HÀ NỘI — A new stamp collection featuring the landscapes of the northern province of Lào Cai has been launched to mark National Tourism Year 2017, themed Lào Cai – North Western Region.

The collection includes two stamps for domestic and international mail. The images on the stamps were taken by photographers Ngọc Bằng and Gia Chiến, who are based in the province.

The design for domestic use is a photo of terraced rice fields on high mountains with yellow crops, while the design for international use features a spectacular sunset over the 3,143m-high Fansipan peak, which is covered with a blanket of clouds.

“The stamps feature clearly and vividly the mountain peak, which is dubbed ‘Indochina’s roof’ and the peaceful and rich life of local ethnic groups,” said Nguyễn Hữu Thể, deputy chairman of Lào Cai People’s Committee.

“Small stamps carry important messages, reflecting the local economy, culture and society of the country,” he said.

Both stamps were decorated with the traditional weaving patterns of local ethnic groups.

The domestic and international stamps are priced at VNĐ3,000 and VNĐ10,500, respectively, and are available at book shops and post offices nationwide.

The province will host various activities throughout this year together with neighbouring northwestern provinces including the spring festival and summer festival in Sa Pa District, the Bắc Hà Traditional Horse Race in June, Việt Nam Mountain Marathon 2017 in Sa Pa in September, Terrace Rice Field Festival in Bát Xát District and Ô Quý Hồ Cup Bike Race in October as well as Winter Festival in Sa Pa in December.

This year, Lào Cai Province expects to receive four million tourists. — VNS