Ha Giang City (Thành phố Hà Giang)

Discover the wonders of Northern Vietnam! Ha Giang City, the bustling capital of Ha Giang Province, invites visitors to embark on an unforgettable journey around Ha Giang, immersing themselves in stunning nature and vibrant ethnic traditions.

1. Ha Giang, Vietnam: What Awaits You?

Located in Vietnam’s northern highlands, approximately 318 kilometers from Hanoi, the stunning mountainous province of Ha Giang features elevations reaching from 800 to 1,200 meters above sea level. Its terrain is defined by a dense concentration of imposing mountain peaks, complemented by flowing rivers and diverse flora.

With a vibrant cultural heritage supported by 19 ethnic groups who consider this region home, Ha Giang is a perfect destination for cultural immersion. Despite the simplicity and authenticity of the local way of life, the untouched beauty of the scenery charms visitors, leaving an unforgettable impression that remains long after they have left Ha Giang, Vietnam.

2. The 7 Best Things to See in Ha Giang, Vietnam

2.1. Ma Pi Leng Pass: A Scenic Mountain Road

The Ma Pi Leng Pass, a challenging mountain road stretching around 20 kilometers, is a defining feature of Ha Giang.

Ma Pi Leng Pass

Linking Ha Giang City with the districts of Dong Van and Meo Vac, Ma Pi Leng’s name originates from Mandarin, meaning “horse’s nose”. The pass winds through treacherous cliffs, peaking at a height of 2,000 meters, with the deep valley of the Nho Que River below.

2.2. Exploring the Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark

A highlight of any trip to Ha Giang, Vietnam, is a visit to the Lung Cu Flag Tower. Covering over 2,356 square kilometers, this extraordinary area includes rocky mountains, valleys, and varied ecosystems. It is also the ancestral land of several ethnic minority populations, adding to the region’s cultural significance. The geopark provides a window into the area’s ancient past, with fossilized remains dating back 500-600 million years.

2.3. The Nho Que River: A Turquoise Ribbon

The Nho Que River, flowing at the foot of the Ma Pi Leng Pass, is among the best-known Ha Giang landmarks and one of Vietnam’s most picturesque waterways. Seen from above, it resembles a striking, shimmering emerald strand nestled among the landscape.

Nho Que River

Taking a boat tour along the waterway provides an opportunity to appreciate its enchanting charm and capture unforgettable photos as you navigate Tu San Alley, recognized as one of Southeast Asia’s deepest ravines.

2.4. Exploring the Bustling Dong Van Market

The Dong Van Market, held every Sunday morning, is a vibrant and bustling marketplace in Ha Giang, Vietnam. This locale is known for its interesting array of goods, mainly agricultural produce and handcrafted goods. Beyond the simple transactions of buying and selling, Dong Van Market provides a place for interaction, connection, and cultural exchange.

Visiting Dong Van Ha Giang Market presents an opportunity to learn about the daily lives of local people, appreciate the diverse traditional clothing of Vietnamese ethnicities, and savor delicious cuisine. Furthermore, on the 14th, 15th, and 16th days of each lunar month, the market becomes even more lively with numerous cultural events and traditional folk games.

2.5. Lung Cu Flag Tower: Symbol of National Unity

Lung Cu in Ha Giang is home to the iconic Lung Cu Flag Tower, a well-known attraction. Situated atop Rong Mountain at 1,500 meters above sea level, this striking tower flies a massive 54-square-meter flag, a symbol of the solidarity of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups. Positioned at Vietnam’s northernmost point, the Lung Cu Flag Tower carries enormous geographical and cultural significance.

2.6. Quan Ba Heaven Gate: Gateway to the Plateau

When trekking in Ha Giang, the stunning Quan Ba Heaven Gate is something to remember. This gate, also called Quan Ba Pass, reveals the beguiling attraction of the highlands. What makes it particularly memorable is the feeling of being close to the clouds from above, truly living up to its picturesque name. Rising more than 1,500 meters above sea level, Quan Ba Heaven Gate acts as the main entrance to the Dong Van Karst Plateau.

2.7. Hoang Su Phi: A Region of Terraced Fields

Located to the west of Ha Giang, approximately 100 km from the city center, Hoang Su Phi includes one town and twenty-four communes. It is bordered by the Bac River and Chay River, as well as China (to the North), Quang Binh District (to the South), Xin Man District (to the West), and Vi Xuyen District (to the East). Hoang Su Phi is home to twelve ethnic minorities: Mong, Dao, La Chi, Nung, and Tay people.

Hoang Su Phi

Hoang Su Phi, Ha Giang, is known as “golden bark” country, with its extensive and beautiful rice fields, buckwheat flowers, and striking mountains. When traveling through Hoang Su Phi, visitors can experience clouds over Tay Con Linh and enjoy tasty mountain cuisine.

3. How to Plan the Perfect Getaway to Ha Giang, Vietnam

3.1. Best Time to Visit Ha Giang, Vietnam

Ha Giang, Vietnam, showcases its beauty year-round, making it a worthwhile travel spot at any time. However, to fully enjoy the enchanting character of its plateau lands, take into consideration these recommended times:

• January: As spring arrives, the landscapes of Ha Giang are showcased with bright peach blossoms, mustard flowers, and plum blossoms.
• April and May: The water season presents picturesque scenes of rice fields, especially in Hoang Su Phi, Quan Ba, and Ma Pi Leng.
• September and October: This is the best time for visiting Ha Giang, Vietnam’s charming rice terrace fields.
• October to December: Ha Giang, Vietnam, reveals its most captivating season – as buckwheat flowers bloom.

In summary, the best timeframe for visiting Ha Giang, Vietnam, is from September to March. This stage not only shows the stunning charm of the harvest seasons and blossoming flowers but also features exciting spring festivals.

3.2. How to Travel from Hanoi to Ha Giang

If you’re travelling to Ha Giang from Hanoi, two transportation options are avilable: motorbike or bus. If you are travelling from overseas, you can fly to Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi and then continue your journey to Ha Giang, Vietnam.

• By bus: If departing from Hanoi, it is best to board an overnight bus headed for Ha Giang from My Dinh Bus Station at 9 pm. With this practical choice, you will arrive in Ha Giang, Vietnam, at about 5 am.
• By motorbike: Adventurous travelers with a passion for motorbikes find the highways of Ha Giang a unique experience.
• With Vietnam Treasure Tour: A leading Vietnamese travel company based in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, offering authentic tours across Vietnam as part of VIET NAM Ja+ Services and Tourism Company Limited.

3.3. Don’t Leave Ha Giang Without Trying These Foods!

Ha Giang, Vietnam, is a favorite destination for food lovers due to its varied and unique offerings, such as thang co and five-colored sticky rice. Made with regional ingredients and traditional preparations, these delicacies highlight the region’s distinct taste. When visiting Ha Giang, Vietnam, be sure to taste these specialties:

• Thang co: Made with a combination of horse, beef, pork, and buffalo meat. Its broth consists of pepper, cinnamon, and cardamon, giving it a special scent.
• Buckwheat flower cake: As a signature cake from the H’Mong people, it presents a slightly sweet and fragant taste.
• Au Tau Porridge: Considered a restorative dish made of upland glutinous rice, grilled pork, and Au Tau. It is thought to provide joint pain relief.
• Five-colored sticky rice (Xoi ngu sac): A visually stunning dish that uses roots, leaves, and fruits to stain glutinous rice with red, yellow, blue, purple, and white colors.
• Thang den: A iconic dish in Ha Giang, Vietnam, made with glutinous rice. It is made by kneading glutinous rice flour into balls, steaming them, and mixing them with sugar and coconut milk with sliced ginger; topped with peanuts and black sesame seeds before being served.
• Steamed rice rolls (Banh cuon): While a familiar dish in Northern Vietnam, Ha Giang’s has its distinguishing factors. Stuffed with with eggs, meat, and mushrooms and topped with fried shallots. In addition, it is served with fresh coriander, sausage, and a flavorful bone broth.

3.4. Tips for a Fulfilling Experience in Ha Giang, Vietnam

• A range of accommodations can be found in Ha Giang, including hotels, stays, and guesthouses. Taking advantage of a homestay offers a real cultural interaction. Be mindful of reserving your accommodation in advance, notably during the elevated travel period.
• Ha Giang has roads with many turns, so exercise precautions while riding or driving. Make sure you have a valid license before operating or renting a motorbike. Be attentive of any road closures or weather conditions, mainly given the rainy season, and wear a helmet as well.
• Inspect the motorbike’s condition before renting and get one with two rearview mirrors for the sake of safety.
• To ensure your well-being, finishing your travel during dusk is preferable. Ha Giang’s terrain carries dangers, and darkness can add to the risk.
• Essentials to pack for Ha Giang Loop consist of adaptable clothing made for fluctuating temperatures, quality shoes for trails, and all essentials such as umbrellas, insect repellant, and sunscreen.
• Ha Giang proudly recognizes its several ethnic minority communities, and it is crucial to honor their practices. Always look for permission to take photographs.

4. Adventure the Ha Giang Loop by Bike, Car, or Jeep with Vietnam Treasure

Embarking on the Ha Giang Loop by motorcycle, car, or jeep VietNam Treasure promises an unforgettable adventure through dramatic mountain scenery, winding roads, and culturally rich ethnic villages nestled in Vietnam’s northern highlands.

Ha Giang loop tour: 3 days, 2 nights

Prices starting from US $169.00/pax

Ha Giang loop tour: 4 days, 3 nights

Prices starting from US $199.00/pax

Ha Giang loop tour: 5 days, 4 nights

Prices starting from US $245.00/pax

For an unforgettable and safe trip, enable VietNam Treasure to guide your quest of Ha Giang. We are a well-known and qualified travel partner. We pledge to provide you with an amazing journey!