Vietnam, characterized by a tropical monsoon climate, has certain regions that experience cold weather, particularly during the winter months. Notable locations known for their chilly conditions include Sa Pa in Lao Cai, Ha Giang, Yen Bai, and Son La. Many people believe that Sa Pa or Fansipan Peak is the coldest destination in Vietnam. However, this is not the case.
According to statistics from the Meteorological and Hydrological Station and numerous expert evaluations, the place with the harshest winter and record for the coldest temperatures in Vietnam is Mau Son Peak in Lang Son.
Mau Son Peak – Lang Son is the record holder for the coldest place in Vietnam. (Photo by Lang Huy).
Why is Mau Son Peak – Lang Son the Coldest Place in Vietnam?
The highest point of Mau Son is considered the “roof” of Lang Son, standing at an elevation of approximately 1,600 meters above sea level. According to information from the Vietnam National Tourism Administration, the mountain peak spans three communes: Cong Son and Mau Son in Cao Loc District, and Mau Son in Loc Binh District, covering a total area of 10,470 hectares, including around 80 mountains of varying heights. The highest area of Mau Son is located about 30 kilometers east of Lang Son City and less than 180 kilometers from Hanoi, very close to the Vietnam-China border.
Experts analyze that the reason Mau Son has the lowest temperatures and the coldest climate in the country is primarily due to its geographical features. Specifically, Mau Son is situated in the northern arc, acting as a gateway for monsoon winds. Records indicate that winds at the peak can reach levels of 5 to 6, with gusts up to level 10. This wind intensity is comparable to that of tropical depression and storms. In addition to strong winds, Mau Son Peak is also enveloped by clouds and fog year-round, creating a biting cold, especially in winter.
Snow or frost is a common phenomenon at Mau Son in winter. (Photo: Asean Travel).
Mau Son attracts a large number of tourists in winter. (Photo by Bao To Quoc).
According to information from Tuoi Tre Thu Do, during the strongest cold snap in early 2019, the recorded temperature at Mau Son Peak was -2 degrees Celsius, with significant frost. In contrast, the temperature in Sa Pa (Lao Cai) remained above 3 degrees Celsius without any freezing conditions. Statistics from the Lang Son Meteorological Station, along with evaluations and comparisons from experts, also indicate that winter in Mau Son is harsher and holds the record for the coldest place in Vietnam.
For this reason, visiting Mau Son Peak – Lang Son, especially in winter, offers tourists a unique experience, akin to being in a cold region of some other country in the world.
