Ha Giang, Vietnam is blessed with an abundance of breathtaking natural landscapes. Below, VnCarRentals.com’s will suggest to you the Top 15 most famous tourist destinations in Ha Giang, which are frequented by many visitors.
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Top 15 Most Beautiful and Famous Tourist Destinations in Ha Giang
If you have the opportunity to visit the northernmost region of our homeland – Ha Giang, Vietnam, you will undoubtedly witness the stunning natural landscapes. Not only that, you will also engage in various exciting experiences and capture unique photos. Save the top 15 famous tourist destinations in Ha Giang below for a meaningful trip!
Km0 Milestone – the starting point of your journey
The first Ha Giang tourist destination that VnCarRentals.com wants to introduce to everyone is the Km0 milestone. Milestone 0 is located in the city center, along Nguyen Trai Street. This is also the starting point of National Highway 2C, connecting Hanoi and Ha Giang. Moreover, this is the only route to explore tourist destinations in Quan Ba, Dong Van, and Meo Vac.
The Km0 milestone in Ha Giang is situated in a densely populated area. There are many convenience stores, restaurants, and cafes around, so travelers can stop for rest and dining after a long journey. Additionally, milestone 0 is considered the beginning of the journey to explore Ha Giang. After passing this milestone, you will enter a highland region full of majestic and picturesque rocky landscapes.
Dong Van Karst Plateau
Dong Van Karst Plateau in Ha Giang is about 300km from Hanoi and approximately 124km from the city center of Ha Giang. This is a very familiar Ha Giang tourist destination for both domestic and international visitors. The karst plateau covers four mountainous districts in northern Ha Giang: Quan Ba, Yen Minh, Dong Van, and Meo Vac. When you arrive here, you will be amazed by its altitude ranging from 1000 to 1600 meters.
The Dong Van Karst Plateau is now home to 17 ethnic minority groups with small populations. They live in ancient houses covered with moss, scattered far apart. The surroundings are characterized by rugged limestone mountains, which hold significant geological value. In 2010, Dong Van Karst Plateau was recognized by UNESCO as the first global geopark in Vietnam.
Dong Van Ancient Town – an unmissable Ha Giang tourist destination
When you travel to Ha Giang, you must visit Dong Van Ancient Town. This place is rich in the cultural essence of the local ethnic groups. The Dong Van Ancient Town is located at an elevation of 1000 to 1600 meters above sea level. Surrounded by rugged and perilous mountain ranges, the Ha Giang Old Quarter has a serene but impressive atmosphere.
When you come to Dong Van Old Quarter, you don’t have to worry about accommodation, dining, and entertainment. There are many quality homestays and hotels for you to choose from. Additionally, you can savor unique Ha Giang specialties such as thang co, thang den, Dong Van rolled rice cakes, and even buy sausages, buffalo meat, and Ha Giang honey as souvenirs.
Here, you can also participate in the Dong Van market to directly explore the daily lives of the local people. This market is renowned as one of the most distinctive markets in Ha Giang. Furthermore, in Dong Van Old Quarter, you can also visit the old town’s cafes.
Tham Ma Pass in Ha Giang
Tham Ma Pass in Ha Giang is a mountain pass located on National Highway 4C, connecting Ha Giang City and Meo Vac District. The pass is remarkable for its special and extremely perilous nine bends. Because of this feature, Tham Ma Pass has stimulated the adventurous spirit of many travelers.
Tham Ma Pass attracts tourists with its stunning natural scenery. On one side, there is a deep abyss, and on the other, there are towering mountains. When you successfully conquer Tham Ma Pass, you can truly appreciate the beauty of the Dong Van Karst Plateau.
If you travel to Tham Ma Pass in October or November, you will be able to admire the mesmerizing beauty of the triangular flower valley, which is enchanting. Moreover, from this location, you can capture unique and breathtaking high-altitude check-in photos.
Ma Pi Leng Pass – the king of passes in Ha Giang
Ma Pi Leng Pass in Ha Giang is known as one of the “four great mountain passes” in northern Vietnam. This Ha Giang tourist destination stretches for approximately 20 kilometers, crossing the administrative areas of Pa Vi and Pai Lung, Meo Vac District, and Ta Lung, Dong Van District. The peak of Ma Pi Leng Pass is located at an elevation of 1,200 meters above sea level.
When traveling on this pass, the entire Ha Giang mountain landscape will be within your sight. Especially when you come here during the blooming seasons, you will witness the stunning beauty of the forest flowers. Furthermore, they blend with the green color of the mountainous forest, creating a harmonious and picturesque landscape.
Lung Cu Flag Point – an essential Ha Giang tourist destination
One Ha Giang tourist destination you cannot miss is the Lung Cu Flag Point. The Lung Cu Flag Point is located on the summit of Dragon Mountain in Lung Cu Commune, Dong Van District. The Lung Cu Flag Point is at an elevation of 1,470 meters above sea level, and it is situated only about 3 kilometers from the northernmost point of Vietnam. To conquer the Lung Cu Flagpole, travelers must climb 140 spiral-shaped, impressive steps.
The Lung Cu Flagpole has a precise height of 33.15 meters. Its column has a pentagonal shape, similar to the Hanoi Flagpole. Notably, the base and the column are adorned with 8 green stone reliefs depicting patterns found on Dong Son bronze drums. At the top of the column, the golden star flag flies boldly in the wind. The flag has an area of 54 square meters, symbolizing the unity of 54 brotherly ethnic groups living on Vietnamese territory.
The Lung Cu Flagpole has become a beloved check-in spot for all types of tourists visiting Ha Giang. Furthermore, standing beneath the sacred national flag, people are overwhelmed with emotion and express gratitude to the national heroes.
Beautiful Ha Giang Tourist Destination – Pao’s House
Pao’s House is always an attractive choice when visiting the border region of Ha Giang. Pao’s House in Ha Giang belongs to Mr. Mua Sao Pao, a Mong ethnic minority. This house is located in the cultural village of Lung Cam, Sung La commune, Dong Van district. In the village, many households live, but Pao’s house is the oldest, more than 100 years old.
The house features unique architecture with a mossy green thatched roof. Stone walls create an ancient concept that leaves a strong impression. Especially, during spring, cherry blossoms in the yard make the house even more beautiful. Therefore, consider wearing vintage outfits or renting ethnic costumes for lovely pictures.
Hoang Su Phi Ha Giang
Another beautiful Ha Giang tourist destination that VnCarRentals.com wants to introduce to you is the stunning Hoang Su Phi area. Hoang Su Phi includes 6 communes: Ban Luoc, Ho Thau, San Sa Ho, Ban Phung, Thong Nguyen, and Nam Ty. The region has a rugged terrain, and as a result, Hoang Su Phi has various microclimates and natural landscapes.
Every season of the year, Hoang Su Phi adorns itself differently. Spring is the time for tourists to check-in with cherry, plum, and tea gardens. From April to June, you can admire the lush green rice terraces. The most beautiful time in Hoang Su Phi is around September and October when the golden rice fields create artistic pictures.
Besides admiring the terraced fields, visitors can also conquer Chieu Lau Thi Peak, which is about 2,402 meters high. Therefore, climbing Chieu Lau Thi is a challenging and adventurous activity. Furthermore, you can visit the Hoang Su Phi Sunday market for unique local experiences.
Yen Minh Pine Forest – A Favorite Ha Giang Tourist Spot for Young Travelers
Yen Minh Pine Forest is becoming increasingly famous as a Ha Giang tourist spot. This place offers breathtaking scenery and a refreshing climate similar to a mini Dalat. Yen Minh Pine Forest in Ha Giang is about 100km from the city center. To reach this place, you just need to follow National Highway 4C.
The most impressive feature of Yen Minh Pine Forest is the thousands of pine trees reaching to the sky. Along with that, wildflowers at the base create a perfect combination. One of the most enjoyable experiences in Yen Minh Pine Forest is camping. Young travelers often set up tents, have campfires, BBQ, and spend the night here.
Additionally, when visiting Yen Minh Pine Forest, you can breathe the fresh air and enjoy a smoke-free atmosphere. This place is ideal if you are looking for a destination without pollution. Moreover, you can take stunning photographs here.
Nho Que River Ha Giang
Ha Giang’s tourist destinations include the picturesque Nho Que River, which is characterized by its breathtaking landscape. The river originates from the Nghiem Son Mountains in Yunnan, China, flowing through Ha Giang and Cao Bang provinces in Vietnam. The Nho Que River has incredibly clear, emerald green waters. It is surrounded by steep, jagged cliffs and towering mountains on either side.
Many travelers ascend to Ma Pi Leng Pass to fully appreciate the beauty of the river. From this vantage point, you can see the river winding like a soft blue ribbon through the valley. The Tu San Canyon, which is over 1000 meters deep, adds to the grandeur.
Another unforgettable activity at Nho Que River is taking a boat ride on the river. There are two boat docks to choose from: Ta Lang and Xin Cai docks. When you’re on the boat, you’ll have the opportunity to take in the entire panorama of mountains, sky, and capture memorable photographs.
Meo Vac Night Market
Meo Vac’s Sunday Market is one of the most interesting markets in Ha Giang. The night market is held in the center of the district and covers an area of more than 3,500 square meters. The market takes place every Saturday, attracting a lot of local people and tourists. The market seamlessly blends the traditional cultures of the 17 ethnic groups living in the district.
The market’s main areas include souvenir stalls, beverage vendors, grilled food stalls, an area for traditional cuisine, and a space for cultural performances. So, when you visit the market, you can enjoy not only traditional local dishes but also unique cultural performances. Furthermore, you can directly interact with locals and join in cultural activities like singing, khen playing, and dancing.
Quan Ba Heaven’s Gate
Quan Ba Heaven’s Gate is one of the five most popular check-in spots today. This place is considered a convergence of earth and sky, with a landscape as beautiful as a fairyland. Quan Ba Heaven’s Gate is located at an altitude of 1500m above sea level. To reach here, you only need to travel about 46km from the city center of Ha Giang.
When you successfully reach the highest point of the Heaven’s Gate, you will feel the grandeur of this place. Gazing far into the distance, you can see the harmonious blend of the sky, mountains, and valleys. Standing at the Heaven’s Gate, you can enjoy the view of the famous Twin Mountain. This mountain is considered a masterpiece bestowed by nature, associated with a meaningful story of maternal love.
Sung La Valley Ha Giang
Sung La Valley is located on National Highway 4C, about 127km from the city center and 20km from Dong Van district. This place is like a hidden oasis nestled among the rugged, majestic mountain ranges. When you visit Sung La Valley, you will experience the beautiful local culture and create many memorable moments.
Sung La Valley is home to over 60 households of different ethnic groups, including the Mong, Han, Tay, and more. Thus, this place is a melting pot of various traditions and customs. Thanks to this diversity, you will have the opportunity to enjoy new and unique experiences. The local people live in ancient houses and wear various ethnic costumes with impressive colors.
A favorite activity for visitors in Sung La Valley is taking pictures with the triangular buckwheat flower fields. Every year, from October to November, buckwheat flowers bloom all over the valley, creating beautiful landscapes. Moreover, buckwheat flowers also bloom out of season in April and May, but in white.
Lolo Chai Village – A Fairytale-Like Ha Giang Tourist Destination
In addition to the well-known Ha Giang tourist destinations, Lolo Chai Village has recently attracted attention from travelers. This village is located at the foot of Dragon Mountain, Lung Cu commune, Dong Van district, Ha Giang province. It is also only about 1 km from the Lung Cu Flagpole, so it is quite easy to find.
Entering Lolo Chai Village, you will be greeted by a stunning view of the Lolo Chai Mountain, with lush forests and sharp, jagged rocky outcrops. They blend together in the misty, enchanting atmosphere, creating a new level of excitement and emotion. When you visit this village, you can take beautiful photos of ancient houses, cabbage gardens, and the charming buckwheat flowers.
What’s more, when you come to Lolo Chai Village, you will have the chance to experience the unique local culture. The village still preserves 90% of the customs of the past, and you can learn how to do various traditional activities like embroidery and woodworking. Additionally, you can participate in various cultural festivals and events, such as forest deity ceremonies and rice harvest festivals.
En Cave
En Cave is a Ha Giang tourist destination that you should visit at least once. This cave is the chosen residence for thousands of swallows, which make their nests here. En Cave has retained its natural and mysterious beauty as it has not been heavily influenced by human hands. It is located in Yen Minh district, Ha Giang province. To reach En Cave, you need to travel approximately 60 km from the city center.
En Cave is located deep within the mountain walls, making it even more secluded and mystical. While not extensive, the cave is captivating, attracting those with a passion for exploration. Inside the cave, there is a small, pristine emerald lake that adds to the cave’s appeal. It is a beautiful place for taking photographs and admiring the view.
Furthermore, you can also camp around the lake and spend the night in the serene atmosphere of the cave. It’s a favorite activity for many young travelers who want to enjoy the cool air and the cave’s exquisite beauty.
Overview of Some Travel Experiences in Ha Giang
Your trip will be more complete when you have some travel experiences in Ha Giang. To help you have exciting experiences, VnCarRentals.com would like to share some useful tips for your upcoming journey. Be sure to take notes for future reference!
Which Season is the Most Beautiful for Traveling to Ha Giang?
Every season in Ha Giang has its unique colors and beauty. Therefore, you can visit Ha Giang at any time of the year depending on the weather. However, the ideal time to visit Ha Giang is often said to be from September to around March of the following year. During this time, the rice fields are ripe, and the flowers are in full bloom, providing opportunities for beautiful photos.
From August to October is the rice harvesting season when you can admire the breathtaking golden terraced fields. The most beautiful time in Ha Giang is perhaps during the buckwheat flower season, which falls in October and November. This is the peak tourist season when visitors come to enjoy the flowers and take stunning photos.
In addition, travelers also like to visit Ha Giang in the spring, from January to the Lunar New Year. This is the time when cherry blossoms, plum blossoms, and mustard flowers compete to bloom. Moreover, during this period, you can participate in various unique festivals of the local people, such as the Gau Tao festival of the H’mong people, the Long Tong festival of the Tay ethnic group, and the Lap Tinh festival organized by the Dao people.
How to Get to Ha Giang?
To travel to Ha Giang, you can use various means of transportation. However, the most commonly used methods are buses and motorbikes. The distance from Hanoi, the capital, to Ha Giang is relatively long. If you take a bus, it will take about 6 hours, while traveling by motorbike may take 7 to 8 hours.
Currently, there are many quality bus companies that operate on the Hanoi-Ha Giang route. Most of these companies offer sleeper buses with modern and comfortable designs. The ticket prices for a one-way trip range from 250,000 VND to 350,000 VND. Some famous bus companies on this route include Bang Phan, Quang Nghi, and Ngoc Son.
Additionally, if you’re looking for a private, safe, and convenient means of transportation, you can use a car rental service with a driver in Hanoi offered by Vn Car Rentals. Their professional drivers, with years of experience serving international travelers, will provide you with a safe and comfortable journey. This service also offers pick-up from hotels, airports, or anywhere in Hanoi. You can book a car rental service from Hanoi to Ha Giang today for detailed assistance.
If you’re an adventurous traveler, using a motorbike can be a great option. Traveling by motorbike with friends will certainly provide you with amazing experiences. You can also take a bus from Hanoi to Ha Giang and then rent a motorbike in the city to travel to various tourist destinations.
What to Prepare When Traveling to Ha Giang?
When visiting Ha Giang, make sure you have all the necessary documents, such as your ID card, citizen identification, or passport, with you. This will facilitate the check-in and check-out process at hotels or when renting vehicles. Additionally, bring enough cash because many establishments in Ha Giang may not accept electronic payments.
The weather in Ha Giang is colder than in the lowlands. Even if you visit Ha Giang in the summer, it’s essential to have a windbreaker as nighttime temperatures can be quite low. During the winter, down jackets and thick sweaters are your best allies. Don’t forget to bring scarves, gloves, and woolen hats to keep your body warm.
In the article, VnCarRentals.com has shared the top 15 most interesting famous travel destinations in Ha Giang, Vietnam. Make sure to take note of them so you don’t miss out when visiting this rocky plateau. We hope this article is helpful for you, and we wish you a safe, enjoyable, and memorable journey.
[…] Nho Que River is one of the famous tourist destinations in Ha Giang and is honored as one of the most unique geological valleys in Vietnam. Here are some travel […]
Super good article ! thanks alot !