Craving for a respite from the monotony of daily grind? Take a break, go on a holiday that can revamp you! And if connecting with the wilderness amidst majestic peaks and verdant valleys is on your mind, then Hoang Lien National Park Vietnam is your haven. Prepare to be enchanted by a variety of flora and fauna, connect with the locals at the traditional villages of the Hoang Lien National Park, and explore the mountain system of Vietnam. A seasoned trekker or nature enthusiast, embark on a journey to this sanctuary, and you will yearn for more!
Hoang Lien National Park Vietnam
Image Credit: Khương Việt Hưng for Wikimedia Commons
Established in 2002, Hoang Lien National Park is one of the important national parks in Vietnam. Nestled amidst the majestic Hoang Lien Son Mountain range in Northern Vietnam, Hoang Lien National Park comprises 68,569 hectares, with most terrains from 1000 m to 3000 m above sea level. Hoang Lien National Park in Vietnam is a hub of biodiversity with diverse flora and fauna and is recognised as a part of ASEAN Heritage Parks. The park offers a trekking trail network that winds through its pristine wilderness. Whether you’re a professional trekker or a beginner hiker, there are trails of varying difficulty levels to suit every preference.
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Flora And Fauna Of Hoang Lien National Park Vietnam
Image Credit: Khương Việt Hưng for Wikimedia Commons
Hoang Lien National Park has more than 2000 species of plants. There are typical kinds of wood of which 66 species are mentioned in the Vietnam Red Book like red pine, bamboo pine, blue cypress, cotton and jack fruit trees. Apart from rich flora, the fauna is also exceptionally diverse with many species of mammals, including silver langurs, black gibbons and endangered species like black bear, sun bears, red pandas and more. The park is a birdwatcher’s paradise with more than 300 species of birds recorded, which include large-spot eagles, red crested pheasants, and more.
Places To Explore Near Hoang Lien National Park
Known for its diverse ecosystem, the Hoang Lien National Park tour boasts lush forests, high mountains, gorgeous rice flats and pristine waterfalls.
1. Muong Hoa Valley
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Also called the Eden of Sapa, Muong Hoa Valley is in Hau Thao Commune, about 10 km from Sapa Town. Surrounded by the majestic mountains of Hoang Lien Son Mountain range, including the proudly standing Fansipan, this valley offers breathtaking picturesque landscapes, lush green valleys and awe-inspiring sceneries of rice terraces. This culture-dense place is the most extensive farmland in Lao Cai and home to many villages of different ethnic tribes like Ta Phin, Hau Thao, etc., Sit back, admire the valley, connect to nature and escape from the mundane, boring life!
2. Fansipan
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Wanna satisfy the adventure lover in you? Well, don’t miss a chance to conquer the highest mountain in Vietnam. The park boasts Viet Nam’s highest mountain, Phan Xi Pang or Fansipan, the Indochina rooftop has an impressive elevation of 3,142 m above sea level. Go trekking or take the cable cars. Adventure junkies can choose the trails according to their physical fitness and the time they can spend on the trails:
Tram Ton Route is a popular and easiest route that is made tourist-friendly.
Sin Chai Route with moderate difficulty.
Cat Cat Route is the most difficult.
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3. Silver Waterfall
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Cascading from a height of 200m, Silver Waterfall, also known as Thac Bac Waterfall, is a popular attraction of Sapa. Located 15 km away from the Sapa town and at the foot of O Quy Ho pass, Silver waterfalls are one of the most beautiful waterfalls of the area. Listen to the roaring white stream of sparkling white water gushing down, watch the spectacular landscapes of green rice terraces and admire the splendid views of Sapa town from afar. Summers are best to visit, but the view in winter is breathtaking with glistening snow.
4. O Quy Ho Pass
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O Quy Ho pass, also called Tram Ton pass, is Vietnam’s highest mountain pass, is a place where tourists can enjoy the magnificent landscapes of giant mountains and deep valleys. Locals often call the O Quy Ho pass as Cong Troi, which aptly translates to “Sky Gate” because of its location at a higher altitude that makes us feel closer to the clouds. O Quy Ho Glass Bridge is one of the highest and longest glass bridges in Southeast Asia and a major attraction. Stretching out from the mountain cliff, this bridge is built at an impressive height of 500m, with transparent glass walkway. Visit the glass bridge to admire the unparalleled scenery amidst floating clouds.
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5. Cultural Immersion With Ethnic Tribes
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The H’Mong, Dao and Day are the ethnic tribes of the Hoang Lien Park, and H’Mong is the most predominant ethnic minority groups of the area. Strike a conversation with the locals of the tribe, and yes, most of them understand and speak English. Be amazed to know that most of them are multilingual as they interact with tourists from different corners of the world. Get to know them, their experiences, their history and cultural tapestry. And if you’re lucky enough, they might invite you to share a meal with them.
How To Reach Hoang Lien National Park
Hoang Lien National Park is in the northwest of Vietnam, near the city of Sapa, considered the gateway to the park:
By Air: The nearest airport to Hoang Lien National Park is in Hanoi, Noi Bai International Airport, about 300 kilometres away. From the airport, take a bus or a private car to Sapa.
By Bus: Several bus operators run daily services from Hanoi to Sapa. The journey takes about 6-7 hours, depending on the traffic and weather conditions.
By Train: A popular option among the travellers to enjoy the scenic views of the countryside. There are several trains that operate from Hanoi to Lao Cai, the nearest station to Sapa and hop on a taxi or bus to Sapa.
By Private Car: A comfortable and convenient way to Hoang Lien National Park, hire a private car from Hanoi. Enjoy the freedom to stop along the way at your will and enjoy the country sides of Vietnam.
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Facts About National Park In Vietnam
Vietnam boasts many national parks and natural reserves with rich vegetation teeming with flora and fauna. Apart from Hoang Lien National Park, here are a few national parks of importance:
- Ba Be national park, located 6 hours from Hanoi, mirrors the beauty of North Vietnam. Subtropical forests with waterfalls and mysterious bat caves are the highlight.
- Phong Na-Ke Beng, a UNESCO recognised national park is the home to the largest cave system of Vietnam. Son Doong Cave, which is the world’s largest cave, is located here. The park is also known for its karst landscapes and is famous among adventure lovers.
- Cuc Phuong National park features ancient trees, prehistoric caves and breeding centres.
- Cat Tien National Park, in the southern part of Vietnam, is known for its dense and protected forests. The park is home to rare mammals including the Javan rhinoceros, as well as a variety of bird species.
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Hoang Lien National Park is an example of a power packed holiday – enjoy the captivating blend of natural beauty and adventure. From its towering peaks to its vibrant ethnic communities, every minute here is an experience. Whether trekking through the rugged terrains of its lush valleys to mingling with locals, this park etches unforgettable memories and a sense of deep appreciation for the wonders of untouched nature. If our detailed guide inspires you, then embark on a trip to Vietnam.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Hoang Lien National Park Vietnam
What is the best time to visit Hoang Lien National Park?
The best time for visiting depends on individual preferences. October to April is the best time for trekking. Nature lover’s wanting lush greenery can visit between May to September.
What is the entrance fee to Hoang Lien National Park?
The entrance fee comes around USD 3.00.
Do I need to obtain a permit to explore Hoang Lien National Park?
Trekking to deep parts of the jungle, carrying out research needs special permissions from the director of the park.
What are a few essentials to carry when visiting the Hoang Lien National Park?
Comfortable clothing, long pants, hiking boots,compass, mosquito repellents, leech socks are a few essentials. Carry cash, there are no ATMs around the park.
How many days are needed to visit Hoang Lien National Park?
At least 3 to 5 days are needed to cover major attractions of the park.
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