Hoang Su Phi
Hoang Su Phi is a mountainous district located in the west of Ha Giang province. Currently, Hoang Su Phi includes 24 communes and 1 town, and is home to 12 ethnic minorities. Among them, the Tay, Nung, Mong, and Red Dao ethnic groups stand out as La Chi.
Regarding geographical location, Hoang Su Phi is about 400km from Hanoi capital and more than 100km west of Ha Giang city center. Although traffic has been invested and developed a lot, to reach the beautiful tourist destinations in Hoang Su Phi, visitors have to overcome dangerous passes and some quite difficult roads. However, this is also a characteristic feature when exploring Hoang Su Phi in particular or Ha Giang in general.
Hoang Su Phi has been a famous tourist destination in the northern mountains of our country. Visitors coming here will admire the majestic and poetic beauty of the mountains and forests, and discover the unique cultural features of the ethnic people here. In particular, the most outstanding thing in Hoang Su Phi is probably the beauty of terraced fields. It is not natural that Hoang Su Phi terraced fields in 6 communes of Ban Phung, Ban Luoc, Thong Nguyen, Nam Ty, San Sa Ho, Ta Su Choong are recognized as a national heritage of Vietnam. To admire and explore all the beauty of Hoang Su Phi, visitors must set foot here and feel it for themselves.
Ma Pi Leng pass
Ma Pi Leng Pass, also known as Ma Pi Leng, means “the bridge of the horse’s nose”. This place is known as the king of passes, located in Pa Vi and Pai Lung communes, Meo Vac district and Ta Lung commune, Dong Van district, Ha Giang province.
The top of the pass is located at an altitude of up to 1,200 meters above sea level, in the Dong Van Stone Plateau. This pass is also on the road named Hanh Phuc, famous for its beautiful landscapes, attracting a large number of backpacking groups and tours to review Ma Pi Leng – Nho Que River.
Quan Ba’s Twin Mountain
Quan Ba’s Twin Mountain, also known as “Twin Mountain Pass” or “Heaven’s Gate,” is a mesmerizing natural wonder located in Ha Giang Province. The Twin Mountain Pass offers panoramic views of two identical limestone peaks rising majestically from the surrounding landscape. The sight of these twin peaks is truly breathtaking, especially during sunrise or sunset when the colors of the sky enhance their beauty. For photographers and nature enthusiasts, Quan Ba’s Twin Mountain is a paradise. The unique geological formation of the twin peaks against the backdrop of lush green valleys and terraced rice fields creates stunning photo opportunities at every turn.
In addition to its natural beauty, the Twin Mountain Pass holds cultural significance for the local ethnic communities, particularly the H’mong people. Visitors can learn about the folklore and legends associated with the twin peaks, adding depth to their experience. Accessing Quan Ba’s Twin Mountain is relatively easy, as it is located along the popular Ha Giang Loop route. Travelers can reach the pass by motorbike, car, or tour bus, and there are plenty of viewpoints and rest areas along the way to admire the scenery.
Overall, Quan Ba’s Twin Mountain is a must-visit destination in Ha Giang Province, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural significance, and photographic opportunities that will leave a lasting impression on visitors.
Lung Cu Flagpole
As a symbol marking the northernmost point of Vietnam, the Lung Cu flagpole was built on top of Dragon Mountain, in a small commune in Dong Van district, Ha Giang province. Located at an altitude of 1,470m above sea level, this is one of the check-in locations for travel lovers, and is also the conquering point for almost all tourists coming to Ha Giang.
From the top of the Lung Cu Flagpole, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, including rolling hills, terraced rice fields, and distant mountain ranges. On clear days, the view extends far into neighboring China, offering a unique perspective on the border region.
In addition to its political symbolism, the Lung Cu area is rich in cultural heritage, home to several ethnic minority communities, including the H’mong and Dao people. Visitors have the opportunity to learn about the traditions, customs, and way of life of these indigenous groups through interactions and visits to nearby villages. Accessing the Lung Cu Flagpole requires a short hike or climb up a series of stairs to reach the viewing platform at the top. While the ascent may be challenging for some, the effort is rewarded with stunning views and a sense of accomplishment upon reaching the summit.
Overall, the Lung Cu Flagpole is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking to explore Vietnam’s northernmost point, offering a combination of political significance, cultural immersion, and breathtaking scenery that makes it a memorable experience
Dong Van Plateau
Dong Van Stone Plateau is located in all 4 districts of Ha Giang province: Dong Van, Yen Minh, Quan Ba and Meo Vac with an area of nearly 2500km2. This is a rugged area of rocky mountains shaped like gray cat ears, looking very mysterious stacked on top of each other. The limestone mountains here have an average altitude of more than 1000m above sea level.
Up to 80% of the area of Dong Van Karst Plateau is exposed to limestone due to environmental influences and traces from the historical development of the earth’s crust. In addition, this plateau is also home to many fossil samples dating back to 400 – 600 million years ago. As a convergence of many special geological, natural, environmental and cultural formations, in 2010, Dong Van Karst Plateau was officially recognized by UNESCO as a Global Geopark.
The Sunday market in Dong Van Town is a highlight, offering a vibrant display of local handicrafts, food, and customs. Travelers recommend exploring the surrounding areas by motorbike or on foot to fully appreciate the plateau’s beauty and cultural significance. However, some caution is advised during the rainy season due to slippery roads and potential landslides. Overall, it’s a must-visit destination for nature lovers and those interested in experiencing the unique culture of Vietnam’s northern highlands.
Khau Vai Love Market
Khau Vai Love Market is a unique cultural event held annually in Khau Vai commune, Meo Vac district, Ha Giang province, Vietnam. It is one of the oldest markets in the locality with more than 100 years of establishment and development. Unlike Meo Vac Market, which usually opens on Sunday every week.
This market has a special significance as it is dedicated to lovers, particularly those who cannot be together due to societal constraints or personal circumstances. Legend has it that a tragic love story between a couple from different tribes led to the establishment of this market as a meeting place for them once a year.
Held on a hill in Khau Vai village, Khau Vai commune, Meo Vac town, Ha Giang, Khau Vai Love Market
Vuong’s Mansion
According to many recorded documents, the Vuong family mansion was built in 1919, and was the residence of Mr. Vuong Chinh Duc, a wealthy tycoon on the rocky plateau who was revered by the Mong people as king and ruled the whole country. a large area including 4 highland districts of Quan Ba, Yen Minh, Dong Van, and Meo Vac.
The mansion was built in an extremely prime location, a mound of land shaped like a turtle shell, surrounded by high mountains, ensuring feng shui, defense, and solidity elements. Entering the mansion, my first impression was the rows of tall, straight trees hundreds of years old in front of the gate. The stone entrance gate appears to be quite delicately carved. The gate is curved and curved with bat wings, symbolizing the word “Phuc”. The wooden gate roof is exquisitely carved, with many patterns. Through the ups and downs of history, the Vuong family mansion still retains many historical, architectural and beautiful values amidst the mountain in the the Westnorth of Vietnam.
Vuong’s Mansion stands as a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the Hmong elite in northern Vietnam. Guided tours of the mansion provide insight into its history, architecture, and the fascinating stories of the Vuong family. The surrounding Sa Phin Valley, with its picturesque landscapes and traditional Hmong villages, further enhances the charm of this cultural heritage site.
Lung Cam village
Lung Cam Village is located in Lung Cam village, Sung La commune, Dong Van district, Ha Giang province. This place still preserves the typical cultural features of the Mong ethnic people. Located in the center of Sung La valley, Lung Cam cultural and tourist village is where three ethnic groups Lo Lo, Mong and Han live together. Lung Cam is one of the most beautiful villages of the White Mong people, with many houses with ancient architecture up to 100 years old.
The village designs, houses, farming and customs in Lung Cam cultural village all exude the typical traditional culture of the Mong people in the highlands. During the French colonial period, people here only grew one crop a year and mainly opium and corn. That’s why at that time this place was also called “opium valley”.
The ancient houses here are roofed with yin and yang tiles. Layers of moss gradually cover the tiled roofs of houses that have gone through 100 years of history, becoming more ancient than ever. When coming here, visitors will be able to see the traditional walled houses that are still preserved intact as well as the cultural refinements that have not been eroded.
Thong Nguyen
As a commune in Hoang Su Phi district, a “specialty” of Thong Nguyen is terraced fields. In the middle are green forests, rocky mountains, winding terraced fields interwoven with trees, creating a picturesque scene. Whether it’s the season of new rice blooming, the season of ripe rice or the season of pouring water, the scenery in Thong Nguyen is very impressive.
The commune is known for its picturesque terraced rice fields, traditional Hmong and Dao ethnic villages, and the majestic Ma Pi Leng Pass, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Visitors to Thong Nguyen can explore the local villages, interact with residents, and learn about traditional Hmong and Dao customs and way of life. Trekking and hiking opportunities abound, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the pristine beauty of the surrounding countryside.
Thong Nguyen serves as a gateway to some of the most scenic and culturally significant areas in Ha Giang province, making it a popular destination for adventure seekers, nature enthusiasts, and those interested in experiencing the authentic charm of northern Vietnam.