Located over 300 kilometers north of Hanoi, Mu Cang Chai is one of the must-visit places to visit near Hanoi. The journey from Hanoi to Mu Cang Chai presents its own set of challenges compared to popular destinations like Sa Pa and Moc Chau due to its steep slopes, winding paths, and challenging terrain. Discover transportation options, ticket prices, and the unique experiences each mode of transportation offers.
1. How to get from Hanoi to Mu Cang Chai: By bus
To get from Hanoi to Mu Cang Chai, you can opt for the convenient and affordable option of traveling by bus. Several bus companies provide regular services between the two destinations, offering a budget-friendly means of transportation.
1.1. Option 1
You can catch a bus at either My Dinh or Giap Bat bus stations. Most bus companies from Hanoi to Mu Cang Chai follow the secondary route via Route 32 through Nghia Lo Town. Only a few buses will take the expressway from Noi Bai to Lao Cai to pick up passengers from the provinces.
Due to the challenging mountainous terrain, the journey can be time-consuming, taking around 6-8 hours. If you enjoy driving, it is advisable to choose a night trip, rest overnight in Yen Bai City, and then rent a motorbike to explore Mu Cang Chai. However, if bus travel suits you better, it is recommended to take an early morning trip, take a short rest, and then rent a motorbike to explore the area.
The average ticket price ranges from 200,000 VND to 350,000 VND. Please note that these prices are approximate and provided for reference purposes only. It is recommended to contact the respective bus companies directly or visit their websites for the most up-to-date and accurate ticket prices.
| Bus company name | Pick-up point | Departure time | Arrival time | Contact phone number |
| Ha Trang Bus | My Dinh Bus Station | 07:45 p.m. | 03:15 a.m. | 0829 030 333 0782 416 114 0782 416 115 |
| Khanh Thuy Bus | My Dinh Bus Station | 07:00 p.m. | 02:00 a.m. | 0974 222 497 |
| Cuong Lan Bus | Ho Tung Mau Street | 03:00 p.m. | 10:00 p.m. | 0963 856 856 |
1.2. Option 2
You can opt for the shuttle services provided by various resorts. However, in Mu Cang Chai, there is currently only one resort called Mu Cang Chai Resort, which is still under construction. Therefore, if you wish to stay at a resort, it is recommended to choose Le Champ Tu Le Resort and then rent a vehicle to travel to Mu Cang Chai for sightseeing.
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2. Train from Hanoi to Mu Cang Chai
Currently, there is no direct train service from Hanoi to Mu Cang Chai in Vietnam. Therefore, to reach Mu Cang Chai by train, you would need to take a train to either Yen Bai or Sapa and then continue the journey to Mu Cang Chai by bus.
2.1. Itinerary: Hanoi - Yen Bai - Mu Cang Chai
The distance from Hanoi to Yen Bai is approximately 155 kilometers, and it takes about 4-5 hours by train. The ticket prices for the train range from 200,000 VND to 500,000 VND.
From Yen Bai, you can then take a bus to Mu Cang Chai, which is a journey of approximately 180 kilometers and takes about 5-7 hours. The cost of bus tickets for this route is between 100,000 and 150,000 VND.
2.2. Itinerary: Hanoi - Sapa - Mu Cang Chai
One potential route involves taking a train from Hanoi to Sapa, covering a distance of about 316 kilometers and lasting around 7-8 hours. The train ticket prices vary from 400,000 VND to 600,000 VND.
Upon arriving in Sapa, you can then opt for a bus journey to Mu Cang Chai, situated approximately 137 kilometers away, taking approximately 3-4 hours. The bus tickets for this leg of the trip range from 150,000 VND to 250,000 VND.
Please note that these durations and ticket prices are approximate and can vary depending on factors such as the specific train or bus service, traffic conditions, and travel season.
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3. How to travel from Hanoi to Mu Cang Chai: By motorbike
You should start with a motorbike rental in Hanoi, ensuring it is in good condition for the long ride ahead. The rental prices for a motorbike in Hanoi vary depending on the type of motorbike, ranging from approximately 150,000 VND to 300,000 VND per day.
Mu Cang Chai is located around 300 kilometers from Hanoi, so it is essential to plan your rest stops and start early to avoid the intense sun. With the freedom of a motorbike, you can choose from various scenic routes to reach Mu Cang Chai.
- Option 1: Hanoi - Son Tay - Trung Ha Bridge - Thanh Son - Thu Cuc - Deo Khe - Nghia Lo - Tu Le - Khau Pha - Mu Cang Chai
- Option 2: Hanoi - Thang Long Bridge - Route 2 - Phuc Yen - Viet Tri - Doan Hung - Route 70 - Yen Bai - Mu Cang Chai
- Option 3: Hanoi - Thang Long Bridge - Phuc Yen - Vinh Yen - Lap Thach - Route 37 - Tuyen Quang - Yen Bai - Mu Cang Chai
>>> Also read: Vietnamese Rice Paddies: Top 12 Most Beautiful Places for Tourists
4. Where to rent motorcycles in Mu Cang Chai
In Mu Cang Chai, there are three places where you can rent motorcycles, with prices ranging from around 150,000 to 200,000 VND per day, depending on the timing. You can consider the following two motorcycle rental locations:
- Tuyen Mai Motorbike Rental
- Address: Group 6, Mu Cang Chai Town, Mu Cang Chai, Yen Bai
- Contact: 01665684574 or 0962640931
- Hung Nga Motorbike Rental
- Address: Intersection 3, Mu Cang Chai, Yen Bai
- Contact: 0924904686
These rental places offer motorcycles for hire and can provide you with the necessary information and assistance to ensure a smooth rental experience. It is always recommended to inquire about specific rental terms, documentation requirements, and any additional services they may offer.
In addition to the captivating beauty of Mu Cang Chai, Vietnam has a wealth of exciting destinations waiting to be explored, such as the stunning island of Phu Quoc, the vibrant coastal city of Nha Trang, the charming ancient town of Hoi An, the dynamic city of Da Nang, and the breathtaking natural wonder of Ha Long.
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The three transportation options from Hanoi to Mu Cang Chai mentioned above will make it easier for you to choose the most suitable mode of transportation. You can select the method that aligns with your preferences and physical health. No matter which option you choose, all of them provide exciting and unique experiences. The journey will be a wonderful opportunity for you to admire the stunning and majestic landscapes of the northern mountains and forests of Vietnam.
