The roof of the Central Highlands - Ngoc Linh mountain in the golden rice season like a painting

In early autumn, when the cold winds begin to chill, at the foot of Ngoc Linh mountain, the terraced fields begin to put on a golden coat. Layers of bright yellow fields, one after another, follow the high mountain slopes, like soft silk strips winding around the hillsides.

Amidst the vast space of mountains and forests, that yellow color becomes a brilliant highlight, evoking the peaceful yet majestic beauty of the mountainous region.

In the rice harvest season, Ngoc Linh mountain is covered in a golden color.

PHOTO: TRANG ANH

Ngoc Linh Mountain, the junction between Quang Ngai province and Da Nang city (formerly Kon Tum and Quang Nam ), with an altitude of about 2,600 m above sea level, is known as the "roof of the Central Highlands".

With such a high altitude, this place has a cool climate all year round, along with a wild, almost intact beauty. Halfway up the mountain, the Xo Dang villages are hidden among the rice fields, making the countryside picture even more poetic.

The yellow color of ripe rice spreads across the hillsides and mountain tops.

PHOTO: TRANG ANH

At the foot of the mountain, Ngoc Linh commune, Quang Ngai province (formerly Dak Glei district, Kon Tum province) is the main residence of the Xo Dang people. Here, the terrain is steep, flat land is scarce, not favorable for cultivation.

But with their long-standing farming experience, the Xo Dang people have chosen mountain slopes near water sources, leveling them into terraces to channel water and grow rice. These terraced fields are not only the result of hard work, but also a unique cultural feature, closely associated with the life of the community.

The terrain is mountainous and lacks flat ground, so local people have to level the mountain slopes into steps for planting and farming.

PHOTO: DUC NHAT

Every year, when the rice harvest season comes, Ngoc Linh takes on a different appearance. Layer upon layer of golden rice fields, interwoven with small houses, create a scene that is both lyrical and rustic.

The village is hidden among layers of terraced fields, creating a peaceful, poetic scene.

PHOTO: TRANG ANH

Mr. A Quang (residing in Dak Re village, Ngoc Linh commune) shared that the terraced fields here are small and narrow, and are located on steep slopes, so it is impossible to use buffaloes, cows or machines to cultivate. All work from plowing, sowing to harvesting is done by hand.

"We only grow one rice crop per year. When the rice is ripe, we harvest it and thresh the grains right in the field, then transfer them to the granary for storage," he said.

Located on a steep hillside, it is impossible to use buffaloes or cows for farming, so all work must be done by hand.

PHOTO: TRANG ANH

During harvest season, the atmosphere of labor is bustling throughout the hillsides. The sound of people laughing and talking, the rustling sound of the rice harvest mixed with the sound of the wind blowing through the forest, all seem to create an interesting harmony of the highlands.

During harvest season, the atmosphere of labor is bustling throughout the hillsides.

PHOTO: TRANG ANH

Mr. A Le Sang, Head of the Economic Department of Ngoc Linh Commune, said that the whole commune currently has nearly 1,100 hectares of rice land. Of which, only about 79 hectares can be cultivated twice a year, while the remaining 1,000 hectares depend entirely on the weather and can only grow one crop. Rice land here is mainly scattered on mountain slopes and small valleys.

People still preserve the traditional customs and practices of terraced rice cultivation that have been passed down through many generations.

PHOTO: TRANG ANH

Ngoc Linh commune today was formed from the merger of Ngoc Linh and Muong Hoong communes, with a total area of about 18,000 hectares and a population of more than 6,100 people. Of which, about 98% are ethnic minorities, mainly Xo Dang people.

During harvest season, Ngoc Linh seems to put on a bright festive dress.

PHOTO: TRANG ANH

Life is still difficult, but people still preserve the traditional lifestyle and terraced rice farming practices that have been practiced for many generations.

Thanhnien.vn

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/noc-nha-tay-nguyen-nui-ngoc-linh-mua-lua-chin-vang-ong-nhu-tranh-185250809235006848.htm