Sa Seng Village: Ultimate Travel Guide From Experts

Where Is Sa Seng Village?

Sa Seng Village is in Ta Phin Commune and approximately 15 km away from the town center. At an impressive altitude of around 1600m, Sa Seng offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the clouds in a panoramic vista of the entire Sapa.

Sa Seng Village

Who Lives In Sa Seng Village?

Sa Seng is predominantly inhabited by the Red Dao minority, one of Vietnam's indigenous communities that have resided in the area for generations.

The Red Dao people are known for their vibrant and colorful traditional attire. Men typically wear their hair long, tied up at the back of the neck or in a bun on the head. Their everyday clothing consists of short or long garments in hues of purple, black, or other subdued colors.

Women's attire is more diverse, adhering to the belief that a beautiful outfit should incorporate five colors, with red being the dominant hue.

From clothing to scarves, belts, hats, and footwear, everything is intricately handcrafted by the skilled hands of Red Dao women. A complete ensemble includes a hat, scarf, belt, shoes, and leg wraps.

An interesting aspect of Red Dao culture is their use of the Han script, adapted by the Dao people and known as the Dao script.

Additionally, their spoken language belongs to the Hmong-Daolanguage family. The Red Dao hold a deep reverence for dogs, considering them their ancestors.

Red Dao People

Sa Seng Village Weather: When To Visit?

Before figuring out the best time to visit this village, let's learn about its weather!

During the spring months of March to May, Sa Seng enjoys mild temperatures with occasional rainfall. This time of year brings lush greenery and blooming flowers.

Summer, from June to August, sees warmer temperatures and increased rainfall. The days are often sunny and humid, with daytime temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C. Yet, be prepared for sudden showers, especially in the afternoons.

In autumn, from September to November, the weather in Sa Seng becomes colder and drier. The clear skies and crisp air make it an excellent time for trekking and enjoying panoramic views of the mountains and rice terraces.

Winter, from December to February, brings cooler temperatures and fog, with daytime highs ranging from 10°C to 18°C. While Sa Seng rarely experiences snow, the village can get chilly, especially in the evenings and early mornings.

Sa Seng In The Autumn

Now, what is the best time to visit?

The best time to go is from late August to mid-September. That's when the rice fields turn a beautiful golden color. The weather during this time is nice, with daytime temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C.

Another good time to visit is in April. It's warmer then, and you can see the waterfalls in full flow. The greenery is lush, and everything looks so fresh and alive.

If you prefer cooler weather, you might want to go from October to December. The temperatures drop a bit, but it's still comfortable. Plus, you'll see the stunning sea of clouds that roll over the mountains, creating a dreamy scene.

Sa Seng In April

What To Explore In Sa Seng Village?

Below are the best things that my traveling team loves to do in Sa Seng to explore the natural beauty and learn about the local culture.

Trekking

Trekking is the best activity in Sa Seng because it offers an immersive experience of the region's breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural tapestry.

One of the most popular trekking routes in Sa Seng is the journey to Hau Thao commune, spanning approximately 15 kilometers.

This trek promises a mix of scenic vistas, cultural encounters, and physical challenges. I guarantee it's a memorable adventure for outdoor enthusiasts!

The trek begins with a gradual ascent along the trail toward Den Thang. As you traverse the path, the verdant surroundings unfold, with sweeping views of the lush valleys and towering peaks of the Hoang Lien Son mountain range.

Trekking In Sa Seng

After approximately two hours of hiking, you reach Hang Da, perched at 1,800 meters. You'll admire a panoramic vista of the Muong Hoa below from this vantage point.

Take the time to explore the village, engage with the residents, and perhaps partake in a cultural exchange over a warm cup of tea.

Continuing trekking, the path meanders through undulating terrain. As you proceed, the trail gradually narrows and steepens.

After about half an hour of hiking, the trail descends into Hau Chu Ngai. Here, amidst the rugged landscape, you'll encounter small hamlets nestled among rocky outcrops.

Pressing onward, the trek leads to a village with settlements and rocky terrain. After about 4 hours, you'll reach Hau Thao. Throughout the journey, you'll be accompanied by the sights and sounds of nature.

Hau Thao

Terraced Rice Fields

The terraced rice fields of Sa Seng village are like a masterpiece painted by nature. These terraces look like cascading steps carved into the hillsides.

When I visited during the rice planting season in April, the fields were bustling with activity.

Local farmers were hard at work, carefully tending to their crops and ensuring the terraces were properly irrigated. They use channels to direct water from the mountain streams.

Walking through the terraced fields, the lush greenery and the rhythmic pattern of the terraces were mesmerizing. It felt like time had slowed down, and I was completely immersed in the beauty of the landscape.

As I wandered through the fields, I couldn't help but feel a sense of peace and tranquility wash over me. The air was fresh, and the only sounds were the gentle rustling of the breeze and the occasional chirping of birds.

Standing at the edge of a terrace, looking over the fields below, I felt a profound connection to the land. As the sun sets, I feel grateful for the opportunity to experience such natural beauty.

Rice Fields In Sa Seng

Herbal Bath

The Herbal Bath in Sa Seng village is a special treat for the Red Dao people. It's known for its health benefits and unique experience.

The bath uses more than ten medicinal herb types, sometimes up to 120! This bath is a tradition of the Red Dao, believed to help with muscle and joint pain, colds, itching, constipation, and even postpartum recovery.

The herbs used in the bath are picked directly from the forests surrounding the village. They then are re-cleaned, dried, and then boiled with warm water to make the bath.

If you're interested in trying the Herbal Bath, you can easily find it in the village for a reasonable price, usually around 150,000 VND per session.

It's incredibly relaxing when soaking in the warm water with fragrant herbs. After a long day of exploring Sa Seng village, it's the perfect way to unwind and rejuvenate your body.

The Herbal Bath doesn't just relax your body; it also refreshes your mind and spirit!

As you soak in the fragrant water, all your worries seem to fade away, and you feel at peace. It's a truly revitalizing experience that leaves you feeling energized and ready to take on the world.

The Herbal Bath of the Red Dao people has become famous beyond Sa Seng village. You can find similar experiences in big cities like Hanoi.

However, the true essence of the Herbal Bath lies in its origins in Sa Seng village. If you visit Sapa, don't miss out on this authentic experience!

Herbal Bath

Traditional Festivals

In Sa Seng village, some traditional festivals are a big part of the culture and bring the community together. Many tourists come to Sa Pa at the end of the year to experience these special events.

• One important festival is the Coming of Age Ceremony in November or December.

During this ceremony, the Red Dao people gather to recognize young men as descendants of their ancestors.

The ceremony has different levels, and participants progress through rituals represented by the lighting of three, seven, or twelve lanterns. It's a way to honor their heritage and ancestors.

Red Dao At A Festival

• Another essential festival is the Lunar New Year, also known as Tet.

This festival is celebrated with a lot of excitement in Sa Seng village. One of the unique parts of Tet in the Red Dao community is the Tet Dance. It's a traditional dance performed during the three-day celebration.

The festival also includes lots of eating, dancing, and having fun. Pork is the main dish served during Tet. The Tet Dance, called Nhi-ang Cham Dao, is a way to strengthen the body and martial arts skills. It involves graceful movements and is a joyous celebration of the new year.

During theLunar New Year festivities, there's a lot of community bonding and reflection. People come together to celebrate and express their hopes for the coming year.

The festival is a reminder of the struggles and sacrifices of the Red Dao people. It's a time to honor their strength and determination in protecting their homeland.

• Besides these big festivals, Sa Seng has the Love Singing Festival at the beginning of the lunar year.

This festival includes traditional games and activities like crossing bamboo bridges and climbing poles for prizes.

There are also singing competitions where unmarried individuals sing love songs to find potential partners. Through music and dance, people express their wishes for good weather, a bountiful harvest, and prosperity for their families.

The Love Singing Festival is a time for socializing and making new friends. It's a chance for people to connect through music and share their feelings. It's also an opportunity to celebrate the rich culture of the Red Dao community.

These celebrations are a time for joy, reflection, and community spirit. They're essential for the Red Dao people to honor their past and look forward to the future.

What To Do & Not To Do (Taboos) In Sa Seng During Your Visit?

What To Do & Not To Do (Taboos) In Sa Seng During Your Visit?

You can ensure a positive and culturally enriching experience during your visit to Sa Seng village by being respectful and mindful of its customs and taboos. Here’s my guide:

What To Do in Sa Seng During Your Visit

• Be mindful of the unique customs and traditions of the Red Dao people. Observe and follow their practices.

• If you wish to capture moments with your camera, it's courteous to ask for permission from the locals first.

Taboos (What Not To Do)

• If you notice leaves placed outside a house, it indicates that alcohol is being brewed. Don't enter without an invitation.

• Do not give money or candy to children.

• Refrain from touching children's heads, especially during haircuts, as it is believed to disturb the spirits residing there and may lead to illness.

• Do not sit or lean against the tallest column in a household because it's inhabited by spirits. Also, avoid sitting in the central worship area.

• If offered drinks or food by the hosts, politely decline if you do not wish to partake. Don't place the bowl upside down on the table because it's disrespectful.

• Gesturing with your finger forward while talking can be seen as disrespectful or dismissive by the locals.

• White is associated with mourning in the Red Dao culture, so it's best to avoid wearing white clothes during your visit.

• Whistling is believed to attract spirits, so it's best to avoid doing so while exploring the village.

How Can You Go To Sa Seng Village?

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How Can You Go To Sa Seng Village?

Sa Seng village is approximately 15 km away from the center of Sapa town.

1/ If traveling from Sapa town center to Sa Seng village, follow Highway No.4D for about 5 km.

2/ Afterward, you'll turn left towards the ticket gate for Ta Phin village. Here, you'll purchase entry tickets.

3/ From there, you'll need to travel about 7 km further to reach the center of Ta Phin commune. After that, it's another 15 minutes to Sa Seng.

Along the road to Sa Seng, you'll be mesmerized by the beautiful and tranquil natural scenery of the Northwest mountains and forests.

You'll see terraced rice fields stretching across the hillsides, with distant green mountain ranges shrouded in mist. The landscape is dotted with traditional houses on stilts and lush cornfields.

However, the road to this village is challenging. You'll meet bumpy roads, steep inclines, and narrow passages that may accommodate only one vehicle at a time. Drivers often maneuver closely against the mountain walls to pass each other.

So, consider hiring local motorbike taxis from Sapa town center to take you directly to Sa Seng village.

Where To Stay When Visiting Sa Seng Village?

Where To Stay When Visiting Sa Seng Village?

Since Sa Seng is small and doesn't have accommodations for overnight stays, the best option is to rent a homestay in the center of Ta Phin.

Similar to many other villages in Sapa, Ta Phin now offers several homestays for travelers to rest in the village's heart.

Here are some well-equipped homestays that ensure you'll have a comfortable night's sleep amidst the natural beauty of the mountains:

• Sapa Homestay Ta May

On the mountainside, this homestay features a patio and hot tub built in the classic style of the Dao people. You can enjoy meals at the on-site restaurant or prepare in the communal kitchen.

Additionally, it's convenient for visiting popular tourist spots like Sapa Lake and the Fansipan Legend cable car station.

• Ta Phin Stone Garden Resort

Surrounded by lush greenery, this resort provides a tranquil retreat for those seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life.

The rooms have wooden floors, clothes racks, mosquito nets, and balconies overlooking the picturesque mountain scenery.

Imagine waking up in the morning to the sight of verdant greenery, birds chirping, and the scent of fresh mountain air. It's a refreshing experience away from the concrete jungle of urban areas.

Tips For Travelling To Sa Seng Village

Tips For Travelling To Sa Seng Village

• Pack all necessary belongings as you won't easily find shops or amenities here like in the town center. Essentials include water, snacks, appropriate clothing, sunscreen, insect repellent, and any medication you need.

• If traveling by motorbike, carefully study the map to avoid getting lost. The road to the village is rough and winding, so exercise caution and drive slowly to navigate the terrain safely.

• If you plan to spend the night at a local's house, contact them in advance to arrange accommodation and prepare meals; this ensures you have a place to stay and won't encounter any issues upon arrival.

• Familiarize yourself with the local customs and traditions of the Dao community. Respect their way of life, and adhere to cultural norms or taboos.

• Since there is limited access to ATMs or card payment facilities, carry enough cash for your expenses during your stay in Sa Seng Village.

• Pack light, but be prepared for weather changes.

Conclusion

Sa Seng Village is an ideal destination with many beautiful landscapes, which brings unforgettable moments during your trip to explore the Northwest.

Throughout this ultimate travel guide, I've provided insights into the best ways to reach Sa Seng, where to stay, what to do, and what not to do to enjoy your visit.

If you are planning to travel to Sa Seng, a fairy tale of the mountains and forests of Sapa, don't miss Asia Tour Advisor. Prepare your luggage and start a Vietnam tours package to enjoy the best experiences