Admire the Grandeur Nature

1. Tu Le Valley

This valley is a masterpiece of natural beauty year-round in the Northwest. Spring and summer bring blooming flowers across the valley, while autumn, from August to October, is the season of ripening rice on the terraced fields. 

2. La Pan Tan Rice Terraced Fields

The terraced fields in Mu Cang Chai are recognized as a national heritage site. La Pan Tan boasts the largest terraced fields in the region, including the famous “Mam Xoi Hill” with terraces that form circular patterns, stacked like layers of a dish of sticky rice - a famous local specialty.

Things to do in Mu Cang Chai - rice valley in Mu Cang Chai

Admire the rice valley in Mu Cang Chai 

3. Khau Pha Pass

Khau Pha Pass stretches about 30 kilometers at an altitude of 1,200 meters. It is one of the four most treacherous passes in Northwest Vietnam, with sharp curves, steep cliffs, and deep valleys. 

4. Mong Ngua Hill

Mong Ngua Hill is a terraced area shaped like a horse's hoof. Located in Sang Nhu Village, about 2 kilometers from Mu Cang Chai town, it, along with Mam Xoi Hill, is an incredible natural masterpiece. The entrance fee to this site is 20,000 VND (about 0.8 USD).

5. Pu Nhu Waterfall

Roughly 10 kilometers from the town lies this hidden waterfall. Your path will lead you through swaying cornfields and across a gentle stream. The waterfall, towering at about 20 meters, tumbles over a series of rocky steps into the serene Dragon Lake below.

6. Pung Luong Bamboo Forest

This bamboo forest, over six decades old, weaves a tapestry of verdant splendor. Its towering stalks create a haven of tranquility where sunlight gently weaves through the leafy canopy. 

Things to do in Mu Cang Chai - bamboo forest in mu cang chai

Step in the bamboo world Mu Cang Chai

7. Suoi Giang

Suoi Giang boasts a mild climate and is surrounded by lush vegetation. It is most famous for its thousand of ancient Shan Tuyet tea trees, a precious local specialty that is both aromatic and healthy.

Discover Cultural Experiences

Mu Cang Chai is home to ethnic minority communities with unique traditions and lifestyles.

8. Ethnic Village

The region is predominantly inhabited by the Hmong and Thai people. You can trek to visit local villages or stay in a homestay to experience life firsthand. Some villages are Tu Le, Che Cu Nha, Ngoi Tu, and more remote ones like Lim Thai and Lim Mong.

Things to do in Mu Cang Chai

One of the best things to do in Mu Cang Chai - trek to see ethnic villages

9. Mu Cang Chai Fair Market

This district comes alive every weekend with bustling highland fair markets of Mu Cang Chai, Nga Ba Kim, and Khao Mang, held on Saturdays and Sundays. 

These markets are a vibrant gathering place, drawing locals to display their wares or seek out new treasures. The stalls brim with everything from the bounty of the land—honey, wild apples, rice wine—to handcrafted textiles, traditional garments, and artisan-made tools.

10. Enjoy local cuisine

The highland cuisine is known for its quality and the use of distinctive local spices and herbs. Famous dishes here are sweet sausages, grilled pork wrapped in forest leaves, grilled chicken with Mac Mat leaves, grilled stream fish, sticky rice, Tu Le green rice, and rice wine infused with local fruits. 

You can try these delicious dishes at your homestay or downtown restaurants like Thuy Linh, Pa Pinh Top, Sung A Ho, Duy Cuong, and more. A specialty meal typically costs between 8-14 USD per person.

Things to do in Mu Cang Chai

Enjoy natural food is one of best things to do in Mu Cang Chai

Explore the Best Local Activities

11. Hot Spring

Mu Cang Chai has natural hot springs year-round, particularly at Le Champ Tu Le Resort. 

During winter, when the temperature drops sharply below 10°C, the hot spring water remains a soothing 38°C or higher. You can even soak while glancing at the view of terraced fields.

Things to do in Mu Cang Chai - hot spring in mu cang chai

Having a warm soak amidst natural landscape

12. Hiking

Trekking is a fabulous way to explore Mu Cang Chai, allowing you to walk through valleys, visit villages, and climb mountains. Some recommended hiking routes for you:

  • La Pan Tan - Mu Cang Chai (half day)

  • Tu Le - Mu Cang Chai (1 day)

  • Nghia Lo - Tu Le - Mu Cang Chai - Khau Pha - Lim Mong Village (3 days)

To join these hiking trips, you can either navigate on your own or join a guided tour. The tour price is usually around $20 for a half-day. You can look up suggestions online or contact us for advice.

13. Adventurous sports

Mu Cang Chai’s vast natural landscapes are perfect for outdoor activities such as:

  • Paragliding at Khau Pha Pass, priced between 80-100 USD per person for about 30 minutes. Advance booking is recommended. You can visit the website vietwingshanoi.com for more information.

  • Ziplining through rice paddies at Le Champ Tu Le, along with forest games at Aires Hill.

  • Renting a motorbike in town for a motorbiking adventure.

  • Camping, though you will need to bring your own gear.

Things to do in Mu Cang Chai

Mind-blowing experiences in Mu Cang Chai

14.  Stay at Eco Resort

Mu Cang Chai is highly rated as a retreat destination for its natural beauty, fresh air, and tranquility. During your stay, you will be treated to warm hospitality and excellent services. Some top-rated resorts and homestays include:

  • Le Champ Tu Le: 72 USD/room/night

  • Mu Cang Chai Eco Lodge Resort: 46 USD/room/night

  • Lapantan Paradise: 35 USD/room/night

  • A Su Homestay Mu Cang Chai: 48 USD/room/night

Things to do in Mu Cang Chai

Having a great time enjoy things to do in Mu Cang Chai

For a broader perspective, consult our post on travel guide to Vietnam!

This list of the 14 best things to do in Mu Cang Chai offers a variety of experiences and attractions to help you discover the essence of this destination. If you have any questions or need advice about Vietnam tours, simply leave us a message, and we will get back to you promptly.