Discover the Top 12 Famous Tourist Attractions in Sơn La

Dải Yếm Waterfall, also known as Nàng Waterfall or Bản Vặt Waterfall, is located in Mường Sang commune, Sơn La province. According to legend, the waterfall is believed to be the sash of a girl used to rescue a boy from a flood, hence the name 'Dải Yếm'. Dải Yếm Waterfall is approximately 100m tall, with one branch consisting of nine tiers and the other branch having five tiers, separated by about 20m.

The best time to admire the waterfall is from April to September when the water flows abundantly, creating hundreds of sparkling white streams, forming a majestic yet poetic and romantic scenery. To reach Dải Yếm Waterfall, you can travel from the center of Mộc Châu town by motorcycle or car, heading towards Sơn La until you reach the Lóng Sập border gate intersection, then turn right onto National Highway 43 and continue for about 5km.

Sơn La Museum is part of the historical monument of Sơn La Museum and Prison, built by the French in 1908. The museum is a place for preserving and exhibiting thousands of artifacts from prehistoric times, reflecting the cultural life of 12 ethnic groups residing in the province. Collections of Thái and Dao ancient scripts, including epic poems, folk tales, and legends, are also on display.

Nestled amidst the city of Sơn La, Khau Cả Hill overlooks the Nậm La stream, where historical traces of Sơn La Prison remain - evidence of a revolutionary struggle period, the indomitable spirit of resilient communists who endured the oppression of the French colonialists.

Mộc Châu is situated in the northern part of Sơn La province, renowned as one of the largest and most beautiful plateaus in Vietnam. You can visit Mộc Châu at any time of the year, each season and period showcasing its unique beauty.

Before and after the Lunar New Year, cherry blossoms bloom, in March are the ban flowers, in November are the cauliflower flowers, in December are the wild sunflowers... If you are fond of flowers, you can plan your trip accordingly.

When in Mộc Châu, the heart-shaped tea hills are an unmissable spot.

Transportation to Mộc Châu:

Located approximately 200km from Hanoi, you have various transportation options. If you enjoy mountainous roads and adventure travel, you can choose a motorbike or opt for a sleeper bus to Mộc Châu and then rent a vehicle to explore other attractions.

Sơn La Hydroelectric Plant - Located in Ít Ong commune, Mường La district, this hydroelectric plant is the largest in Southeast Asia. It is a renowned tourist destination and a must-visit when in Sơn La, as it is not only a source of pride for the locals but also for Vietnam as a whole.

Currently, the Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism has organized boat tours around the reservoir. Such tours not only allow tourists to travel easily but also ensure safety.

5. Quế Lâm Imperial Stele Site

Sơn La Province hosts the historical site of the 'Quế Lâm Imperial Stele' within the central area of Sơn La town. This site commemorates the inscription by King Lê Thái Tông on a vertical rock wall at the entrance of a cave. The Quế Lâm Imperial Stele is a cultural-historical site located right in the heart of Sơn La city.

This inscription is attributed to King Lê Thái Tông, in May 1440, after his military campaign in the Northwest region. After a rest at La Cave (Thẩm Ké), captivated by the tranquil and picturesque scenery, the King composed the poem 'Quế Lâm Imperial Stele' and had it engraved at the cave entrance. The poem consists of 140 Chinese characters, roughly translated as follows:

'Thinking of those far away, tormented in the night

Why forget those in captivity?

In this world, there are heroic lords

Who pardons the rebellious?

The road is difficult, do not rely on luck

The cave is warm, filled with the breath of spring

The people are content, without any grievances

Even those far away receive benevolence'