Ta Xua: A popular destination for cloud hunting at 2,800 meters altitude

Standing at an impressive altitude of 2,800 meters, Ta Xua Peak, located in Bac Yen District, Son La Province, is one of the highest peaks in Vietnam. Owing to the cool climate year-round and striking landscapes, Ta Xua Peak draws numerous tourists seeking unique experiences and is considered a must-visit for cloud "hunters".

This year, the tourist season in Ta Xua has to face a delay due to disruptions caused by Typhoon Yagi. Some homestays only started welcoming visitors in early October, and trekking tours are still struggling to get back on track.

With its breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable trekking opportunities, Ta Xua remains an essential destination for nature lovers despite the recent climatic challenges.

In 2024,  Ta Xua welcomes cloud hunters starting from mid-October

In 2024, cloud hunting and trekking enthusiasts can finally enjoy Ta Xua starting mid-October. Unlike previous years, when the tourist season kicked off in September, this year, the tourist season in Ta Xua has faced a delay due to adverse weather conditions. According to a travel forum dedicated to Ta Xua, which counts almost 675,000 members, many homestays and hostels are still plenty of availability for the weekends in October. Whether you’re traveling as a couple or in a group, you'll find private rooms for 2 to 4 people, as well as dormitories accommodating up to 30 guests.

Travel agencies report that the unpredictable weather conditions in 2024, particularly those caused by Typhoon Yagi, have made visitors more cautious. The mountainous provinces in northern Vietnam were particularly affected by flooding and landslides, resulting in a one-month delay in the tourist season opening in Ta Xua.

In addition to Ta Xua, the neighboring district of Tram Tau also attracts trekking enthusiasts, especially with hiking trails leading to the summit of Ta Chi Nhu. After the heavy rains, activities on Ta Chi Nhu have returned to normal.

Local authorities, closely monitoring the weather conditions, assure visitors can now enjoy their trip with peace of mind, provided the current conditions persist.

Ta Xua: A Cloud Hunter's Paradise in Vietnam

Perched at an elevation of 2,800 meters, Ta Xua has quickly become a favored destination for nature and adventure enthusiasts. Often referred to as the "paradise for cloud hunters," this breathtaking site is located in Bac Yen District, Son La Province, approximately 240 kilometers from Hanoi. Thanks to its cool climate year-round, Ta Xua attracts numerous visitors, especially from September to April, which is the ideal time to admire the spectacular seas of clouds that surround its peaks.

What makes Ta Xua Peak so attractive?

What sets Ta Xua Peak apart from other mountainous destinations is its unique panorama, frequently compared to a heavenly paradise. The waves of clouds gliding over the mountains at dawn create a breathtaking spectacle, offering visitors a rare and magical experience. Once famous for its Shan tea plantations and wild apple orchards, Ta Xua is now recognized for its trekking tours and authentic homestays that provide insight into the local lifestyle of the Mong ethnic group.

The must-see spots in Ta Xua: The best places to chase clouds

If you’re planning a trip to Ta Xua, join Authentik Vietnam to explore the most iconic sites that can not be missed for an unforgettable experience in this stunning mountainous region of Vietnam.

Dinosaur Backbone: A paradise for nature lovers

The iconic Dinosaur Backbone (also known as Dinasour Spine) is a must-see for any visitor to Ta Xua. Its reputation is well-earned, as it truly is a "paradise for cloud hunting." This name stems from its shape, which resembles the back of a dinosaur from above, surrounded by beautiful terraced rice fields. Located about 5 kilometers from the center of Hang Dong Commune, this site is best visited at dawn. Although the path to get there can be challenging, the reward is priceless upon arrival. Once at the top, you will be captivated by the cloud landscapes, transporting you to a genuine "wonderland." With sunrise, the first light drives away the mist, revealing clusters of clouds that create a romantic and enchanting setting.

Camel Rock: A Breathtaking Viewpoint

The next must-visit location for your cloud-chasing adventure in Ta Xua on this list is Camel Rock. Located opposite the famous Dinosaur Backbone, this recently popularized site has no signposts. Therefore, to find it, don't hesitate to ask the warmhearted locals for directions.

From Camel Rock, the view stretches across a mountain range that resembles a camel’s back. If you’re lucky enough to be there on a sunny day with a cloud cover, you’ll be mesmerized by the beauty of the landscapes. Accessing this spot requires a short hike along a steep path, but the effort is well worth it. Once at the top, you’ll be surrounded by clouds, offering a breathtaking panorama that extends to the horizon.

Turtle Cliff: A stunning spot for cloud-watching

Turtle Cliff is another popular site for cloudwatching in Ta Xua. Its rounded shape resembles a turtle shell, hence the name. Standing on this rock and shouting with joy is a memorable experience that allows you to relieve stress while also fully enjoying the surrounding beauty. From here, the view of the forests and clouds is simply breathtaking.

Dolphin Cliff: A must-see landmark

Don't miss Dolphin Cliff, another iconic spot in Ta Xua for cloud hunting and impressive photos. From the cliff, the panoramic view of the majestic Northwest mountains, under a blue sky and fluffy white clouds, will leave you speechless. To reach Dolphin Cliff, on the way from Bac Yen Town to Ta Xua Commune, choose the direction leading to Ta Xua Tea Hill. The best time for cloud watching at the Dolphin Cliff is on sunny days when the clear sky allows you to capture every moment.

Watch the sunset at Wind Summit

If you miss the opportunity to chase clouds in the morning, don’t worry: Wind Summit is the perfect place to admire a stunning sunset. The best time to capture the last rays of sunlight is around 5:30 PM. The ascent to the summit is easy, and local homestay owners can provide excellent tips.

Don’t forget your camera to capture the breathtaking spectacle of pink clouds intertwining with the golden of the setting sun. The sunset at Wind Summit is unforgettable, leaving you in awe of nature's beauty. Allow yourself to be lulled by the serenity while watching the clouds gently drift by.

Ta Xua Gate

Another site to visit is the Ta Xua Gate, a place as unique as it is familiar for cloud watching. The views from here rival those from the other emblematic sites. The higher you climb, the more spectacular the scenery becomes. Majestic mountains cradle clouds that meander along their slopes and float softly across the valley.

Ta Xua Gate, located right in the heart of the village, is easily accessible for cloud-hunting enthusiasts. While the cloud cover isn’t always dense, it offers enough charm to satisfy yourdesire to unwind while enjoying the region's pure air. 

Discovering the Lonely Tree

During your stay in Ta Xua, be sure to visit the famous Lonely Tree, a magnificent Malus doumeri standing majestically in the middle of a wild and spectacular landscape. Nicknamed the "mini Ha Giang," this iconic tree is surrounded by verdant mountains and a winding river, creating a picturesque backdrop.

Pu Nhi Farm: The mini Da Lat

Known as the "mini Da Lat," this farm offers a unique experience atop Pu Nhi Hill. This picturesque location attracts visitors seeking relaxation in nature and has become a new rendezvous point for cloud hunters in Ta Xua.

Pu Nhi Farm, a true cloud paradise, offers wild and poetic beauty. From the summit, you can admire clouds gently floating over a lush landscape. During your stay, wake up early to witness the sunrise as the sun’s rays pierce through the morning mist, creating a fairy-tale atmosphere.

An unforgettable experience in the national primeval forest

Discover the magic of cloud hunting in Ta Xua, an essential destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Nestled within the national primary forest, this region is renowned for its rich ecosystem, home to rare animal and plant species. The enchanting environment and diverse vegetation change with altitude, creating a breathtaking landscape.

Admire the ethereal beauty of the clouds

The primary forest is the ideal spot to witness the fascinating spectacle of dense fog enveloping the landscape. As you ascend, the vegetation becomes adorned with golden hues, creating a mystical atmosphere. Thanks to its temperate and cool climate, this region provides perfect conditions to observe delicate white clouds floating and infiltrating every corner of the forest.

Cloud hunting in Ta Xua Steppe

If you’re not an early riser, don’t worry! You can easily camp in the Ta Xua Steppe. The vast plateaus of this area, with their gentle slopes, are easily accessible by car, whether you’re traveling in a group or with family in vehicles ranging from 4 to 16 seats.

Enjoy unique cloud-hunting moments each morning: a blue sky, white clouds, and golden sunshine, all in a purified atmosphere. This idyllic setting will help you forget daily stress and reconnect with nature.

The journey to Xim Vang: A stop not to be missed

Don’t miss the scenic trail leading to Xim Vang, a true treasure for hiking enthusiasts. Located just 20 km from Ta Xua, this route is considered one of the most beautiful and accessible for those wishing to chase clouds. Xim Vang is particularly popular during the rice harvest season when the fields turn golden.

In addition to exploring this stunning region, you will have the opportunity to discover the daily lives of the mountain inhabitants. The path to Xim Vang is dotted with streams and waterfalls, perfect for a revitalizing break or a relaxing camping experience.

Best time to visit Ta Xua

Chasing clouds in Ta Xua is an adventure not to be missed for nature lovers. However, this activity is not guaranteed at any time: the clouds often play hide-and-seek with visitors. They can appear at dawn, dusk, or even in the middle of the day, making each cloud-chasing experience unique and unpredictable.

December to March: The ideal season for cloud chasing

Between December and March, travelers have the best chance of capturing the stunning clouds of Ta Xua. This slightly cool and dry period also sees the blooming of various flower species, adding a magical touch to the landscapes. Be sure to pack warm clothing to fully enjoy this season.

April to July: The rice field season

From April to July, Ta Xua reveals its terraced rice fields filled with water. These landscapes, where the terraces reflect the sky, create breathtaking scenes. This is a perfect time for photographers and nature lovers who wish to capture the unique beauty of Ta Xua during the flooded rice field season.

August to November: Mild and pleasant climate

From August to November, Ta Xua enjoys a mild climate with ideal temperatures for exploration. This period marks the transition between summer and winter, offering a peaceful and comfortable environment for those wanting to discover the mountainous landscapes and exceptional panoramic views.

How to get to Ta Xua

Access to Ta Xua has become easier in recent years thanks to the construction of new roads. Several options are available for reaching this enchanting destination:

From Hanoi: The journey takes approximately 5 hours by road. You can choose to travel by car, motorcycle, or take a long-distance bus from My Dinh Station. Once in Bac Yen, it’s only a 15-kilometer ride to Ta Xua by motorcycle or local taxi.

By Limousine: Premium limousine services, such as Khánh Thinh and Quang Nghia, offer direct routes from Hanoi to your homestay in Ta Xua with round-trip prices of around 700,000 VND.

By Motorcycle: Young adventurers often opt for this mode of transport to enjoy the stunning mountain landscapes along the way to Ta Xua. National Route 32 from Hanoi will take you through the mountains, featuring a scenic route that passes through Thanh Son and Bác Yên.

From Ho Chi Minh City: The fastest way to travel from Ho Chi Minh City to Ta Xua is to take a direct flight to Hanoi. Several airlines, including Vietnam Airlines, Bamboo Airways, and VietJet Air, operate daily flights between the two cities, with a flight duration of about 2 hours.

From Moc Chau: If you wish to make a stop in Moc Chau, another popular tourist destination in Son La Province, you can take a bus from Hanoi to Mộc Châu (approximately 4 hours). From there, it’s possible to rent a motorcycle to navigate the mountain roads leading to Ta Xua.

Where to stay in Ta Xua?

Ta Xua, a rising tourist destination in Vietnam, boasts stunning landscapes and a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for nature enthusiasts. Although the region does not yet have large hotels, it offers a range of affordable homestays and guesthouses, with prices ranging from 200,000 to 1,000,000 VND per night. Here are some recommendations for an unforgettable stay:

Ta Xua Hills Homestay

Phone: 0969 868 484

Ta Xua Hills Homestay, recently built by the Mong community, offers breathtaking views of the clouds. Located at a high altitude, this accommodation provides large houses for groups and individual bungalows. The wooden dome-shaped cabins for two include breakfast at a rate of 200,000 VND. For group travelers, shared accommodation in a stilt house with a balcony is available for 90,000 VND per person.

Ngong Ta Xua Hostel

Phone: 0984 551 938

Ngong Ta Xua Hostel stands out with its stilt house design, combining traditional and modern materials. With a sturdy brick and cement ground floor, this accommodation offers dining services and motorbike rentals. Starting from 80,000 VND per person, this budget homestay is perfect for enjoying magnificent views of the clouds, all in a friendly atmosphere thanks to the warm welcome from the owner.

Po Mu Homestay

Phone: 0393 000 008

Po Mu Homestay, located at the crossroads of Ta Xua, is built from po mu wood, offering a traditional and authentic style. With a capacity of 40 people, this establishment features communal rooms decorated in local style and fully equipped individual cabins. Prices range from 500,000 to 1,000,000 VND per night, providing an immersive experience in the heart of local culture.

Ta Xua Clouds

Phone: 0832 555 355

Ta Xua Clouds is one of the most sought-after cloud-chasing locations in the region. Situated at a high altitude, this two-story wooden accommodation offers double rooms and dormitories. Prices range from 300,000 to 1,200,000 VND per night, depending on the type of room, making it an ideal choice for adventurers seeking a unique experience in nature.

Trinh Gia Quan Homestay

Phone: 0395 349 173

Trinh Gia Quan Homestay is a renowned establishment located in an exceptional natural setting. Offering panoramic views of the valley of clouds and the surrounding mountains, this homestay features three rooms with bunk beds and modern amenities. Nightly rates vary between 100,000 and 400,000 VND per person, and the establishment has a café, camping services, and barbecue options, perfect for enjoying outdoor evenings.

Practical Guide for a Successful Cloud-Chasing Experience in Ta Xua

If you want to have an unforgettable cloud-chasing experience in Ta Xua, here are valuable tips to ensure the success of your adventure:

Plan your activities: To fully enjoy your cloud-chasing, it is essential to set a schedule. Check the weather forecasts and choose days after light rain, with cool temperatures at night and sunny weather during the day. These conditions will allow you to admire breathtaking cloud formations.

Be cautious while moving: Safety is paramount. Move carefully, avoid traveling in large groups, and prefer daytime trips to explore this beautiful region.

Determine your viewpoint: Before leaving, identify the ideal location for cloud chasing. This will help minimize the distance you need to travel and maximize your chances of capturing the best images. Camping on-site is an excellent option to enjoy the landscapes at sunrise.

Choose the right angle for your photos: For stunning shots, align yourself facing the sun. Natural light will enhance the clarity of your photos and bring out the beauty of the subjects you capture.

Prepare for weather conditions: Cloud chasing is optimal in spring and early summer when temperatures are cool. Make sure to bring appropriate clothing, such as warm jackets, raincoats, flashlights, and snacks to recharge your energy.

Check your vehicle: If you're using a motorbike to reach Ta Xua, don't forget to fill it up before leaving. For car trips, choose a vehicle with fewer than 12 seats, as the roads can be narrow and slippery.

Wear appropriate footwear: Sports shoes are recommended to facilitate your movement on the steep trails leading to the top of Ta Xua. This will ensure your comfort throughout the adventure.

Don't overlook essential documents: A crucial element, often forgotten, is ensuring you have all your paperwork and cash. Before heading out for your cloud-chasing adventure in Ta Xua, check that you have the necessary documents for checking into homestays and renting motorbikes. Also, make sure to bring enough cash, as there are no ATMs in Ta Xua.

TOLUNHA

Related articles:

>> Vietnam Tour 2024-2025: Where to go? Which itinerary? What to do? How many days?

>> Top 8 best places to visit in Son La, Vietnam