Ha Giang Travel Guide

This guide takes you deep into the heart of what was once Ha Giang province, now part of the newly expanded Tuyen Quang province. Famous for its towering limestone peaks, winding mountain passes and rich ethnic culture, this region remains one of the most spectacular and unspoiled corners of northern Vietnam. From the legendary Dong Van karst plateau to remote hill tribe villages and stunning rice terraces, this guide will help you discover the region’s unspoiled beauty and cultural richness.

General Information

Now part of the newly expanded Tuyen Quang province, the former Ha Giang remains one of the most captivating regions of northern Vietnam. Located in the far north and sharing a long border with China, this mountainous region is home to majestic limestone plateaus, rolling hillside terraced rice fields, winding mountain passes and unspoiled ethnic communities. Despite its administrative annexation, Ha Giang retains a strong cultural identity and unspoiled landscape, continuing to attract adventurous travelers seeking authenticity.

Ha Giang map

Although tourism here has grown significantly in recent years, ethnic minorities, such as the Dao, H’Mong, Tay and Nung, continue to live in harmony with nature and maintain traditional identities and customs that have been passed down through generations. Compared to more developed destinations such as Sapa, the Ha Giang region offers a quieter and more intimate experience. Thanks to improved road infrastructure that is now open to all tourists, getting to the province is now much simpler.

Ha Giang Weather & Best Time to Visit

Depending on what you want to do, you should decide when to go to Ha Giang. However, due to the moderate weather, it is often recommended to plan your Ha Giang tour between the months of February and April. It’s substantially warmer from April through September. The time from December to February has a maximum temperature of 16°C and is the coldest time of the year.

Ha Giang weather

In the rice terraces, the season for transplanting rice starts in May. In order to save water, farmers plow their land and raise the edges. The terraces get wet between May and June, and mirrors with the sky reflected in them start to form.

It is harvest time from September until October. When that happens, the rice fields turn a stunning shade of golden. For fans of photography, it is one of the liveliest and most enchanting times of the year. A beautiful transition from green to yellow is also something we notice.

When the buckwheat flowers bloom in Ha Giang from October to November, you can go there to observe them.

How to get to and around Ha Giang

Although Ha Giang is no longer a separate province, it remains a unique and sought-after destination in northern Vietnam, especially for adventurers who want to explore the famous Ha Giang loop. Although there are no rail or air routes, the road trip still offers breathtaking views and the opportunity to explore the wild, majestic beauty of northern Vietnam. Here’s how to get there:

By car or by bus

From Hanoi, you can easily catch a sleeper bus or limousine directly to Ha Giang city. The journey usually takes 6–8 hours, depending on road conditions. The buses depart in the evening (around 8–9pm) and arrive early the next morning – the perfect time to start your motorbike or trekking journey. Popular bus operators include Quang Nghi, Bang Phan and Truly Ha Giang.

Alternatively, you can stop in Tuyen Quang city first, then take a local bus or taxi to Ha Giang. For more flexibility, many travelers rent a private car with a driver, especially if they are traveling in a group or have a lot of luggage. Although more expensive, you can stop to enjoy the scenery along the way. Before you depart, the price and vehicle quality are agreed upon. You can also travel to Ha Giang from several northern hilly regions. For illustration:

• Sapa-Ha Giang: 245km. Duration: 6h
• Yen bai – Ha Giang: 310km. Duration: 7h30
• Bac Kan – Ha Giang: 245km. Duration: 6h45
• Cao Bang-Ha Giang: 240km. Duration: 7h45

By motorcycle

For the adventurous, riding a motorbike from Hanoi to Ha Giang is a great experience. The trip takes about 8–10 hours, following Highway 2 through Tuyen Quang city or the longer but more scenic route from QL32 to QL279 through Phu Tho and Yen Bai. Make sure you are comfortable with mountain roads, as some sections can be quite difficult.

Another option is to take a bus to Ha Giang city and rent a motorbike there, which is highly recommended if you want to complete the Ha Giang loop without getting tired after a long initial journey. You will have the opportunity to admire the natural scenery along the way, majestic mountains and forests and the winding emerald green Nho Que River.

Places to Visit in Ha Giang

Dong Van Karst Plateau

Dong Van Global Karst Plateau Geopark

Dong Van Karst Plateau, which spans 574 km2, is impressive and includes the districts of Quang Ba, Meo Vac, Yen Minh, and Dong Van. It is the largest karst plateau in Vietnam and is positioned at a height of 1,024 m. A UNESCO World Heritage Geological Park is located on the plateau. It has been there for 500 million years. On the plateau, there is a market that is open every Sunday and holiday where ethnic minorities can interact and trade items.

It is a photographer’s heaven. You can escape the heat by traversing the plateau. The temperature will decrease as you ascend. The rainy season, which lasts from May to October, and the dry season, which lasts from November to April, both occur on the plateau. The buckwheat flowering season, which lasts from October to April, makes the plateau even more gorgeous. Flowers with a mustard color flourish in the valleys.

Dong Van Old Quarter

Ancient village in Dong Van

Only about forty dwellings make up the old quarter of Dong Van, which is only 40 kilometers from Ha Giang in a valley of the Dong Van plateau. Chinese-style homes frequently have two floors and Ying-Yang tiled roofs. Ironwood was used to build the homes. Mountains made of karst surround the city. Chinese ethnic minorities including the Hoa, Hmong, Tay, and Kinh have lived together for a while in Dong Van’s historic area. Dong Van, incidentally, means “sharing culture” place.

Quan Ba ​​Twin Mountains

Quan Ba ​​Twin Mountains

Quan Ba Twin Mountains should not be missed when visiting Ha Giang. The captivating splendor of the surroundings will astound you. Green rice fields at the base of the mountains resemble the attractive spring’s green clothing. Ripe rice turns a honey-yellow color in the fall. The Quan Ba Twin Mountains, which are located in the valley’s center, provide appeal to the area. Additionally, the twin mountain’s love story, which is infused with poetic purpose, conveys both the location’s renowned beauty and its inhabitants’ real lives. Quan Ba Twin Mountains is thus a popular tourist site and a representation of Ha Giang.

Ma Pi Leng Pass

Ma Pi Leng Pass

In northern Vietnam, it is one of the four highest passes. Meaning “horse nose,” Ma Pi Leng. As you ascend the pass, you will be able to take in the breathtaking valleys, hemp fields, and stilt homes of the local minority ethnic groups as well as a comprehensive perspective of the entire geological karst plateau and the breathtaking surroundings.

Hmong King’s Palace

Hmong King Palace

This is located on the plateaus of Dong Van and Meo Vac, around 12 miles from Dong Van. The palace mimics Chinese design. The palace is 1120m2 in size and was constructed by ethnic minorities. This palace, which forms the letter (which in English means “king”), was constructed around the start of the 20th century. You ought to be aware that the Vuong family ruled the entire Dong Van plateau before Vuong Chinh Duc declared himself king. The palace is recognized as a national treasure.

Lung Cu Flag tower

Lung Cu Flag tower

The massive Lung Cu Tower, a historical artifact and revered emblem of national sovereignty, is perched atop Rong or Long Son Mountain. A panoramic view of a stunning environment with mountains, rice fields, lakes, homes with dark gray roofs, and borders can be seen from this location, which is perched at a height of around 1700 meters above sea level.

The tower, which is almost 35 m tall, is draped with a 54 m2 flag that represents 54 members of the vast Vietnamese family. The octagonal pedestal displays reliefs modeled by bronze drums from the Dong Son culture of the nation’s founders, as well as cultural practices of the Ha Giang ethnic groups and historical references. Visitors will be able to get a glimpse of the cultural practices of the many Ha Giang ethnic groups through exhibits of artifacts, clothing, and tools in the exhibition hall at the base of the tower.

Hoang Su Phi and the rice terraces

Sunlight over the rice terraces of Hoang Su Phi

The magnificent Hoang Su Phi rice terraces, which were designated as national treasures in 2012, are an absolute must-see when visiting Ha Giang, Vietnam. When rice is being transplanted in May, the rice fields in Hoang Su Phi that spread as far as the eye can reach in the Xin Man Valley are very beautiful to watch. These murals on the mountainside change color as the rice plants mature: The enormous water mirrors are filled with rice plants, which pass through a light green cover in June and turn yellow in September before harvest.

Nho Que River Valley

Nho Que River

The Nho Que River Valley is one of Vietnam’s most distinctive geological valleys and is regarded as one of Southeast Asia’s deepest canyons due to its exceptionally rough topography. The green Nho Que River can be seen meandering down the mountainside as we stand on top of Ma Pi Leng Pass and look into the distance. We can also experience the majesty of nature. The Nho Que River appears to be a pale blue silk stripe across the gorgeous mountain from a distance. You now only need to relax and take in this land’s breathtaking beauty.

Noong Lake

Noong Lake

Tourists love this 100-ha natural lake that is encircled by forest. It is a freshwater lake that is compared to El Dorado because of the forest of trees that float in the water there. In the lake, there is a wide variety of fish. You will be astounded by nature’s magnificent display.

Meo Vac Village

Meo Vac Village

Meo Vac is a charming little town encircled by towering karst mountains, and like many other communities in the northwest, it frequently hosts ethnic minorities. The main draw is the journey across the breathtaking Mai Pi Leng Pass, which spirals 22 kilometers from Dong Van. Mountains made of limestone make up much of the landscape. The majority of visitors come to Meo Vac to do trekking, enjoy the rural setting, and observe local culture.

Things to do in Ha Giang

Trek in the mountains

Trekking in Ha Giang

Hiking is especially ideal due to the hilly relief and stunning scenery. The province of Ha Giang boasts a variety of hiking opportunities, from short strolls to multi-day treks that include overnight stays. Trekking in Ha Giang offers a one-of-a-kind chance to see mountain communities and view breathtaking vistas from a different perspective.

Stay with the locals

It is a journey that will provide you with priceless memories of your time in Vietnam. Even though the living conditions may be subpar, staying with the locals offers a wonderful opportunity for camaraderie and sharing with the community. Locals, who are frequently members of ethnic minorities, will welcome you into their lovely traditional wooden homes. It is also a chance to support local businesses and promote ethical, cooperative travel.

Discover the markets

Meo Vac Market

Visit one of the many ethnic markets in the province of Ha Giang to encounter this amazing ethnic mosaic; you’ll definitely experience a change of scenery! The women are gorgeously attired in their traditional clothes in glistening colors, making the aisles of the market an even more vibrant festival of color. The most significant markets in the province that draw numerous members of ethnic minorities are those that are conducted on Sunday mornings in Hoang Su Phi, Dong Van, and Meo Vac. Be aware that the “love market” is conducted in the village of Khau Vai just once a year, according to the lunar calendar. Do not miss it!

Admire the rice terraces 

As mentioned above, The Hoang Su Phi Rice Terraces are a true work of art created by one person. The sight of its rice terrace amphitheaters never dissatisfies a traveler. Only between May and October is when the rice is planted when it ripens, and then during the harvest, which occurs at the end of September and the beginning of October.

Food to eat in Ha Giang

Banh tam giac mach (buckwheat cake)

Buckwheat cake

The limestone plateau of Ha Giang dons its magnificent pink and purple mantle made of buckwheat blossoms in the middle of October. The ability of the locals to use this particular flower allows for the creation of a cake that is incredibly nutritious and wholesome. The cooks gather the plant’s seeds and grind them with water until the mixture is completely bonded. The dough is next placed into tiny molds before being heated. The outcome is cakes that can be consumed throughout the meal while they are still hot. For only 15,000 VND, you can readily find these recognizable cakes in any market in the area. They are a staple of Ha Giang cuisine. It’s a great idea to give it as a gift as a keepsake!

Thang co (beef, horse, or goat offal soup)

Thang Co

A rustic dish has a special allure; it is a specialty of mountainous areas’ cuisine and attracts a lot of tourists.

The time in between chilly spells is warmed by the perfume of spices like cardamom, star anise, cinnamon bark, walnuts, lemongrass, and even ginger blending with the fatty flavor of beef. This dish’s primary components include cleaned cattle or horse intestines, meats, bones, seasonings, and aromatic herbs.

Banh cuon trung (steamed rice roll with egg)

Banh cuon trung (steamed rice roll with egg)

Both residents and visitors like eating banh cuon. This cake seems very similar to a simple dish at first, but when you eat it, it tastes fantastic and mouth-watering from the outside to the inside. The cake is thin, fragrant, moist, and silky. When the cake has barely begun to ripen, simply beat the eggs for the banh cuon trung, a type of egg pancake, and then cover the pan with the lid for a bit to cook it thoroughly while keeping it smooth, moist, and free of cracks. For an outstanding flavor, the banh cuon is served with a sauce spiced with a little pepper, chili, and vinegar.

Chao Au tau (Au tau congee)

Au Tau congee

Wintertime in Ha Giang makes it simple to locate a modest eatery and eat Au tau soup. This dish is great because it combines the right ingredients, including minced beef, somewhat oily chestnuts, ham broth, large-grain sticky rice, and traditional field rice. You’ll want more soup after tasting this one!

Xoi ngu sac ( 5-color steamed sticky rice)

Xoi ngu sac

The five hues of this dish—white, red, green, purple, and yellow—represent the fundamental elements of the cosmos. It is made with sticky rice that the locals grow. Xoi ngu sac has developed into an essential dish in ethnic gatherings and festivals all year long due to its appealing shape and fragility.

Ha Giang festivals

Khau Vai Love Market Festival

If you’re fortunate enough to visit Meo Vac, Ha Giang in April, Khau Vai Love Market, also known as Phong Luu Market, is a must-see location. Taking place once a year on a hill in the commune of Khau Vai, this remarkable market is where people come together to discover love in a unique setting.

Spring Festival

Children in Ha Giang, on a spring day

The Dao ethnic community prays for favorable weather and bountiful harvests as they commemorate the start of spring. The ethnic group then shows its acceptance of and adherence to the deity. In fact, the commencement of the harvest marks the start of the new year. On the day of the Lunar New Year, the festivity is held. This is a chance to dance, laugh, and take part in a variety of fun games.

Rain Festival

Every year, the Lo Lo ethnic community honors the rain and offers their livers to their gods in the hopes that they may fall on the Meo Vac fields for a better harvest. The dates of this festival are March 17–19. This provides a chance for people to interact while participating in the festival’s numerous ceremonies. Offerings are delivered to the home of a sorcerer or the local leader, including chickens, dogs, and rice. After that, a ceremony needs to be planned. All of the villagers congregate after the service has concluded to drink, eat, and dance.

All of your senses will be satisfied if you travel to this unique charming place. Do not hesitate to contact us and plan your first visit to Ha Giang!