Hoang Su Phi
is a highland district situated on the western side of Ha Giang province.
This area is home to various ethnic groups such as Dao, Mong, La Chi, Tay, and Nung.
In Hoang Su Phi, the rice usually ripens in mid-October.
It is often referred to by backpacking enthusiasts as the location where the majestic
golden rice terraces
can be witnessed.
Hoang Su Phi is similar to Mu Cang Chai but receives even fewer tourists.
It is the least touristy area in the relatively less touristy Ha Giang province.
This is advantageous for preserving the authenticity of this beautiful and unspoiled region.
Photo: Psytravel |
Although not as well-known as Y Ty and Mu Cang Chai rice fields, the terraced fields in Hoang Su Phi are equally magnificent.
Ban Luoc and Ban Phung are home to the highest terraced fields in the country.
Additionally, Thong Nguyen commune and Nam Ty are recognized as national landscapes.
Visiting Hoang Su Phi in October offers the opportunity to witness the stunning sight of golden rice fields stretching to the horizon.
These fields, combined with the lush green forest, create a majestic yet peaceful and poetic natural scene.
Photo: Local Vietnam |
According to experienced travelers, the most beautiful places to witness the rice fields in their prime include Chu Phin, Po Lo, Phung Village, Luoc Village, and San Sa Ho.
These locations offer expansive views and vast rice fields.
The terraced rice fields in Hoang Su Phi have only one harvest per year, so it is important for tourists to choose the right time to visit.
The best time to visit is from September to October when the rice turns golden.
Alternatively, tourists can explore the region between March and May during the water season when the fields are submerged, creating a sparkling and reflective landscape.
Photo: Local Vietnam |
The multi-layered terraced fields that cascade from the streamside to the mountain’s peak, interweaving with forests, streams, and tea fields, create an endless and brilliant visual display.
Ban Phung Village is located near the border with China.
To reach the village from Vinh Quang, visitors must traverse a mountain pass spanning almost 30 kilometers.
Phung Village sits on a steep slope and, together with Ban Luoc, showcases the highest terraced rice fields.
Ho Thau is a commune approximately 16 kilometers away from Nam Dich and is predominantly inhabited by the Red Dao ethnic group.
The locals here have created small forested areas around each field to prevent landslides.
Photo: Local Vietnam |
Thong Nguyen is a location where three rivers converge in a single area near a plateau.
This village is recognized as one of the most beautiful places to witness terraced rice fields in Hoang Su Phi.
It is situated between Bac Quang and Hoang Su Phi.
Ban Luoc is predominantly inhabited by the Dao ethnic minority and boasts numerous mountains and slopes.
These hill tribes have created many terraced rice fields, offering a breathtaking sight.
Nam Ty is located halfway between Bac Quang and Hoang Su Phi.
The beautiful rice fields here belong to the Red Dao ethnic minority.
Photo: Local Vietnam |
Tay Con Linh is the highest peak in Northeast Vietnam and one of the tallest mountains in the country, standing at 2419 meters.
At the summit of the mountain, there is a landmark, while lush tropical forests can be found at the mountain’s base.
The La Chi ethnic people consider this mountain sacred.
The last silver engraver on Po Ly Ngai mountain
Although silver jewelry making is known as a traditional craft of the Nung ethnic minority group in Hoang Su Phi district of Ha Giang Province, only a few people know how to carve antique patterns on silver jewelry. Chang Thanh To living on Po Ly Ngai peak is the single silver graver who can make 12 sets of traditional jewelries for Nung brides.