Overview
The cable car opened in 2016 and holds records for both length and vertical rise, which changed the mountain from a trekking objective into a day trip and is not universally welcomed. At the top is a complex of Buddhist temples and statues built since, and cloud covers the summit for much of the year, so the view is a matter of luck rather than planning. The two-day walk from Tram Ton pass goes through bamboo forest and above the treeline and is a genuine hike requiring a guide.
Highlights
Check the forecast the same morning; in cloud there is nothing to see and the ticket is not cheap. Winter mornings are the clearest and can bring frost or rare snow. The funicular from Sapa town to the cable car station saves a taxi and is included in some tickets.