Hidden away in De Xu Phinh Commune, Mu Cang Chai’s 'dinosaur spine' is a new favorite among travelers looking to explore unspoiled landscapes and capture awe-inspiring photos.
Mu Cang Chai is one of the most popular destinations in northern Vietnam for viewing the golden rice terraces. This region draws a large number of visitors who come to admire the stunning landscapes during the harvest season.
In 2019, Mu Cang Chai’s terraced fields (Yen Bai province) were designated as a Special National Heritage Site, covering more than 800 hectares across the communes of La Pan Tan, Che Chu Nha, De Xu Phinh, Kim Noi, Mo De, and Lao Chai.
Not as famous as the 'dinosaur spine' in Binh Lieu (Quang Ninh) or Ta Xua (Son La), the 'dinosaur spine' in Mu Cang Chai attracts visitors with its unique beauty.
Located about 19km from the center of Mu Cang Chai town, the mountainous De Xu Phinh Commune has become a favorite destination for travel enthusiasts seeking adventure. The commune features a narrow trail, often compared to a “dinosaur spine,” situated on a mountain in Phinh Ho village. This area remains largely untouched, retaining its natural beauty and lush greenery.
While less famous than the “dinosaur spine” in Binh Lieu (Quang Ninh) or Ta Xua (Son La), the one in Mu Cang Chai draws visitors with its distinct charm.
Nguyen Trong Cung, a 32-year-old traditional medicine doctor and freelance photographer from Thai Binh, shared that although he has visited Mu Cang Chai several times, it was only in September that he first set foot on the “dinosaur spine” in De Xu Phinh.
He was immediately struck by the majestic natural scenery, with sweeping views of the expansive valley below. “From the ‘dinosaur spine,’ you can see National Highway 32, the surrounding villages, and the terraced rice fields below,” Cung said.
A panoramic view from the "dinosaur spine" in Mu Cang Chai.
According to the young photographer, reaching the “dinosaur spine” in De Xu Phinh is quite challenging. From Mam Xoi Hill, it takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, while from Mong Ngua Hill, visitors must traverse around 13km to reach the site.
Much of the route to the “dinosaur spine” in Phinh Ho village is paved, allowing cars to travel part of the way, and is lined with beautiful pine trees. However, as you approach the foot of the mountain, the road becomes more difficult, with steep curves and rough, rocky terrain.
Upon arrival, visitors must climb about 100 earthen steps to reach the mountain’s peak.
“If you’re not confident in your driving skills, you can leave your vehicle at a local home and hire a local driver to take you up for safety and to save energy. Then, it’s just a 10-minute walk to the top,” Cung advised.
Uneven, tilted rocks resemble the ridges of a dinosaur's back along the "dinosaur spine." Photo credit: Nguyen Trong Cung
Once at the top, visitors are greeted by rows of jagged rocks jutting out from the ground, resembling the spikes along a dinosaur’s spine.
While the path along this area is relatively stable due to the many rock formations, visitors should still exercise caution when taking photos and remain aware of their surroundings.
Cung added that the “dinosaur spine” offers a striking and unique landscape, making it a perfect spot for visitors to experience a different kind of beauty in Mu Cang Chai during the harvest season.
However, it remains a self-developed tourist spot with no additional services. Visitors are advised to bring their own food and water and to be mindful not to litter in order to preserve the natural environment.
Vietnamnet.vn
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