With an altitude of 3,049m, Pu Ta Leng Peak is considered the third-highest peak in Indochina after Fansipan and Pu Si Lung. — Photo laichau.tourism.vn

By Thanh Nga

Exploration, adventure and trekking tourism has become increasingly familiar to Vietnamese people, particularly the young ones. Trekking not only offers a thrilling experience, but also challenges individuals to overcome their limits. Among the northern mountainous provinces in Việt Nam, Tam Đường District in Lai Châu Province is known for its breathtaking and dramatic mountain peaks. Here are some of the most beautiful, untamed, majestic and challenging peaks to explore in Tam Đường.

Mt Pu Ta Leng Peak

Situated in Hồ Thầu Commune, along the Hoàng Liên Sơn Mountain Range, Pu Ta Leng presents a formidable challenge for trekkers. With an altitude of 3,049m, it is considered the third-highest peak in Indochina after Fansipan and Pu Si Lung.

Renowned for its rugged and perilous terrain, Pu Ta Leng demands climbers have good physical health and endurance to handle its steep and treacherous slopes, as well as large streams.

The highlight of the Pu Ta Leng experience lies in traversing primeval forests adorned with lush vegetation, meandering streams, and ancient trees covered with moss.

In the current cold season, Pu Ta Leng's beauty becomes even more enchanting, exuding both grandeur and serenity, while simultaneously testing the resilience and bravery of trekking enthusiasts.

Standing atop Pu Ta Leng, visitors can witness a sea of white clouds floating in the sunny, breezy blue sky, as well as view other lofty mountain peaks such as Bạch Mộc Nương Tử, Ngũ Chỉ Sơn, and even Mt Fansipan when weather conditions are favourable. 

Tourists pose for photos at Tả Liên Sơn Peak. — Photo laichau.gov.vn

Tả Liên Sơn Peak

Mt Tả Liên Sơn is located in Tả Lèng Commune at an elevation of 2,996m, making it the sixth-highest peak in Việt Nam.

What sets Tả Liên Sơn apart is the unique charm of its ancient forests, thriving primeval flora and towering old-growth trees adorned with moss and ferns. Each season clothes the mountain with a distinct allure, whether it be the pristine white camellia blossoms, fiery red hues of maple leaves, or an array of vibrant green shades.

The path leading to the peak winds through a dense forest, creating a sanctuary of diverse plant life that transports visitors into a fairytale realm.

The best time to conquer this journey is from September to May when the weather is dry with less rain, making the route more manageable.

Chu Va Mountain's distinct shape features a soaring peak that seems to pierce the sky, often concealed within the swirling clouds. — Photo laichau.gov.vn

Mt Chu Va Peak

Chu Va Mountain, situated in Sơn Bình Commune, Tam Đường District, boasts an altitude of 2,752m. It is often shrouded in white clouds throughout the year, and the primeval forest surrounding it is teeming with rich vegetation.

Mt Chu Va's distinct shape features a soaring peak that seems to pierce the sky, often concealed within the swirling clouds. This peculiar characteristic has attracted numerous tourists who flock here to admire and capture stunning photographs of the mountain.

The mountain's allure is further enhanced by the ever-changing light throughout the day, imparting a touch of enchantment and captivating beauty. The mountain is at its most stunning when enveloped by clouds, with only its peak visible.

The period between October and March is known as the cloudy season, during which the skies are bluer, and the clouds are whiter compared to other times.

Ô Quy Hồ Pass connecting Sa Pa Town in Lào Cai Province with Tam Đường District in Lai Châu,. — Photo mia.vn

Ô Quy Hồ Pass

For those seeking a memorable experience of winding mountain roads, Ô Quy Hồ Pass, connecting the majestic Sa Pa Town in Lào Cai Province and Tam Đường District in Lai Châu, is another excellent choice.

At an altitude of 2,073m, the top of the pass is often adorned with a sea of clouds. Therefore, Ô Quy Hồ Pass serves as an ideal spot for cloud watching, offering pristine and captivating scenery that attracts travellers to capture breathtaking photos.

Apart from the serpentine roads, Ô Quy Hồ Pass fascinates visitors with the stark temperature difference between its two sides. During winter, fortunate visitors may witness the spectacle of snowflakes and frost. From the pass, people also have the opportunity to explore villages that showcase the cultural richness of ethnic minorities in Tam Đường, such as the Lự, Lào and Dao communities. VNS