Vietnam's lesser-known Autumn destinations
Autumn not only reveals romantic charm in Hanoi, but it also boasts beauty in Southeast Asian countries, which have many lesser-known but fascinating destinations for travelers.
About 57% of Vietnamese travelers are looking forward to a nature trip this year, and 60% said that beautiful natural scenery is an important factor when deciding on a destination, according to Booking.com's Travel Trends 2024.
| In Autumn, tourists and photographers alike flock to Mu Cang Chai Commune in Yen Bai Province to contemplate and treat themselves to magnificent landscapes and watercolor snapshots. Photo: Garrya Mu Cang Chai Resort |
In light of this travel trend, the travel website recommends four destinations for travelers who want to experience autumn in Vietnam. The selection is based on search data, traveler feedback, and insights from the site's experts.
The destinations selected are quiet and less crowded, with cool climates and stunning natural landscapes that highlight the vibrant colors of autumn, offering a truly visually rewarding experience. As a result, major cities such as Hanoi, Danang, and Ho Chi Minh City are not included in this list.
Here are some of the exceptional travel spots recommended by the website for both domestic and international travelers looking for a vibrant and picturesque getaway in Vietnam's landscape.
Travelers can explore charming villages or hike through the countryside while taking in the stunning autumn scenery. Autumn is a great time to visit when the rice terraces are at their most vibrant.
According to photographer Tuan Viet, the rice harvest in the terraced fields of Mu Cang Chai takes place in late September and early October, with the entire region turning an overwhelming yellow.
"The romantic beauty of the mountainous district, located at the foot of the famous Hoang Lien Son mountain range, attracts many photographers and tourists alike," he said.
In fact, the wonderful golden terraced fields of Mu Cang Chai were recognized as a National Landscape of Vietnam in 2007.
Ha Giang
Unlike the famous Sapa Town in Lao Cai Province, which everyone has heard of, Ha Giang Province is a lesser-known and much less explored region, often described as the most beautiful place in the north of the country.
| The magnificent beauty of Ha Giang. Photo: Le Nguyen |
Visitors to Ha Giang are enveloped in a breathtaking atmosphere where rugged mountain ranges stretch endlessly and terraced rice fields glow like golden paintings at harvest time.
Traditional stilt houses of local ethnic communities dot the landscape, exuding tranquility as cooking smoke gently wafts over the dark green mountains in the late afternoon.
Travelers can embark on an exciting adventure through the rugged mountains and winding roads of Ha Giang Province. They can also explore ancient villages, admire the stunning karst formations, and experience the unique culture of the Hmong people.
September onwards is also the time for festivals closely associated with cultural identity, such as the Mong Khen Festival and the Buckwheat Flower Festival. Travelers can soak in the picturesque autumn colors while participating in fun activities and strengthening bonds.
Kon Tum
| The Rong House in Kon Tum City in the central highlands of Vietnam. Photo: Tran Giap |
This highland province in central Vietnam offers a diverse landscape of forests, mountains, and waterfalls. Explore the charming town of Kon Tum, visit the cathedral, and enjoy the local cuisine. Travelers can hike through Kon Chu Rong National Park or visit scenic Dak Doa Lake to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and stunning autumn foliage.
Travelers should also not miss the Nha dai (long house), also known as Nha rong - the communal living space used by the Bahnar, Rhade, and M'Nong ethnic minorities.
The house is a magnificent symbol of ethnic culture, with a towering thatched roof and intricate carvings that reflect the region's rich traditions.
Beyond their architectural splendor, Rong houses play an important role in the cultural and social fabric of the ethnic community. Traditionally, the houses serve as communal spaces where villagers gather to celebrate festivals, perform rituals, and discuss important matters. These events often include traditional music, dance, and storytelling, preserving and passing on cultural knowledge from one generation to the next.
Ninh Binh
| The eye-catching green rice fields in Tam Coc - Bich Dong, Ninh Binh Province. Photo: Luan Ha |
Ninh Binh, often referred to as "Inland Halong Bay" or the "Little Great Wall of Vietnam," has become one of the country's must-see destinations for visitors.
In 2023, the tourist attraction in northern Vietnam, not far from Hanoi, was selected by a U.S. magazine as one of the world's top 23 places to visit.
This natural wonder is a picturesque destination with stunning limestone karsts and tranquil rivers. Travelers can explore hidden trails and admire the vibrant colors of the landscape. They can also hike to the top of Mua Cave for a panoramic view of the Trang An region, where they will be rewarded with breathtaking views of rice fields and limestone formations.
Ninh Binh has been named one of Asia's most underrated destinations by Catarina Mello, an American luxury travel content creator and photographer.
“It is often referred to as one of the most beautiful hidden gems on the Asian continent. It’s gaining popularity on social media so that it won’t remain a hidden gem for too long. Go while it still offers a very authentic northern Vietnam experience,” she wrote.
In 2016, this poetic land was further promoted by the filming of "Kong: Skull Island" in Ninh Binh Province.
