Authentic Experience of Sapa
In Sapa, there is a village that every tourist visits because of its beautiful nature, well-kept ethnic traditions, and the kindness of local people. This is Ban Ho Village – one of the places you must see in Sapa, and it’s definitely worth exploring, Location: 20 kilometers southwest of Sapa town, Sapa, Lao Cai.
Key Takeaways
- Ban Ho Village, 20 km southwest of Sapa, offers stunning natural beauty and rich traditions.
- Enjoy terraced fields, scenic streams, and cultural activities like herbal baths in Ban Ho.
- Best times to visit Ban Ho are April, May, June, September, and October for pleasant weather.
- Respect local customs, ask for photo permissions, and avoid giving money to children.
Table of Contents
Overview of Ban Ho Village
Ban Ho village is at the heart of Ban Den village, where the Muong Hoa and La Ve streams meet. It is around 20 kilometers southwest of Sapa town. The village is split into three main parts: Xeo Trung Ho, Ta Trung Ho, and Hoang Lien, where the Dao, Mong, and Tay ethnic groups live.
Even though Ban Ho is not as close to the tourist center as other places in Sapa, it has stunning natural views. Visitors can see beautiful waterfalls, large terraced fields, and experience unique cultural traditions. Recently, Ban Ho has focused on tourism, drawing thousands of visitors each year and becoming one of the key tourist spots in Sapa.
What to Do in Ban Ho Village?
Admiring the Natural Scenery
When visiting Ban Ho, tourists will be amazed by the large, beautiful terraced fields. The view is even more special with the bamboo houses scattered along the stream banks. Ban Ho, where the Muong Hoa and La Ve streams meet, has its own unique beauty.
Muong Hoa Stream is surrounded by pretty landscapes, with cool weather and traditional Tay villages, creating a peaceful and lovely scene. This stream plays a big role in the everyday life of the Tay people here.
La Ve stream flows from the high mountains and deep forests to Ban Ho, creating a clear waterfall. Because of this, many stream fish gather here, swimming under the waterfall like dancers on a stage. That’s why locals call it Jumping Fish Waterfall. This place is perfect for those who want to catch fresh fish with a net and enjoy grilled fish right by the waterfall.
On the way to the waterfalls, named by locals after seeing fish jump in the past, visitors will pass brooks flowing through bamboo pipes, which locals use to bring water to their terraced fields, wooden houses on the hills, and wildflowers along the path.
Swimming in the Streams
Ban Ho has a warmer climate than Sapa, with temperatures around 20-25°C. In the afternoon, you can swim in Lave stream and Ca Nhay waterfall. The Muong Hoa River flows around the village, making it a peaceful and beautiful spot.
xploring the Ethnic Culture
Ban Ho Village is 20 km from Sapa town, at the end of a road. The Tay ethnic group lives here. They are very skilled at growing rice and live a settled life.
The village is large, with many houses. The Tay people build stilt local houses, which are beautiful to see. It’s a great place for a homestay. You can swim in hot springs or cold streams, explore the area, learn to make traditional fabric, and join local activities. The people are friendly, and the village has a warm, lively atmosphere.
The cultural potential of the Ban Ho people is shown in their old songs, dances, and rituals. Many ancient crafts have been brought back and are growing. The most well-known are cotton planting, mulberry growing, silkworm raising, and weaving. The Tay women of Ban Ho create beautiful brocade, making clothing and home decoration items.
Herb Bathing
After lunch, the friendly owner will guide guests to the Red Dao village in the mountains for a herbal bath. The herbs are placed in a wooden tub. Guests will soak in the tub, and after 15 minutes, the water is replaced with fresh water. After the bath, tourists will feel relaxed and very happy.
Ban Ho Village is a well-known place for biking and local trekking in Sapa. Tourists can also enjoy these activities around the village.
Where to Stay in Ban Ho Village – Homestay Services
Homestay is one of the things that makes Ban Ho special. Out of 29 of the most beautiful stilt houses in the village, some have been chosen to offer this service. More people are coming to Ban Ho to eat, live, and work with the locals. The mix of modern life is slowly blending with the natural beauty of the deep, magical mountains here.
How to Get to Ban Ho Village?
You have three ways to reach Ban Ho Village:
- By motorbike (for a day trip)
- By car (for a day trip)
- By foot (for a tour of at least 3 days and 2 nights)
From Sapa Town, go towards Lao Chai village and continue 3 km past Lao Chai. You’ll then catch a view of the wild and beautiful Ban Ho village in the mountains. It’s best to have a tour guide because there’s no wifi or signal in the mountains, and the roads are very tricky.
Join Authentic Experience in Sapa
Sapa 1 Day
1 day experience,Rice fields, valley, villages. Moderate to challenging, Private,Vegan-friendlyCultural immersion & active adventure
Motorbike Tour
1 day experience,Rice fields,waterfall.Challenging,Private tours friendly Cultural immersion, active adventure
Sapa 2 Days
2 days 1 night experience. Moderate to challenging, adventure. Mountains, valleys, rice fields and villages. Vegan-friendly
Sapa 3 Days
3 days 2 night experienc, Moderate to challenging. Mountains, valley, rice fields & villages. Private tours. Vegan-friendly
Extra Tips
- Don’t give candy or money to children; it’s not helpful for them. Instead, if you can, give them books or pencils.
- Avoid putting the camera close to their faces for photos. Ask for permission from locals before taking their pictures.
- The best times to visit Ban Ho Village are in April, May, June, September, and October.
- Some locals might follow you to chat and try to sell you things. If you don’t want this, just say “No” politely, and they will eventually stop.
- Ban Ho Village is worth the sometimes tough journey to get there. The village offers amazing views of untouched nature and a chance to see the daily life of the Tay and Hmong ethnic people.
