Trekking in the Glorious Sapa
For those looking for adventurous
Vietnam holidays, the country
offers some fantastic trekking opportunities, taking in jungle
forests, impressive mountain scenery, stop offs at traditional
Vietnamese villages and a glimpse of the agriculturally
astounding rice paddies that dot the land. One of the most
popular destinations, situated in the Hoang Lien Mountains of
the north is Sapa Vietnam, an old French hill station that now provides
adventure and luxury in equal measure. For the best time to
visit Sapa, plan Vietnam
trip around the months of April and
May, before the onslaught of the torrential rainy season.
Sapa Highlights
Sapa is home to many natural and ancient wonders. As the
Vietnamese culture is steeped in ancient folk lore, the
landscape of the land often finds its explanation in age old
tales passed down through centuries.
Ham Rong Mountain is no
exception. Lying at the foot of the Hoang Lien Mountain range,
the story of this strangely shaped mountain is a legend of
Emperors and dragons resulting in the name Ham rong, or 'Jaw of
Dragon'. Also worth a visit is the
Ancient Rock Field, where the
timeless remains of rock engravings remain to this day, their
meanings still unclear to archaeologists. Nearby
Cat Cat
village, home to the H'Mong people, offers a taste of
traditional rural life to Vietnam, with many handmade
arts and crafts on display, in particular, the well honed craft
of gold and silver jewellery making. Alongside these popular
attractions lie the Bamboo Forest, the Silver Waterfall and
Ta
Phin Cave. All in all, Sapa offers a wealth of opportunity for
exploration and discovery.
Reaching the 'Roof of Indochina'
Mount Fansipan (or Phan Xi Pang), part of the Hoang Lien
Mountains, is not only the highest peak in Vietnam, but also in
Indochina. At 3,143 metres above sea level, reaching the so
called 'Roof of Indochina' is a great challenge for many
travellers on holidays to Vietnam. Treks to the peak of Fansipan
will generally take two or three days depending on the root
taken and can often weave through paths of muddy and wet
terrain, so preparation is key. For all the toil, the scenery is
well worth it as you pass through jungle forests on your way to
the breathtaking panorama of the summit. Longer treks will wind
their way through traditional minority villages still present of
the slops of the mountain, and the friendly inhabitants of Sapa
will make your journey all the more memorable. For the avid
trekker, a visit to Sapa is a brilliant addition to Vietnam
trip, and climbing Mount Fansipan, an unforgettable
experience.
