Sapa terraced rice fields in Vietnam
16/04/2024Sapa is 350km from Hanoi and close to the Chinese border. Sapa known as one of Vietnam’s most popular destionations and a tourist attractions, nestled amidst stumming landscapes. Terraced rice fields is a natural masterpiece that captivates the senses. These captivating landscapes will also provide a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the local ethnic communities.
Terraced fields are among the most beautiful and breathtaking landscapes you will see in the Northwestern mountainous region of Vietnam. They are the perfect product made by the diligent hands of people and the creativity of nature.
When ethnic people set out to cultivate rice in the harsh mountainous areas, they plow and create flat plots of land on the mountain slopes. In Sapa and other provinces of Northwestern Vietnam, terraced fields have existed for hundreds of years.
Admiring Sapa rice paddies and other Vietnamese rice paddies, you will get to see not only magnificent natural scenery but also the agricultural culture of the local people and their beautiful traditions.
When is the best time to visit Sapa terraced rice fields?
Sapa weather presents a captivating allure, adding to the appeal of the town. It is characterized by four distinct seasons:
– In the Spring months: from March to April, the weather is mild and refreshing, with blooming flowers and lush greenery.
– In the Summer : from May to August, brings warm temperatures and occasional rain showers.
In fall: from September to November, the weather becomes cool and dry.
– In the Winter: from December to February, brings chilly temperatures and occasional fog.
Before visiting Sapa, The Time Journeys recommended that you research the best time to visit Terraced rice fields. There are two great seasons to admire these terraced fields:
– The water-pouring season in summer : Around the end of April and the start of May
– The ripe rice season from mid-September to early October.
During the water-pouring season: each terrace is filled with abundant water that reflects the shimmering sunlight of summer. At this time, Sapa rice terraces look like a giant mirror in this enchanting land, showcasing the green of the rice, the blue of the sky, the silver of the water, and the golden of the sun. You can immerse themselves in the vibrant life of the farmers while watching them diligently sowing the rice.
During the ripe rice season: known as Sapa rice harvest season, wandering through Sapa rice fields Vietnam is like getting lost in a brilliant, fresh, and magical sea of golden flowers. The shining layers of golden terraced fields seem to link together to touch the edge of the horizon, leaving an everlasting impression on anyone fortunate enough to witness this beauty. At this time, you will get to not only admire the grandeur of the terraced fields but also savor the unique aroma of ripe rice and experience the pleasantly cool atmosphere of autumn.
5 best places to see the terraced rice fields in Sapa
The best terraced rice fields of Sapa can be found in the Muong Hoa Valley. The whole valley is covered in paddy fields, but to guide you around, we listed a few villages and communes to indicate where the best places are to view them.
1. Sapa rice terraces in Muong Hoa Valley
Muong Hoa Valley is home to one of the most beautiful rice fields in the world. Muong Hoa terraced fields look like watercolor paintings when viewed from every angle. Whether it is the water-pouring season, the green rice season, or the ripe rice season, the Sapa Vietnam rice terraces here always receive continuous praise. Especially during the ripe rice season, the whole valley is immersed in a shimmering yellow, blending harmoniously with the dreamy Muong Hoa Stream.
2. Ta Van Village
Ta Van village is one of the more known villages around Sapa and a popular place to stay overnight in a homestay. The popularity is because this village is completely surrounded by the rice fields of Sapa. Staying overnight here is a unique experience.
3. Ta Phin Village
Ta Phin village is another village located in the Muong Hoa Valley, surrounded with rice fields. It is around 15 km from the center of Sapa. Ta Phin Village is also a must-visit destination for rice paddy tours Vietnam. However, the roads to Ta Phin are challenging, with narrow and treacherous mountain passes. You can either take a motorbike taxi or join a trekking tour to get here. Once you have overcome this journey, you will be treated to Sapa rice terraces that twist and turn like silk ribbons.
4. Thanh Kim Village
At Thanh Kim you can find Topas Ecolodge, the most famous eco lodge of north Vietnam. Enjoy the infinity pool on top of the mountain with a scenic view on the rice fields below. Bungalows are dotted along the mountain side with similar views. But there is a high price tag for staying in this resort and if it does not fit in you budget, you can still explore the Thanh Kim area and enjoy the views.
5. Sapa rice terraces in Y Linh Ho Village
Located near Muong Hoa Valley, Y Linh Ho Village emerges as a lively fresh destination for admiring Sapa rice terraces. The Sapa rice fields at Y Linh Ho are nestled in front of the crystal-clear Muong Hoa Stream and the majestic Hoang Lien Son Mountain Range in the distance. No matter which angle you view it from, the scenery will be grand and extraordinarily poetic!
