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Featured as the setting of the popular film 'Tết ở làng địa ngục,' Sảo Há Village in Hà Giang lies isolated, tucked away among remote and towering mountains.
The 'Hell Village' of Sảo Há
Sảo Há Village is a small H’Mong village nestled deep within vast, untouched forests. Located in Khó Chơ Hamlet, Vần Chải Commune, Đồng Văn District, it sits approximately 2000 meters above sea level. In the H’Mong language, Sảo Há means 'high valley,' a name that perfectly captures its remote and perilous nature, as well as the challenges visitors must overcome to reach it.
Unlike Lô Lô Chải, Sảo Há Village is not precisely marked on Google Maps. Travelers aiming to visit can search for 'Khó Chơ' instead. From Yên Minh District, you must traverse a nearly 17km-long pass on the Hạnh Phúc Road, winding through the mountains. At the base of Thẩm Mã Slope, follow directions to Vần Chải Commune and continue asking for guidance to the village.
The path to the village is a rugged trail with uneven rocks and steep slopes, accessible only by motorbike or on foot. Riders must grip the handlebars tightly, while their feet constantly balance on the rough terrain. Notably, Sảo Há Village lacks electricity, running water, and phone signal, so thorough preparation is essential for your journey.
The Beauty of Sảo Há Village
After descending the slope, you’ll pass a forest shrine to enter a woodland filled with the pleasant aroma of flax plants. This area is home to a group of Sảo Há households, with 22 houses surrounded by pristine forests. Along the trail are traditional earthen-walled homes, with thick compressed earth walls and yin-yang tiled roofs. All daily activities and livestock rearing take place within these stone walls, which stand about 1.5 meters high.
Around 1957–1958, a group of fierce bandits rebelled against the government. After their revolt failed, their leader, Vàng Vạn Ly, fled with his children to this mountain peak. Once he surrendered, Vàng Vạn Ly brought his relatives and descendants to settle here. This is likely why all the H’Mong villagers in Sảo Há share the surname Vàng.
Sảo Há Village is most beautiful in spring when peach blossoms bloom vibrantly, breathing life into the village. In summer and autumn, clouds drift lazily along the paths, while winter brings cold weather and lingering fog, creating a serene and contemplative atmosphere. Contrary to its eerie portrayal in films, the village is peaceful and tranquil. Recently, it has gained fame as a challenging yet rewarding destination for adventurous travelers.
According to Mytour.vn
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Reference: Travel Guide by Mytour.vn
Mytour.vnFebruary 23, 2024
