Son La - Discovering Vietnam

Travelling to Son La

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Son La, a pretty good destination in Vietnam (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Son La and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Son La, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Vietnam, here's everything to know about Son La for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Son La

Son La is a province located in the northern mountainous region of Vietnam. It is known for its beautiful landscape with many mountains, forests, and waterfalls. The temperature here is cool all year round, so it is an ideal place to visit in the hot summer months.
The province is home to various ethnic minority communities, including the H'mong, Thai, and Dao. This makes Son La a great place to explore the rich cultural diversity of Vietnam.
Some popular tourist attractions in Son La include the Son La Prison, where many political prisoners were held during the French colonial period, the Moc Chau Plateau, with its picturesque green tea hills, and the Pu Ta Leng mountain, one of the highest peaks in Vietnam.
Overall, Son La is a great destination for those who love adventure, natural beauty, and cultural exploration.

What to visit in Son La

Sure, here are some of the popular tourist attractions in Son La, Vietnam along with some information: 1. Moc Chau Plateau: This is a popular destination in Son La that offers a beautiful landscape of green tea fields, fresh air and stunning views. It is also famous for its flowers in the spring season.
2. Son La Prison: This prison was built by the French in the early 20th century to imprison Vietnamese political prisoners. It is now a museum that showcases the history of Vietnam's struggle for independence.
3. Tham Tet Toong Cave: This is a limestone cave located in Moc Chau, Son La. The cave is believed to be over 500 million years old and features stunning stalagmites and stalactites.
4. Pu Ta Leng Peak: This is the highest peak in the Hoang Lien Son Mountain Range. It is a challenging trek, but the view from the top is worth the effort, featuring a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape.
5. Son La Hydro Power Plant: This is the largest hydroelectric power plant in Southeast Asia and offers visitors an opportunity to witness the technology and functioning of a hydro-power plant.
6. Bac Yen Market: This market is held every Saturday and is located in Bac Yen district, Son La. Visitors can witness the local cultural and ethnic populations and try local food.
7. Ban Flower Festival: This festival is held annually in March in Moc Chau Plateau and features cultural performances, ethnic costumes, and the blooming of the white Ban flowers.
These are some of the popular destinations in Son La, Vietnam.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Vietnam, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Son La.

When to go on holiday to Son La

The best time to visit Son La is between February and May, during the dry season when the weather is more pleasant. The temperatures are generally mild, and there is little rainfall, making it perfect for outdoor activities. However, if you want to experience the colorful culture of the region, the Thanh Son Sticky Rice Festival is held in late September or early October, and the Love Market Festival takes place in November, which is during the rainy season. Just keep in mind that the weather can be unpredictable during this time of year, and it can rain heavily for days.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Son La

There are several ways to get to Son La, Vietnam depending on your origin.
1. By Air: The nearest airport to Son La is the Dien Bien Phu Airport, which is located at a distance of around 100 km away and offers connecting flights from cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, and Hue. From Dien Bien Phu, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Son La.
2. By Bus: You can take a direct bus from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City to Son La. The journey takes around 7-8 hours from Hanoi and around 30 hours from Ho Chi Minh City. 3. By Private Car: You can also hire a private car or taxi from Hanoi or other nearby cities to reach Son La. The journey takes around 6-7 hours depending on the traffic.
I would recommend checking the bus and flight schedules beforehand and booking your tickets in advance to avoid any last-minute hassle. Also, when traveling by bus, it's advisable to book a seat in a reputable and comfortable bus service.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Son La, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Son La

Sure, here are a few typical foods of Son La, Vietnam, along with a short description for each of them: 1. Banh cui: Banh cui is a steamed sticky rice cake that's wrapped in banana leaves. It can be sweet or savory and may contain ingredients such as mung bean, pork belly, or shredded coconut.
2. Com lam: Com lam is a type of sticky rice that's cooked and served in a bamboo tube. It's a popular snack or meal on the go, and can be eaten plain or with a variety of toppings.
3. Can wine: Can wine is a type of rice wine that's brewed in ceramic jars. The wine is typically served in small cups and is often fragrant with the aroma of herbs and spices.
4. Thang co: Thang co is a type of hot pot that's made with horsemeat and a variety of herbs and spices. It's a popular dish in the mountainous regions of Son La.
5. Khau nhuc: Khau nhuc is a type of pork sausage that's grilled and typically served with fresh vegetables and herbs.
6. Ca lang nuong: Ca lang nuong is a type of grilled fish that's seasoned with a variety of herbs and spices. It's typically served with rice and fresh vegetables.
7. Muong pork: Muong pork is a type of pork that's typically smoked and seasoned with herbs and spices. It's a popular ingredient in many Son La dishes.
I hope this information is helpful! Let me know if you have any other questions.
You can find general info about typical foods in Vietnam here.

Is Son La an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other cities in Vietnam, Son La is not considered an expensive destination for tourists. However, prices can vary depending on the activities and accommodations you choose.
Accommodation prices can range from budget hostels to mid-range hotels. You can find budget accommodations for as low as $5-10 per night, while mid-range hotels can cost anywhere from $20-50 per night.
As for food and drink, street food is the most affordable option; you can find tasty dishes for as low as $1-2. If you prefer to dine in restaurants, the prices are still reasonable, with meals costing around $5-10 per dish.
Transportation is also affordable in Son La. Taxis and motorbike rentals are widely available and inexpensive, costing around $1-2 per kilometer.
Overall, Son La offers a great value for travelers on a budget.

Where to find accomodation in Son La

In Son La, the best areas to find accommodation would be the city center or near the Son La Prison Museum. This is because these areas are close to many of the city's main attractions and transportation hubs, making it easy for travelers to explore the region. Alternatively, there are also options to stay in more rural areas outside of the city if you are looking for a more unique and authentic experience. However, these options may have limited amenities and require more planning to access the sights and activities in the area.
You can check hotel prices at Son La here:
Booking.com

Is Son La a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Son La is considered a safe place for tourists. Like in every other destination, it's important to take normal precautions, like not leaving your valuables unattended and being aware of your surroundings when exploring the city. However, violent crime rates in Son La are generally low, making it a safe destination for tourists to visit.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Vietnam here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Son La.

What type of travelers will enjoy Son La the most?

Son La is a destination in Vietnam that can be enjoyed by different types of travelers. Here are some suggestions based on your preferences: - Couples: Son La is a romantic place with many scenic spots, and it's a great getaway for couples who enjoy nature and outdoor activities. You can go hiking in the mountains, explore the beautiful landscape of the rice terraces, and visit the ethnic minorities' villages.
- Young people: Son La is also suitable for young people looking for fun activities. You can hike, bike, and explore the area's natural beauty while enjoying the local cuisine.
- Families: For families, there are many opportunities for experiencing local culture and traditional life. The kids can learn about the ethnic group's different lifestyles, learn how to weave or dye fabrics, and participate in local festivals.
Overall, Son La is a great destination for those who enjoy outdoor activities, beautiful scenery, and local culture.

How to get around Son La

The most common ways to move around Son La in Vietnam are by motorbike and by taxi. Motorbikes are easy to rent and provide flexibility in terms of exploring the surrounding areas. Taxis are readily available and offer a comfortable mode of transportation for longer journeys. Buses and public transportation systems are also available but may be less convenient for tourists due to unfamiliarity with routes and schedules.

What to see around Son La

Certainly, here are some nice places to visit on a day trip from Son La, Vietnam: 1. Moc Chau Plateau: Known for its breathtaking natural scenery and tea plantations, this is a popular destination for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
2. Ban Gioc Waterfall: This majestic waterfall is located on the border between Vietnam and China, and is one of the largest waterfalls in Asia. It's definitely worth a visit.
3. Pa Phach Village: A small, traditional village that offers a glimpse into the daily life of the local ethnic communities. Visitors can try the local food and get a sense of the vibrant culture.
4. Ta Xua Mountain: This mountain is especially popular among hikers and trekking enthusiasts due to its challenging trails, stunning vistas, and the opportunity to observe the indigenous flora and fauna.
5. Xuan Nha Nature Reserve: This nature reserve is a haven for those seeking a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy bird watching, nature walks, and a chance to observe rare flora and fauna.
I hope these suggestions are helpful!
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