Top 9 Most Beautiful Plateaus in Vietnam

1. Moc Chau Plateau

Moc Chau Plateau, located in Moc Chau district, Son La province, stands over 1,000 meters above sea level. Moc Chau is approximately 200 km from Hanoi, making it a favored destination for its refreshing and cool climate throughout the year. Whenever you visit Moc Chau, you can witness vast flower fields that are breathtaking. Each season unveils a different beauty, depending on the blooming cycle of various flowers. You might need to visit Moc Chau multiple times to fully explore the diverse natural landscapes of the Northwest mountains. Besides enjoying the natural beauty of the mountains and forests, visitors can savor the local specialties of the mountainous people, such as 'be chao' beef, stream fish, buffalo meat by the fireplace, 'khoai so man' (a type of sweet potato), 'cai meo' (wild vegetable),... a single taste that will be unforgettable.

The renowned Moc Chau dairy farms are famous for the Holstein Friesian cattle breed from the Netherlands, contributing to the development of 'experience tourism.' Tourists can hand-feed the cows, hand-milk them, drink fresh raw milk, and camp amidst the vast grasslands. If you love the fresh air and tranquility of nature, wandering on the soft, green grass plains dotted with wildflowers is an extraordinary experience. Scattered around are wild daisies, small white petals, and slightly further away are the hills faintly green, dreamy under the clouds. Travelers to Moc Chau, whether in summer or winter, sunny days turning the forest gold in spring or misty white mountains in winter, will be impressed by this plateau through historical sites like Son Moc Huong Cave, pine forests, Chien Vien Pagoda, Dai Yem Waterfall, Pheng Luong Peak, and the cultural villages of the Mong and Dao people in Van Ho with their deeply rooted traditional songs and dances.

2. Bac Ha Plateau

Bac Ha Plateau is famous as the “white plateau” because white clouds cover the high mountains in all four seasons. During spring, plum, apricot, and pear blossoms paint the entire plateau white, blending with the white mist draped over the slopes, earning Bac Ha the title of the 'white plateau.' Situated between the provinces of Lao Cai and Ha Giang, covering the districts of Bac Ha, Si Ma Cai, Xin Man, and Hoang Su Phi, Bac Ha Plateau has an average elevation of 1000m, with its highest peak being Mount Kieu Lieu Ti. The plateau features numerous limestone mountains. Visitors here have the opportunity to enjoy the famous Bac Ha plums cultivated by the mountainous locals. Additionally, the market with various products from the mountainous people is an interesting point that tourists cannot miss when coming here.

White Bac Ha Plateau not only attracts tourists with its stunning landscapes but also captivates them with the unique and distinct culture of highland markets such as Coc Ly Market, Bac Ha Market, and the villages of Dao and Mong ethnic groups. The region is renowned for its distinctive culinary delights like com (young sticky rice), xoi 7 mau (multicolored sticky rice), banh day (round glutinous rice cake), lon cap nach (carried-under-the-armpit pig), lap suon (rib sausage), pho chua (sour noodle soup), thang co (horse meat hotpot), men men (steamed corn cake)… The locals here also preserve and uphold their traditional sports, including horse racing, bird throwing, and tug of war. Bac Ha hosts many major festivals that have wide influence and attract a large number of people within the region and tourists, such as the Going-to-the-Field Festival, Bac Ha Temple Festival, Say San Festival, Fire Jumping Ritual, Cap Sac Ceremony, and more. Alongside these, there are cultural and sports activities deeply rooted in the local ethnic cultures, such as traditional horse racing, khèn dance, and xinh tien dance. These festivals are mainly organized at the village or commune level, embodying the rich cultural values of the ethnic groups, featuring traditional ceremonies, restored folk games, and a combination of cultural, sports, and recreational activities such as football, volleyball, and community arts performances.

Situated 132km from Ha Giang town, Dong Van Stone Plateau spans four districts: Quan Ba, Yen Minh, Dong Van, and Meo Vac. Recognized as a UNESCO Global Geopark, Dong Van is at an average elevation of 1000 - 1600m above sea level, making it one of the beautiful plateaus in Vietnam, consisting of 80% limestone with countless fossils dating from 400 to 600 million years ago, valuable for archaeological research. Visitors to Dong Van not only marvel at the natural beauty but also have the opportunity to explore and learn about nationally recognized landmarks such as Lung Cu flagpole, Dong Van Ancient Quarter, and the highland markets. The cuisine on the Dong Van Plateau is diverse, offering enticing dishes like rolled rice pancake wraps, thang den (a type of fungus), men men (steamed corn cake), and sour soup nests...

The standing stones form sturdy, winding fences, embracing small houses and plots of corn and vegetables. These raw, rough stones, full of edges and corners, are selected and arranged skillfully by the skilled hands of the local men without the need for cement or any other binding material, creating unique, robust, and distinctive stone fences. Therefore, it is said that the stone fences of the Mong people reflect the care of the man of the house for his family. The more beautiful and taller the stone fence, the more it demonstrates the excellent pillar of that household. The pristine, majestic beauty of the 'grey paradise' Dong Van Stone Plateau promises to bring you an unforgettable journey to explore this wonderful land, the headland of the country with unique experiences.

Lam Vien Plateau, also known as Lang Biang Plateau or Da Lat Plateau, derives its name, perhaps, from its unique rocky composition. Especially, when you travel to Lang Biang Plateau in Da Lat, you will marvel at hills covered in flowers competing for beauty amidst the ethereal mist. Situated at an altitude of 1500m above sea level, it stands as one of the top tourist destinations in the Central Highlands due to its picturesque landscapes and cool climate. The enchanting year-round cool weather characteristic of the city of love, Da Lat, enhances the allure of Lang Biang Plateau. The sun, the wind, and the gentle mist gracefully blanket the land, making it even more beautiful, charming, and enticing for tourists.

On the plateau, you'll find several lakes such as Xuan Huong Lake, Me Linh Lake, Lake Sigh,... These lakes, along with rows of pine, cypress, and fir trees, create a unique beauty for the plateau's scenery. Linked to Lam Vien Plateau in Lam Dong is Lien Khuong Plateau and the Dran - Phi Nom valley at a lower altitude. Despite the rocky base, the surface of the terrain here takes on a plateau - basin form, characteristic of Lam Vien Plateau. Lam Vien Plateau boasts a cool, pleasant climate throughout the year but experiences a rainy season from May to October. During the rainy season, mist often blankets both the valley and the plateau, creating a beautiful and mysterious thin veil.

Pleiku Plateau, also known as the mountain town Pleiku, is located in the Central Highlands, Gia Lai province, with an average elevation of 800m above sea level. The highest point is Kon Ka King mountain at 1,761m, and An Khe Pass to the east serves as the gateway to the plateau from Binh Dinh province. In the center of the plateau lies the large lake known as Sea Lake (T'Nung Lake). To the north is Kon Tum plateau bordered by the Dak Po ne river, to the east is Binh Dinh province, and about 50 km to the south lies Dak Lak plateau. The western terrain gradually descends towards the border with Cambodia. This is a familiar tourist destination for many travelers due to its cool and fresh climate. Pleiku offers various interesting attractions such as Phu Cuong Waterfall, Tơ Nưng Lake, Ham Rong mountain peak, Nine-Level Waterfall, with incredibly majestic natural landscapes. The best time to visit Pleiku is at the end of November when wild sunflowers bloom, covering the roads with golden hues.

Pleiku cuisine is diverse with many enticing dishes: Grilled giant beef ribs, grilled chicken, tube-grilled rice or pigeon fried rice. Particularly, do not forget to savor a rich cup of coffee with the flavors of the Central Highlands when in Pleiku. The distinctive, special, and culturally rich cuisine is the main attraction when exploring the red soil land of Bazan color. You can also try the dish Pho Hai To or Dry Pho, served in two bowls, one bowl contains broth made from chicken or beef, and the other bowl contains the pho noodles, both soft and dry, with crispy onions. Another dish not to be missed is the grilled chicken bamboo rice with carefully marinated and grilled on the fire of the Central Highlands ethnic people. This dish is served with grilled bamboo tube rice, which, when separated, exudes the aroma of bamboo blending perfectly.

Sín Chải Plateau, nestled in Tủa Chùa district, Dien Bien, boasts an average elevation of 1,500m above sea level. Exploring this picturesque plateau, visitors have the chance to discover the majestic natural scenery and unique cultural aspects of the H'Mong ethnic group living here. Particularly, from Sín Chải, tourists can also visit the town of Sapa - the tourist paradise in the Northwest region. Sín Chải is about 4 km from Sapa, home to 1,400 H'Mong people with a strong ethnic identity. From Sín Chải, on clear days, one can admire the distant beauty of Fansipan peak. This small plateau covers an area of about 1,500 km², with a width of approximately 25 km and a length of about 60 km, an average elevation of 1,500m, and the highest point is 1,596m at Ta Pang Dinh summit.

Sín Chải Plateau sits at an elevation of 1,000m above sea level, stretching 30km along the Da River from Tuần Giáo to the confluence of the Da and Nậm Na rivers near Mường Lay town, with a width of about 10km. The slopes of the plateau near the Da River almost stand upright. In the early morning, when the mist dissolves the strands of smoke from the hearth, covering everything in a moving white color, the entire valley suddenly transforms into an inverted sky. The lipstick colors, the patterns on the 'needle board' of the male rooster look like red and blue stars, hidden amidst the flowing clouds and floating sky on the 'sky field' of Mường Báng. In the dim light of the Mông houses, built low for generations due to the wind from the mountains, all designs and arrangements serve self-awareness, convenience, and minimalist thrift. Even in the difficult-to-see darkness, guests still appear as dignitaries, in front of the modest and humble people. A meal of Men Men, made with H'Mong vegetables, black-bone chicken, and a sip of H'Mong wine, is enough to make us become brothers and sisters of all ages - Simple, rustic people of this plateau.

When mentioning Lam Dong tourism, people often think of the Lam Vien Plateau and forget that there is another equally beautiful land - Di Linh Plateau. It can be said that Di Linh Plateau and Lam Vien Plateau are like two siblings. This land was discovered by Dr. A. Yersin first, and two years later, he found Lam Vien Plateau. While Lam Vien was fortunate to be chosen by the French to build a high-class resort for officials and officers working in former Indochina, Di Linh still hides quietly in the Truong Son mountains with its pristine and charming beauty. Di Linh Plateau is located in Bao Loc city, Duc Trong district, and Don Duong district, Lam Dong province. At an elevation of 1000m above sea level, Di Linh Plateau has a cool climate, with undulating hills and winding roads. The rich red basaltic soil also provides favorable conditions for the development of coffee, tea, and terraced fields.

During the wild sunflower season, the pass through Phu Hiep is one of the must-visit photography spots for many young people. Although there are not many famous tourist attractions, Di Linh Plateau is the perfect place for you to enjoy the quiet and peaceful atmosphere. The winding mountain pass is a characteristic feature of Di Linh Plateau. From the center of Di Linh district, follow National Highway 28 eastward, and you will be able to wander on winding mountain passes, with mountains and forests on both sides, creating an incredibly beautiful natural scenery. Passing through the moist forest areas, expanding your gaze far away, you will feel comfortable immersing yourself in the vast and wide nature. Especially, the winding roads are a super beautiful check-in point for young people every wild sunflower season. Amidst the hills covered in only one shade of green, the yellow of wild sunflowers appears vibrant, creating a beautiful picture of the plateau landscape.

Vân Hòa Plateau is located approximately 40km north of Tuy Hoa city, accessible by heading north on National Highway 1A from Tuy Hoa city. The best time to visit Vân Hòa Plateau is during the Tet holiday, as wildflowers along the road compete in showcasing vibrant colors, turning the path into a picturesque and romantic scene. This region, with its rich red basalt soil, boasts lush greenery, diverse flora including fruit trees like avocado, banana, and industrial crops such as coffee and pepper. Notable mentions include the crispy and sweet Doan Market jackfruit and the fragrant, juicy strawberry. Moreover, the landscape features numerous lakes and beautiful waterfalls, offering a refreshing and pleasant atmosphere. Vân Hòa Plateau is an ideal weekend getaway comparable to the rural landscapes of France or the Scottish Highlands.

Vân Hòa Plateau is renowned not only for its scenic beauty but also as a historical site. Landmarks like Uncle Ho's church and the Spring Festival hall were officially recognized as national historical sites by the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism in 2008. Visitors exploring these landmarks can gain a deeper understanding of the magnificent Eastern part of the Truong Son mountain range. While the resort facilities may not be fully satisfying, those seeking relaxation, fresh air, and the serene beauty of mountains should not miss this destination, allowing themselves to discover the tranquil and untouched beauty.

Đắk Lắk Plateau, also known as Buon Ma Thuot Plateau, is situated in Dak Lak province at an elevation of 800m above sea level. The plateau features a relatively flat terrain with an average slope of 3-80. The majority of this plateau is covered with fertile red basalt soil, making it ideal for the long-term cultivation of industrial crops such as coffee and rubber. Consequently, much of the area has been exploited for agricultural purposes. Buon Ma Thuot City, the provincial capital of Dak Lak, is located on this plateau and serves as the cultural, political, and social center of the entire Central Highlands region.

After the establishment of Dak Lak province, the French authorities moved the administrative center from Ban Don to this location, establishing a consulate to govern the entire region. In the years following 1930, the Kinh people migrated here, leading to the formation and development of Buon Ma Thuot City and Dak Lak province as we know them today. This plateau stands out as one of Vietnam's tourism-rich highlands, particularly renowned for Ban Don with its tradition of forest elephant hunting and Buon Ma Thuot - the Vietnamese coffee capital. Đắk Lắk Plateau is home to ethnic groups such as the E De and M'Nong, with a remarkable gong culture and various historical sites worth visiting, including the bishop's palace and Bao Dai mansion. Travelers can also indulge in delicious local dishes such as bamboo-cooked rice, grilled chicken, deer meat, catfish hotpot, bamboo shoots, and bitter eggplant.