SƠN LA — Hot air balloons flew in the clear blue sky over Mộc Châu Plateau early this morning, marking the launch of the second International Hot Air Balloon Festival in the northern mountainous province of Sơn La.

Visitors can take a hot air balloon flight for prices ranging from VNĐ150,000 (US$6) to up to VNĐ6.5 million ($279).

“Visitors will have the chance to fly over scenic attractions of Mộc Châu Plateau,” Phạm Đức Chính, chairman of Mộc Châu District People’s Committee, told danviet newspaper.

Festival-goers also have the chance to enjoy performances by professional skydivers from Việt Nam, Korea, Japan and Thailand.

Chính said the event helps promote Mộc Châu to local and international tourists.

Hà Văn Vũ, a Mộc Châu resident, said: “Last year, I was too busy to take my family here to see the hot air balloons. Learning that the festival starts today, my family and I came here at 6am to go for a flight and had the chance to look down at Mộc Châu from above. The atmosphere of the festival is very exciting and I can see that flocks of people are coming.” 

The annual festival will close on Saturday. 

Mộc Châu Plateau, about 300km from Hà Nội, is the biggest of its kind in the country, with an average altitude of 1,050m. The area has a temperate and fresh climate all year round with many beautiful spots and historical relics along with the unique beauty of the local ethnic groups.

This has become a favourite spot for both local and international travellers. Surrounding the Lunar New Year, accommodations in Mộc Châu are reported to be fully booked. — VNS