Have you ever dreamed of a trip where every scene makes your heart slow down? If so, let’s trip to the mountains in Northern Vietnam in September to make your dream come true. Whether misty Sapa, the brilliant harvest season in Mu Cang Chai, majestic Ha Giang or enchanting Ta Xua, each destination is a vivid picture for you to admire and feel. And who knows, between the sound of wind blowing through the mountainside and the gentle smiles at a market, you will find something that makes you want to return to Vietnam many more times.
The Weather of Northern Vietnam Mountains in September
September in the mountainous regions of Northern Vietnam is like a painting at its most beautiful moment. The lush green of the mountains and forests blends with the golden colour of the terraced fields, creating a scene that anyone would want to admire.
During the day, the weather is cool, with temperatures around 20 – 28°C, and at nighttime, it is chilly at 15 – 20°C. Visitors can curl up in a thin coat and sip a cup of hot tea in the quiet space of the mountains and forests.
Despite having rain, it is just a few sudden showers, enough to make the air fresher and the sky bluer after the sun rises. Early in the morning, mist covers the mountain slopes, but after hours, the golden sunlight spreads across the villages. You can take a walk in Sapa, hunt for photos of the ripe rice season in Mu Cang Chai, or admire the brilliant Hoang Su Phi from above.
Have you ever stood in the middle of the immense golden sea of terraced fields? If not, perhaps this September is the time for you to pack your backpack and let the mountains and forests of the North tell you the most beautiful stories.
Best Mountain Destination to Visit in Northern Vietnam in September
In general, September is the best time to visit mountainous areas in Northern of Vietnam. During this time, the landscape looks like a majestic painting with vibrant colours: green forests, golden rice paddy fields, and white clouds. The weather is comfortable, with minimal rainfall and dry roads, convenient for exploring the highlands.
Sapa (Lao Cai)
Sapa in September offers a beautiful “golden season” experience, when the terraced rice fields in Ta Van, Ta Phin, Y Linh Ho or Muong Hoa valley are ripe. In the morning, a thin mist covers the villages like a veil, and at noon, the golden sunlight spreads across the mountain slopes. The climate is cool, with temperatures ranging from 15 to 23°C, ideal for trekking through the villages of the H’mong, Red Dao, and Giay people. In addition, September is also a great time to conquer Fansipan, the roof of Indochina, when the visibility is far and the sky is clear.
Sapa in September
>>> Visiting the amazing misty town Sapa and wondering what to do to explore all its charm? Read our blog to find out Top 11 Things to Do in Sapa and indulge in the hidden beauty of Sapa.
Mu Cang Chai (Yen Bai)
If Sapa is famous for golden terraces, then Mu Cang Chai is the “holy land” of photography enthusiasts. The terraced fields in La Pan Tan, Che Cu Nha, and De Xu Phinh are ranked as national monuments, and in September they are covered in a brilliant golden colour. Each terraced field is like a delicate drawing of nature and human hands. Visiting Mu Cang Chai in September, visitors can experience warm days and cool nights, the perfect weather for hiking, hunting for sunrise and sunset photos, and visiting colourful highland markets.
Mu Cang Chai, Lao Cai
Ha Giang
Ha Giang is famous for the Dong Van stone plateau, recognised by UNESCO as a Global Geopark, and the majestic Ma Pi Leng pass. In September, the Hoang Su Phi region enters the ripe rice season, creating a spectacular scene when each golden terraced field hugs the mountainside. This is also the ideal time to explore the villages of the La Chi, Dao, and Tay people or ride a motorbike through the winding mountain passes, watching the clouds drifting right before your eyes. David and Sarah, a lovely couple, shared with us after their journey to Ha Giang Loop that driving through the winding roads feels like flying in the middle of a cloudy sky. They took a lot of photogenic pictures and had a fascinating experience after the trip.
Ma Pi Leng, Ha Giang
Hoang Su Phi
Hoang Su Phi, located in the west of Ha Giang province, is known as one of the most beautiful “terraced field paradises” in Vietnam. In September, this place enters the ripe season, when the enture mountainside is covered in a golden yellow coat, stretching endlessly, creating a majestic and poetic scene. In the cool breeze of the highlands, you will hear the sound of streams and children’s laughter echoing through the village. This is the perfect time to trek through the terraced fields, explore the lives of the Dao, H’Mong, and Nung people and keep for yourself some lifetime photos.
Gold rice terrace in Hoang Su Phi in September
Bac Son (Lang Son)
Bac Son is a relatively new destination for international visitors, but it leaves a strong impression with the rice valley stretching at the foot of the limestone mountains. In September, from the top of Na Lay, you will see the whole valley dyed yellow, interspersed with a softly winding river, and stilt houses hidden among the rice fields. The cool, pleasant climate, combined with the sincerity and hospitality of the Tay people here, makes Bac Son a great stop for exploring for those who want to find a quiet place, away from the crowds.
Bac Son viewpoint from Na Lay peak
Moc Chau (Son La)
Moc Chau in September is not as prominent in the rice season as Sapa or Mu Cang Chai, but it is charming with peaceful valleys, interspersed with ripe fields and cornfields in the harvest season. The cool morning air, the green space of the heart-shaped tea hills, the Ban Ang pine forests and the simple life of the Thai and Mong people bring visitors a feeling of relaxation and slowness. This is also the ideal time to cycle around the valley, camp or hike to explore Dai Yem waterfall.
Moc Chau, Son La
Ta Xua (Son La)
Ta Xua is famous as the “cloud hunting paradise” of the north. However, in September, Ta Xua is not only beautiful of green mountain slopes and villages nestled on the hillsides. The weather is cool, in the morning and evening there are often floating seas of cloud, and during the day there is light sunshine, very favourable for trekking or riding a motorbike along the winding roads between the mountains and forests.
It is worth noting that Ta Xua is more favorable for risk taker who love to ride motorbike on winding and rocky road rather than a chilling and relaxing sightseeing experience.
Ta Xua, Son La
Things to Do in Mountainous Areas in Northern Vietnam in September
It is fair to say that mountainous areas in northern Vietnam are at their most beautiful in September. There are several things to do to enjoy the stunning landscape and vibrant local life.
Trekking through terraced fields in the ripe rice season
Walking among the golden terraced fields in Sapa, Mu Cang Chai or Hoang Si Phi is an unforgettable experience. The fragrant scent of new rice, the laughter of the harvesters, and the crunching footsteps on the dirt road create a harmony of autumn. I once spent the whole morning walking just a few kilometres, because at every turn, I encountered a scene so beautiful that I had to stop to take pictures. If you want, you can hire a local guide; they will show you the little-known trails leading to the most beautiful panoramic view of the terraced fields.
Trekking through Mu Cang Chai
>>> Are you a big fan of trekking and interested at enjoying fresh breath and interact with local people in northeast Vietnam? Reach out to our Sapa Trekking Tour 3 Days 2 Nights to make your dream adventure come true.
Taking part in traditional festivals
In Hoang Su Phi (Ha Giang), Mu Cang Chai (Yen Bai), or Sapa (Lao Cai), every golden rice season, festivals take place to honor the rice cultivation profession and community life. Visitors can join in interesting activities such as rice harvesting competitions, rice pounding competitions, where people show off their dexterity, agility and joy of the harvest. In addition, there are also folk games such as tug of war, throwing con, and fighting swallows, creating a bustling and joyful atmosphere amidst the mountainous landscape.
Particularly, traditional art performances by the Dao, H’Mong, Nung, Tay ethnic groups, with dances, panpipes, flutes, and drums echoing among the hills, bring visitors a vivid and authentic cultural experience. These festivals are not only an occasion to connect the community but also a great opportunity for visitors to better understand the rich spiritual life of the ethnic groups in the mountains.
Traditional dances of ethnic minority people in Lao Cai
Visiting ethnic minority villages
September is harvest season, so the villages of the H’Mong, Dao, Tay, and La Chi are always bustling. This is a great opportunity to learn about their culture, customs and lifestyle. Visitors can watch locals harvest rice, dry rice, or sit by the fire and chat. The warm feeling here makes the trip not just a sight but a real connection.
H’Mong people harvest rice
Hunting cloud and watching sunrise
Have you ever watched the cloud sea in mountainous areas of Vietnam? Then embark on the fascinating trip to Y Ty (Lao Cai), Ta Xua (Son La), or O Quy Ho pass for cloud hunting and sunrise catching. You need to wake up early, around 4-5 am, to get the cloud before it is completely light. One of the most popular cloud hunting points is “Dinosaur’s Back” in Ta Xua. Just imagine white clouds rolling under your feet, and above your head the sky gradually changing from pink to blue. It felt like standing in the middle of an endless sea of clouds; all your fatigue disappeared.
Cloud sea in dinosaur’s back in Ta Xua
Attending the highland market
For those who love to experience authentic highland life, participating in local markets would be amazing. In September, the market is even more bustling because of the harvest season. People wear colourful traditional costumes and bring agricultural products, brocade fabrics, and handicrafts to exchange. The sound of the panpipe and the flute echoes in the colourful space.
Highland market
Camping in the mountains and forest
Camping in Moc Chau, Bac Son or the valleys near Sapa is a great way to slow down and enjoy nature. You can set up a tent next to a small stream, light a fire to grill meat, and chat with friends under the starry sky. On a chilly September night, just a thick coat is enough for you to lie down and watch the Milky Way. This will certainly be your journey of a lifetime.
Milk Way in Ha Giang
What to Eat in Northern Vietnam Mountains in September
The food on the plateau in September has a strong flavour, which is closely related to crops and people’s lives. After a long hike or early morning cloud hunting, sitting by the fire and tasting hot dishes in the mountains is an experience that makes the journey more complete.
Thang Co – The flavor of the fair market
Thang Co is a traditional dish of the H’Mong people. The steaming pot of Thang Co, the aroma of cardamom, cinnamon, and ginger mixed with meat and stewed bones, creates a rich, spicy, and warm flavour. I tried Thang Co at Bac Ha market; at first it was a bit strange, but after just a few spoons, the warm flavour spread, making me feel that autumn in the highlands seemed closer.
Thang Co
Charcoal-grilled piglet
The armpit piglet is raised free-range, the meat is firm, and has little fat. When grilled over charcoal, the skin is crispy, and the meat inside is fragrant and sweet. This dish is often served with cham cheo salt or mac mat leaves, very suitable when you just come back from trekking, sitting around a warm dining table.
Charcoal-grilled piglet
Five-color sticky rice
Made from upland sticky rice, coloured with natural leaves and tubers such as purple leaves, turmeric, gac,… As mentioned before, September is the season for harvesting new rice, so the sticky rice grains are both fragrant and rich, delicious when eaten with grilled meat or steamed fish.
Five-color sticky rice
Grilled stream fish
Stream fish are caught right in the crevices of rocks, cleaned and then grilled on bamboo over charcoal. The fish meat is sweet, the bones are soft, and eating it right there allows you to fully feel the freshness of the mountains and forest.
Grilled stream fish
Suggested Itinerary to Explore Northern Vietnam
Itinerary 1: Northern Vietnam 5 Days Tour
Day 1: Hanoi – Ha Giang: Depart from Hanoi to Ha Giang and stay at the village home.
Day 2: Ha Giang – Yen Minh: Today, you will continue your journey to Dong Van stone plateau. Along the way, stop at a pine hill and visit a Red Dao village before reaching Yen Minh.
Day 3: Yen Minh – Dong Van – Meo Vac: Continue to the Dong Van karst plateau. You will visit the Vuong family’s house and head to Meo Vac. Stop at Ma Pi Leng Pass to admire breathtaking scenery and take photos.
Day 4: Meo Vac – Ha Giang: This day, head back to Ha Giang. You will stop in Lung Tam village, a H’Mong community, and Quan Ba.
Day 5: Ha Giang – Hanoi
>>> Detailed itinerary: Here
Itinerary 2: Vietnam Northeast 6 Days From Ha Giang to Lang Son
Day 1: Hanoi – Ha Giang: From Hanoi, drive north to Ha Giang.
Day 2: Ha Giang – Meo Vac: Visit some little villages such as Quan Ba, Yen Minh, and Dong Van. After that, travel the famous Ma Pi Leng Pass and enjoy the view of the Nho Que River. Conclude the day by reaching Meo Vac.
Day 3: Meo Vac – Bac Me: Wake up early to visit Meo Vac’s local market then transfer to Bac Me.
Day 4: Bac Me – Cao Bang: Take a morning trip pass by three mountain passes and arrive in Cao Bang in the afternoon.
Day 5: Cao Bang – Ban Gioc Waterfalls – Cao Bang: Travel 85 kilometers from Cao Bang to the Ban Gioc Waterfall. Enjoy the majestic of the fall then explore Nguom Ngao cave.
Day 6: Cao Bang – Lang Son – Hanoi: On the way back to Hanoi, you will pass through Lang Son.
>>> Detailed itinerary: Here
Itinerary 3: Mu Cang Chai’s Ripe Rice Season in 3 Days
Day 1: Hanoi – Thanh Son – Nghia Lo – Tu Le – Luot Village – Mu Cang Chai: Transfer from Hanoi to Mu Cang Chai. Along the way, you will stop at Thanh Son Tea Hill, Muong Lo and try specialties. Then, continue your journey to Luot Village for hot mineral springs and then depart for Mu Cang Chai.
Day 2: Mu Cang Chai – Che Cu Nha – La Pan Tan – Tu Le: Today, you will explore Mam Xoi and other golden terraced fields in La Pan Tan Commune. In the afternoon, walk to Fairy Spring or rent a motorbike to explore Lim Thai and Lim Mong.
Day 3: Tu Le – Ha Noi: Return to Hanoi.
>>> Detailed itinerary: Here
Some Helpful Tips
To have the best experience in mountainous areas in northern Vietnam, please jot down these tips below:
- Prepare suitable outfits: During daytime, the weather is cool, but early mornings and evenings are chilly. Bring a light jacket, hoodie or light windbreaker. Non-slip trekking shoes are required because the mountain roads can still be wet after rain.
- Spend time exploring: The trails in the mountains are often winding, sometimes with a slight landslide after the rain. Calculate your travel time so you don’t miss the schedule or scenery along the way. I usually start my journey early in the morning to catch up with the dawn and avoid traffic jams when entering town.
- Bring cash: In ethnic villages and markets, most do not accept cards. Therefore, you should bring small amounts of cash when buying specialities, souvenirs or paying for the service fees.
- Respect for indigenous culture: The people in the highlands are very friendly, but you should ask for permission before taking pictures of them or the house. Avoid wearing too-short clothes when entering the community living area, and never invade the natural landscape.
- Keep healthy and safe: Take basic medicine, such as cold medicine, abdominal pain medicine, personal bandages and insecticide. Drink enough water and eat well to avoid fatigue during moving.
In conclusion, September in the mountainous region of northern Vietnam is the perfect blend of pleasant weather, brilliant scenery and the peaceful pace of life in the highlands. From the endless golden terraced fields and the sea of cloud floating on themountaintops to the steaming pot of thang co at the market, all create a journey not only to admire, but also to feel with all the senses.
If you are looking for a trip with both majestic nature and rich culture, September is the “golden time” to pack your backpack and explore. And who knows, among the winding roads and gentle smiles, you will find a memory that whenever remember, it feels like just yesterday. Contact us to embark on this exciting trip to the northeast part of Vietnam and collect wonderful memories.
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