Mentioning Sa Pa, many tourists immediately think of famous villages to experience the natural scenery and culture of the highlands.
The winding roads through mountains and forests, the long terraced fields or the rhythm of life of ethnic minorities always bring a special attraction to this land.
Among them, Ta Van village or Cat Cat village have long become familiar destinations. Tourists flock here to check-in, relax, and explore local culture.
However, that fame sometimes makes these places crowded, somewhat reducing their inherent pristine beauty.
Few people know that not far from the center of Sa Pa, there is still a village as beautiful as a fairyland but still quite "hidden" - that is Lao Chai Village. Located deep in Muong Hoa valley, this place has a rustic, peaceful beauty, completely different from the bustling atmosphere of the town.
Lao Chai village is about 10 km from the center of Sa Pa town, depending on the route.
The road to the village is quite convenient, tourists can ride motorbikes, cars or trek along trails through the valley. The journey is not too difficult, and is even considered one of the most beautiful trekking routes in Sa Pa, suitable for beginners.
Hidden among overlapping mountains, Lao Chai impresses with terraced fields stretching like soft silk ribbons embracing the hillside.
In the ripe rice season, the whole valley is dyed golden; and in the flood season or spring, it wears a vibrant green color. Surrounding the village are majestic mountain ranges belonging to Hoang Lien Son, interspersed with winding streams, creating a natural picture that is both majestic and poetic.
Not only beautiful in its scenery, Lao Chai is also attractive because of the simple rhythm of life of local people. This is the main residence of the Black H'Mong people, along with some Giay and Red Dao communities.
Simple wooden houses scattered on the mountainside, kitchen smoke billowing every afternoon, all creating a space imbued with the highlands, almost not strongly touristized.
Coming to Lao Chai, visitors can leisurely stroll through small dirt roads, admire terraced fields, take photos amidst majestic nature or stop at small shops to enjoy coffee and enjoy fresh air.
A special feature of Lao Chai is its tranquility. There are not too many noisy tourist services, no crowded check-in areas, this place gives the feeling of being lost in another world - slower and more pristine. This makes Lao Chai an ideal destination for those who want to "escape" from the hurried pace of life.
With spectacular natural scenery, unique indigenous culture and peaceful space, this place deserves to be explored more on its journey to the Northwest mountains.
