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You’ve probably heard of the Ha Giang Loop, one of the most famous travel routes in northern Vietnam. But this mountainous region has so much more to offer than that. Among its highlights, Cat Cat Village stands out as one of the most popular ethnic villages included in many northern Vietnam tours, and for good reason. Curious to know why? Let’s take a closer look.
The name “Cat Cat” comes from the Hmong language, meaning “below the market,” a reference to the waterfall located beneath the village market. Another story traces the name back to the French, who were struck by the beauty of that local waterfall. In French, “cascade” means waterfall, and the word’s sound is close to “Cat Cat.” From then on, the village became known by this name.
The name “Cat Cat” comes from a local waterfall
Situated at the foot of the Hoang Lien Son mountain range in northern Vietnam, Cat Cat Village lies just 3 km from the center of Sapa town. This village is thoroughly surrounded by mountains, making it feel worlds away from the hustle of modern life.
From Hanoi, the journey to downtown Sapa is about 300 km by road. You can travel this leg by taking the Hanoi - Lao Cai train, an overnight sleeper bus, or by renting a private car for more comfort and flexibility.
Sapa’s scenery is so beautiful that simply taking the time to travel around is fulfilling enough
Once you arrive in downtown Sapa, you can reach Cat Cat Village by taking a local xe om (motorbike taxi). Drivers usually wait near the Stone Church and the Sapa bus station, and in fact, they often approach you first. Alternatively, if you know how to ride a motorbike and have no tight schedule, renting a motorbike is a great way to explore the scenic trails leading to the village. The ride is only about 3 km, making it an easy option as long as you feel confident on the road.
Bicycles are another alternative. Most accommodations in Sapa offer bike rentals, so you can just have your homestays arrange one for you on request.
Visitors to Cat Cat Village are required to purchase an entrance ticket. Ticket prices may vary depending on the season, but they are generally:
• Adults: 5.68 USD per person
• Children (height 1 - 1.3 m): 3.79 USD per person
• Children under 1 m: Free entry
The Hmong people have a culture that is different from that of the Kinh (Vietnamese) people
The entrance fee, however, does not cover extra services. If you’d like to use some of these, here are the approximate costs:
• Traditional ethnic costume rental: 1.89 - 5.68 USD per set
• Meals: 1.89 - 7.57 USD per person
• Overnight stays: 9.47 - 113.60 USD per night
Cat Cat Village is usually open from 5:00 AM until 10:00 PM, so make sure to plan your visit with these hours in mind.
No matter the season, Cat Cat Village always has its own distinct charm and is worth a visit. However, the best overall time for Northern Vietnam tours is autumn, which runs from September to November. During this season, the golden rice terraces are at their peak of beauty and the weather is perfect for sightseeing.
Spring is the season when many local festivities come alive
The second-best time for a Sapa tour package is from March to April. This is when blossoms appear, trekking paths are clear, and villages come alive with spring festivities.
The road leading to Cat Cat Village offers breathtaking views of mountains and valleys that are distinct from those of northern Vietnam. If you enjoy photography, this beautiful route is full of opportunities to capture stunning landscapes.
Since Cat Cat Village is a settlement of the Hmong people, you’ll find age-old crafts such as handwoven brocade, flax cultivation, basket weaving, embroidery, blacksmithing, and silver jewelry making, all still practiced today. You can watch artisans at work and even try some of these traditional activities for yourself.
You can join in and experience traditional Hmong handicrafts
While in Cat Cat Village, you can take part in many cultural activities and performances, including events like Hmong Cultural Festival Day or A Day as a Hmong Bride. These experiences will offer you a chance to look into local folklore through traditional dances, love songs, brocade embroidery, and folk games such as crossbow shooting and tug-of-war.
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With vibrant water cascading from above, Tien Sa Waterfall is a place of both beauty and tranquility. The sound of rushing water mingles with the forest breeze, creating a harmony that will refresh your senses and give you a peaceful escape during your Northern Vietnam tour. Don’t miss the chance to visit this waterfall that gave Cat Cat village its name.
The waterfalls are among the must-see attractions when visiting northern Vietnam
While in Cat Cat Village, don’t miss the chance to visit Nha Cua Mi and Nha A Phu, two cafés inspired by Vietnamese literature and designed with architecture and settings that reflect Hmong cultural elements.
A visit to Cat Cat Village is a great opportunity to sample some of Sapa’s most famous specialties, including thang co (a traditional horse meat dish), chestnut cakes, buffalo jerky, five-colored sticky rice, and cơm lam (bamboo-cooked rice).
Because of the cold climate, grilled food is a traditional staple in Sapa
If you want to try everyday local food, the village has many small eateries that serve traditional Hmong dishes. Local favorites include corn wine, Khang Gai smoked meat, chicken blood pudding, corn cakes, and fermented tofu.
For an even deeper culinary experience, try to make a local connection during your Northern Vietnam tour. Being welcomed into a Hmong household is the best way to discover the true flavors of Sapa’s food culture.
Cat Cat Village is without a doubt a destination you shouldn’t miss on your northern Vietnam tour, with its rich ethnic culture and breathtaking natural scenery. Don’t wait any longer! Book a Sapa tour package with Asia King Travel today and let the calming mist of Cat Cat Village refresh your spirit.
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