In 2019, the Mu Cang Chai terraced fields were recognized as a Special National Relic, spanning over 800 hectares across the communes of La Pan Tan, Che Chu Nha, De Xu Phinh, Kim Noi, Mo De, and Lao Chai.
Video: Adventurers exploring the “Dinosaur Backbone” in Mu Cang Chai
Located approximately 19km from the center of Mu Cang Chai town, the mountainous area of De Xu Phinh has become a beloved destination for avid travelers and explorers.
Nestled within this region is a trail known as the “Dinosaur Backbone,” perched atop a mountain in the Phinh Ho hamlet. This path offers a unique perspective of the area’s pristine, lush landscape.
While not as famous as the “Dinosaur Backbone” in Binh Lieu (Quang Ninh) or Ta Xua (Son La), the “Dinosaur Backbone” in Mu Cang Chai has its own unique charm that attracts visitors.
Nguyen Trong Cung, a 32-year-old traditional medicine doctor and freelance photographer from Thai Binh, shared that he had visited Mu Cang Chai several times but only recently discovered the “Dinosaur Backbone” in De Xu Phinh last September.
He was captivated by the majestic natural scenery, with a panoramic view of the vast valley below. “From the ‘Dinosaur Backbone,’ you can also see National Highway 32, the villages, and the terraced fields in the distance,” he added.
A breathtaking view captured from the peak of the “Dinosaur Backbone” in Mu Cang Chai
According to the young photographer, the journey to the “Dinosaur Backbone” in De Xu Phinh can be challenging. If you start from Mam Xoi Hill, it will take around 1.5 to 2 hours. Alternatively, if you begin from Mong Ngua Hill, you’ll need to cover a distance of about 13km to reach this spot.
Most of the route to the “Dinosaur Backbone” in Phinh Ho is concrete and accessible by car, lined with beautiful pine trees on both sides. However, as you approach the mountain, the road becomes more difficult to navigate, with sharp curves, steep inclines, and a surface covered in rocks and gravel.
Upon arrival, visitors must climb about 100 earthen steps to reach the mountain peak.
“If you’re not a confident driver, you can leave your car at a local resident’s house and hire a local driver to take you to the site for safety and convenience. From there, it’s about a 10-minute walk to the summit,” shared Cung.
The tilted slabs of rock resemble the backbone of a dinosaur, with protruding ridges.
At the site, visitors will be greeted by a series of tilted rock slabs, resembling the backbone of a dinosaur with its protruding ridges. While the path along this area is relatively stable due to the presence of many rocks, it is crucial for visitors to exercise caution and remain vigilant during their exploration.
Cung noted that the “Dinosaur Backbone” offers a unique and impressive perspective of Mu Cang Chai, especially during the golden season. However, as this is still an undeveloped tourist site, there are no accompanying services. Visitors are advised to bring their own food and drinks and to refrain from littering to preserve the natural beauty of the area.
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