Ta Xua Mountain

Location

Ta Xua Mountain, which serves as a natural boundary between Yen Bai and Son La provinces, ranks as the 10th highest mountain in Vietnam. The three notable peaks of Ta Xua are situated in Ban Cong, Tram Tau district, Yen Bai Province. Currently, Ta Xua Mountain, also known as Phu Sa Phin, is approximately 160km from the center of Yen Bai city and around 240km from Hanoi.

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Activities

Trekking

Reaching the summit of Ta Xua is a top choice for adventure enthusiasts. The most accessible peak, known as the Dinosaur Spine, rises to about 2400m above sea level, making it the easiest among the trio of peaks to conquer. From a distance, the shape of Ta Xua Mountain resembles a resting dinosaur, leading to the naming of its trail as Dinosaur’s Spine.

Photo : dulichvietnam.com.vn

The “spine” features a narrow, winding path that is steep on either side. At times, trekkers must use both hands and feet to navigate the rocky terrain. It's recommended to take necessary supplies, food, and water for at least two days, as the journey can be demanding.

Cloud Hunting

In addition to the trek, Ta Xua Mountain offers stunning opportunities for cloud watching. At the end of the Dinosaur Spine, trekkers are greeted by a breathtaking ocean of clouds. The prime time for cloud hunting is between 6 am and 10 am, although aiming to reach the summit by 5 am is suggested to witness the dazzling colors of sunrise. As the sun rises, clouds blanket the Mong ethnic paddies below, providing a magnificent view for those who brave the early morning challenge.

Photo : nemtv.vn

How to Get There

From Hanoi, travelers can opt to take a train or drive to Tram Tau, Yen Bai, which typically takes about 5 hours. Upon arrival, you’ll need to arrange transportation to Ta Xua village in Ban Cong, the starting point for trekking. The remaining journey involves following a steep dirt road leading to the Dinosaur peak of Ta Xua Mountain.

Alternatively, you can approach Ta Xua via the Son La route, allowing for a direct trip without vehicle changes, thus conserving your energy for the trek.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal period to visit Ta Xua is between late December and April. While the area is cool year-round, this timeframe offers appropriately chilly temperatures that allow clouds to form and stars to shine more vividly. With patience and a bit of luck, visitors may even catch a glimpse of the Milky Way, making it a prominent choice for star enthusiasts.

Photo : liontrip.vn

What to Expect

Located in a rural area of Yen Bai, facilities around Ta Xua can be quite basic. For accommodation, consider nearby homestays or camping under the stars, where hosts often prepare local dishes for those eager to experience the region's wild flavors. However, as the main goal of a visit to Ta Xua revolves around cloud hunting and tackling the Dinosaur’s Spine, the lack of amenities may not pose a significant issue.

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