Buzz
Whether you're riding a motorcycle or driving a car, caution is paramount on the 180 km journey to Moc Chau, where cherry blossom and peach orchards are in full bloom, welcoming spring.
Route Overview
Moc Chau, situated in Son La province, is approximately 180 km from Hanoi, along National Highway 6 towards Son La and Dien Bien. It takes about 4 hours by motorcycle to reach this destination. Taking the shortcut through Bai Chao helps reduce the distance by around 10 km, though this route involves steep slopes, passes by the Kim Boi hot mineral springs, and reconnects with Highway 6 at Cun Pass.
Following National Highway 6, you'll encounter Kẽm Pass and Cun Pass, two relatively low but potentially hazardous mountain passes for drivers unfamiliar with steep, winding roads. Passing through Cao Phong, adorned with vast orange orchards, Highway 6 offers a scenic route with two spacious lanes. The Cao Phong section often features traffic checkpoints and speed radars. On the way through Muong Khen and Tan Lac, don't forget to stop for some freshly squeezed sugarcane juice.
As you traverse Thung Khe Pass, exercise caution as the winter weather typically brings foggy conditions, potentially causing disorientation. If possible, take a break to enjoy some piping hot corn by the roadside. Beneath the foot of Thung Khe Pass lies the tranquil village of Mai Chau. Long Luong Village, located 20 km from Moc Chau town, also serves as a traffic police checkpoint.
Moc Chau is divided into 2 areas: the town area and the countryside area. You can choose to stay in either place. Moc Chau becomes quiet around 10 p.m.
Points of Interest
Moc Chau is currently adorned with white cherry blossoms, pink peach blossoms, and mustard flowers. Feel free to stop at any flower garden you come across along the way.
The tea hills around the valley are starting to turn a charming green.
Ban Pa Co is located 15 km from the national highway, nestled in the valley with beautiful cherry orchards.
Ban Long Luong is situated 20 km along the road to Moc Chau countryside, right off the national highway where cherry and peach blossoms are in full bloom.
Ba Phach Mustard Garden is one of the largest and most beautiful mustard fields in Moc Chau, located within the agricultural area.
On Sunday mornings, the market in Hang Kia village, 20 km from Moc Chau, glimmers with the colorful attire of the Hmong ethnic people.
Dai Yem Waterfall, situated 5 km from the town, is a picturesque and romantic waterfall.
The road to Long Sap border gate, spanning over 30 km, passes through numerous villages, cherry orchards, peach orchards, and countless bamboo forests.
The pine forest in Ban Ang tourist area, 3 km from Moc Chau, also features many patches of white mustard flowers.
The road to Ong Cave in Ngu Dong village passes through several patches of mustard flowers. Along the way, be sure to capture photos with the beautiful S-shaped road on the tea hill and the heart-shaped hill. Ong Cave is located around 20 km from Moc Chau countryside town.
For a more exhilarating experience, visit Hua Tat Pass, located on the old National Highway 6.
Dining Spots
Specialties in Moc Chau include milk cake, yogurt, fresh milk, peanut candy, San Tuyet tea, snow lotus, honey, cat's ear vegetables, and more.
Must-try dishes: mountain stream fish, cat's ear vegetables, goat hotpot, green vegetable hotpot, hill chicken hotpot, fresh milk, yogurt, grilled goat, buffalo leaf wrap.
Notable eateries in Moc Chau include Quan 64 and Quan 70 along National Highway 6, 10 km from the town. Here, food is reasonably priced. Additionally, you can buy souvenirs here.
Nam Pia dish (young goat intestines) is a unique and challenging dish that you can find in the Moc Chau Countryside Market.
Resting Spots
Hotels in Moc Chau such as Trade Union Hotel, Huong Sen Guesthouse... offer rooms with 2 beds at 300,000 VND per night. Currently, there are over 20 guesthouses in both the countryside and town areas of Moc Chau.
During weekends, guesthouses are often crowded, so it's advisable to call and book in advance.
Gas Stations
There are numerous gas stations along National Highway 6 where you can refuel with confidence. Before crossing Thung Khe Pass, ensure your tank is full.
Within Moc Chau countryside, there's only one gas station located near Moc Chau Countryside Market.
Note
Total distance: 186 km from Hanoi, excluding detours within Moc Chau.
Travel time: 5 hours, including breaks and leisure time.
Duration of visit: 2 to 3 days.
Total cost: Approximately 2,000,000 – 3,000,000 VND per person for 3 days.
The weather in Moc Chau is colder than other places, so you should bring warm clothes, scarves, gloves, and face masks for warmth.
When riding a motorcycle, pay attention to speed and traffic. Avoid excessive speed and tailgating. Remember to carry all valid documents.
Helmet, goggles, face mask, lightweight jacket, raincoat, and neatly packed personal belongings are essential for long-distance motorcycle trips.
When taking photos in flower gardens, always ask for permission first and be careful around mustard flower patches.
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Source: Travel guide by Mytour – Via Vnexpress
MytourFebruary 16, 2014
