Thousands are flocking to Sapa to welcome the early arrival of snow this year and bask in the alpine Swiss Alps atmosphere typified by the splendour of the glistening landscapes in the winter sun.

Sapa, lying 1,600 metres above sea level amongst Vietnam’s highest mountains, is famous as a quaint, quiet and isolated town with beautiful views of snow-covered winter landscapes.

Some photos from December 15-16:

Snow 20 cm thick blankets many places          Snow covers the terraces, the artificial wonders for the first time in more than 50 years           It has only snowed 15 times since 1971, with the largest in February 1968           Sunlight glittering off snow has brightened the landscapes for decades                                   Heavy snow damages crop areas and blocks traffic on many roads                       Icy conditions and heavy snow on O Quy Ho Pass and Fansipan Peak