Sơn La

Sơn La is an administrative province in the northwestern highlands, bordering Laos and marked by steep mountain slopes and deep river valleys. The capital city shares the same name and sits along the Đà River, surrounded by forested peaks.

The area became an administrative center during French colonial rule, when colonial authorities built a prison complex for political prisoners. After the partition of Vietnam, the region remained under northern control and was later developed for major infrastructure projects.

The province is home to traditional Thai stilt houses built from bamboo and timber, often standing among rice terraces. Weekly markets in district towns offer handwoven textiles and locally grown tea from highland plantations.

Reaching the area from Hanoi requires taking National Highway 6, a winding mountain road that involves several hours of travel. Visitors should bring warm clothing, as temperatures in higher elevations can be cool, especially at night.

The area is known for its hot springs that bubble up along the riverbanks and are used by locals for bathing. Some of these thermal sources are accessible in simple public bathhouses and offer a relaxing break after long journeys.

Location: Vietnam

Capital city: Sơn La

Elevation above the sea: 872 m

Shares border with: Yên Bái, Hūaphan, Luang Prabang Province, Điện Biên, Thanh Hóa, Lai Châu, Phú Thọ, Hòa Bình

Website: http://sonla.gov.vn

GPS coordinates: 21.16667,104.00000

Latest update: December 13, 2025 17:13