Ha Giang, a province in the very north of Vietnam, about 320km from Hanoi, is a place that feels like a step into another world. It's famous for its breathtaking scenery - think huge limestone mountains, roads that twist and turn up steep hills, and small villages hidden by fog.
It's also home to many different ethnic minority groups, each with their unique traditions and ways of life that haven't changed much over the years. This mix of stunning nature and rich culture makes Ha Giang a fantastic place to visit for anyone looking to experience something truly special.
The best way to see all that Ha Giang has to offer is by taking a road trip, either by car or on a motorbike. This lets you get up close to the amazing views, stop by local villages, and meet people from different cultures. It's an adventure that lets you dive deep into the beauty and traditions of Ha Giang at your own pace.
For those planning a trip here, there are so many cool things to do and see. Whether it's winding your way through the mountains, visiting remote villages, or just soaking in the incredible views, Ha Giang has something for everyone. Let's get ready to explore with Things to Do When Visiting Ha Giang for your journey!
1. Drive the Ma Pi Leng Pass
The Ma Pi Leng Pass, part of the Ha Giang Loop, is a marvel of engineering and natural beauty, stretching over 20 kilometers. This road connects Dong Van and Meo Vac towns, winding through mountains with precipitous drops and offering some of the most dramatic landscapes in Vietnam.
Riding along this pass, you'll be greeted with views of the Nho Que River snaking through the valley below. While there's no entrance fee to drive on the pass, renting a motorbike in Ha Giang can cost around VND 150,000 to VND 200,000 per day. The journey is not just a test of skill for drivers but a once-in-a-lifetime experience, revealing the rugged beauty of Vietnam's northern frontier.
2. Visit the Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark
Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark, recognized by UNESCO, spans over 2,356 square kilometers and features a landscape formed over millions of years. Its towering limestone pillars and deep valleys are home to numerous ethnic minorities, each with their unique cultures and traditions. Exploring this geopark gives you insight into the earth's history and human civilization in this region. The entrance fee for the Geopark is about VND 40,000. It's a place where geology, culture, and biodiversity converge, offering endless opportunities for discovery and photography.
>> Read more: Hanoi Car Rental To Ha Giang
3. See the Twin Mountains in Quan Ba
The Twin Mountains, also known as the Fairy Bosom, are located in Quan Ba district. These two symmetrical hills have become a symbol of Ha Giang's natural beauty, resembling the shape of a woman's breasts. According to local legend, these hills were formed from the breasts of a fairy who descended to earth.
There's no entrance fee to view the mountains from the road, but if you wish to stop at a nearby viewpoint for a better look, a small parking fee of around VND 10,000 may be charged. This site is not just a natural wonder but also a cultural icon, embodying the tales and beliefs of the local people.
4. Stroll through Pho Bang Street
A walk down Pho Bang Street transports visitors back in time. This ancient town, with its rows of traditional Chinese-style houses, is free to explore. The streets here are quiet, lined with age-old architecture that tells the story of a rich cultural exchange between the Vietnamese and Chinese communities over the centuries.
5. Explore Lung Cam Cultural Village
This picturesque village is famous for its vibrant flower gardens and traditional H’Mong houses. Entry is free, but participating in cultural activities or overnight stays in a homestay might cost around VND 100,000 to VND 300,000. Lung Cam offers a peek into the H’Mong way of life, with its rich traditions, colorful textiles, and warm hospitality.
6. Attend the Dong Van Sunday Market
The market is a bustling mosaic of culture, colors, and commerce. There's no fee to wander through the stalls, where you can find everything from local handicrafts to exotic foods.
It’s a place where different ethnic groups come together, making it a vibrant showcase of Ha Giang's diversity. Prices vary depending on what you buy, but bargaining is expected, and small purchases can start from as little as VND 20,000.
7. Trek to the King of the H’Mong’s Palace
Also known as the Vuong Family Mansion, this architectural gem combines Chinese, French, and H’Mong influences. Located in Sa Phin, the palace's entrance fee is about VND 20,000. Built-in the early 20th century, it was the residence of Vuong Chinh Duc, who was considered the king of the H’Mong people.
The mansion is surrounded by a stone wall and sits amidst a picturesque landscape. Inside, visitors can see the opulence of the family lived in, with intricately carved wooden panels and a fascinating history that offers a glimpse into the past life of royalty in the mountains.
8. Visit the Lung Cu Flag Tower
Standing at the northern tip of Vietnam, the Lung Cu Flag Tower marks the country's border with China. An entrance fee of around VND 20,000 allows you access to the tower and the surrounding area, which includes a museum and several ethnic minority group exhibits.
Climbing the tower offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, including rice terraces and traditional villages. The flag flying atop is a symbol of sovereignty and pride for the Vietnamese people.
9. Admire the Vuong Family Mansion
Entry to this historical site is around VND 20,000. The mansion, built by the opium-rich Vuong family in the 20th century, showcases a unique blend of architectural styles. The intricate designs and the mansion's strategic location reflect the family's wealth and influence. You can explore the various rooms and courtyards, each telling part of the Vuong family's story and their significant role in the region's history.
>> Read more: Sapa To Ha Giang By Private Car
10. Taste Local Delicacies
Ha Giang's cuisine is a delightful exploration of flavors. From Thang Co, a traditional horse meat stew, to buckwheat cakes and local honey, there's no shortage of unique dishes to try. Meals at local restaurants can range from VND 50,000 to VND 150,000.
Street food is cheaper, with snacks and smaller dishes costing between VND 10,000 to VND 30,000. Don't miss the opportunity to try the local rice wine, a staple at social gatherings and a warm invitation to join in the community.
11. Hike to the Nho Que River Viewpoint
The trek to this viewpoint is an adventure in itself, offering stunning views of the turquoise Nho Que River snaking through deep gorges. There's no entrance fee for the viewpoint, but getting there might involve hiring a local guide or joining a tour, which could cost around VND 100,000 to VND 300,000 per person. The effort is well worth it, as the panoramic views are among the most spectacular in Vietnam.
12. Experience Homestay Living
Staying with a local family is an immersive way to experience Ha Giang's culture. Homestay prices vary but expect to pay around VND 150,000 to VND 300,000 per night, including meals. This experience allows visitors to learn about local customs, enjoy home-cooked meals, and participate in daily activities. It's a unique opportunity to connect with the local community and learn firsthand about their way of life.
13. Cycle Around Hoang Su Phi
Renting a bicycle for a day can cost around VND 100,000 to VND 150,000, providing a leisurely way to explore the rice terraces of Hoang Su Phi. These terraces, especially beautiful during the planting and harvesting seasons, are a testament to the agricultural ingenuity of the local people.
Cycling allows you to move at your own pace, stopping to take in the views, interact with locals, and capture photos of the stunning landscapes.
>> Read more: Transfer Hanoi To Hoang Su Phi Ha Giang By Private Car
14. Sung La: A Hidden Gem Amidst Ha Giang's Splendor
Nestled close to Sa Phin, Sung La unfolds as a quaint Hmong village that captures the essence of Ha Giang's untouched beauty. What makes Sung La particularly enchanting are its vibrant flower fields, a colorful spectacle that has become a favorite among travelers seeking the perfect blend of nature and culture.
In response to the growing popularity of these floral landscapes, some enterprising locals have crafted little 'flower meadows.' These specially curated plots are designed for visitors to immerse themselves in a sea of blossoms, offering a picturesque backdrop for selfies and photographs, all for a nominal fee.
There is no official entrance fee for the village itself. However, for the cultivated "flower meadows" set up by locals, visitors can expect to pay a small fee for photo opportunities. This fee is usually around VND 10,000 to VND 30,000, depending on the size of the plot and the variety of flowers available. These fees contribute to the maintenance of the gardens and support the local economy.
15. Discover the Timeless Charm of Pho Bang Ancient Town
Pho Bang is situated in the Dong Van district, near the Vietnam-China border. This hidden town lies just about 5km off the main route from Ha Giang City to the Dong Van stone plateau. The drive from Quan Ba to Yen Minh, approximately 50km, takes you through breathtaking pine forests that are a prelude to the area's natural splendor.
Yen Minh serves as a perfect pit stop for travelers to refuel before embarking on the next 45km leg to Pho Bang. Along the way, the option to pause and admire the Dong Van stone plateau presents itself, tempting travelers with its rugged beauty.
Pho Bang, with its tranquil mountain town vibe, might be easy to overlook for those captivated by Ha Giang's other routes. Its seclusion from the usual tourist paths has preserved its charm, making it a serene retreat for those in the know. Virtually untouched by the tourist crowds, Pho Bang offers a unique beauty, characterized by its peacefulness and the timeless allure of its surroundings.
Each of these 15 Things to Do When Visiting Ha Giang offers a unique perspective on Ha Giang, from its breathtaking landscapes and rich history to the vibrant culture and delicious cuisine. Whether you're a trekking junkie, a history buff, a food lover, or simply in search of peace and tranquility, ''Things to Do When Visiting Ha Giang'' of us promises an unforgettable adventure
