48 Hours in Hoang Su Phi: Rice Terraces and Cultural Charm

Hoang Su Phi, nestled in the western part of Ha Giang province, is a haven for nature enthusiasts and those seeking authentic cultural experiences. This mountainous district, known for its iconic terraced rice fields recognized as a national scenic area and its early rice harvest, attracts visitors from across the country with its captivating beauty. From the beginning of September, the golden hues of ripening rice paint the landscape, transforming Hoang Su Phi into a breathtaking spectacle. This article outlines a suggested 48-hour itinerary in Hoang Su Phi, crafted by local guide Giáp Văn Hải, to maximize your time in this enchanting destination.

Hoang Su Phi, Ha Giang, Vietnam

Day 1: Arriving at the Apex of Beauty

Embark on a Scenic Journey to Hoàng Su Phì

Hoang Su Phi lies approximately 300 kilometers from Hanoi, requiring nearly 6 hours of travel. To optimize your weekend escape, consider departing from Hanoi late Friday evening and spending the night in Tuyên Quang City or Hà Giang City. This strategy allows for a refreshed start to your Hoang Su Phi adventure early the next morning. For an enriching experience, travel along the Thượng Sơn – Túng Sán route towards Vinh Quang town. Although this road contains sections requiring careful navigation, it offers remarkable views of pristine landscapes. Witness the grandeur of rice terraces clinging to the mountain slopes, though resist the urge to linger for extended photography sessions – more impressive sights await.

Contemplate Tranquility at Thượng Sơn Sky Gate

At the Thượng Sơn Sky Gate, reaching an altitude of roughly 1,500 meters, pause to capture the breathtaking panorama and marvel at ancient tea trees standing tall for centuries. Indulge in the local customs by visiting a nearby home and savoring a warm cup of tea. Savor a delectable midday meal in Vinh Quang town, where numerous eateries cater to diverse tastes. Consider dining at Tuấn Ngân Restaurant or Hoàng Su Phì stilt house, delighting in local delicacies such as hill chicken, Man pig, and stream fish.

Immerse Yourself in the Charm of Bản Phùng

Venture further along the Chảy River towards Bản Phùng village. While Bản Phùng welcomes an increasing number of tourists, its seasonal tourism nature limits accommodation options. Homestays featuring dormitory-style sleeping arrangements in traditional stilt houses, equipped with basic amenities, dominate the lodging scene. Costs range from 100,000 to 120,000 VND per person. A few establishments offer private rooms at prices ranging from 500,000 to 700,000 VND per room, varying based on location. Popular choices include La Chí Phong homestay, Trọng Phú Homestay, and Chí Tài homestay. During the golden rice season, advance reservations are highly recommended. Embrace the authentic local lifestyle by staying in a homestay, experiencing the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of the region firsthand.

A Taste of Tradition: Local Cuisine and Buffalo Horn Ritual

Round off your first evening with a delicious dinner accompanied by the local community. Don’t miss the opportunity to sip from a buffalo horn, a unique cultural practice of the La Chí people. This custom, passed down through generations, is prevalent during festivals, celebrations, and ancestral rituals, particularly during the La Chí’s Khu Cù Tê festival in the seventh lunar month. The La Chí people hold a deep reverence for buffalo horns, considering them sacred objects. Placing buffalo horns in the most sacred corner of their stilt houses signifies a connection with their ancestors.

Ban Phung Village (Photo source: Vnexpress.net)

Day 2: Exploring the Essence of Bản Phùng

Witnessing the Dawn of a Golden Landscape

Rise early, around 5 am, to capture the most captivating moments of Bản Phùng. Inquire with locals for the ideal sunrise viewing spot, where you’ll be treated to an awe-inspiring display of nature’s artistry as the sun gradually emerges. This ethereal display has earned Bản Phùng the moniker “Heavenly Paradise on Earth.”

A Delightful Breakfast Amidst Golden Terraces

After witnessing the breathtaking sunrise, return to your homestay and relish a comforting bowl of noodles while overlooking the serene landscape. Observe the mesmerizing spectacle of clouds drifting lazily across the sky as you enjoy your morning meal.

Unveiling the Cultural Tapestry of Bản Phùng

Explore Bản Phùng and immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of the local minority ethnic groups. Witness firsthand the unique customs and way of life that define the region. The terraced rice fields of Bản Phùng, spanning across the six communes of Bản Luốc, Sán Sả Hồ, Bản Phùng, Hồ Thầu, Nậm Ty, and Thông Nguyên, offer a breathtaking panorama. Highly regarded by photographers, travel enthusiasts, and nature lovers, these terraced fields are renowned as one of the tallest and most captivating in Vietnam, earning recognition as a National Scenic Area.

A Culinary Journey to Bản Luốc

Check out of your homestay and journey to Bản Luốc, another jewel among Hoang Su Phi’s scenic landscapes. Here, savor a midday meal at a restaurant that boasts panoramic views of the terraced rice fields. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample the renowned “carp from the terraced rice fields,” a local delicacy.

Returning to the Heart of Hà Giang

Embark on your return journey to Hà Giang City, following the DT177 route, arriving around 6 pm. If you’re traveling by motorbike, consider returning the vehicle in Bắc Quang and opting for a transfer service, saving time and energy if you plan to continue your journey to other destinations such as Mèo Vạc or Đồng Văn Stone Plateau.

Ban Phung Village, Ha Giang (Photo source: Van Hai, Vnexpress)

Conclusion

Your 2 days in Hoang Su Phi allows you to experience the heart of Vietnam’s captivating north. From the breathtaking landscapes of golden rice terraces to the rich cultural heritage of the local communities, Hoang Su Phi offers an unforgettable escape. Embrace the adventurous spirit and allow yourself to be captivated by the unparalleled beauty and cultural tapestry that this destination has to offer. Remember to prepare for the challenges of the journey, ensure smooth logistics with advance bookings, and respect the sacredness of certain sites like the ancestral burial grounds marked by buffalo horns. Enjoy your journey through this hidden gem, where nature, history, and culture intertwine to create a profound experience.

Translated from source Vnexpress.net