A Journey Through Ha Giang’s Majestic Landscapes: A Onetrip Guide’s Discovery

As part of Onetrip with local’s Guide Discovery Program, designed to enhance the knowledge and experience of local guides, our best tour operator Yen embarked on an immersive journey to the stunning landscapes of Ha Giang. This northernmost province of Vietnam offers a unique blend of breathtaking nature, rich cultural heritage, and authentic travel experiences. Here’s a glimpse into her adventure.

Day 1: From Ha Giang City to Ancient Towns and Royal Palaces

Yen’s journey began in Ha Giang City, venturing towards Dong Van Old Quarter with several fascinating stops along the way. One of the first cultural immersions was at the Lung Tam Linen Weaving Village, home to one of the oldest traditional crafts of the H’mong ethnic group. Here, everything is 100% handmade, with artisans meticulously carrying out complex processes like stripping flax bark and carving designs onto the fabric.

The journey continued to the Lao Xa ancient house in Dong Van Old Quarter, a century-old structure that offers a nostalgic glimpse into traditional H’mong rammed-earth architecture. Inside, traditional musical instruments like the H’mong khen and flute are displayed. For a deeper cultural dive, visitors can even book a stay and share a meal with the host family. 

A highlight of the day was the visit to Vuong’s Palace, also known as the H’mong King’s Mansion. This sprawling estate showcases a unique architectural fusion of Vietnamese, Chinese, and French styles. The multi-level design echoes Chinese siheyuan, while the rammed-earth structure is distinctly Vietnamese, and the tiled roofs add a touch of French elegance. The day concluded in the vibrant Dong Van ancient town, which comes alive on weekends with bonfires and folk dances, bringing together locals and tourists. 

Day 2: Markets, Borders, and Breathtaking Passes

The second day was packed with iconic Ha Giang experiences, starting with the bustling Dong Van Sunday Market. Open from 5:00 AM to 2:00 PM, the market is a lively hub where local communities sell a variety of agricultural products and goods. 

Next, Yen traveled to the Lung Cu Flag Tower, marking Vietnam’s northernmost point, located about 22 km from Dong Van Old Quarter. The climb to the top involves 839 steps, though an electric cart can shorten the ascent. The tower is currently undergoing repairs to ensure visitor safety. 

The journey then led to Lo Lo Chai village, a charming settlement of the Lo Lo ethnic group, known for its small earthen houses and picturesque cafes that have become popular with young travelers. The day culminated with the awe-inspiring Ma Pi Leng Pass, one of Vietnam’s four most majestic mountain passes. The pass is famous for its breathtaking scenery where clouds meet the mountains. For the adventurous, a climb up “Death Rock” offers panoramic views. The day ended at H’mong Pa Vi village in Meo Vac, a hub for homestays with a dedicated cultural space. 

Day 3: River Adventures and Homeward Bound

The final day featured a trip to the magnificent Nho Que River, located a few kilometers from Pa Vi Village. The road to the river is currently being expanded, with some unpaved sections that can be challenging, especially in rainy weather. Access to the road is also temporarily restricted during blasting operations for safety. From the ticket station, a short electric shuttle ride takes visitors to the boat pier for a memorable river excursion. 

Yen’s Travel Tips for Ha Giang

Based on her experience, Yen compiled some valuable insights for anyone planning a trip to Ha Giang:

• Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to travel is from October to March, when the weather is mild and flowers are in full bloom. The rainy season from May to September offers lush landscapes but presents challenges with slippery roads and potential landslides. Winter can bring heavy fog, reducing visibility. 
• What to Pack: Insect repellent is a must for the mountainous region. Pack warm clothes, even in summer, as night temperatures can drop. Non-slip walking shoes are essential for any hiking. 
• Getting Around: While many foreign tourists opt for motorbikes for an adventurous experience, cars are a safer option for families or during the rainy season. A 4-day car trip with a driver costs between 5,000,000 and 7,000,000 VND. Package tours are also a popular option for foreign visitors. 
• Accommodation and Food: Ha Giang offers a growing number of homestays and hotels. Prices for private rooms with mountain views range from 600,000 to 1,200,000 VND per night. Food in Ha Giang is reasonably priced, with an average daily budget of 350,000 to 600,000 VND per person. 

Yen’s journey through Ha Giang, made possible by the Onetrip Guide Discovery Program, not only enriched her own understanding of this incredible region but also provides invaluable insights for future travelers. Her experience underscores the importance of firsthand exploration in creating authentic and memorable journeys for our guests.

This exciting initiative is a cornerstone of our commitment to continuous learning. The program has already seen our guide Kien return with fresh perspectives from Nghe An and the former capital of Hue.

This month, Mina will visit Tay Ninh and Ho Chi Minh City to explore the vibrant culture of Southern Vietnam. We are very excited about the new experiences and knowledge our team is gathering to share with you!

Onetrip with local with the three pillars: guides, guests and community. Join us to discovery the beauty of Hanoi with hidden gems. Whether you are an explorer, family or history buff, there is always a tour for you.