Sa Pa – A Birthday Adventure in Vietnam’s Northern Highlands

Sa Pa, Vietnam, has been on my travel bucket list for years. I first heard about it from my neighbour back in 2008 or 2009. He described it as a chilly mountain town where locals let pigs roam freely across the hills – a quirky detail that stuck with me ever since.

Fast forward to my birthday trip: I finally made it happen. Getting there wasn’t a simple hop, skip and jump. With no direct flight from Kuala Lumpur to Sa Pa, my journey began with a flight to Hanoi, followed by another leg of travel. I went for the “sleeper bus” – a 7-hour ride that was equal parts adventure and endurance.

Sa Pa is known for its cool weather, stunning mountain views, and endless terraced rice fields. It’s also one of the few places in Southeast Asia where snow falls, especially around Mount Fansipan.

Since my trip was in late September, I was met with plenty of rain and fog. But Alhamdulillah, the second-to-last day brought perfect weather – just in time for me to reach the summit of Fansipan, the “Roof of Indochina,” at 3,143 meters. It felt like a birthday gift straight from Allah.

I stayed at Silk Path Grand Resort & Spa, which was the perfect choice. The blooming gardens – especially the roses – made up for the gloomy weather and gave the place a serene charm.

I know I’ll be back. Next time, I’ll choose a drier season so I can finally see those breathtaking mountains under a bright blue sky, with clouds rolling gently over the peaks.

Sa Pa, this isn’t goodbye – it’s see you again.
#historicallandmarks#localguides

Post by OMAR AL-ATTAS | Aug 13, 2025