Visitors to Mu Cang Chai district in the northern province of Yen Bai this May were offered the chance to paraglide over the terraced rice fields to enjoy panoramic views of Mu Cang Chai’s well-known landscapes. Khau Pha pass is one of the longest mountain passes in Vietnam at more than 1,200 metres above sea level. Mu Cang Chai has 500 hectares of rice terraces, cultivated by the H'mong people for centuries. The local terraces are among the 2,500 hectares recognised as national heritage sites in 2007 by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism. 

The festival, themed “Flying over rising water on terraced paddies”, drew the participation of about 200 domestic and foreign pilots.

The pilots joined 100 flights for visitors wanting to see the landscapes from above.

According to Hoang Mong Long, Chairman of Vietwings Hanoi Club, the desirable height of the mountains and dry weather make it easy for the pilot to fly. ಞThe parag▨liders all across the country, as well as foreign ones, are so eager to participate in the event.

Nguyen Duy Nhat Vuong, a paraglider from Binh Thanh district, Ho Chi Minh City told reporters: "The weather is so cool here. Local people are also very friendly and helpful." The event also offers a chance for visitors to try local dishes as well as other specialties, while watching performances by local residents. Sung Thi Khua, a local resident living in Nam Co commune, Mu Cang Chai district, Yen Bai province:"We bring here our specialties such as glutinous rice and traditional costumes so as to introduce about our culture to visitors." This is the second time a paragliding festival has been held in the splendid Mu Cang Chai terraced fields during pouring water season, when farmers make the water run into their fields to start a new rice crop. Last year’s event took place in mid-May, with the participation of 100 pilots and a large number of visitors.-VNA