Buzz
When it comes to the Northwest mountain peaks, many think of Fansipan – the roof of Indochina. However, few know that the land of clouds and forests in Lao Cai also hides a charming Lao Than, also known humorously as Hau Pong San. This place boasts a breathtaking fairy-tale scenery, especially when clouds, sun, and wind harmonize. Is that the reason inspiring many trekkers to pack their bags and embark on the cloud-hunting journey to Lao Than?
Cloud Hunting in Lao Than
1. Coordinates of Lao Than Mountain
Perched at an elevation of 2,862m, Lao Than mountain is situated in Phin Ho village, Y Ty commune, Bat Xat district, Lao Cai province, often humorously referred to as the roof of Y Ty. This mountain exhibits a sharp and challenging peak, standing tall amidst the vast sky, full of allure.
While conquering Fansipan demands considerable time and effort, hunting clouds in Lao Than is considered relatively accessible. Anyone can set foot on it. However, it still requires good health, a well-planned route, and thorough preparation. Therefore, before trekking to Lao Than, it's best to equip yourself with essential knowledge about the route and necessary gear for a successful and complete journey.
Trekking in Lao Than
2. Ideal time to ascend Lao Than for cloud hunting
In fact, you can plan your cloud-hunting expedition to Lao Than at any time that suits your schedule. However, for a complete and ideal journey, based on our trekking experience, it's recommended to go around the period from September of the previous year to April of the following year. During this time, the weather transitions to autumn, becoming cool, dry, and with less rain. Hence, it's highly suitable for an ideal cloud-hunting trip.
Ideal time for trekking Lao Than
3. Transportation to Lao Than
Starting from Hanoi, you will need to go through 2 legs of the journey to reach Lao Than.
1. Stage 1: Hanoi – Y Ty commune (Lao Cai)
Firstly, you need to travel from the capital Hanoi to Sapa town. Based on our Lao Than trekking experience, taking a coach or train is the best option. It's the safest choice, avoiding self-driving or riding a motorbike due to the steep and dangerous mountainous roads.
Upon reaching Sapa town, rent a motorbike here to get to Y Ty commune. You can consider the following route:
From Sapa town – continue on QL4D – road 155 – at the intersection of roads 155 and 158, turn onto road 158, then keep going straight to reach Y Ty commune.
Make sure to have a meal and take a rest upon reaching Y Ty commune, regardless of how you travel. It's essential to prepare your health for the best Lao Than cloud-hunting journey.
Traveling from Hanoi to Y Ty
3.2. Leg 2: Y Ty Commune – Base of Mount Lao Than
After arriving in Y Ty commune, contact a guide or porter for assistance, as the Lao Than route is new. Though the terrain is not too challenging, being careless can lead to getting lost. Next, trek together for the 10km stretch from Y Ty to the vegetable farm at the foot of Mount Lao Than. This trail is steep and rough, so grasp the handlebars firmly. Upon reaching the clean vegetable farm in Phin Ho village, you can park your vehicle there. But remember to agree on the parking fee in advance to avoid conflicts.
For those in Saigon, longing to hunt clouds in Lao Than, an additional journey to Hanoi is required. You can choose between a coach, train, or flight for this leg of the trip. From Hanoi to Lao Cai, you can book a train ticket or take a high-speed coach.
4. Amazing Experiences
When you arrive at Lao Than, you'll have countless unique and enticing check-in spots. However, to capture those 'wow' virtual living photos, you must have an adventurous spirit. Especially daring to overcome every challenge and personal limit.
Cloud Hunting
As mentioned earlier, cloud hunting in Lao Than is one of the goals many young enthusiasts set when visiting this sky-shrouded mountain peak in Y Ty. To achieve this, based on the cloud hunting experiences of numerous trekkers, you need to camp overnight on the peak of Lao Than. Rise at 4 a.m., then ascend the mountain from the resting area to the summit in harsh cold and windy conditions. At an altitude of 2862m above sea level, you will undoubtedly relish the feeling of victory when conquering the mountain peak. Simultaneously, immerse yourself in the magical space with a sea of clouds beneath your feet.
Cloud hunting experience
Admire the natural scenery
Besides cloud hunting, Lao Than also promises to bring you many other fantastic experiences. On beautiful and clear days, standing on this lofty mountain peak, you can cast your eyes to admire the nearby mountain peaks. Examples include Nhiu Co San, Bach Moc Luong Tu, or the 'roof of Indochina' Fansipan.
If you have the opportunity to trek Lao Than in autumn, you will witness the terraced valley of Dền Sáng with vibrant golden hues during the autumn harvest. Moreover, the fresh climate fosters the vigorous growth of wildflowers, bringing a distinct and season-specific beauty. All of these elements combine to create a dreamy and enchanting scene that captivates every heart.
The roof of Y Ty not only attracts people with its majestic and pristine beauty, but also the Lao Than cloud hunting activity promises to bring trekkers unforgettable memories. So, why hesitate? Plan a trip with friends to conquer this mountain now!
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Posted by: Chơn Hiệp Nguyễn
Keywords: Conquering Y Ty's Roof, Chasing Clouds in Lao Than
