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Chieu Lau Thi: Discover Majestic Trekking Trails and Stunning Views

08:15 - 09/11/2024

5/5 - (1 vote)

Chieu Lau Thi is a stunning trekking destination that offers breathtaking views and a unique cultural experience. With MOTOGO TOURS, you can explore this majestic mountain and its surrounding landscapes, making your adventure both exciting and memorable.

Chieu Lau Thi is a breathtaking destination that blends natural beauty with rich cultural heritage. (Source: Collected)

Where is Chieu Lau Thi?

Rising in the Ho Thau commune in Hoang Su Phi district and the Thu Ta commune in Xin Man district, Chieu Lau Thi is among the tallest mountains in Ha Giang Province. After Can Lin Peak, this peak—which is in the southwest of the Tay Con Linh mountain range—reaches a height of 2,402 meters, second highest top in the region.

Chieu Lau Thi is located in Ha Giang province, Vietnam, near the picturesque town of Hoang Su Phi. (Source: Collected)

Chinese origin, meaning “nine tiers of stone,” the name “Chieu Lau Thi” depicts its rocky, layered rock formations. At the peak, a tall 120-meter rock construction rests on level ground covering 1,020 hectares, providing a perfect perspective to take in the surroundings. From its lofty point, there has amazing views over the terrain; on clear days, visibility stretches several kilometers.

In Chinese, "Chieu Lau" means "nine levels," and "Thi" refers to a large, high rock; thus, the name of this mountain translates to "nine-tiered staircase." — In Chinese, “Chieu Lau” means “nine levels,” and “Thi” refers to a large, high rock; thus, the name of this mountain translates to “nine-tiered staircase.” (Source: Collected)

Chieu Lau Thi features a varied ecosystem, including uncommon medicinal plants including Berberis (Golden Thread) and Panax notoginseng Paris polyphylla. An ancient forest full of rich fauna, including monkeys and wild boars. It is the origin of the famous Shan Tuyet tea, a Hoang Su Phi district specialty.

Chieu Lau Thi is home to many rare species of flora and fauna, as well as ancient trees covered in lush green moss. — There is home to many rare species of flora and fauna, as well as ancient trees covered in lush green moss. (Source: Collected)

In 2009, Hoang Su Phi District officially designated Chieu Lau Thi as an eco-cultural tourism site, aiming to attract visitors and showcase the area’s natural and cultural beauty. Then, in 2017, the Swiss company HELVETAS backed a community tourism initiative helping to create infrastructure like homestays, bungalows, and cultural events to assist local livelihoods and advance ethnic customs.

In 2009, Chieu Lau Thi was designated as a tourism site, supported by HELVETAS for community development. — In 2009, there was designated as a tourism site, supported by HELVETAS for community development. (Source: Collected)

Best Time to Visit Chieu Lau Thi

Chieu Lau Thi is best visited during the dry season, which runs from October to April. Late December to early January is especially magical within this time since guests may savor amazing sunrises and sunsets from the summit. Right now, the landscape changes to a breathtaking paradise of white clouds covering hundreds of square kilometers at 2,402 meters.

The best time to visit there is from September to November for stunning landscapes and mild weather. — The best time to visit mountian is from September to November for stunning landscapes and mild weather. (Source: Collected)

Additionally, the vibrant blooms of ancient wild peach trees around Christmas and the stunning rhododendrons that flower in late lunar February add a unique charm to the landscape, making the trek not only a physical adventure but also a visual delight.

How to get to Chieu Lau Thi

To reach Chieu Lau Thi, many travelers start their journey from Hanoi, opting for an overnight bus to Hoang Su Phi. This trip usually takes about 6 to 8 hours, with prices ranging from 300,000 VND to 350,000 VND/person.

Travelers often choose to rent motorbikes to journey to Chieu Lau Thi. — Travelers often choose to rent motorbikes to journey to there. (Source: Collected)

After that, travelers can rent a motorbike to cover the remaining 40 kilometers to the base of Chieu Lau Thi. If you are planning a weekend trip and have your own vehicle, the drive from Hanoi to Ho Thau will take more than half a day because it is over 300 kilometers. The last 15 kilometers consist of winding roads with many curves and construction, which can be dangerous if you are not a confident driver.

The road to mountain is almost completely paved and accessible for cars with fewer than nine seats up to the base. — The road to the mountain is almost completely paved and accessible for cars with fewer than nine seats up to the base. (Source: Collected)

The road to the foot of Chieu Lau Thi has been renovated, allowing vehicles with less than 9 seats to enter closer to the mountain. When reaching the foot of the mountain, visitors have to climb a few hundred steps, taking about 30-40 minutes to reach the top.

The trekking routes to Chieu Lau Thi

The trekking route to Chieu Lau Thi is not overly difficult, making it accessible for most hikers. With beautiful landscapes and a well-marked trail, it provides a perfect opportunity to experience the stunning natural beauty of the region. Here’s a suggested plan for a memorable two-day trek.

The trekking routes to mountain offer stunning views and diverse landscapes for all adventurers. Source: Collected)

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Time	Activity
Day 1 (Saturday): Hà Giang—Trekking Chieu Lau Thi
3:00 AM – 6:00 AM	Arrive in Hà Giang; rest on the bus or at a dormitory and breakfast
6:00 AM – 7:00 AM	Check out; rent a motorbike; fuel up near the bus station.
7:00 AM – 12:30 PM	Go to Chieu Lau Thi; enjoy views of rice fields and flowers.
12:30 PM – 3:00 PM	Lunch and relax at a homestay or hotel at the mountain’s base.
3:00 PM – 5:00 PM	Hike up to watch the sunset; note: avoid camping at the summit due to strong winds at night.
5:30 PM onwards	Descend to the resting point; shower, relax, and have dinner. Rest and prepare for an early morning check-in at the peak of mountain.
Day 2 (Sunday): Sunrise at Chieu Lau Thi
5:30 AM – 6:30 AM	Wake up, refresh up, and have breakfast.
6:30 AM – 7:30 AM	Trek to the peak for sunrise views.
8:00 AM – 9:30 AM	Return to base; pack up at accommodation.
9:30 AM – 12:30 PM	Depart Chieu Lau Thi, traveling through Tân Quang to Hà Giang (75 km).
2:00 PM – 3:30 PM	Head back to Hà Giang for your bus ride.

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Other activities at Chieu Lau Thi

Visitors to there can fully enjoy a range of interesting activities that improve their trip. There is something for everyone to enjoy among the amazing surroundings, from overnight camping in picturesque locations to enjoying great local food.

While trekking Chieu Lau Thi, you will traverse forests, walk beneath the canopy, and climb many steep, winding slopes. (Source: Collected)

Overnight Camping

Although the concept of camping on top of Chieu Lau Thi sounds great, overnight visits on the summit can be somewhat difficult. Strong gusts at night combined with a limited and rocky terrain make cooking and cleanliness challenging.

Those who still want to go camping would be better off visiting the approved campsite maintained by Chú Phú, which is conveniently situated a little distance from his guesthouse. This campground guarantees a safer and more comfortable camping experience by giving access to basic facilities such sanitary toilets and clean water for cooking.

Beautiful landscapes and rice terraces

The amazing landscape along the trekking paths is among the pleasures of the way to there. Particularly in harvest season, when the fields are a vivid gold, the breathtaking rice terraces that tumble down the mountainside provide a visual feast.

The sight of golden rice fields brings peace, joy, and a sense of harvest and nature's beauty. — The sight of golden rice fields brings peace, joy, and a sense of harvest and nature’s beauty. (Source: Collected)

Furthermore, both photographers and environment enthusiasts can find a peaceful backdrop from the rich surroundings, which feature lush hills and deep forests.

Enjoying Dao Cuisine After the Trek

After a rewarding trekking, you have to sample Dao people’s cuisine. Made with fresh foods cultivated right here, their basic yet wonderful cuisine is From strong stews to aromatic rice, the cuisine honors age-old culinary techniques handed down through the years.

After trekking, indulge in the Dao cuisine, savoring fresh, local ingredients and hearty flavors. (Source: Collected)

Savoring these dishes not only meets your appetite but also allows you to taste the rich cultural legacy of the neighborhood. Eating with the Dao allows one to interact with their customs and enjoy their renowned hospitality.

Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

Research your location to learn about its language, culture, and customs before you travel. Pack sensibly, carry simply the basics and adaptable clothes, with comfy shoes for touring. Both online and in print, save copies of your travel insurance and passport among other vital papers.

Before reaching the summit, you can already gaze out at the sea of clouds sweeping across the valleys around Chieu Lau Thi (Source: Collected)

Especially in crowded regions, remain alert of your surroundings and keep close eye on your possessions while on journey. Respect regional norms and behaviors, including appropriate dining etiquette and dress regulations. Ahead of time transportation planning can enable you to move quickly and effortlessly.

Adventurers should definitely visit Chieu Lau Thi since it presents an amazing fusion of great natural beauty and rich cultural experiences. This mountain delivers unique memories and a closer connection to Vietnam’s highland legacy, whether you’re hiking the paths or enjoying regional Dao food.