According to the article written by Steve Thomas, the country’s mountainous far north has become a prime destination for adventurous and fit cyclists, with the 300km Ha Giang Loop one of the favourites.

From Ha Giang to the northwest of Hanoi, the route winds through the steep sided mountains, including around 7,500m of elevation gain.

The scenery found throughout the area is awe inspiring, with travelers passing through many rural and ethnic villages along the way, making it a cultural adventure as well as a challenging ride of between five and eight days.

The article also recommended September and October as the best time to ride as they are perfect for seeing the region’s golden rice fields in bloom, while February to March is spring blossom time.

Aside from the popular Vietnamese destination, SCMP suggested that the 475km route between Manali and Leh in the Indian Himalayas is a well-pedaled route.

Others on the list include Chiang Mai in northern Thailand, the 633km Four Rivers route runs right across the Republic of Korea, and Pakistan’s northern Himalaya regions.

Source: VOV