After traveling around 200km from Hanoi, the family of Nguyen Cuong and Hoang Oanh arrived at Pu Nhi hill in Son La province, where they enjoyed cool green landscapes far removed from the city’s oppressive summer heat.

In May 2026, as temperatures in Hanoi climbed to 39-40 degrees Celsius, Hoang Oanh and her husband decided to take their three children on a short weekend getaway to escape the heat and unwind.

Their destination was the summit of Pu Nhi, located in Bac Yen commune, Son La province.

Pu Nhi sits on a mountain range of the same name at nearly 1,000m above sea level. The area is known for its untouched scenery, rolling grassy hills and vast pine forests.

Because of its cool climate and lush landscape, many travelers have nicknamed the destination “a miniature Da Lat” in Son La. It has become a favorite summer escape for visitors from northern provinces seeking relief from the heat.

“This is our second time visiting Pu Nhi. The first was in 2024. The scenery here is still incredibly impressive and remains largely untouched,” Oanh said.

A summer camping spot surrounded by pine forests

For this trip, the family spent two days and one night camping at the summit using their own equipment.

The camping area charges an entrance fee of VND100,000 (USD3.9) for adults and VND40,000 (USD1.6) for children.

“What I love most about visiting Pu Nhi in summer, especially around May and June, is that this is the most beautiful season here,” Oanh said.

“The grass is lush and green, while the large pine trees create cool shade. Adults can relax with coffee and photos, while children have plenty of space to run around and play.”

Because the area remains largely undeveloped and has no electricity or running water, visitors planning overnight stays need to bring essential supplies themselves.

According to the Hanoi traveler, Pu Nhi’s elevation keeps the weather pleasant even during summer. Daytime temperatures are cool enough that fans are unnecessary, while nighttime temperatures drop to around 22-25 degrees Celsius.

“During the day, there’s a refreshing breeze, and at night it becomes chilly. Since we slept in tents, we had to bring thin blankets for sleeping,” she said.

For meals, the family brought food stored in portable coolers along with cooking equipment from home. Oanh prepared meals on-site according to the family’s preferences.

As temperatures dropped in the evening, the family gathered around a hot pot meal and enjoyed warm dishes together in the cool mountain air.

From grazing land to favorite summer retreat

Before becoming a tourist destination, the grassy hills of Pu Nhi were primarily used by local residents for grazing livestock.

In recent years, however, the area has gradually been developed for tourism and has emerged as a popular summer retreat thanks to its picturesque scenery and cool climate.

Oanh noted that although the road leading to the hilltop is steep, it remains accessible for both low-clearance cars and motorbikes.

“Before going, travelers should check the weather forecast in Bac Yen and only visit when conditions are dry and sunny,” she advised. “The drive from Hanoi takes around four to five hours, but the scenery and cool weather make it absolutely worthwhile.”

Thao Trinh