If the Northwest resembles a majestic symphony, Moc Chau serves as its gentle and sweet prelude. Located about 200 km from Hanoi, Moc Chau appears like a charming landscape painting, where nature and people blend to create a land that makes anyone who sets foot here reluctant to leave. Read this Moc Chau travel guide to discover fascinating things about this beautiful place.
An Overview of Moc Chau
Moc Chau is a district located in the Southeast of Son La province, in the Northwest mountainous region of Vietnam. Moc Chau has an average altitude of about 1050 meters and a mild and cool climate throughout the year, which is completely different from the heat of the plains.
The lush green tea hills in Moc Chau, Son La, Vietnam
Moc Chau is blessed by nature with a harmonious beauty of mountains, valleys, and vast plateaus. This place is famous for the Moc Chau plateau, one of the largest and most beautiful plateaus in Northern Vietnam, stretching over an area of about 80,000 hectares. The terrain is mainly limestone mountains interspersed with hills, wide valleys, and many small streams winding through the hillsides.
Without noise and bustling, Moc Chau is like a gentle and profound love song, where mountains, forests, and people coexist in absolute harmony. Coming here, visitors can not only admire the natural beauty but also immerse themselves in the fresh air and enjoy the rare peace, a precious gift that Moc Chau has preserved through each blooming season.
When is the best time to visit Moc Chau?
Moc Chau, with an average altitude of about 1050 meters, has a special close-up climate of the Northwest highlands. Throughout the year, Moc Chau experienced a pleasant and cool climate, in contrast with the scorching heat of the plain or the bitter cold of the high mountains. With this ideal weather condition, Moc Chau became a “weather heaven,” drawing thousands of visitors through four seasons.
Spring (from January to March): We realize spring comes to Moc Chau when plum and cherry blossoms bloom, covering the hillsides and valleys in white and pink. The temperature fluctuates between 15°C and 22°C (59 – 71℉), with cool mornings and nights but warm days. The fresh air and brilliant flowers create a peaceful and romantic scene, captivating the heart of anyone who visits. This is the most beautiful time for those who want to admire white plum and participate in the traditional festivals of the Mong and Thai people.
Cherry blossom blooms in Moc Chau in spring
Summer (April to June): While plains experience the excessive heat, Moc Chau remains cool, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 26°C (68 to 78°F). In summer, the lush green tea fully covers the hillsides, creating a fresh atmosphere. This is also the season of ripe red plums, a specialty that visitors cannot miss. Please note that May and June are the peak plum season; you can experience plum picking in the plum gardens full of fruit in On Village, Thung Cuong Village, or Tan Lap commune.
Moc Chau ripe red plum in summer
Autumn (July to September): Moc Chau in autumn is the harmonious blend of cool weather and vibrant yellow canola flowers, corn, and terraced fields starting to turn ripe. The average temperatures range from 18°C to 25°C (64 to 77°F), and sudden downpours cool down the air. This is the perfect time for trekking to the pine forest in Ang village, Dai Yem waterfall, or camping amidst the highlands.
Red ripe persimmons in Moc Chau in autumn
Winter (October to December): Moc Chau in winter boasts a quiet but still charming atmosphere to some extent. The temperatures plummet to about 10°C–18°C (50–64℉); sometimes there are cold days, and fog covers the path, creating a magical and romantic space. Particularly, from November to December, Moc Chau enters the season of white mustard flowers blooming, turning this land into a “sea of floating flowers.”. This is the ideal time for those who love the misty space and want to check in among the picturesque white mustard flower fields.
Sea of floating flower in Moc Chau in winter
Regardless of the seasons, Moc Chau offers a poetic beauty that captivates every visitor. This is an ideal “summer escape” destination but equally a “flower hunting” spot, where the fresh air heals your soul and blows your steam off.
Where to Go in Moc Chau?
Moc Chau is not only famous for its lush green tea hills and vibrant flower seasons but also has various stunning destinations, where natural and local cultures blend harmoniously, promising an exciting adventure. Below are some unmissable destinations during your Moc Chau exploration.
The Heart-shaped Tea Hill: Green symbol of Moc Chau
Located in the Moc Chau tea farm, the heart-shaped tea hill is the “legend” check-in spot in Moc Chau. The tea rows are curved into a beautiful heart shape in the middle of a lush green space, creating a peaceful and romantic scene. Especially in the early morning, when the fog is still thick, the hill tea appears like a captivating ink painting.
The Heart-shaped Tea Hill in Moc Chau
Suggestion: We recommend visiting the tea hill at dusk and dawn, when the gentle sunlight shines down, highlighting the fresh green color.
The Dai Yem Waterfall: The “White Silk” in the middle of nature
The Dai Yem Waterfall, also called Nang Waterfall, is located only 5 km from the Moc Chau town center. With a height of about 100 m, this waterfall flows in many layers, creating white foam like a soft silk strip floating in the middle of the mountains and forests.
The Dai Yem Waterfall
In the rainy season (May to September), the waterfall flows strongly, creating a majestic scene, while in the dry season, the water is calm and clear. It is interesting to note that near the waterfall, there is a love glass bridge, the first 5D glass bridge in Vietnam. You can see the whole view of the mountains and forests from above.
Ban Ang Pine Forest: A small Da Lat in the northwest
Ban Ang Pine forest brings a lush green and fresh atmosphere, expanding beside a large quiet lake. With the year-round pleasant weather and poetic scene, this place is considered Da Lat in the northwest. In addition to walking around the pine forest or pedaling on the lake, visitors can also visit the nearby strawberry garden to pick ripe strawberries on their own.
Ban Ang Pine Forest
It is highly recommended to camp overnight under the pine forest or rent a bicycle to ride around the lake to enjoy the peaceful space.
>>> If you are in love with the rustic beauty of northern Vietnam, please visit this Vietnam Northeast 6 Days from Ha Giang to Lang Son to explore other stunning destinations in the middle of mountains and forests.
Na Kha Plum Valley: Spring covers
Na Kha is the largest plum valley in Moc Chau and a heaven for those fancy Northwest springs. In the period from January to February, this spot is completely covered by the white plum blossoms, creating a pure and romantic scene. When the flowering season is over, from May to June, clusters of ripe plums hang heavy on the branches waiting for visitors to harvest.
Na Kha Plum Valley, a hidden paradise for travelers
Visitors can join the plum-picking experience with the locals and enjoy them right in the garden to feel the cool sweetness.
Pha Luong Peak: The roof of Moc Chau
With an altitude of more than 2000 meters, Pha Luong Peak is the perfect destination for those passionate about trekking and conquering challenges. From the peak, you can admire the panoramic view of the forests and mountains. Especially on clear days, the sea of clouds creates a magical “cloud hunting” scene.
Pha Luong Peak, the roof of Moc Chau
The journey to climb Pha Luong takes about 3-4 hours and is quite strenuous, but the reward is the beautiful scenery from the height.
Pa Phach Village: The heaven of white mustard flower
Pa Phach Village is one of the most beautiful destinations in winter when white mustard flowers bloom, covering the whole sky in white. The road leading to Pa Phach village winds through flower fields, interspersed with mountain and forest scenery, creating a peaceful and poetic space.
Pa Phach Village: The heaven of white mustard flower
In addition, this is also home to the Mong ethnic group, where you can learn about local culture and customs. You should come here in the early morning, when the mist still hangs on the flower petals, to have the most sparkling photos.
Doi Cave: A natural masterpiece underground
Located about 2 km from the center of Moc Chau town, Doi Cave (Bat Cave) is a limestone cave with a unique and diverse stone karst system. Inside the cave, you can admire the mysterious and attractive beauty of the stalactites, which are formed by the light shining through the cave.
Doi Cave (Bat Cave), Moc Chau
It is interesting to note that Doi Cave is associated with many interesting folk stories passed down from generation to generation by indigenous people. If you go on a tour, ask your tour guide for fascinating information!
Moc Chau Dairy Farm: The Flavor of Highland
The dairy farm is an interesting location in Moc Chau, where visitors can participate in the milk-yielding process, have fun with lovely cows, and enjoy milk products such as yogurt, ice cream, or milk cakes. You should buy milk and milk products as a gift for your friends and family!
Moc Chau Dairy Farm
How to get to Moc Chau?
A journey from Hanoi to Moc Chau feels like an adventure to the lush green atmosphere of the northwest. The distance of about 200 km is not too far but enough for you to realize the shift from a bustling city to a tranquil and peaceful mountainous area. To get to Moc Chau from Hanoi, you can opt for several means of transportation; each brings a different experience.
Bus Passenger
Bus passenger is the most popular way to get to Moc Chau from Hanoi since travelers don’t have to worry about the route or driving. You just need to come to the bus station, hop on the bus, and after a few hours, you will find yourself in Moc Chau.
From Hanoi to Moc Chau, come to large bus stations such as My Dinh, Yen Nghia, or Giap Bat. There are continuous routes from morning to night, so you can take a bus at any time. You can opt for the seats, sleepers, or luxury limousine with the cost ranging from $6 to $9 one way. The journey lasts from 4 to 5 hours.
When the bus stops in Moc Chau Town or at the Moc Chau intersection, travelers can rent a motorbike or taxi to continue the journey. If you come to Moc Chau in the peak season, where plum blossoms are, please book a reservation ahead to avoid running out of seats.
Private Car
If you go with a group of friends or family or simply just enjoy the private and comfortable, renting a car is a wonderful option. With a private car, you might have time flexibility as you can stop anywhere you wish to admire and check in at the spectacular natural landscapes.
The road from Hanoi to Moc Chau is quite beautiful, especially the section through Thung Khe Pass, where limestone karsts create a scene that looks like it is covered in snow all year round. This is the perfect stopover to rest, enjoy grilled corn, and take a fresh breath.
The rent cost ranges from $78 to $117/day, depending on the kind of car and itinerary. If you travel in a large group, you can rent 7 or 16-seat car. However, remember that the road from Hoa Binh to Moc Chau has many curves and passes, so you should choose a driver with experience driving on mountain roads to ensure safety.
Motorbike
For those who are passionate about backpacking and love freedom, a motorbike trip is truly a memorable experience. The feeling of flipping through winding passes, fully breathing the scent of wind, or simply stopping anywhere you wish in the middle of flower alleys or lush green tea hills is only had by motorbike.
Backpacking to Moc Chau by motorbike
From Hanoi, you can go along Highway 6, pass through Hoa Binh, and continue heading to Moc Chau. The total road is about 200 km, taking about 5-6 hours depending on the speed. The section of Thung Kha Pass is the most interesting but requires a steady hand because of the sharp turns and fog that sometimes cover the road in the early morning. Before setting off, check your vehicle carefully, especially the brakes and tires. Don’t forget to bring a raincoat, gloves, and protective gear because of the quick change of weather. And of course, a camera or GoPro will help you capture all the beautiful moments on this route.
VIP Limousine
If you are looking for quick and convenient travel, then a VIP limousine will surely meet your demand. With 9 9-seat upgrades from 16-seat cars with spacious reclining seats, cool air conditioners, and free wifi, this kind of transportation offers comfort even on a long journey.
The big benefit of limousines is that they pick up and drop off visitors right in their order place in Hanoi and the Moc Chau town center. The cost of a VIP limousine is generally higher than a passenger bus, from $9.8 to $11.76.
What to eat in Moc Chau?
Not only alluring visitors with the spectacular white plum, but Moc Chau also “holds” visitors back with its unique and diverse cuisine. Each dish here is not only delicious but also carries the breath of the highland, from rustic ingredients to sophisticated cooking methods. If you have the opportunity to visit Moc Chau, don’t forget to enjoy the famous specialties below!
Chao Veal: Rich taste amidst the smoke from the kitchen
Speaking of Moc Chau without mentioning chao veal is indeed a big mistake! Fresh, young veal pieces are thinly sliced, marinated with rich spices, and then dropped into a pan of sizzling oil. The outer layer is golden brown, but the inside is still soft, sweet, and juicy. When eating, dip it lightly in a bowl of salt, lemon, and chili or a special dipping sauce; the sweetness of the meat blends with a bit of sour, spicy, and salty, making you want to eat forever.
Chao Veal Moc Chau
You can come to these locations to enjoy this specialty: Xuan Bac Restaurant (181—National Highway 6, Moc Chau Town) and 70 Fried Be Restaurant (Sub-area 70, Moc Chau).
Salmon/Sturgeon Hotpot: Warmth in the cold highlands
With the cool climate throughout the year, Moc Chau is the ideal land to nurture salmon and sturgeon, the two typical cold region fishes. Salmon and sturgeon hotpot is famous for its fresh and sweet fish meat, blended perfectly in the sour and spicy hotpot broth, served with wild vegetables and small vermicelli noodles. Imagine in the chilly afternoon, gathering with your friends or family around a steaming hot pot, sipping each piece of soft, fatty fish; there is nothing better!
Moc Chau Salmon Hotpot
You can savor this dish in some famous fish hotpot restaurants, such as Vuon Dao Salmon Restaurant (Vuon Dao Sub-area) and Moc Chau Town Salmon 64 (National Highway 6, Moc Chau).
Smoked Buffalo Meat: A gift from the mountains and forests
Strong and attractive, smoked buffalo meat is a dish that bears the mark of Northwest cuisine. Fresh buffalo meat is marinated with typical spices such as mac khen, and doi seeds, hung in the kitchen, and slowly dried by smoke for many days. When eating, just tear it into pieces, dip it with a little cham cheo, and you have a “top of the top” snack. The slightly chewy buffalo meat, natural sweetness, and faint smoky aroma make anyone who tries it once remember it forever.
Smoked Buffalo Meat
Small tip: This is an ideal gift to bring back to friends and relatives. Choose pieces of meat that are naturally dark brown and not too dry to keep the delicious taste.
Mong People’s Sticky Rice Cake: The sweet and sticky taste of the Northwest
Unlike the sticky rice cakes in the lowlands, the sticky rice cakes of the Mong people are pounded from fragrant sticky rice and have no filling. The white, smooth, chewy cake is often eaten with a piece of pickled pork or simply grilled over charcoal and dipped in wild honey. The sweet and sticky taste mixed with a bit of fatty flavor makes the dish seem simple but easy to “addictive.”
Mong People pounding traditional sticky rice cakes
If you come to the Mong people’s village during Tet, you will have the opportunity to see the locals pounding traditional sticky rice cakes and enjoy the cakes right there.
Shan Tuyet Tea: The pure flavor from the forests
Shan Tuyet tea, a renowned ancient tea from the highlands, is a must-try beverage when visiting Moc Chau. The tea leaves are picked from ancient tea trees hundreds of years old, with large leaves covered with a layer of white powder like snow. The tea water is yellowish-green, slightly bitter, but has a deep sweet aftertaste, carrying the rich flavor of the mountains and forests. On a chilly afternoon in Moc Chau, sitting next to a pot of Shan Tuyet tea and inhaling the gentle aroma, there is nothing more peaceful.
Shan Tuyet Tea
>>> Ha Giang is also a hidden pearl amidst forests and mountains in the northern of Vietnam. Visit our Incredible Panorama of Ha Giang 4 Days 3 Nights to plan your adventure here.
Where to stay in Moc Chau?
Coming to Moc Chau, the lush green highlands covered with vibrant flowers, you will definitely seek a spot where you can stay and immerse yourself in the nature of the mountains and forests. From stunning homestays and indigenous stilt houses to luxury resorts, Moc Chau has enough options for every travel style. Here are a few suggestions to make your trip more perfect.
The November Moc Chau: A Small Corner of Northern Europe (Homestay)
If you love the rustic and want to immerse yourself in the nature of Moc Chau, then come to the November Moc Chau; your wish will be satisfied. Stepping into The November, you will feel like you are lost in a miniature Northern European village in the heart of the Northwest. The small wooden bungalows, triangular roofs, and wide open windows face the lush green valley.
The November Moc Chau
In the evening, under the warm yellow light, the whole space becomes romantic and strangely peaceful. This is an extremely “photogenic” place for virtual life enthusiasts, but at the same time, it also brings a cozy feeling to those who like to enjoy the quiet.
Reference price: $23-$47/night.
Moc Chau Retreat: A place to find piece (Resort)
If you want to stay in a more convenient space with a pool, spa, and high-end services, then resorts and hotels will be an excellent choice. One of the top recommended options is Moc Chau Retreat, which is located in a tea mountain and tree-lined forest. The rooftop bungalow is isolated from nature, feeling like a perfect “shelter” away from urban noise There is no TV in the room, which is a true way of “slow living” that can free up time for oneself and loved ones.
Moc Chau Retreat
Reference price: $38-$78/night.
Ban Ang Homestay
If you want a real highland experience, try staying in a traditional stilt house with the Thai or Mong people. This is a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the local lifestyle, eat sticky rice, drink wine, and participate in rustic activities.
Ban Ang Homestay is located right next to Ban Ang Pine Forest. There are spacious, airy stilt houses with large communal living spaces, suitable for large groups. In the evening, sitting around the fire, listening to the elderly tell village stories, and enjoying local specialties is an unforgettable experience.
Reference price: $3.92-$9.80.
Ban Ang Homestay
Moc Chau boasts a rich variety of natural and cultural sites for travelers who love the rustic and tranquil beauty of the northwest region. When visitors arrive in Moc Chau, they have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the lush green tea hills, capture stunning photos among the white plum blossoms, and indulge in the unique cuisine of the northwest. Just come to Moc Chau; your soul will be healed, and your mind will be packed with beautiful memories. Hopefully, this Moc Chau travel guide will help you plan your fantastic holiday here. If you need any further information, please contact us and let us be your companion in this adventure to the splendid region in the North of Vietnam.
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Thank you for this super helpful guide! I’ve always wanted to explore Moc Chau, and now I feel much more confident planning my trip. The tea hills and Dai Yem Waterfall look absolutely stunning in the photos. I’m especially excited to try the local dishes like grilled veal and fresh salmon. Also didn’t expect to find such a peaceful pine forest like Ban Ang, it really does remind me of Da Lat. Great blog!
Thank you for your kind words! Moc Chau really is a hidden gem. Hope your trip turns out amazing. If you need any support, do not hesitate to contact us; our gurus are willing to help at any time!
Best regards,
IDC Travel Team.