# Spectacular views in Sa Pa

- Link: https://leoviotti.com/blog/spectacular-views-in-sa-pa/
- Published: 2016-08-11T20:46:33+08:00
- Author: LeoViotti

![Sapa (1)](http://leoviotti.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Sapa-1.jpg)

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Sa Pa in Vietnam is a definition of nature in its greenest form. See the breathtaking
views of rice terraces and the mountains that surround this beautiful city. Going
here is definitely a getaway should your eyes be used to seeing the tall buildings
found in the concrete jungle.

A place where mountaineers can find their haven, Sa Pa is best known for Fansipan,
which is Vietnam’s highest peak. Those who are into mountain climbing can leave 
the town for a while and go for an adventure that promises of the best view from
the top.

**Location**

Sa Pa has been known to be a great tourist destination. It is found in the Lao Cai
province which is situated in northwest Vietnam. The mountain town serves as an 
extension of the Himalayas, which is why the geography is somewhat identical to 
it.

![Sapa (2)](http://leoviotti.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Sapa-2.jpg)

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Because of its location and favorable climate, many species of plants and animals
are found here. Aside from biodiversity, there are also various ethnic groups that
reside here. The major source of living is farming.

**Climate**

Sa Pa is classified to have a subtropical highland climate. Months from October 
to January are the most ideal for visiting the place as these are listed to have
nice temperature. The average temperature per annum is 15.4 °C, which is considered
cold especially by those who reside near the equator.

![Sapa (3)](http://leoviotti.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Sapa-3.jpg)

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Most of the rain falls from April to early October. You may want to avoid these 
months and book a trip in the latter part of the year.

**Transportation**

From Hanoi, you need to prepare for an eight hour trip going Lao Cai railway station.
Railway tickets range between 150,000 – 385,000 Vietnamese Dong. There are various
seats to choose from, either hard seat or sleeper and well as soft seat or sleeper.

![Sapa (4)](http://leoviotti.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Sapa-4.jpg)

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Of course, getting the soft option is always more expensive. You may arrange these
through a travel agent or go to the railway station yourself. It would be best to
travel with a backpack to avoid any hassle during the trip since Sa Pa is a mountainous
town.

**Attractions**

**Fansipan Mountain**

You need to be equipped if you plan to hike on Vietnam’s highest mountain. Make 
sure you have your hiking boots and comfortable clothes with you to experience a
hassle free climb.

![Sapa (5)](http://leoviotti.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Sapa-5.jpg)

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![Sapa (6)](http://leoviotti.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Sapa-6.jpg)

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The hike can be arranged while planning for the trip or you can do it after reaching
the town. There are tourist centers that offer the service, so you do not have to
worry about not booking the hike ahead of time. The hike comes in groups, which 
makes it even more enjoyable as you get to journey with other people.

**Terraced rice fields**

Picturesque as they are, the rice fields in Sa Pa is a sight to behold. Originally
cultivated to serve as the locals’ plantation, the rice terraces here became famous
because of the beautiful scenery it provides.

![Sapa (7)](http://leoviotti.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Sapa-7.jpg)

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As a matter of fact, this masterpiece even became part of the world’s most astounding
rice terrace destinations back in 2014 as listed by SpotCoolStuff.

**Local markets**

There are a lot of local markets found in Sa Pa. Sundays is usually known as the
market day for the people living in Sa Pa.

![Sapa (8)](http://leoviotti.com/wp/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Sapa-8.jpg)

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Some of the most popular markets are those found in Muong Khuong and Can Cau. See
beautiful handicrafts, costumes, local products and goods that are made and sold
by the people of Sa Pa themselves.

_See More_

_Introducing Sa Pa / Vietnam_
 [_ http://www.lonelyplanet.com/vietnam/northwest-vietnam/sapa/introduction_](http://www.lonelyplanet.com/vietnam/northwest-vietnam/sapa/introduction)

_Sapa Attractions_
 [_ http://www.sapa-tour.net/attractions/_](http://www.sapa-tour.net/attractions/)

_Images_
 _ (1) http://static.thanhniennews.com_ _ (2) http://www.realworldadventures.
com_ _ (3) http://www.photoshelter.com_ _ (4) http://static.panoramio.com_ _ (5)
http://sapatourbooker.com_ _ (6) https://www.citypassguide.com_ _ (7) https://c1.
staticflickr.com_ _ (8) http://vietnampremiertravel.com_

_Aira Algado_