Standing on the edge of rugged cliffs high above Ta Xua, I welcomed the mountain wind—crisp, wild, and chilling to the bone. In that place, I let my soul soar with a heartfelt scream into the vast sky, a cry to satisfy the wild spirit of youth. Ta Xua isn’t just a place to chase clouds—it’s where you feel it all. The humbling vastness of nature. The quiet rhythm of your heartbeat syncing with the pulse of the mountains. And the unmistakable echo of youth—raw, wild, and free—hidden somewhere in that endless sea of sky. This is more than a trip. It’s a journey back to yourself.

1. Where is Ta Xua?

Ta Xua – a majestic mountain peak rising over 2,800 meters above sea level—is one of Vietnam’s awe-inspiring “rooftops.” Located in Bắc Yên District, Sơn La Province, Ta Xua lies right on the border with Tram Tau District of Yen Bai Province, forming a natural, gentle boundary between two mountainous regions.

Ta Xua doesn’t make it easy—and that’s exactly the charm. The route to this cloud kingdom is a thrilling adventure in itself. Picture narrow, winding mountain roads curling sharply along cliffsides, with deep, mist-filled valleys yawning on either side. It’s not for the faint of heart—but for those who crave the thrill, it’s a ride you’ll never forget.

Whether you’re zipping up the slopes on a motorbike, cruising carefully by car, or lacing up your boots for a rugged trek, the journey to Ta Xua is as soul-stirring as the destination. Trails from both Sơn La and Yên Bái sides offer their own wild beauty and challenges.

Every step on this journey is a chance to soak in the raw, untouched beauty that Ta Xua seems to have reserved just for dreamers and adventurers.

2. When is the best time to visit Ta Xua?

Timing is everything—especially if you’re dreaming of a perfect Ta Xua getaway, where cloud hunting meets flower gazing in nearby Moc Chau. While the weather in Ta Xua stays cool and pleasant year-round, the prime cloud-hunting season runs from October to April.

During these months, the mythical “sea of clouds” appears more frequently, rolling in like waves across the mountain valleys—soft, surreal, and otherworldly. It’s the kind of scenery that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a dream. So if you’re chasing clouds, magic, and a bit of floral charm along the way—this is your golden window.

The best time to visit Ta Xua for cloud hunting is from late December to April—this is when the clouds are most likely to appear. But cloud hunting here is also a bit of a gamble. Locals say it’s a “test of luck.” Some mornings, the clouds roll in thick and fast. Other days, you might wait until sunset for a glimpse. And sometimes, just when you least expect it—like at noon on a sunny day—the clouds sweep in like a surprise show. That’s the magic of Tà Xùa. You never know what you’ll get, but when the clouds appear, it’s pure wonder.

To boost your chances of catching that dreamy sea of clouds, join Facebook groups like “Tà Xùa” or “Review Mộc Châu.” These communities often share real-time weather updates, cloud conditions, and flower seasons—super helpful for planning your trip.

If you’re traveling before Lunar New Year, you’ll be greeted by blooming apricot blossoms, white mustard, and yellow mustard flowers. After Tet, it’s plum blossom season—when Moc Chau transforms into a white wonderland straight out of a fairytale. During this time, every corner becomes photo-worthy. Just point your camera, and you’ve got a frame full of poetry.

There are many ways to reach Ta Xua – the poetic muse of Vietnam’s Northwest highlands. Below are the most popular options. Depending on your travel style and itinerary, you can flexibly choose the route that suits you best:

✈️ By plane:
For those traveling from Ho Chi Minh City or other distant provinces, the fastest way is to fly to Hanoi. From Nội Bài Airport, you can continue your journey to Mộc Châu – Tà Xùa using various modes of transportation.

🚌 By sleeper bus:
If you’re combining a trip to Moc Châu and Ta Xua, you can catch a sleeper bus from Noi Bai Airport or central bus stations in Hanoi. After arriving in Moc Châu, you can rent a taxi, private car, or motorbike to reach Ta Xua.
Note that most attractions in Moc Châu are quite far from the town center – some over 10 kilometers – so renting a motorbike is more convenient and budget-friendly, plus it gives you the freedom to stop and snap photos wherever you like. If you prefer a more comfortable, laid-back option, a full-service taxi is also a reasonable choice – and the price isn’t too steep either.

🏍️ Motorbike / Private car:
For confident drivers familiar with winding mountain roads and seeking the freedom to explore at their own pace, traveling by motorbike or private car from Hanoi is a fantastic option.

The main route takes you from Hanoi through Son Tay – Trung Ha Bridge – Thu Cuc T-junction – National Highway 32 – then turning onto National Highway 37, heading toward Phu Yên – Bac Yen – and finally to Ta Xua. This is the primary road for conquering this dreamy land above the clouds.

These days, the road leading to the center of Tà Xùa has been paved with concrete, making it much easier to travel than before. Even 16-seat minibuses can reach the town center. However, the road is still narrow and steep, so be sure to thoroughly check your vehicle — brakes, fuel, and overall condition — before setting off. If you’re traveling by motorbike, opt for a manual, powerful one to handle the terrain more safely and comfortably.

🚐 Limousine:
If you’re looking for a smooth, safe, and hassle-free journey, a limousine is an ideal choice. These vehicles pick you up in central Hanoi and take you directly to your homestay in Ta Xua – incredibly convenient. From there, you can rent a motorbike right at the homestay to explore Ta Xua at your leisure.

Some reputable limousine companies offering routes to Ta Xua include Khanh Thinh, Quang Nghia, and Nguyen Hang. A round-trip ticket typically costs around 700,000 VND per person. The limousines usually depart Hanoi at 10 PM, make a few rest stops along the way, and arrive at the destination after roughly 5 hours.

4. Accommodation?

Ta Xua – where clouds embrace the mountains and the sky seems to touch the earth – has become one of the most beautiful and accessible cloud-hunting paradises in Northern Vietnam. Thanks to its rising popularity, accommodation services here have flourished, ranging from cozy, rustic homestays to unique stays nestled above the clouds.

Depending on your preferences, you can choose a place that feels just right for you. However, keep in mind that cloud-hunting season is also peak travel season – rooms fill up fast, so don’t forget to book in advance to secure your spot in this dreamy mountaintop retreat.

Kame has had the chance to experience a few memorable homestays:

• Tà Xùa Hill: A unique dome-style homestay offering both private rooms and dorms for larger groups, complete with en-suite bathrooms. Perched on a winding hill, it’s the kind of place where you just open the door and find yourself embraced by a sea of clouds. Note: The road leading up to this homestay is quite challenging, so it’s best suited for those with confident driving skills.
• Haus Meejs: An ideal retreat for cloud lovers seeking peace and quiet. Here, you don’t even need to step outside – just sit in your room, and the clouds will roll in right before your eyes.

Most homestays in Ta Xua offer meal services – from cozy home-style rice meals and steaming hotpots to grilled dishes by a glowing charcoal fire. Just place your order in advance, and everything will be prepared for you. If you’re in the mood for a livelier atmosphere, you can head down to the town center, where a few eateries stay open until around 10 PM.

+ Moc Châu – A perfect stop on a longer journey

If your journey includes an extra night in Moc Chau – a dreamy land where flowers bloom all year round – finding a place to stay here won’t be a problem. In Moc Châu, charming homestays are scattered everywhere, just a short walk apart. Each one has its own unique charm, often featuring poetic views perfect for photos and offering all the modern comforts you might need.

5. Must visit spots in ta Xua:

Đỉnh Gió (Windy Peak) – Touch the sunset, embrace the sunrise amid the clouds

Đỉnh Gió Ta Xua – a name that already evokes images of powerful winds and mysterious charm – is one of the highest mountain peaks in Vietnam, proudly rising to 2,650 meters above sea level.

It’s not just an ideal place for cloud hunting, but also hailed as the ultimate spot to witness both sunrise and sunset in the Northwest highlands. With clouds swirling at your feet and golden light brushing the horizon, this peak offers a truly unforgettable experience above the world.

As dawn breaks over Đỉnh Gió, the world seems to stir gently awake. Golden sunlight spills through layers of fluffy white clouds, weaving a dreamlike tapestry of light and shadow that feels almost too beautiful to be real. It’s a moment where time slows down — and you’re standing at the very edge of the sky, wrapped in nature’s quiet embrace.

Come sunset, Đỉnh Gió transforms again, bathing in soft hues of amber and violet. The horizon blazes with fiery color while clouds drift by like whispered secrets of the mountains. The air turns calm yet contemplative, as if the sky itself is taking a deep, peaceful breath.

Just a heads-up: the winds here can be fierce, and the temperature drops sharply. Pack your warmest layers, wrap yourself up tight, and get ready for an unforgettable encounter with the wild beauty of Ta Xua’s “windy peak.”

The air here is astonishingly pure and pristine — with every deep breath, your soul feels lifted, as if the weight of the world’s dust and noise is gently swept away, leaving only a serene lightness within.

Dinosaur spine of Hang Dong

Located about 15 km from the center of Ta Xua and just 5 km from Hang Dong Commune (Bac Yen District), the “Dinosaur Spine” is one of those trekking trails that quicken your heartbeat and hold your gaze captive. Here, clouds drift right beneath your feet, and the world unfolds in a hazy, dreamlike panorama between layers of mist and majestic mountains.

The name “Dinosaur Spine” comes from the mountain ridge’s unique shape when viewed from above — a narrow, winding trail about 1.5 km long running along the ridge, flanked on both sides by steep, plunging cliffs. It looks just like the backbone of an ancient dinosaur resting quietly amid the vast wilderness of Northwest Vietnam.

Surrounding it are rolling terraced fields and endless mountains stretching to the horizon, creating a majestic yet gentle natural masterpiece — as if nature itself had painted a living poem.

This is one of the most stunning cloud-watching spots in Northern Vietnam. On days when the clouds gather thickly, from early morning until around 10 AM, the entire ridge seems to float within a vast sea of drifting mist.

Even on clearer days, standing on the spine still offers a sweeping panoramic view — where lush green forests, golden terraced fields, and the quiet, scattered homes of the Hmong people rest peacefully along the mountainside.

The journey to the “Dinosaur Spine” isn’t an easy one. There are two narrow, precarious trails leading down, each clinging tightly to the mountainside—with sheer rock on one side and a deep drop on the other.

Even the most skilled riders can sometimes get their motorbikes close to the trail’s end, but the climb back up is tough and usually requires help. Kame chose to go on foot — a leisurely pace, yet enough to feel the mountain’s breath and tire your body with every step.

The moment Kame walked halfway up the sky, as clouds began to swirl and cloak the narrow path, was when the feeling of truly “walking in the clouds” came alive. With deep ravines on both sides and a thick, white mist ahead, the world seemed to dissolve—leaving only the sound of footsteps and the steady beat of the heart. It was thrilling and electrifying all at once—a journey where every step felt like holding your breath.

In the Hang Dong area, several charming homestays run by local Hmong families have recently opened — simple yet filled with warmth and heartfelt hospitality. If you’d rather skip the long journey of dozens of kilometers from central Ta Xua, staying right in Hang Dong is a fantastic choice. Imagine waking up to clouds drifting right outside your window, spending evenings stargazing, and greeting the first sunlight touching the mountain peaks in the morning.

Along the way up to the Dinosaur Spine, you’ll also find many small roadside stalls run by Hmong locals selling drinks, snacks, instant noodles, grilled eggs, corn, and meat. Though humble and rustic, on a chilly, misty day, a hot baked sweet potato or a warm cup of tea is enough to warm your heart completely..

The lonely wild apple (hawthorn) tree

The solitary wild apple tree — a vibrant symbol of life amidst the vastness of Tà Xùa — stands proudly on a small hilltop at Đỉnh Gió, right at the Xím Vàng – Háng Đồng fork. From Tà Xùa center, the tree is about 11 km away on an easy route suitable for both motorbikes and small cars.

To reach this magical spot, you can start from the Suoi Sap Hydropower Plant and follow the trail past Ca Heo Point (Dolphin point) for about 1 km. When you arrive, look to your right for a small path where you can either walk or carefully ride your motorbike to the destination. From the tree’s vantage point, your eyes will stretch far to see the gentle, clear Suoi Sap River shimmering under the sunlight. On clear days, the water reflects the sky like a perfect mirror. Amid this boundless space, the lonely wild apple tree stands tall and proud among the hills, hailed by travelers as the “living soul” of Ta Xua — a powerful symbol of resilience and endurance in the face of nature’s harshness.

This spot is also regarded as the most beautiful sunset viewpoint in Ta Xua. Around 5:30 PM is the golden hour when the last rays of sunlight paint the sea of clouds in soft pink hues. If you’re lucky, you’ll witness a dreamy sunset scene where clouds and sunlight blend seamlessly into a silent, poetic masterpiece.

From beneath the tree’s roots, your gaze stretches far across misty mountain ridges and drifting white clouds, while a gentle stream winds through the valley like a silk ribbon laid softly across the landscape. The Lonely Tree is not only a perfect check-in spot for dreamers but also an unforgettable emblem etched deeply into the memory of Ta Xua.

Dolphin Fin Rock (Mõm Cá heo)

Dolphin’s Fin — a raw gem amid the sea of clouds in Ta Xua — is a natural masterpiece shaped by two massive stone slabs stacked atop each other, resembling a dolphin gracefully swimming through a vast ocean of white mist. Covered in lush green moss, the rocks give this place a wild, untouched beauty — as if it stepped straight out of a highland fairy tale.

From Bac Yen town, head toward Ta Xua Commune, and you’ll reach a fork with clear signposts. One path leads to the “Cloud Paradise Spine” (about 8 km away), while the other turns right toward the Ta Xua tea hills — the same road that takes you to the famous Dolphin’s Fin and the Lonely Wild Apple Tree.

If you’re staying at Lu Tre Homestay, getting there is even easier — just follow the route toward Suoi Sap Hydropower Dam, and you can effortlessly visit this legendary rock formation.

Standing on Dolphin’s Fin in the early morning, when clouds blanket the mountains and valleys, it feels like you’re drifting on a pure white cloud carpet, surrounded only by the fresh mountain breeze, gentle morning sunlight, and the pristine spirit of Northwest Vietnam.

Ta Xua Grassland

Located along the same route as Dolphin’s Fin and the Lonely wild apple tree, about 10 km from Ta Xua commune center, Ta Xua Grassland welcomes you with vast, open spaces and tranquil beauty.

The road to the grassland is wide and straightforward, with few twists and turns, so travel is easy and comfortable. Near Dolphin’s Fin, you’ll spot a sign pointing the way to this expansive and serene land waiting to embrace you.

With its sweeping landscapes and majestic natural scenery, Ta Xua Grassland is not only the perfect place to admire the wild, untouched beauty of the region but also a fantastic destination for outdoor lovers. Here, you can dive into sports, picnics, or camping under the endless sky, fully immersing yourself in the breath of the earth and savoring peaceful moments amid the mountains.

Especially on clear sunny days, Ta Xua Grassland stretches out like a vast green carpet—stunningly beautiful with soft, tender hills of fresh grass and winding little streams. From here, your eyes can roam over endless mountains and forests, while the gentle breeze hums a peaceful melody, letting you feel the absolute tranquility of this highland land.

Cloud-chasing Cafés — Touch the sky, sip serenity

If you visit Ta Xua, don’t miss stopping by the cloud-chasing cafés—places where you don’t just savor a warm drink, but also step into a dreamscape. Here, clouds embrace the mountains, and soft light paints every scene like a living masterpiece. These cafés are more than just spots to rest—they are rendezvous points for the soul, where peace and wonder blend into one.

Here are a few “legendary spots” every cloud chaser’s camera love:

• Mị Ơi
• Hiên Coffee
• Thào Coffee
• H’mong Coffee
• Bản Coffee

Each café has its own unique vibe, but they all share one thing — breathtaking views. Perfect for catching the early morning sea of clouds or watching the sky blush with purple hues at sunset. On misty days, you’ll feel like you’re sitting right in the clouds. When the sky clears, the majestic mountains unfold in full glory — a scene so beautiful it steals your breath away.

Whether the clouds come to visit or not, these spots remain perfect havens to sip a cup of coffee wrapped in gentle mist, quietly watching the sunset spill behind distant mountain ridges. Or simply to breathe in rhythm with the mountain breeze, letting your soul settle after life’s frantic pace.

Drinks here range from 30,000 to 60,000 VND — as gentle and soothing as the surroundings, giving you all you need to spend a whole afternoon lost in coffee and drifting clouds.

Ta Xua primeval forest — The mossy paradise for trekkers

Located on the southeastern side of the Hoàng Liên Sơn range, Ta Xua primeval forest is a hidden gem for trekking lovers. Starting from around 2,600 meters above sea level, the trail leads you higher into a magical world where the landscape changes with every step. Covered in thick moss and ancient trees, this forest feels like a fairytale – wild, peaceful, and full of mystery..

What makes Ta Xua Primeval Forest truly special is its title as the “kingdom of moss.” Everywhere you look – from tree trunks to stones and forest floor – is blanketed in a lush, green layer of moss, creating a dreamlike, almost otherworldly atmosphere.

Tiny winding trails snake through towering ancient trees, were shafts of sunlight break through thick foliage above, casting golden glows on the forest floor. It feels like walking into a fairytale – quiet, mysterious, and gently magical. All you hear is the soft rustle of leaves and the whisper of the mountain breeze.

Ta Xua’s primeval forest isn’t just a dream for trekking lovers – it’s a sanctuary for anyone yearning to reconnect with wild, untouched nature. Here, each step leads you deeper into a world that feels ancient and sacred. You’ll pass through emerald carpets of moss, dense thickets of towering old trees, and hidden corners where rare flora and fauna still thrive. It’s not just a hike – it’s a journey through time, into the pristine heart of the mountains, where the rhythm of nature beats quietly, unchanged for centuries.

6. Review of a 3-day-2-night cloud-hunting trip in Ta Xua:

**Ngày 1: HCM-Hanoi – Ta Xua:

Early Saturday morning, our group departed from Saigon on the first flight of the day, heading to Hanoi. Around 8 a.m., the plane gently landed at Noi Bai Airport. We quickly made our way to the city center, just in time to meet the pre-booked Limousine shuttle that would take us to Ta Xua.

Our journey covered over 200 kilometers and took about six hours. By 3pm, we had arrived at the homestay, ready to begin our cloud-hunting adventure in the highlands. The drive from Hanoi to Bắc Yên was smooth and comfortable, but the real adventure began as we ascended toward Ta Xua. The road narrowed, winding its way up steep slopes with sharp curves hugging the mountainside.

But any nerves quickly faded as the scenery unfolded around us. Golden wild sunflowers lit up the roadside, and soft clouds floated up from the deep valleys below. At times, we felt like we were drifting through a sea of white mist—an otherworldly sight that stirred both excitement and awe. The higher we went, the denser the fog grew. Cold mountain winds slipped through the window cracks, numbing our fingers, but only added to the thrill of entering this hidden world above the clouds.

The homestay we chose was Haus Meejs – a cozy little house perched on Đỉnh Gió (Windy Peak), quite a distance from the center of Tà Xùa town. But the trade-off was more than worth it: with just a gentle pull of the curtain, a breathtaking sea of clouds appeared right outside our window—so surreal it left us speechless.

As our car passed through the town, the mouthwatering aroma of grilled sausage wafted through the air, curling with the mist and teasing our hungry stomachs after the long journey. Finally arriving at the homestay, we let ourselves sink into the peaceful mountain silence, grateful for a moment to rest and recharge.

Originally, we had planned to visit Mị Ơi Café to catch the sunset. But that evening, Tà Xùa was wrapped in a thick, dreamy fog. The sun never showed, so instead, we stayed at the homestay—wandering leisurely, snapping soft, ethereal photos in a landscape that felt like it belonged in a fairytale.

The homestay we chose — Haus Meejs — is perched right on Đỉnh Gió (Windy Peak), just a few houses away from Mị Ơi Café, facing the same direction as the setting sun. On clear days, all it takes is a gentle pull of the curtain to embrace the entire sunset from your window. Even though the afternoon was veiled in fog, the peacefulness and quiet beauty of the place were still utterly captivating — a kind of stillness that lingers in your soul long after the clouds drift away.

As night settled in and the chill seeped through every gap in the door, we decided to stay in and order dinner at the homestay. After a long day of exploring, no one had the energy to make the trek down to the town. While waiting for our food, we wandered around the courtyard and stumbled upon a heartwarming scene—a H’Mong mother and her young daughter sitting by a glowing charcoal stove, quietly selling homemade sausages, grilled eggs, and smoked pork. The warmth of the fire and their gentle smiles made the cold evening feel a little cozier

The little stall, tucked into a corner of the yard, gave off a quiet, comforting warmth. We stopped by, warming our hands over the glowing coals as we enjoyed the rich, smoky flavor of heo gác bếp—a local smoked pork delicacy. The meat was tender and deeply flavorful, each bite carrying a rustic charm that no dish in town could match. It was a simple dinner, but full of heart and the soul of the mountains.

After the cozy meal at our homestay, we lingered together for a while, sharing stories and laughter, before everyone turned in for the night. Tomorrow, we’ll be up at dawn to begin the most anticipated adventure of the trip: trekking the legendary “dinosaur spine” of Hang Dong.

**Ngày 2: Ta Xua- Hang Dong Dinosaur Spine-Dolphin Fin-Wild Apple tree

To catch the sunrise and the magical landscape of Ta Xua at its best, it’s recommended to start the day early—ideally around 4 a.m.—to make it to the Hang Dong “dinosaur spine” in time. But our team, still wrapped in the morning chill and half-asleep, didn’t make it there until 7am. Even so, the view was breathtaking—like a gentle gift from the mountains. The mist drifted lazily over the ridges, sunlight breaking through in soft golden streaks, making everything feel quiet and dreamlike.

The route from the center of Tà Xùa to the Háng Đồng dinosaur spine is only about 12 kilometers—but don’t let that number fool you. The road is narrow and rough, with steep slopes stacked one after another, and sharp bends hugging the edge of the mountain. On one side: towering cliffs. On the other: a sheer drop into the valley below. In many places, there are no guardrails at all—or if there are, they’re just a few simple bamboo poles.

In the early morning, thick fog blankets the path, making everything damp and slippery. If it rains, the road turns muddy and treacherous, with a real risk of landslides. It’s a short distance, but not for the faint of heart.

Riding on this road demands full concentration. But watching the local villagers navigate it is truly awe-inspiring—they zip through the fog and around the curves with ease, as if dancing on clouds, every twist and turn etched into their memory.

till, every bit of effort is worth it. There’s nothing quite like the feeling of moving through layers of cloud, watching the first light of dawn break over the mountains. The golden glow slowly spreads, painting the sea of white mist in soft hues. The cold mountain air stings your face, but it’s all part of an unforgettable moment. It’s a feeling you can only truly understand by being there yourself—no words can fully capture it.

We left our bikes at the parking area and began the trek on foot. The narrow dirt path was soft and slippery after the night’s rain, so every step had to be taken with care. The air was icy cold, but excitement kept us moving, pushing the chill to the back of our minds. Up ahead, “Hang Dong dinosaur spine” revealed itself—majestic and surreal, like a giant sword slicing through a sea of clouds.

Walking slowly through the clouds, feeling like we had stepped into another world—where the sky and earth were separated by nothing more than a breath, and reaching out your hand almost let you touch the silky soft clouds.

Some parts of the ridge were barely wide enough for a single path, with deep valleys plunging on either side. The wind whispered fiercely, making our hearts race, yet every step forward brought us closer to a wild, untouched beauty only the mountains can offer.

Standing atop the ridge, looking up revealed an endless, deep blue sky; looking down, a swirling sea of clouds drifted beneath our feet, and beyond, layers of rolling mountains stretched into the distance. It was a simple moment, yet it left a pure, unforgettable feeling etched in our hearts forever.

As you make your way up the Hang Dong dinosaur spine, you’ll often encounter H’Mông men dressed in their vibrant traditional attire, gently playing the khèn — a hauntingly beautiful bamboo flute. Their slender fingers dance expertly over the instrument, coaxing out pure, crystal-clear notes that ripple through the mountain air like a whispered secret.

The music is neither loud nor hurried; it moves with the gentle pulse of the highland’s heart, steady and serene. Each note a thread of memory, weaving tales of endurance, of lives entwined with these rugged lands. In that fleeting moment, the mountains breathe through the music, and time seems to pause — as if the very spirit of the land is singing just for you.

A simple conversation with the H’Mông people here reveals a quiet sincerity, a rugged grace, and a steadfast strength. Their deep bond with the mountains and boundless love for nature are what keep the raw beauty of Ta Xua alive. More than a destination for adventurers, it is a soulful return to timeless traditions and cultural roots

When you reach “the “Hang Dong dinosaur spine”, you’ll often encounter H’Mông people walking along misty mountain trails, carrying bamboo baskets filled with the forest’s bounty. Dressed in their vibrant traditional attire, they move gracefully through the natural landscape—like an inseparable part of Ta Xua’s majestic scenery

The H’Mông of Ta Xua, living beneath the towering ridges of the dinosaur spine, are a resilient people deeply connected to this land. They don’t just dwell in simple stilt houses—they are guardians of the wilderness, protectors of the raw beauty and purity of this region, quietly preserving it through the centuries

One important note: you won’t always be able to catch the clouds, as it heavily depends on the weather. So, keep an eye on the forecast and try to choose days when the night is cold and the daytime is warm. These conditions will increase your chances of seeing a beautiful sea of clouds—especially on sunny days.

To improve your chances of great photos, identify the direction of the sunrise in your cloud-hunting spot so you can pick the perfect angle. Most importantly, stay healthy and bring a fully charged phone to capture every breathtaking moment in the sky.

It’s best to avoid traveling to Ta Xua at night, and try not to go with too large a group. If you’re taking a motorbike taxi, don’t forget to ask about the fare and agree on a price beforehand.

After trekking for over two hours, reward yourself with a stop at the little café near the parking area. A warm bowl of aromatic egg noodles will chase away the mountain chill, while a hot cup of creamy Vietnamese coffee soothes both body and soul after the long journey

From a seat by the window, let your eyes wander. Once again, you will see the majestic dinosaur spine ridge bathed in golden sunlight.

Leaving the cliffside café perched precariously along Hang Dong dinosaur spine, Kame wandered leisurely back to the homestay, letting the calm atmosphere cradle her in peace—resting up for the next leg of the journey.

At exactly 3 PM, when the sunlight had softened, she set off toward Dolphin Rock—where layers of natural stone stretch boldly into the sky, forming the shape of a dolphin leaping through an ocean of clouds. Standing at the edge of the cliff, wind rushing past her ears and a sea of clouds swirling beneath her feet, Kame felt as if she were brushing the boundary between earth and sky.

Leaving Dolphin Rock, Kame arrived at a quiet fork in the trail—with two paths leading in opposite directions: one toward the sweeping grasslands of Ta Xua, the other toward a solitary tree standing silently in the heart of the mountains.

The lonely wild apple tree stood isolated beneath a vast, open sky, its branches reaching into the stillness. All around were soft, undulating hills, bathed in the amber light of late afternoon. As the golden sun stretched long shadows across the hillside, each twisted branch and leaf seemed to glow with a quiet melancholy—like nature holding its breath in the hush of twilight.

You can also stop for a break at Thào Cây Cô Đơn Café—a rustic little spot with just a few wooden tables and chairs scattered along a broad balcony that opens out over a sweeping valley below.

From here, the view unfolds like a painting: a winding river in soft green curves through layers of rolling mountains, delicate as a silk ribbon laid across the land. The late afternoon sun dances on the water’s surface, scattering light like shards of broken glass.

Cradling a steaming cup of coffee, with the wind whispering through the leaves and the earthy scent of damp soil lingering after the morning mist—time seems to slow. And in that stillness, the weight of the world quietly slips away with the mountain breeze.

From the balcony of Thào Cô Đơn Café, the river comes into view—like a ribbon of emerald silk draped gently through the embrace of the mountains.

It may not be as grand or imposing as the Nho Quế River in Hà Giang, but this river carries its own quiet charm—softer, more tender, and deeply serene.
While Nho Quế dazzles with its brilliant jade hues winding through towering cliffs, the river beneath Tà Xùa feels like a delicate brushstroke of romance across a canvas of hushed wilderness.

Here, the water glows greener than the sky itself—not in a bold, boastful way, but in a dreamy, whisper-soft hue, as if it flows through the drifting reveries of the forested highlands.

And standing there at Thào Cô Đơn Café, watching the river curve silently beneath the veil of mist, you realize—this is more than just a scenic view. It feels like listening, in stillness, to an old story that the earth and sky are gently retelling, just for you.

As evening deepened and the sun dipped behind the distant mountain ranges, the air turned crisp and cold. Kame and her group bid farewell to the café and made their way back to the homestay for a warm shower and some much-needed rest. Fatigue and hunger had quietly settled into their bodies, yet there was something oddly comforting about it all—as if the day had reached a perfect, fulfilling close.

Gathered around a steaming hot pot, they savored the comforting warmth of each bite while sharing stories—some about life, some about themselves, and others about the people they loved. Laughter rang out like music, lifting away the weariness of the long day. And when the laughter finally softened into silence, only the gentle warmth of the broth and the calm rhythm of quiet breaths remained. Time seemed to slow, and sleep arrived like a tender dream, cradled in the arms of the mountains.

**Ngày 3: Thào Cafe – Ta Xua – Hoi – HCM:

The morning unfolded lazily, wrapped in mist that curled around the homestay’s windows—no need to race out for sunrise when the clouds have already claimed the sky. Kame’s group indulged in a few extra moments of rest before venturing downstairs, driven by one goal: a hot breakfast and an aromatic cup of coffee at Thao Café, the most celebrated spot in Ta Xua.

Today, the café buzzed with weekend energy—tables filled with fellow travelers and locals alike, their laughter and chatter blending into a cheerful morning symphony. Rather than detract, the liveliness infused everyone with a shared zest for the new day. Over steaming mugs of dark brew and bowls of hearty porridge, they savored the warmth of both food and fellowship.

Before leaving, they browsed the small wooden stalls by the café entrance, selecting jars of honey and bags of mountain tea—little tokens to carry home. Each souvenir felt like a piece of the journey, a tangible memory to relive later.

By noon, they returned to the homestay, packed their bags, and checked out. At exactly 12 PM, the shuttle bus arrived to whisk them back to Nội Bài Airport. A light lunch on the road filled the final hours, and by 8 PM they were boarding their flight.

As the plane lifted off, HCMC beckoned below—familiar streets and the rhythm of city life awaiting them. Yet in their hearts remained the quiet hills, the whispering winds, and the gentle warmth of a brief adventure that had felt as infinite as the sky.

There are journeys we all need—ones where we leave everything behind, if only for a few days, to hear the quiet voice within, cradled by the vast embrace of nature.

Tà Xùa is one of those places. A mountaintop refuge where time slows, where cafés like Thào Cây Cô Đơn perch quietly on the edge of the sky, and where a solitary tree stands in a sea of clouds like a silent sentinel of the soul.

It’s in these fleeting moments—beneath a boundless sky, with the wind in your hair and silence all around—that something soft and sacred stirs within. A gentle kind of magic that reminds you how beautiful it is to simply be—to breathe, to feel, and to fall quietly, deeply, in love with life all over again.

#Taxua #Tà_xùa