the altitude of 1900 meters. This is one of the most picturesque locations in the Sapa region.
The Tram Ton Pass is very popular with trekking and driving enthusiasts alike. Its scenic road will completely blow your mind. Don’t forget to take lots of pictures at this location!
Cat Cat Village …
… is worth the visit if you’re interested in local ethnic culture of the mountain people of Northern Vietnam.
Located at a distance of 1.9 miles from Sapa town, you can walk down to the Cat Cat village through well laid-out trails.
Ban Pho Village …
… is one of the most beautiful village to see around Sapa. This village is home to the Mongolian Bac Ha tribe.
The local corn wine made in this village is famous among locals and tourists alike. Don’t forget to taste it while in the village!
Bac Ha Market …
… is a weekly market that comes to life on Saturday evenings. The celebration of Vietnamese culture continues till Sunday. Buy handicrafts and taste local delicacies at this market.
If you’re looking to interact with the locals in Sapa, the Bac Ha Market is the best place to do so. Popular items in this market include textiles, horse saddles, bags, cushions, and Tam Hoa plums, among others.