Ta Seng Village: Everything You Need To Know For Your Visit

Where Is Ta Seng Village?

Ta Seng Village is in Hang Da, Hau Chu hamlet, Hau Thao commune, approximately 8 km from the central town of Sapa in Vietnam.

Positioned in a tranquil setting, Ta Seng Village stands distinct from other popular tourist destinations such as Y Ho Linh, Cat Cat, Ta Van, and Lao Chai. It’s home to ethnic minority groups, primarily the Hmong and Dao people.

In Ta Seng Village

When To Visit Ta Seng Village?

Deciding when to visit Ta Seng Village is essential, especially if you're excited about seeing some clouds. So, here's the lowdown on when to go:

First, you've got to check the weather forecast.

If it rained the day before but the next day is sunny, you're in luck! That's when you're likely to see some amazing clouds. Rain makes the ground wet, and when the sun comes it heats the water, making clouds appear in the sky.

Then, there's something locals call luck chance; this happens when the sky looks gloomy all day while it doesn't rain.

Suddenly, the sky clears up a bit, and you can see that big clouds are blocking the sun. That's your cue to hurry up and head to Ta Seng Village because there's a really high chance of spotting some incredible clouds there.

The sun in Sapa isn't too harsh, so it's perfect for spending the afternoon and evening admiring the views.

Plus, Sapa is famous for its beautiful rice fields. If you visit between July and September, you'll see the fields turning golden.

Ta Seng In September

Why Should You Visit Ta Seng Village?

Well, for starters, it's the ultimate spot for cloud chasing. Picture-perfect clouds dancing across the sky; it's a sight you won't want to miss.

But there's more to Ta Seng than just clouds. This place is a sanctuary of tranquility. Think about Sapa, and you imagine lush forests, terraced fields, and those massive rocks scattered around. It's something you have to see to believe.

Life in Ta Seng ticks by at its own leisurely pace. Everything slows down, letting you savor every single moment, unlike the noisy city streets.

Mothers multitask, carrying their babies while tending to laundry by the babbling brooks, trees swaying gently in the breeze, and kids playing with the animals.

And now and then, you catch a whiff of smoke from burning fields, adding a mystical touch as if the clouds themselves were descending to earth.

What To Do When Visiting Ta Seng Village?

Based on my experience, below are the activities that I and my fellow travelers like to explore the most when coming to this remote village.

Trekking And Cloud Hunting

Cloud Hunting

Trekking is a top activity, no matter which village you visit in Sapa.

• The trekking route

The trekking trail winds through the village, stretching over 7 kilometers of asphalt road.

Along the way, you'll find yourself immersed in a lush canopy of trees, with wildflowers painting the landscape in shades of purple, white, and lilac. Some of these flowers are so rare that you might not even know their names, adding an element of mystery to your trekking experience.

As you trek further, you'll encounter majestic vistas. One side of the path is bordered by towering mountain slopes, while the other side opens up to sprawling terraced rice fields dotted with simple, rustic stilt houses.

On sunny afternoons, the rice fields shimmer in the sunlight, casting a dreamy glow over the landscape. The air is filled with tranquility and serenity, enveloping you in a peaceful embrace that's hard to find elsewhere.

Trekking In Ta Seng

• The sense of peace when trekking

One of the advantages of exploring a lesser-known attraction like Ta Seng Village is the sense of peace that it offers.

Here, you can capture stunning photographs without having to jostle for space or worry about disturbing the tranquility of your surroundings.

Your journey of discovery may be tranquil, but it is also incredibly precious, filled with moments of awe and wonder at the natural beauty surrounding you.

Moreover, the gentle atmosphere that pervades Sapa adds an extra spring to your step, turning your trek into a joyful experience rather than a tiresome one.

• Don’t miss cloud hunting when trekking!

Picture yourself strolling through this Ta Seng, with clouds gently drifting across the sky. As I said, the best time to go cloud hunting is early morning or late afternoon.

What's really cool about cloud hunting here is that you never know what to expect. One moment, the sky might be clear as day, and the next, fluffy clouds come floating in, transforming the scenery into a dreamy wonderland.

So why not grab your camera or pack a picnic and explore this breathtaking paradise?

Take Photos Of Locals’ Houses

Take Photos Of Locals’ Houses

Ta Seng has stilt houses like other villages in Sapa. And you can absolutely take photos of them, as long as you ask the homeowner's permission before taking them.

• What do locals' houses look like?

The houses in Ta Seng are made from bamboo, wood, and thatch, all materials found nearby. These houses are part of the landscape, blending in with the natural beauty.

One cool thing about these houses is how they're built up on stilts, so we call them stilt houses. This design keeps them safe from floods and lets air flow underneath to keep things cool.

Downstairs, they use the space for storing tools and keeping animals like pigs and chickens. Upstairs is where the family lives, with bedrooms, a kitchen, and a common area for hanging out.

Inside, you'll find handmade decorations, like woven tapestries showing scenes from everyday life and intricate carvings on the furniture. The kitchen is busy, with a wood-fired stove for cooking delicious meals using local ingredients.

A Stilt House

Outside, families grow their own food in small gardens and keep animals like chickens and pigs. It's not just about food, though; these gardens are places of beauty and peace where people can relax and enjoy nature.

People here are incredibly welcoming. They'll invite you to share in their way of life. Besides taking photos, you can enjoy local meals, learn a new craft, or just sit and chat.

Here are some notes when taking photos:

• Always ask before taking photos of someone's house.

• Be aware of what's okay to photograph and what's not, like sacred places or objects.

• If taking pictures of people, ask for their permission first. Be polite and understand if they don't want to be photographed.

• Be grateful to the locals for letting you take photos. A simple thank you can go a long way.

Visit Fruit Gardens And Vegetable Farms

In A Vegetable Farm In Ta Seng

You will see fruit gardens and vegetable farms when passing locals' houses. Normally, they don't like strangers entering their garden, but if you ask politely, they will happily let you in to visit, as long as you promise not to destroy the nature inside.

Inside, you can freely take beautiful photos. Everywhere you look, there are colorful flowers, buzzing insects, and chirping birds.

You can wander through a strawberry patch, admire a field of sunflowers, or spot a butterfly flitting among the crops.

If you want, you can buy fruits and vegetables as gifts. Prices in these places will be much cheaper than in the markets.

Everything is fresh and bursting with flavor, from juicy strawberries to crunchy cucumbers. Many farmers use organic methods, so you know it's healthy too.

Moreover, you can also learn how these fruits and veggies are grown. Local farmers are happy to share their knowledge, teaching you everything from planting seeds to harvesting crops. It's a chance to see rural life up close and make new friends.

Admire Terraced Rice Fields

Terraced Rice Fields

When you think of Sapa, you can't help but picture the majestic mountains dotted with terraced fields that cascade down the slopes like giant steps. You can admire this landscape in Ta Seng.

• Where do terraced rice fields come from?

For centuries, the Hmong and Dao ethnic minority groups in this village have carved these terraces into the mountainsides, transforming steep, rugged terrain into fertile fields capable of supporting rice cultivation.

As you wander along the narrow pathways that wind through the fields, you'll see a sea of green punctuated by the vibrant colors of ripening rice grains.

• The best time to admire terraced rice fields

The best time to visit Ta Seng's terraced rice fields is towards the end of September. At this time, the rice plants have reached their peak maturity, turning them into a mesmerizing sea of golden hues ready for harvest.

During the rainy season, water flows from the higher terraces to the lower ones. You'll see a cascading waterfall effect that not only irrigates the fields but also adds to the beauty of the landscape.

Taboos You Must Know When Visiting Ta Seng Village

Taboos You Must Know When Visiting Ta Seng Village

• Avoid wearing white linen clothes when visiting the village. The locals consider this color to be associated with mourning and funeral ceremonies.

• Don't sit, eat, lie down, or leave litter at communal altars, ancient trees, or remarkable rocks.

• When invited into a local's home, avoid sitting in the middle of the house and the head seat at the table. Avoid turning your back to the alta or leaning against the columns, as it's believed to be where spirits reside.

• Respect the ancestral altars found in the homes. Don't place hats, caps, or other personal belongings on them, and refrain from touching the items on the altar.

• It's strictly prohibited to overturn the bowl because only shamans perform this action to dispel evil spirits.

• While engaging in conversation with the villagers, avoid pointing with your finger or hand outstretched forward. Locals interpret this gesture as disrespectful or condescending.

• Refrain from patting or kissing children's heads. Locals believe this can cause them to become frightened or unwell due to the belief that souls reside there.

• If you encounter the Hmong people conducting rituals or ceremonies, avoid participating without an invitation. They may prefer to keep outside from joining such events.

How Can You Go To Ta Seng Village?

How Can You Go To Ta Seng Village?

Getting to Ta Seng Village is not too difficult, but it requires a bit of navigation. Here's how you can make your way to this hidden gem:

From the Sapa town center, follow the road leading to Ta Van Village. After traveling approximately 3 kilometers, you'll come across a junction. Take the road towards Resort Sapa Jade Hill.

Once you reach Sapa Jade Hill Resort, continue on foot for another 3 kilometers. You'll enjoy a breathtaking landscape, with trails leading you toward Hang Da Village.

After navigating the scenic trails, you'll need to trek for approximately 2 kilometers more to reach Ta Seng Village. Don't hesitate to ask the local villagers for directions if you encounter any difficulties.

While it may not be as well-known as other tourist destinations in Sapa, Ta Seng is a favorite spot among cloud enthusiasts for its pristine beauty and ideal conditions for cloud hunting.

Along the way, you'll encounter lush forests, cascading streams, and panoramic vistas that will leave you in awe.

Where To Stay When Visiting Ta Seng Village?

Where To Stay When Visiting Ta Seng Village?

When visiting Ta Seng Village, finding accommodation can be challenging because it's relatively new and not well-known.

There aren't many options for eating and sleeping there. Along the way to Ta Seng, you might find some places to rest and have drinks at the beginning of the village, and there's a homestay near the exit of Hang Da Bridge.

Since Ta Seng Village is quite close to Sapa, you can choose to stay in Sapa and make a day trip to Ta Seng.

Or, if you want to experience village life, you can stay in nearby villages like Lao Chai or Ta Van. These villages offer homestay accommodations where you can stay with local families and experience their way of life.

If you're looking for a livelier atmosphere, you can visit Cat Cat Village, which is also close to Ta Seng. Cat Cat has more tourist facilities, including hotels, restaurants, and souvenir shops. It's a popular destination, so you'll find more options for accommodation and entertainment there.

So, when planning your stay in Ta Seng Village, consider your preferences for accommodation and the kind of experience you want.

Tips For Travelling To Ta Seng Village

Tips For Travelling To Ta Seng Village

• Pack snacks and water.

Before setting out, pack snacks and plenty of water for the journey. Ta Seng Village may not have many food and drink options, so it's best to prepare.

If you run out of water along the way, you can stop by a local's house to ask for some. The villagers are very hospitable and will likely be happy to help.

• Wear comfortable clothing

Opt for comfortable clothing suitable for trekking and outdoor activities. Choose lightweight, breathable fabrics that keep you cool and dry throughout the day.

Long pants and sleeves can also help protect against insects and sun exposure. Remember to bring a hat to shield yourself from the sun.

• Wear sturdy shoes

Ta Seng Village has rugged terrain, so I recommend wearing sturdy, comfortable shoes suitable for hiking and walking on uneven surfaces.

Choose closed-toe shoes with good traction to prevent slips and falls, especially if you plan to explore the trails around the village.

• Bring rain gear or an umbrella.

Weather conditions in mountainous areas like Ta Seng Village can be unpredictable, so it's wise to pack rain gear or an umbrella.

If the forecast doesn't call for rain, also prepare for sudden showers or drizzles. A lightweight, compact rain jacket or poncho can easily fit in your backpack and provide protection when needed.

Conclusion

Throughout this guide, I've spilled all the beans on what makes Ta Seng Village unique and how to make the most of your visit.

Ta Seng Village has it all, from those breathtaking rice fields that glow like gold to the chill vibes and friendly people you'll meet. I guarantee it's an experience you'll remember forever.

So, as you plan your trip, keep an open mind, take your time to soak it all in, and don't forget to snap some pics for Instagram.

And if you are looking for a local expert to guide you through your Vietnam tours, don't hesitate to contact Asia Tour Advisor because we have everything you need!