Lao Cai Muslim Tours

Lao Cai Muslim Tours & Travel guide for Muslim travellers

Lao Cai – The Northwest provinces of Vietnam have never ceased to be attractive in the minds of tourists from all over the world. The wild beauty of nature mixed with rich national culture. Beside colorful traditional costumes and unique cuisine here will make visitors from all over admire it. Among those provinces, Lao Cai is still a prominent name.

This is a land with diverse terrain, with majestic landscapes of pristine mountains and forests along with the hustle and bustle of a developing city. Lao Cai tourism currently attracts many tourists because of the famous tourist destinations here. Let’s explore this beautiful land with Viet Halal Travel.

Where Is Lao Cai?

Lao Cai is a northern mountainous province in the Northwest region of Vietnam, about 290 km northwest of Hanoi. With geographical location:

The North borders Yunnan province – China. The northernmost point is 22051′ North latitude in Pha Long commune, Muong Khuong district;

The South borders Yen Bai province. The southernmost point is 21051′ North latitude in Nam Tha commune, Van Ban district;

The East borders Ha Giang province. The easternmost point is 104038′ East longitude in Viet Tien commune, Bao Yen district;

The West borders Lai Chau province. The westernmost point is 103031′ East longitude in Y Ty commune, Bat Xat district.

How is Lao Cai Unique?

The noun “Lao Kay” was used by the French in documents and seals. But in communication and folklore, people still call it “Lao Cai”. After November 1950, it was unified and called Lao Cai until today.

The province is home to a diverse range of ethnic groups, including the H’mong, Dao, Tay, Nung, and Kinh. Each of these groups has its own unique culture and traditions, which can be seen in the local markets, festivals, and cuisine.

Lao Cai is also known for its vibrant nightlife. The city of Lao Cai is home to a number of bars, clubs, and restaurants, as well as a lively street food scene. The province is also home to a number of casinos, which attract visitors from all over the world.

The province is also home to some of the most spectacular scenery in Vietnam. Fansipan Mountain, located in the Hoang Lien Son mountain range, is the highest peak in Vietnam and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The province is also home to a number of national parks, including the Hoang Lien National Park,…

Lao Cai is a unique province in Vietnam, offering visitors a chance to experience a range of cultures, stunning natural beauty, and vibrant nightlife.

When is The Best Time To Visit Lao Cai?

Lao Cai has a tropical monsoon climate, but because it is located deep in the mainland. Also is dominated by complex terrain, the weather changes somewhat and differs over time and space. Temperature fluctuations often appear in the form of high or low temperatures during the day (the Sa Pa region has many days when the temperature drops below 0°C and there is ice or snow).

Lao Cai climate is divided into two seasons: the rainy season starts from April to October. The dry season starts from October to March of the following year. The average temperature is in the high areas from 15°C – 20°C (Sa Pa alone is from 14°C – 16°C and no month exceeds 20°C) and in the lowlands is from 23°C – 29°C

Fog: Fog often appears throughout the province, in some places very thick. During cold spells, in high mountains and sheltered valleys, frost also appears, each lasting 2-3 days.

Some suitable times to travel to Sapa and Lao Cai that tourists can refer to are as follows:

Normally, the appropriate time is around April-August, at this time the weather is usually sunny so it is very suitable to come here for vacation. When you go during this time, you just need to pay attention to the weather to avoid rainy days.

Between January and March every year, the highlands of Lao Cai often have beautiful peach and plum blossoms, however this time is sometimes a bit cold and the humidity in the air is high so it feels damp.

Around August-September is the season of ripe rice, at this time you can choose to go around to see the ripe rice in Y Ty and then return to Sa Pa to rest.

Bac Ha horse racing festival is in early June every year. If you are curious, you can go see it and combine travel to Bac Ha.

Y Ty rattan hunting is always an attractive topic for tourists every year. The Y Ty rattan hunting season is not fixed and depends on the weather as well as your luck, however it is usually around March-April.

If you want to trek Bach Moc Luong Tu, you should climb around March-April, the weather is moderately cold, little rain and not too wet.

If you want to hunt for snow in Sa Pa, pay attention to the weather forecast at the end of the year. There is no fixed time, but depending on the year, from December to January, there can be cold spells. When the weather is dry, there is a high possibility of snow.

How To Get To Lao Cai From Hanoi?

Traveling By Train

A few years ago, the train was an extremely popular means of transport when tourists travel to Lao Cai. Because of suitable train times, many ticket price options, safe and comfortable travel.

Usually, trains to Lao Cai will depart from Hanoi station every evening. It’s take about 8 hours and arrive in Lao Cai early the next morning.

Traveling By Passenger Car

Since the Hanoi – Lao Cai highway was completed, cars are the means of transportation to Lao Cai chosen by more people because the travel time has been significantly shortened. It’s only about 4 hours compared to 8 hours. before.

Currently, every day from Hanoi, there are many buses going to Lao Cai, buses to Sapa and running in many time frames from early morning until night (due to shortened travel time, there are buses going during the day, previously it was usually only night bus available).

Buses to Lao Cai usually depart at My Dinh bus station in Hanoi. There are also some bus companies that have buses departing at Giap Bat bus station.

Traveling By Motorbike

In addition to popular locations such as Sapa or Bac Ha, which always have high-quality bus routes running to the place, in Lao Cai there are some attractive locations. Such as Y Ty or Lung Po that do not have public transportation routes available.

To get to these places, tourists often have to use personal vehicles from Hanoi or go to Lao Cai or Sapa and then rent a motorbike. When you are adventurous, adventurous and exploring, traveling by this means of transportation is the ideal choice. You will be proactive in your adventure tour in Vietnam, free to stop, admire the scenery and take beautiful photos.

However, you must also make sure you are in good health, have a steady handlebar, and learn about this hilly road with many steep passes first. Furthermore, you also need to bring full identification documents, vehicle documents, protective equipment, etc. and comply with traffic laws to ensure maximum safety for your long-distance trip.

To get to Lao Cai by motorbike from Hanoi, you can choose the following routes:

Hanoi – Vinh Phuc – Viet Tri – Phong Chau – Doan Hung – Yen Bai – Lao Cai with a total distance of about 360 km.

Hanoi – Lang Hoa Lac – Son Tay – Trung Ha Bridge – Phong Chau – Doan Hung – Road 70 – Lao Cai with a total distance of about 370 km.

Sightseeings In Lao Cai

Sapa Town

Of course, when we come to Lao Cai, we must definitely stop by Sapa town once. Sapa is a small town located in the Hoang Lien Son mountain range. It is known for its stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, as well as its vibrant culture. The town is also home to a number of ethnic minority villages, making it a great place to explore the local culture.

Even though many years have passed, the foggy capital still retains its strange charm. Located at an altitude of 1500m – 1800m above sea level, SaPa not only possesses wild primeval forests. But also modern, poetic tourist attractions, resorts, classy hotels and even ancient villages. .

Famous scenic spots in SaPa are also always in the Top of the hottest tourist destinations in Lao Cai, such as:

Sa Pa Stone Church: located right in the central square of Sapa town, with this Gothic architecture that stands out amidst the fog, this is the number 1 photo spot for tourists when coming to SaPa.

Sun Plaza: Romantic like a castle, Sun Plaza impresses with its colorful Western design. You can “live virtual” in luxury in front of the building or the train station – where you buy tickets to Muong Hoa.

Cat Cat Village: an ancient village submerged in a forest, where a waterfall flows through, including many cute water wheels. Coming here, you can rent typical ethnic dresses to take photos with the children, or check-in right on the paved road inside the Cat Cat village market.

Fansipan Mountain

Fansipan or Phan Si Phang is the highest mountain in Vietnam. Also the highest of the three Indochina countries, so it is known as the “Roof of Indochina” (3,143 m) in the Hoang Lien Son mountain range. It’s about 9 km southwest from Sa Pa town, bordering Lao Cai and Lai Chau provinces in the Northwest region of Vietnam. According to the local language, the mountain’s name is “Hua Xi Pan ” and means giant, precarious rock slab.

Bach Moc Luong Tu – Ky Quan San

Located at an altitude of more than 3000m above sea level. Especially the road to Bach Moc Luong Tu peak is an attractive challenge for anyone who loves trekking. This mountain peak is located between Lai Chau and Lao Cai, corresponding to two routes that can “climb to the top”. You should choose trekking Bach Moc Luong Tu around after Tet (January – March) or late autumn, early winter (January 9 – November).

Starting from Bat Xat, Lao Cai, the road to Bach Moc Luong peak is quite winding. Because the trail is narrow, has many rocks and goes through forests and small bushes. But in return, the scenery on this route is quite clear, ideal for watching the radiant sunrise above the clouds – an impressive moment of cloud hunting for a lifetime. This is also the highlight that helps Bach Moc Luong enter the list of the most beautiful tourist destinations in Vietnam.

Normally, this trip will take about 2 – 4 days depending on your speed and the weather and difficulty of the chosen route. If this is your first time hunting clouds – you don’t have much trekking experience and know the route well, hire a local guide or go in a group.

O Quy Ho Pass

Famous among Vietnam’s four dangerous mountain passes. However, the scenery that O Quy Ho brings is extremely worth overcoming thousands of dangers to visit. The cloud layer is right in front of you, and wildflowers are blooming…. romantic snowfall (when going in the right season).

The best route to conquer O Quy Ho is through Y Ty – O Quy Ho – Sa Pa. At the sky gate at the top of the pass, you will immediately feel the overwhelming feeling that people talk about this pass. The sunlight reflecting on the clouds creates a rare, splendid scene. Combined with the golden season stretching on terraced fields from A Ty to here, surely tourists will be “satisfied” on this road.

In addition, O Quy Ho also has beautiful wild flower seasons: peach blossoms, climbing roses, and bright pink azalea flowers in a corner of the pass. All of these are convincing reasons why O Quy Ho is always in the top of the most beautiful tourist destinations in Lao Cai.

Hau Thao Commune

Hau Thao commune is one of the tourist destinations that has only recently received attention in Lao Cai. In fact, many travelers have visit Muong Hoa – the most famous landmark in Hau Thao and just stopped there. However, this commune also has unexpectedly great check-in points.

Coming to Hau Thao, the first place you should visit is Hau Chu Ngai village – inhabited by the indigenous Mong people. Luckily, this place has not been affected much by industry. So the children will take you to visit Cau May (not a place in Ta Van), past the golden terraced fields, to the beautiful wild waterfall,…

In addition, Hau Thao is also home to the oldest sa mu forest in Vietnam. Through the forest, we will feel the fresh air, eliminate worries and be fully energized for the upcoming journey. At the same time, the mysterious “twilight” scene in the forest will immediately conquer all “virtual living” visitors.

Y Ty Commune

Located at an altitude of 2000m above sea level, Y Ty commune is one of the best check-in locations today, next to Sapa. Far from being “inferior to younger sister”. Y Ty possesses many pristine landscapes that make people move, accompanied by many attractive camping, trekking,… activities.

First, you should plan to travel to Y Ty during the following two periods: August – September (ripe rice season) or September – April of the following year (cloud hunting season). To fully see the golden terraced fields, the ideal route is from The Pa – Hong Ngai – Den Sang valley. Especially in Den Sang, the rice fields become even more brilliant because the rice grown is typical local rice.

During the cloud hunting season, we can visit the following locations: A Lu slope, Ngai Thau, Lao Than peak,… Located in a temperate climate zone with a significant altitude, you will be able to hunt at great distances. The carving with your hand touching the clouds is extremely wonderful. In particular, the road from A Lu slope to Ngai Thau is the highlight of the whole trip to Y Ty.

Not only is it easy to “hunt clouds”, this place also has a great view to see the vast terraced fields in the mist and sunlight. However, if you are not familiar with the roads, you can join tours to experience the Y cloud paradise. Ty Lao Cai to ensure safety.

Bac Ha Market

Every week, on Sunday, Bac Ha market takes place. People flock to Bac Ha town to hold a market with countless different items. The market is mainly a place for exchange and buying of ethnic minorities in neighboring villages. At Bac Ha market, you can find unique ethnic items, as well as enjoy highland specialties, such as thang co, corn wine, rice wine or Panax notoginseng tea…

If you have the opportunity to see the market from above, you will be amazed at the unique beauty of the market. The vibrant colors on the costumes of ethnic minorities stand out throughout the entire region, like a blooming flower garden. In ancient times, the market was open on a gentle hill.

But today, the market has been built spaciously and divided into 4 areas, including the brocade area; area selling groceries and jewelry; livestock sales area and food area. Among them, the busiest are the stalls selling brocade items and the dining area bustling with people coming in and out.

Hoang A Tuong Mansion

Construction started in 1914, but it was not until 1921 that King Meo Palace was completed. The owners of the palace are Hoang Yen Chao and Hoang A Tuong. Hoang A Tuong was also a local in Bac Ha until the day Lao Cai was liberated. Therefore, in addition to the name King Meo’s palace, people also call this Hoang A Tuong palace.

The world is “like mountains and water” firmly, with the hope that the family will be noble and the descendants will be glorious. The Meo King’s mansion has reached the level of sophisticated design and emerged on a massive scale in the remote, majestic high mountains like Bac Ha.

The Meo King’s mansion is a quite special architectural structure compared to the architecture of other mansions in Vietnam at that time. The palace is not only a place to live for Hoang Yen Chao and Hoang A Tuong, but also a place to work and also has the function of a protective fortress. The entire palace has a closed, continuous rectangular architecture, with a total area of 4,000 square meters, with protective fences, all four sides of the walls have battlements like a fortress and are guarded by soldiers.

Giang Thai Pho Flower Valley

About 1.5km from Bac Ha center, Thai Giang Pho flower valley was built by a private unit to develop with eco-tourism.

Every season, Thai Giang Pho has flowers blooming, throughout all four seasons are orchids. Besides, there are also many types of street flowers grown here such as hydrangeas, purple orchids, auspicious flowers, jade oats, etc. The two colors that combine to create the colorful beauty of Thai Giang Pho are purple. of lavender and the bright yellow green of orchids.

Can Cau Market

Can Cau market is a typical market of ethnic minorities (mainly Giay, H’Mong – Hoa ethnic groups) in the Northwest region, Vietnam; located along Road 153 – a single dirt road connecting Bac Ha town with the border town of Si Ma Cai, in Can Cau commune, Si Ma Cai district, Lao Cai province.

The market usually opens on the following days. Every Saturday, holidays, and Tet throughout the year, lasting from early morning to late afternoon. This is also the largest buffalo market in the Northwest, Vietnam with hundreds of buffaloes traded in each market session.

Ban Mac Hot Springs

Although it is close to a residential area and was discovered a long time ago. Ban Mac hot spring is still wild, expanded and blocked by people with large stones, enough for about 10 – 15 people to bathe. Hot springs mainly serve people in Trinh Tuong commune and neighboring communes. So tourism services here are almost non-existent.

The road to the hot spring area is a special trail, motorbikes can only go on sunny days. So moving is relatively difficult. Tourists from other districts, when coming to the hot springs, often take the initiative in providing food and drinks and contact accommodation in the center of Trinh Tuong commune or find a motel in Bat Xat town.

Muong Hoa Valley

This stunning valley is located in the Hoang Lien Son mountain range and is home to a number of ethnic minority villages. The valley is known for its stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, as well as its vibrant culture.

The Ultimate Guide To Trekking In Lao Cai

Lao Cai is a province in the northwest of Vietnam, located on the border with China. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, with towering mountains, lush forests, and winding rivers. Trekking in Lao Cai is a popular activity for both locals and tourists alike, offering a unique opportunity to explore the region’s diverse landscapes and cultures. In this guide, we’ll provide an overview of the best trekking routes in Lao Cai, as well as tips on how to prepare for your trek and what to expect along the way.

Best Trekking Routes In Lao Cai

Sapa – Fansipan

This is one of the most popular trekking routes in Lao Cai, taking you to the summit of Fansipan, the highest mountain in Indochina. The trek is around 10 km long and takes around two days to complete. Along the way, you’ll pass through lush forests, terraced rice fields, and traditional villages.

Trekking In Muong Hoa Valley

This is a shorter trek, taking you through the stunning Muong Hoa Valley. The trek is around 8 km long and takes around one day to complete. Along the way, you’ll pass through lush forests, traditional villages, and stunning mountain views.

Ta Van – Giang Ta Chai

This is a longer trek, taking you through the stunning Ta Van and Giang Ta Chai villages. The trek is around 20 km long and takes around two days to complete. Along the way, you’ll pass through lush forests, traditional villages, and stunning mountain views.

Tips For Trekking In Lao Cai

Prepare for the weather: Lao Cai has a tropical climate, with hot and humid summers and cold winters. Make sure to pack appropriate clothing for the season you’re trekking in.

Bring plenty of water: Make sure to bring plenty of water with you on your trek, as it can be difficult to find clean drinking water in some areas.

Hire a guide: It’s a good idea to hire a local guide to help you navigate the trails and provide information about the local culture and customs.

Be aware of your surroundings: Make sure to be aware of your surroundings at all times, as there are wild animals in the area.

Trekking in Lao Cai is a great way to explore the region’s stunning landscapes and cultures. With its diverse trekking routes, there’s something for everyone. Make sure to follow the tips in this guide to ensure a safe and enjoyable trekking experience.

Accommodation When Traveling To LAO CAI

Accommodations In Lao Cai City

When traveling to Sapa, you can choose accommodation facilities in Lao Cai city. This makes it more convenient for tourists to move between different tourist destinations. While also enjoying the amenities at the tourist attractions. Accommodation facility:

Sapaly Lao Cai Hotel. Address: 48 Nguyen Hue, Lao Cai City, Lao Cai.

Muong Thanh Lao Cai Hotel. Address: 86 Thanh Nien, Lao Cai City, Lao Cai.

Royal Hotel. Address: Lot 16 – Lot 21, Group 20, Tran Hung Dao Avenue, Bac Cuong, Lao Cai City, Lao Cai.

Red River View Hotel. Address: 178 Le Dai Hanh, Kim Tan, Lao Cai City, Lao Cai.

White Lotus Hotel. Address: 66A An Duong Vuong, Coc Leu, Lao Cai City, Lao Cai.

Furthermore, in each district or each destination there are different accommodation facilities. Typically, the two most famous destinations in Lao Cai are: Sapa town and Bac Ha town. Visitors can refer to some accommodation facilities here as follows:

Accommodations In Sapa Town

Resort:

Topas Ecolodge Sapa. Address: Thanh Kim, Sa Pa, Lao Cai.

Hotels:

Sapa Horizon Hotel. Address: 18 Pham Xuan Huan, Sa Pa Town, Sa Pa, Lao Cai.

Sapa Elite Hotel. Address: 8 Hoang Dieu, Sa Pa Town, Sa Pa, Lao Cai.

H’mong Sapa Hotel. Address: 27 Thac Bac, Sa Pa Town, Sa Pa, Lao Cai.

BB Sapa Hotel. Address: 8 Cau May Lane, Sa Pa Town, Sa Pa, Lao Cai.

Bamboo Sapa Hotel. Address: 18 Muong Hoa, Sa Pa Town, Sa Pa, Lao Cai.

Accommodations In Bac Ha Town

Hotels:

Sunday Hotel. Address: Bac Ha Town, Bac Ha, Lao Cai.

Cozy Hotel. Address: 29 Vu Van Mat, Bac Ha Town, Bac Ha, Lao Cai.

Sao Mai Hotel. Address: Bac Ha Town, Bac Ha, Lao Cai.

Cong Fu Hotel. Address: 152 Ngoc Uyen, TT. Bac Ha, Bac Ha, Lao Cai.

Minh Quan Hotel. Address: 31 Vu Van Mat, Bac Ha Town, Bac Ha, Lao Cai.

Homestays:

Bac Ha Eco Homestay. Address: TT. Bac Ha, Bac Ha, Lao Cai.

Cho Family Homestay. Address: Na Hoi, Bac Ha, Lao Cai.

Flower Hmong Homestay. Address: Na Hoi, Bac Ha, Lao Cai.

Anh Dao Homestay. Address: Street 135, Ta Ho, Bac Ha, Lao Cai.

Huy Trung Homestay. Address: Bac Ha Town, Bac Ha, Lao Cai.

HALAL FOOD LAO CAI

Halal Food Hajah HAWA

Address: 16 Thác Bạc, TT. Sa Pa, Sa Pa, Lào Cai

Phone: 0369 126 128

Sapa Halal Restaurant

Address: 10B Pho, Thác Bạc, Lào Cai 31100

Phone: 0974 602 662