Experience winter in Sapa, Vietnam

Did you know that Southeast Asia can also surprise you with snow? Visit the enchanting Sapa and its breathtaking natural beauty during this time of the year and get the chance to embrace a stunning winter wonderland. December and January mark the coldest months in this region of Vietnam, with temperatures dropping as low as minus 1 degree Celsius. So, make sure to bundle up with thick, windproof jackets to stay cozy.

Enjoy the town lit up in the fog and get in the holiday spirit with delightful Christmas decorations. The combination of mist and snow adds a captivating charm to the place, especially if you live in tropical countries where fog and snow are nonexistent.

Top must-visit destinations

Sapa, an enchanting destination in Vietnam, captures the hearts of many. Just a scenic overnight train ride from the bustling capital city of Hanoi, Sapa awaits with its mesmerizing beauty. Nestled at an elevation of 1,560 meters, this gem unveils breathtaking mountains, hills, and captivating rice terraces. Get ready to be captivated by Sapa’s natural wonders and charming attractions.

Mount Fansipan

An amazing experience awaits at Fansipan Mountain (Phan Xi Păng in Vietnamese), the highest peak in Vietnam. At a height of 3,147.3 meters (10,326 feet), Fansipan is, in fact, the highest mountain in Indochina. Hence, the nickname “Roof of Indochina”.

If you love adventure, hike to the summit of Mount Fansipan. Or conquer the peak at the comfort of a cable car ride (thanks to the Fansipan Cable Cars) where you can enjoy the scenic views of nature in Northern Vietnam.

Sapa’s ruộng bậc thang (rice terraces)

Trek the iconic rice terraces in Sapa, considered one of the most beautiful rice terraces in the world.

Even though it does not appear as bright and vibrant as pictured below when the skies are clear, it still offers a fantastic trekking experience for those seeking adventure during chilly weather.

Trekking is possible at any time of the year, although the best trekking season is between September and November.

Ô Quy Hồ pass

During this frosty weather, you will see more of a brown or snow-capped landscape than the vibrant mountain greens of summer.

Nevertheless, it is a good experience to see O Quy Ho, one of the four majestic mountain passes of Vietnam. Also known as Hoang Lien Son mountain pass, O Quy Ho serves as a bridge between two provinces, Lao Cai and Lai Chau.

Interestingly, the weather on the Lao Cai side is cold and cloudy, while on the Lai Chau side, it is hot and clear.

Sapa market

Besides exploring the natural sceneries of Sapa, visit Sapa market too and get a glimpse of the gorgeous Sapa brocade.

Unlike other markets where you will find only fresh produce such as fruits, vegetables and spices, you will also see various brocade products in Sapa market.

Enjoy a different retail experience as you check the colorful products, from dresses to scarves, handbags and wallets, to pillowcases and decorative items.

Brocade weaving tradition in Sapa is well preserved, and seeing tribeswomen embroidering is a common sight.  

Stone Church

The Stone Church, also known as Holy Rosary Church, is another popular attraction in Sapa. Built by the French in the early 20th century, the church is well-known for its impressive, unique Gothic architecture.

Located in the heart of Sapa town, the church enjoys a large front yard and sits in an area of over 6,000 square meters. Because of its large space, it is not only a religious destination but also a popular site for various cultural activities of the ethnic communities.

It is also the spot of the famous Sapa’s Love Market, a traditional Saturday evening festival where local men and women meet and show their affection.

Where to stay in Sapa

Indulge in wonderful hospitality at Hotel de la Coupole – Mgallery, a hotel masterpiece nestled in Sapa. This remarkable property seamlessly blends the essence of local culture, the allure of French history, and the vibrant ambiance of the town, creating an unforgettable experience for guests.

Boasting an unbeatable natural landscape of Sapa, the hotel has been awarded World’s Top Icon Hotel 2019 in the World Travel Awards 2019.

“Welcome to an enchanting mix of haute couture and hill tribe style at Hotel de la Coupole where we bring you a nostalgia of the French Indochine era. Immerse in an authentic Vietnamese experience punctuated by picturesque beauty and cultural diversity.”

Jean-Pierre JONCAS, Hotel Manager

Hotel de la Coupole – Mgallery features 249 luxurious rooms and suites with spacious balconies. Its signature restaurants and rooftop bar, rejuvenating spa, and banquet venues for bespoke meetings and events offer unforgettable experiences.

The hotel, with its French-inspired setting and luxury amenities, is a fascinating destination for romantic hideaways, family vacations, and inspiring events.

Cover photo: credit to Sun World Fansipan Legend Photo Contest, asiatraveladvisor, Adre Luu (from Hotel de la Coupole – MGallery’s Facebook page)