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Mu Cang Chai

Rice calendar

Water seasonPlantingGreen seasonGolden harvestResting fields

Tap a month to see how the terraces look. Dates are typical and change a little from year to year and field to field.

Golden rice terraces curling around mountains in Mu Cang Chai
In the golden season the mountainsides glow yellow.

Mu Cang Chai is a mountain district in northwest Vietnam where the Hmong people have shaped the slopes into narrow, curving rice terraces. Its terraced fields cover about 2,200 hectares, and in 2007 they were recognised as a national heritage site of Vietnam.

Narrow steps, clever water

Many terraces are only 1 to 1.5 metres wide, following every curve of the mountain. Water flows down from streams and waterfalls above and is guided from one level to the next, sometimes through channels made of split bamboo.

Water season and golden season

Around May and June the fields are flooded for planting, and the terraces shine like strips of glass. From September to early October the rice ripens, and whole mountains turn gold. The harvest is celebrated with local festivals. Use the rice calendar above to compare the seasons.

Flooded terraces reflecting the sky in Mu Cang Chai
In the water season the flooded terraces reflect the sky.

Visiting tips

  • The roads through the mountains are winding. If you get travel sick, take something before the drive.
  • The Khau Pha pass offers wide views over the valleys.
  • Stay with a local family to learn about Hmong life and food.

Key facts

Location Northwest Vietnam
Built by The Hmong people
Terrace area About 2,200 ha
Terrace width 1–1.5 m
Status National heritage site since 2007

Plan your visit

Suggested stay: 2 days.

Pack for Mu Cang Chai

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