Early in the morning of December 25th, Christmas Day, the first tourists to reach the summit of Fansipan (Lao Cai) were overwhelmed with emotion as they witnessed a rare and spectacular natural phenomenon.
With temperatures ranging from 1°C to 3°C, frost has blanketed the mountain peaks. This is the ideal time for tourists who want to see the ice and snow firsthand, chase the clouds, and enjoy the Christmas atmosphere amidst the cold sea of clouds.
According to Mr. Quyen Anh Tuan, an official at Sun World Fansipan Legend tourist area, frost appeared at altitudes of 3,000m and above from the early morning of December 25th. The ice layer, about 0.5 cm thick, was white and fluffy, clinging to the floor, railings, and other surfaces on the mountaintop, transforming the area into a cold, white space with crystal-clear ice formations.
Around 7:30 AM, as the sun rose higher, the ice began to melt, leaving only a thin layer clinging to the summit and base of the flagpole. The rapid transformation of the landscape, from thick ice blankets in the dim light of early morning to translucent patches melting in the sun, created a stunning visual moment for those present on the mountaintop at the right time.
Many tourists arriving at the summit of Fansipan around 7:30 AM can admire the melting ice while observing the natural scenery marking the start of a new day at an altitude of over 3,000 meters. Amidst the deep cold, the image of a Christmas tree made from corn cobs and brocade, the mountain ranges hidden behind the clouds, and the lingering Christmas atmosphere make the winter experience in Sa Pa and Fansipan even more special, where every small detail evokes the mountains and forests of Northwest Vietnam.
These days, the Sa Pa Snow Festival, themed "Sa Pa - Winter Dance in the Source of Culture," continues until January 1, 2026. Visitors still have the opportunity to experience the fascinating frost on Fansipan peak and admire the snowfall during this unique festival.
Meteorological experts advise tourists to choose appropriate clothing, shoes, and boots in conditions where temperatures can drop to 0 degrees Celsius, the air is cold and dry, winds are strong, and icy surfaces can easily cause slips. Preparing warm, layered clothing to cover hands, feet, and head is essential to comfortably enjoy the scenery without the biting cold hindering the experience.