If you're looking for a quiet getaway from the hustle and bustle of the big cities,
Sam Chiem is the dream destination. Nestled in
Bắc Kạn province in northern Vietnam, this steppe, also known as Khuoi Luong or Doi Tinh, is a treasure trove for nature lovers.
Sam Chiem is a treasure for nature lovers - Source : Du Lich Lao Dong
Did you know? Bac Kan has a few other places like this, such as: Lung Trang, Phieng Chi, Lung Mia, Mu La. There are many beautiful areas that have yet to be fully explored.
A natural journey
Just 30 kilometers from downtown Bắc Kạn, Sam Chiem, located in Hiep Luc commune, Ngan Son district, welcomes you with its grassy hills and forested areas. Access is easy by motorcycle or car via winding roads, offering a scenic drive through enchanting landscapes. An hour's drive is enough to immerse you in the heart of this unspoilt nature, where the average temperature remains pleasantly below 30 degrees Celsius - perfect for outdoor activities!
How to get there
To reach Sam Chiem from Bắc Kạn, follow these simple steps:
1. Take QL 3 towards Chợ Mới.
2. Continue on QL279.
3. At the Lãng Ngâm intersection, turn right.
4. Continue for about 8 km to your destination.
You can use your own vehicle, but if you prefer public transport, several buses connect Hà Nội to Bắc Kạn. Remember to book in advance to guarantee your seat!
Sam Chiem is an invitation to reconnect with nature - Source : Du Lich Lao Dong
Sam Chiem - A little history
The Bắc Kạn region, including Sam Chiem, has a rich history. Before 1940, it was a strategic point between various Vietnamese kingdoms, its limestone caves and steep-sided valleys offering refuge during conflicts. During the Vietnamese Revolution, Sam Chiem played a crucial role, serving as a transit point for revolutionary forces, while French forces attempted to control colonial Route 3 through the region. Once a strategic point for Viet Minh ambushes, the area today bears witness to this period, with its bunkers and commemorative steles.
What to do in Sam Chiem
There's no shortage of things to do in this region. Whether you're a hiker or an adventurer, here are a few trails to explore:
The Rice Loop (3-4h): An easy 7 km circuit through rice terraces and typical villages.
The Cave Trail (5-6h): For the adventurous, a 12 km trail leads to the Nam Han cave and Nam Dai waterfall.
The Great Crossing (2 days): An immersive 25 km experience, including ethnic villages and primary forests.
Sam Chiem caves
Don't miss the Nam Han and Gia Khau caves. Each offers a unique experience with impressive rock formations and unspoilt natural environments. Remember to bring flashlights and water to explore these underground wonders in complete safety.
Sam Chiem is also known as Khuoi Luong or Doi Tinh - Source : VOV-Live
Nearby cultural and natural attractions
Conclusion
Sam Chiem Steppe is much more than just a destination; it's an invitation to reconnect with nature and discover Vietnamese culture in all its splendour. Whether you're looking for tranquillity or adventure, this corner of paradise promises unforgettable memories and authentic experiences in the heart of nature. So why not pack your bags and set off to discover Sam Chiem?