1. Overview of Seo My Ty Lake
The peaceful, pristine scenery of Seo My Ty Lake possesses a unique beauty. (Source: Collected)
Seo My Ty Lake , located in the heart of Hoang Lien Son National Park, is a rare destination that retains its wild, peaceful beauty amidst the majestic mountains and forests of Sa Pa. Situated at an altitude of 1,600–1,677 m, the lake offers a pristine atmosphere and a unique 'water above the clouds' scenery, making every morning here like a vibrant natural painting.
1.1. Where is Seo My Ty Lake?
Seo My Ty Lake lies quietly within Hoang Lien Son National Park, belonging to Seo My Ty village, Ta Van commune, Sa Pa town, Lao Cai province. The lake is about 20 km southeast of Sa Pa center, at an altitude of 1,600 – 1,677 m above sea level.
The road to the lake was significantly upgraded in 2025, taking visitors through Muong Hoa valley, Lao Chai and Ta Van villages, before conquering the final 10–12 km rocky path. Although this route is a bit challenging compared to usual tourist routes, it is precisely thanks to this that Seo My Ty Lake retains its rare pristine, wild beauty.
1.2. History of Seo My Ty Lake's formation and the Seo Chong Ho hydropower project
Seo My Ty Lake was formed in conjunction with the Seo Chong Ho hydropower project, which commenced in 2008 and was completed in late 2012 – 2013. The hydropower dam is located in Seo My Ty village, while the plant is built in Ban Ho commune.
The harmonious combination of nature and human hands has created an artificial lake of about 60 ha, with clear blue water, sourced from the natural river and stream system of the Hoang Lien Son range. Besides its purpose of generating electricity, the lake has also become an attractive ecological destination, drawing tourists who love nature, exploration, and experiencing the mountainous landscape.
1.3. The special features that make Seo My Ty Lake stand out from other lakes in Vietnam
Seo My Ty Lake is the highest artificial lake in Vietnam, among the highest lakes in Indochina, at an altitude of 1,600–1,677 m, offering a cool climate year-round along with characteristic weather phenomena.
The lake is also known by the nickname 'water lake above the clouds', due to the sight of mist covering the lake surface every morning, creating the sensation that the lake is floating amidst fluffy clouds. The calm water surface reflects the mountains, forests, sky, and clouds, like a vibrant ink wash painting.
Unlike many lakes that have developed strong tourism, Seo My Ty Lake still retains its wild, peaceful character, with year-round clear blue water and a quiet atmosphere, ideal for those seeking original, tranquil nature and absolute relaxation.
2. How to get to Seo My Ty Lake
The poetic, peaceful, and pristine scenery of Seo My Ty Lake. (Source: Collected)
To reach Seo My Ty Lake, visitors can choose various means of transport from Hanoi or Sapa center, including buses, trains, or private cars, offering convenience and a full view of the Northwestern mountainous scenery. The final ~10 km stretch through valleys and gravel roads provides an experience of exploring pristine nature, requiring suitable vehicle preparation and driving skills.
2.1. Directions from Hanoi/Sapa to Seo My Ty
The journey from Hanoi to Seo My Ty Lake is about 320 km long, typically taking 5–6 hours of travel.
Visitors can opt for sleeper buses, luxury limousines, or trains, depending on their preferences for comfort and time.
For more independence, driving a private car via the Noi Bai – Lao Cai expressway is also an ideal choice, offering convenience and the opportunity to admire the Northwestern mountainous scenery along the way.
From Sapa center to Seo My Ty Lake, the approximately 20 km route offers diverse experiences. Adventure enthusiasts can choose manual motorcycles, easily navigating mountain passes and small gravel roads.
Larger groups or families should consider 7-seater cars or pickup trucks, but it is essential to have a driver familiar with mountain passes to ensure safety.
For trekking enthusiasts, the 12–14 km route from Ta Van through the Hoang Lien forest is an opportunity to experience pristine nature, combining exercise with sightseeing.
Additionally, taxis or private car services are convenient, with estimated fares of 350,000–450,000 VND per trip in 2025.
2.2. In-village routes and suitable transport to Seo My Ty
The final stretch leading to Seo My Ty Lake is primarily a gravel road about 10 km long, located after turning off the main concrete road. It requires visitors to be well-prepared with both their vehicle and driving skills. Manual motorcycles are a popular choice, with rental prices ranging from 130,000–200,000 VND per day, suitable for those who enjoy self-exploration.
Families or large groups should opt for 4–7 seater tourist cars, with estimated prices from 700,000–900,000 VND per day, and prioritize local drivers familiar with mountain passes for safety.
The travel time from Sapa to Seo My Ty Lake is usually 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on the vehicle type and weather conditions. Before departing, visitors should check the weather forecast and avoid traveling during heavy rain for a smoother and safer journey.
3. Unmissable experiences at Seo My Ty Lake
Seo My Ty Lake offers a complete natural experience, from the magical 
Campers enjoy the peaceful scenery of Seo My Ty Lake. (Source: Collected)
Spending the night at Seo My Ty Lake is a great opportunity to get close to nature. Campsites are usually located at least 10 m from the water's edge, ensuring safety and convenient drainage. At night, temperatures can drop to 14–17°C even in summer, so visitors should prepare warm clothing and suitable sleeping bags.
Tent rental services are increasingly diverse, ranging from 150,000–300,000 VND/night for 2–4 person tents. Many homestays also offer camping guidance for first-time visitors. Insulation mats and flashlights are essential items for a safe and convenient camping trip.
When building a campfire, adhere to fire safety regulations, choose an open area away from vegetation, and always have water ready to extinguish it. Mountain winds at night can be quite strong, so secure your tent firmly and extinguish the fire before resting.
3.3. Kayaking, Fishing
The calm lake surface is ideal for kayaking to explore Seo My Ty Lake. Double kayak rental prices are around 100,000–150,000 VND/hour, with life jackets provided, ensuring safety for beginners.
Fishing is also very attractive. Many homestays organize fishing tours for about 100,000 VND, including equipment and bait. The catch can be prepared on-site, enjoying the fresh taste of mountain specialties. This is also an opportunity for visitors to learn about the lake's ecosystem, where salmon and sturgeon are raised semi-naturally, providing a clean food source for the local community.
3.4. Trekking through Hoang Lien Son forest from Seo My Ty
Trekking routes around the lake are suitable for many people. Beginners can choose short routes of 2–4 km, passing through H'Mong villages, terraced fields, and poetic peach and plum orchards.
Those who like a challenge can experience a 12–15 km route through the Hoang Lien forest, heading towards the peak of 2,180 m west of the lake. Along the way, visitors will admire the primeval forest with diverse Northwestern flora such as wild orchids, ferns, and ancient pine trees.
Each viewpoint from different altitudes offers a distinct experience: when high up, the lake appears in a wide-open valley, while at other times it hides in the mist, creating vivid and unforgettable natural scenes.
4. Discover the culture of the H'Mong community in Seo My Ty
Peaceful scenery with small houses of the H'Mong people by Seo My Ty Lake. (Source: Collected)
Discovering Seo My Ty Lake is not just about enjoying nature but also a journey to explore the unique culture of the H'Mong community. From the pơ mu wooden houses, winding terraced fields to market days, traditional cuisine, and unique festivals, visitors will fully experience the life of the Northwestern villages.
4.1. Peaceful life by the lake: Wooden houses, terraced fields, market days
Around Seo My Ty Lake, the pơ mu wooden houses of the H'Mong people appear like a fairy tale scene amidst the mountains and forests of the Northwest. Pointed-roof houses, built close to the mountainside and facing the lake along with the terraced fields, show the harmony between humans and nature. Pơ mu wood is carefully selected, both durable and resistant to high humidity, suitable for the highland climate.
Terraced fields embrace the village, winding softly like green silk ribbons. The H'Mong people meticulously care for each plot of land, making the most of the land for rice cultivation. When the water pouring season arrives, the fields reflect the clouds and sky like a mirror; when the rice ripens, golden hues stretch across the village, creating a vibrant natural painting.
Market days in Seo My Ty are not held daily, but each event has its own unique character. This is an occasion for the H'Mong community to gather, exchange goods, and meet. The market days are highlighted by the sounds of the H'Mong language, fresh local produce, and traditional brocade products, offering a cultural experience rich in highland character.
4.2. Cultural experience – Local cuisine
The cuisine around Seo My Ty Lake features fresh salmon and sturgeon, prepared in various ways: steamed in banana leaves, grilled over charcoal, or served as sashimi. The fish's flavor combined with local spices creates an unforgettable unique impression.
Joining a meal with H'Mong families, visitors can enjoy a cozy atmosphere and learn how to prepare traditional dishes such as men men, thang co, and enjoy specialty rice wine. This is an opportunity to understand the local culture more deeply, not only through cuisine but also through the community's way of life and interaction.
Besides that, embroidery and weaving are unique cultural experiences. Visitors can try their hand with H'Mong artisans, witness skillful hands creating exquisite products, imbued with ethnic identity, and also serve as meaningful souvenirs.
4.3. Festivals, traditional customs worth experiencing
Gau Tao Festival is the most important festival of the H'Mong people around Seo My Ty Lake. The festival takes place vibrantly with khen dances, then singing, folk sports competitions, offering a complete highland cultural experience.
Seasonal rituals such as the ceremony for starting the farming season, the new rice celebration ceremony reflect the farming cycle of the H'Mong community, showing reverence for nature, ancestors, and the hope for abundant harvests. Local authorities always strive to preserve these cultural values, helping visitors genuinely feel the ethnic identity.
In addition, folk games such as 'nem con' (ball tossing), khen fighting, and traditional costume performances create a lively festival atmosphere. Visitors can immerse themselves in the activities, experience the friendliness, hospitality, and the close-knit lifestyle of the H'Mong people.
5. Suggestions for famous tourist destinations combined with a visit to Seo My Ty Lake
Travel experience at Sun World Fansipan Legend. (Source: Collected)
When visiting Lake Seo My Ty, tourists can combine exploring many famous destinations around Sa Pa, from the majestic Fansipan peak to traditional villages full of cultural colors. From Muong Hoa Valley, Cat Cat Village, Ta Van Village to Sa Pa Market and Ham Rong Mountain, each point offers an unforgettable nature, culture, and virtual check-in experience.
Fansipan Peak – the highest point in Indochina, is a must-visit stop when combining a trip to Lake Seo My Ty. Tourists can choose the modern cable car or trekking to conquer the mountain, hunt for clouds, and admire the beautiful sunset. Along the way, primeval spruce forests and majestic mountain scenery create an unforgettable experience.
Sun World Fansipan Legend harmoniously combines modern entertainment and beautiful nature. The cable car system and virtual check-in spots are suitable for all ages, helping tourists experience both the wildness of the mountains and modern conveniences when combining visits to Lake Seo My Ty and Fansipan.
Cat Cat Village – a traditional craft village just a few kilometers from Sa Pa center, offers a unique cultural experience. Old wooden houses, lush green terraced fields, and distinctive Hmong cuisine make this an ideal day trip destination. Tourists can also buy brocade, highland specialties as souvenirs.
Muong Hoa Valley is famous for its winding terraced fields, unique ancient stone fields, connecting Sa Pa center and Lake Seo My Ty. When the rice ripens, the valley is adorned with a shimmering golden carpet, creating the characteristic and poetic scenery of the Northwest mountains.
Ta Van Village – home to Hmong, Red Dao, and Dzay people, is located on the way to Lake Seo My Ty. The traditional local space, beautiful terraced fields, and high-quality homestays provide ideal conditions for tourists to rest and serve as a starting point for trekking tours to explore the lake.
Sa Pa weekend market is where ethnic people from villages gather, selling handicrafts, brocade, and local specialties. The bustling space, full of colors and highland cultural sounds, leaves an unforgettable impression on all visitors.
Ham Rong Mountain, with its vibrant flower gardens, is an ideal spot to admire the panoramic view of Sa Pa from above. Not far from the town center, Ham Rong is a perfect choice to combine with the itinerary to explore Lake Seo My Ty, offering a complete nature and cultural experience.
6. Useful tips when exploring Lake Seo My Ty
Take check-in photos amidst the serene scenery of Seo My Ty Lake. (Source: Collected)
Fully exploring Seo My Ty Lake requires visitors to prepare thoroughly regarding timing, attire, and necessary items to ensure both safety and comfort. At the same time, respecting the environment, local customs, and behaving civilly will make the trip meaningful, sustainable, and full of interesting experiences.
Traveling to Seo My Ty Lake in spring (March – May) is a wonderful time to admire peach and plum blossoms blooming along the lake shore, with a cool, pleasant climate, suitable for outdoor activities. The ripe rice season (September – November) is also an ideal period for cloud hunting, photography, and enjoying natural scenery. It is advisable to limit visits to the lake during the rainy season (June – August) due to slippery roads and unfavorable weather.
Visitors should bring warm jackets as the temperature at the lake can drop to 14-17°C at night. Non-slip trekking shoes help ensure safe movement on rocky paths and mountain climbing routes. Insulated mats support camping activities, while power banks ensure devices are always ready. Drinking water and light snacks should also be prepared sufficiently as there are still few food and drink services around the lake.
When camping, absolutely do not light fires indiscriminately; after finishing, the fire must be completely extinguished and the area cleaned up. Waste must be collected and disposed of in designated areas, avoid picking flowers and breaking branches to protect the natural landscape. During the visit, maintain order, do not disturb wildlife or the experience of other visitors.
When photographing local people, ask for permission politely and respect their decision if they refuse. Do not arbitrarily intrude into the private space of Hmong families; always behave friendly and politely. When purchasing handicrafts, pay a reasonable price, avoiding excessive bargaining. At the same time, visitors need to respect customs, traditions, and rituals to make the trip both meaningful and sustainable.
7. Accommodation, utility services when traveling to Seo My Ty Lake
Hotel de la Coupole – MGallery is a reputable accommodation in Sa Pa. (Source: Collected)
When traveling to Seo My Ty Lake, visitors can choose to stay at homestays near the lake to immerse themselves in nature and experience the unique H'Mong culture. Alternatively, modern hotels in the heart of Sa Pa are also ideal choices, convenient for traveling to the lake and prominent attractions, while enjoying full resort amenities.
7.1. Choosing homestays and community stilt houses around the lake
Homestays near Seo My Ty Lake like Seo My Ty Homestay or Mong Village Homestay offer an immersive experience in nature. Traditional wooden houses overlooking the lake provide a peaceful and intimate atmosphere. Room rates range from 150,000 – 350,000 VND/person/night in 2025, usually including meals with fresh salmon and sturgeon specialties.
Staying at a homestay is a great opportunity to explore H'Mong culture and customs. Visitors can participate in bonfires, learn traditional cooking, try H'Mong dress embroidery, or enjoy rice wine in a cozy atmosphere. Most homestay owners are locals, always ready to share history and culture, guide visitors to explore beautiful scenery, and organize activities such as trekking and fishing around the lake.
7.2. Suggested Sa Pa hotels for combined itineraries
If you want to combine a trip to Seo My Ty Lake with other attractions, visitors can choose to stay at hotels in the center of Sa Pa such as Sa Pa Centre Hotel, Pistachio Hotel Sapa, KK Sapa Hotel, Hotel de la Coupole – MGallery. The convenient location makes it easy to travel to Sun World Fansipan Legend, Sa Pa market, and other prominent tourist spots.
Modern hotel rooms often have mountain views, creating a relaxing and comfortable atmosphere. The hotel also assists with booking tours and renting vehicles to Seo My Ty Lake, helping visitors prepare their itinerary quickly and conveniently. The hotel's restaurant serves diverse cuisine, from Vietnamese to international dishes, catering to various needs.
Staying in the center of Sa Pa helps visitors optimize their exploration itinerary, convenient for day trips to Seo My Ty Lake, Fansipan, and nearby villages, while enjoying a modern, fully-equipped resort space.
With its ethereal beauty, seemingly floating amidst clouds and mountains, Seo My Ty Lake is likened to the 'lake in the clouds' of the Northwest. This is an ideal destination for nature lovers, those who want to enjoy a peaceful space and capture beautiful check-in moments. Plan your exploration journey to Seo My Ty Lake to fully experience its rare beauty and feel the tranquility amidst the majestic mountains and forests.
