How cold is it in Northern Vietnam Winter?

Winter Weather in Northern Vietnam

Northern Vietnam, which includes the popular tourist destinations of Sapa, Hanoi, and Ha Long Bay becomes cold in the winter. The temperature in this region in winter fluctuates from 10°C to 22°C. The mountainous regions like Mount Fansipan, Mau Son get the coldest in December & January, the temperature may drop below 0°C. Wintertime often starts in late November and ends in late February.

However, Winter in Vietnam is not as cold as it is in other parts of the globe. The temperature in the winter in Vietnam is still higher than winter of other countries in North America or Europe.

Although not widespread, snow can be found in some areas of Northern Vietnam, such as the peak of Mount Fansipan, adding to the stunning natural beauty of the region. Despite the cooler temperatures, winter in Vietnam remains a wonderful time to travel and explore all that the country has to offer.

Snow in Mau Son, Lang Son - The mountainous area of Vietnam during winter

Where to travel in Northern Vietnam in the winter?

1. Sapa

Winter in Vietnam is a magical time, and Sapa is no exception. As one of the coldest places in Vietnam, this town becomes even more alluring during wintertime, especially when snowfall occurs. Despite the chilly weather, winter is an ideal season for trekking off the beaten path to remote hill tribe villages or up high in the mountains, as the cool and dry climate provides stable temperatures. For photography enthusiasts, Sapa is a must-visit destination during winter, as the town's natural beauty is truly breathtaking during this time. Whether you're seeking adventure or simply looking to immerse yourself in Vietnam's stunning landscapes, Sapa is the perfect place to experience the magic of Vietnam winter.

Sapa in snow

You can read more: What Should You Prepare To Travel Sapa In Winter?

2. Mai Chau

Nestled in the heart of the Hoa Binh province, Mai Chau is a charming and picturesque valley that offers visitors a unique glimpse into the traditional way of life of Vietnam's ethnic minority groups such as Thai, Muong, and Tay. Arriving at Mai Chau in the winter, you can choose to trek around the villages like Lac village or Pong Cong village of Thai ethnic people, bike to the remote villages, or make your way to Chieu cave which boasts stunning stalactites. It is a great idea to homestay at a very simple rustic stilt house and experience the warm-hearted hospitality of the local ethnic people. Mai Chau in the winter has a tranquil atmosphere, beautiful nature with peach blossoms, and a wonderful escape from the bustling Hanoi.

Experience the Charming Winter in Mai Chau

3. Tam Dao

Tam Dao, known as the "Da Lat of the North," is a hidden gem in Vietnam's list of cold places to visit during winter. With its three majestic mountains, Tam Dao is a stunning sight to behold, and during winter, it becomes even more attractive with its fanciful and romantic scenery. The town is a perfect destination for nature lovers, with Tam Dao National Park offering a rich biodiversity of eight different types of forests and over 800 species of animals. Visitors can spend their days wandering around the mountains, admiring the Bac Waterfall, sampling delicious local cuisine, or exploring the mountain peaks for a panoramic view of the area. If you want to experience the natural beauty of Vietnam during winter, Tam Dao is a must-visit destination.

Tam Dao The City Hidden In The Mist During Winter

4. Ha Giang Province

Ha Giang is one of the best places to visit in the winter. The best time to visit Ha Giang is from October to December when Tam Giac Mach flowers (triangle oat) blossom. An endless number of Tam Giac Mach flowers cover this charming province in light pink, combining with the green color of lush trees of the forested mountains, creating a wonderful picture of Ha Giang. There are also beautiful rice terraced fields on the mountain slopes of the Ha Giang rocky plateau at the end of November. Visiting Ha Giang, you take a chance to taste diversified food such as Thang Co (a specialty of Hmong ethnic minority) with the flavor of herbs and citronella, or five-color sticky rice and caltrops soup…

Ha Giang in winter

5. Halong Bay

Halong Bay in the winter is calm with little wind, quieter than in the real peak season. Visiting during winter, you don’t have to worry about the rainy season or typhoons canceling your cruises. In fact, wintertime is a fantastic time for leisure travel in Halong Bay, the bay looks especially magical when it is misty! If you are an active person, you can not join water activities like swimming, kayaking, but you can still join land activities like hiking, having a barbecue, visiting local villages, shopping at local markets, and tasting Halong specialties.

Visiting local villages in Halong Bay 

Read more: Things to Pack to Visit Halong Bay in Winter

Winter packing suggestions

Besides necessary items to bring for your travel in any season, we recommend you to bring the below items for winter in North Vietnam

• A scarf & warm hat
• A warm sweater or fleece
• A thick & waterproof jacket
• Hiking boots
• Headaches and anti-flu drugs in case you cannot stand the cold in the mountains.
• A box to cover and carry anywhere and anytime because the weather will be very erratic and may rain suddenly.

Traveling in Northern Vietnam in the winter is definitely a great experience. It is cold, but not freezing cold. You can even enjoy the sunshine if you are lucky enough. Do not waste your time staying indoors, doing nothing. Just visit our website for the best North Vietnam tours to choose the best one for you. 

Or Customize your Vietnam trip with BestPrice Travel consultant now!

Jenny Tran

Image source: Internet