Explore the top 15 most beautiful Northeast travel destinations to check-in

Northeast Vietnam is generously blessed by nature with numerous majestic landscapes and breathtaking sceneries. It boasts treacherous routes hidden amidst towering mountain ranges, charming little stilt houses rich in the cultural essence of the highland ethnic communities. Moreover, visitors to the Northeast can feel the warm weather, fresh air, and pleasant atmosphere. Let's journey through the hottest Northeast travel destinations with Mytour!

1. Introduction to Northeast Travel - Vietnam

Rarely does any land in Vietnam possess such vast forests, silver mountains, and abundant natural resources as Northeast Vietnam. Visiting the Northeast, travelers not only ascend mountains and descend to the sea but also experience countless cultures from different ethnic groups. Even depicted only through photographs, anyone would marvel at the majestic beauty of this land. Before discovering the 15 most beautiful Northeast travel destinations, let's delve into the brief overview of this sunny and windy land with Mytour.

1.1 Which provinces are included in the Northeast region?

The Northeast mountainous region comprises a total of 9 provinces: Bac Kan, Ha Giang, Cao Bang, Lang Son, Thai Nguyen, Tuyen Quang, Phu Tho, Bac Giang, Quang Ninh. Among them, tourism in Ha Giang and Quang Ninh are the two provinces possessing the most beautiful landscapes in the Northeast region.

Northeast travel has become a trend in recent years (Photo source: Collected)

Located in one of the most strategic positions of Vietnam, the Northeast holds the title 'the land in the head of the Motherland'. As it borders both the East and the North with China, the Northeast gradually becomes the main artery of the Gulf of Tonkin. With an area spanning approximately 82,000 km2, the Northeast becomes one of the regions with the most scenic spots and abundant resources nationwide.

1.2 When is the best time to visit Northeast travel destinations?

Throughout the four seasons, the Northeast region offers magnificent and unique natural landscapes. Due to its high altitude, the climate in the Northeast is cool and pleasant all year round. This is also why Northeast travel destinations attract a large number of international tourists throughout the year. However, Mytour suggests three best times to visit Northeast travel destinations.

• February to March: This is when terraced fields release the first water. Here, travelers can admire the fields flooded with water, resembling a beautiful painting of mountains and water.

• July to August: Travelers can enjoy the lush green rice fields, which are considered a sign of a new crop season.

• November to December: Travelers can witness the picturesque scenery of Dong Van rocky plateau or Quan Ba heaven gate from above. Moreover, this is also the time when the buckwheat flowers bloom most beautifully. Travelers can visit Dong Van, Meo Vac to admire the pink color of the buckwheat fields covering the entire Northeastern sky.

1.3 What makes Northeast travel attractive to tourists?

It's no coincidence that many travelers are willing to return to Northeast multiple times after each trip. Northeast not only captivates visitors with its scenic beauty but also its unique cultural charm. Here are the reasons why many travelers just want to 'pack their bags and head to Northeast'.

• Unique ethnic cultural identity: Alongside Northwest, Northeast is the home to many ethnic minorities such as Tay, Nung, Mong, Dao, Lo Lo, Bo Y, La Chi, Phu La, Co Lao, etc. Each ethnic culture in Northeast exhibits its unique beauty through markets, craft villages, festivals, folklore, historical relics, etc.

• Majestic, natural landscapes: Northeast mountainous provinces possess diverse terrain and natural landscapes including mountains, rivers, lakes, streams, waterfalls, caves, plateaus, passes, etc. Some famous destinations include Dong Van rocky plateau, Ban Gioc Waterfall, Nho Que River, Ba Be Lake, Halong Bay, etc.

• Reasonable expenses for Northeast travel: According to Northeast travel experience, whether traveling independently or on a tour, the expenses are not too high. From transportation costs, hotel room rentals to dining expenses, they are all affordable and suitable for many people's budgets. Moreover, Northeast travel destinations are natural attractions, with no admission fees. 

2. 15 most famous Northeast travel destinations

When mentioning Northeast, people immediately think of the top travel destinations in the country such as: Halong Bay, Dong Van Rocky Plateau, Yen Tu Pagoda, Quan Ba Heaven Gate, etc. However, few know that Northeast also possesses many more stunning check-in spots. Only when you truly set foot in Northeast, you can fully feel the magnificent and impressive beauty of this majestic land. Below are the suggested 15 Northeast travel destinations for 2024.

2.1 Dong Van Rocky Plateau (Ha Giang)

When mentioning 'rocky plateau', people often imagine dry and barren rocks. However, Dong Van Rocky Plateau is an exception. The grandeur of the mountains covered in mist, the perilous mountain passes blending with picturesque flower valleys have created a magnificent yet romantic and charming Dong Van Rocky Plateau.

Wild and majestic scenery of Dong Van Rocky Plateau (Photo source: Collected)

Especially in each different season, this Northeast travel destination will present a new color with each flower season. In January, February, travelers will admire the pure beauty of plum blossoms, apricot blossoms, and mustard flowers blooming splendidly. Stepping into November, you will be amazed by the pink and purple colors of the buckwheat fields covering every path into the village.

2.2 Hoang Su Phi (Ha Giang)

If you want to admire the terraced fields of golden Ha Giang in the new sunlight, come to Hoang Su Phi in October. Here, travelers will witness the terraced fields winding around the hillsides from the foot of the hill to the top of the mountain. Every landscape depicts the lively picture of Northeast nature in a new crop season.

Hoang Su Phi is famous for its stunning terraced fields (Photo source: Collected)

Moreover, during the ripe rice seasons, the local authorities in Hoang Su Phi district also organize many attractive activities. You can visit Hoang Su Phi during the water season (April - June) or the ripe rice season (September - October) to experience the beauty of Northeast terraced fields and participate in festivals.

2.3 Lung Cu Flagpole (Ha Giang)

It's no exaggeration to say that the 'Lung Cu Flagpole' is the 'dream' Northeast travel destination of many domestic and international tourists. Lung Cu Flagpole is the northernmost point of Vietnam, located on Dragon Mountain, Dong Van district, Ha Giang province.

To conquer the summit of Dragon Mountain, travelers must overcome 839 steps, including 3 long stages. After conquering all the steps and reaching the flagpole, a sense of pride in the country will surge within you. Casting your gaze from the top of the flagpole, you have the opportunity to fully admire the vast and majestic southern land of our country. And when you look up at the national flag flying in the wind, the image of pride in a thousand-year-old civilization will linger in your mind.

Lung Cu Flagpole - Pride of the Vietnamese nation (Photo source: Collected)

2.4 Ma Phuc Pass (Cao Bang)

Ma Phuc Pass is known as the most beautiful mountain pass in Cao Bang with winding roads embracing the majestic mountain ranges. On the journey across Ma Phuc Pass, travelers cannot help but admire the poetic but simple landscape.

Ma Phuc Pass is the most beautiful mountain pass in Cao Bang province (Photo source: Collected)

Each season, Ma Phuc Pass brings its own captivating beauty. In spring, travelers will witness the lush green rice fields. As autumn approaches, the landscape of the pass is replaced by the dreamy purple of buckwheat flowers.

2.5 Ban Gioc Waterfall (Cao Bang)

Ban Gioc Waterfall is renowned as one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Vietnam. It is also the largest natural waterfall in Southeast Asia. Situated on the Vietnam-China border, the waterfall cascades from a height of 70 meters over 3 tiers, creating a majestic and romantic scenery that leaves everyone in awe.

The romantic and charming beauty of Ban Gioc Waterfall (Photo source: Collected)

2.6 Ba Bể Lake (Bac Kan)

Not only associated with famous legends, Ba Be Lake is also praised as the 'Precious Gem' of Bac Kan province. When admiring the scenery on a small boat, you will feel the rustic and charming beauty of Ba Be Lake. Surrounded by endless tropical forests and majestic mountain ranges, the lake creates a tranquil and serene space, as beautiful as a real-life painting. For many years, Ba Be Lake has remained one of the most beautiful tourist attractions in Northeast Vietnam for avid travelers.

Ba Be Lake shines like a bright gem in Northeast Vietnam (Photo source: Collected)

2.7 Meo King's Palace (Ha Giang)

Meo King's Palace is a magnificent architectural masterpiece of the Vuong family clan. Nestled in the vast Sa Phin valley, Meo King's Palace resembles a 'precious treasure.' Thanks to its ancient and diverse cultural blend, Meo King's Palace has gradually become a tourist destination in Northeast Vietnam attracting millions of visitors every year.

Visiting Ha Giang, you cannot miss out on the Vuong family palace (Photo source: Collected)

2.8 Nho Que River (Ha Giang)

The Nho Que River has emerged as one of the top tourist attractions in Northeast Vietnam recently, gaining widespread attention on social media. Few know that the Nho Que River originates from the Nghiem Son Mountain in Yunnan, China, flowing northwest to southeast. Its upper reaches flow from Seo Lung Village, Lung Cu Commune to Hem Tu San, creating magnificent natural landscapes that enchant the soul.

Boating on the Nho Que River is one of the most exciting experiences in a Ha Giang tour (Photo source: Collected)

Standing atop the Ma Pi Leng Pass, visitors have the opportunity to fully admire the gentle meandering beauty of the river winding around the mountain's foothills. During every sunset, one can sit and marvel at the serene landscapes of Ha Giang. After exploring the Nho Que River, tourists can enjoy a cup of hot coffee and savor the refreshing atmosphere of the Northeastern forests.

2.9 Ha Long Bay (Quang Ninh)

When mentioning Quang Ninh, people often recall Ha Long Bay - one of the seven wonders of the world recognized by UNESCO. There are truly no perfect words to praise the beauty of Ha Long because every scenic spot in Ha Long is beautiful.

From the moment visitors set foot in Ha Long, they cannot help but be 'shaken' by the majestic and unique natural scenery. From hundreds of thousands of islands, lush vegetation to crystal-clear blue water, all evoke excitement and admiration.

The charming and romantic scenery of Ha Long Bay leaves everyone nostalgic (Photo source: Collected)

Visiting Ha Long Bay, tourists not only admire the beauty but also participate in exciting activities. The most prominent is kayaking on the bay, trekking up rocky cliffs, exploring mysterious caves. With countless interesting and attractive activities, Ha Long Bay has been listed among the famous tourist destinations in Northeast Vietnam for decades.

2.10 Hung Temple (Phu Tho)

Although not a scenic spot, Hung Temple is one of the famous tourist destinations in Northeast Vietnam. This national historical relic is where the Hung Kings - Ancestors of the Vietnamese people are worshiped. It is associated with the Hung Kings' Anniversary - Hung Temple Festival held annually on the 10th day of the 3rd lunar month. Every year, people of the Vietnamese ethnic groups gather here to pay homage and express gratitude for the merits of the Hung Kings in founding and protecting the country.

2.11 Twin Mountains and Quan Ba Heaven's Gate (Ha Giang)

Not just a super 'hot' tourist destination in Northeast Vietnam, Quan Ba Heaven's Gate also stands out as one of the 5 most beautiful heaven's gates in the S-shaped land. From the highest point of the heaven's gate, tourists cannot help but be overwhelmed by the vast forests, blooming flower valleys, and golden ripe rice fields.

Quan Ba Heaven's Gate is one of the must-visit tourist attractions in Ha Giang (Source: Collection)

Faintly in the distance next to the heaven's gate is the Twin Mountains (Fairy Mountain) with incredibly impressive shapes. It's no exaggeration to say that the Twin Mountains are a masterpiece bestowed by nature upon Ha Giang. When visiting Quan Ba Heaven's Gate at dawn, tourists have the opportunity to admire the clouds covering the path, resembling a fairyland scene.

2.12 Sung La Village (Ha Giang)

Blending into the clouds drifting with the wind will take you to the romantic Sung La Village with white blossoms of ban flowers blooming along the way. This tourist destination in Northeast Vietnam was once a setting in the 2006 film 'The Story of Pao.'

Sung La Village is an incredibly beautiful village that fills one's heart with an inexplicable peace (Source: Collection)

The first impressive thing upon arriving at Sung La Village is the comfortable, fresh, and strangely peaceful atmosphere. Ahead are the rice fields interspersed with drifting white clouds. Gazing into the distance are the endless mountain ranges, creating a magnificent scene of a sea of clouds.

2.13 Vai Miếu Lake (Thái Nguyên)

Vai Miếu Lake is a tranquil lake hidden deep beneath the rugged, peaceful, and romantic landscape of Thái Nguyên. Here, tourists can freely take photos for social media, admire the scenery, and take boat trips to explore the beauty. Although Vai Miếu Lake is not the hottest tourist destination in Northeast Vietnam at the moment, it is predicted that in the future, more tourists will visit this lake.

In the past, Vai Miếu Lake was built in the late 20th century to serve agricultural production activities. However, thanks to its natural beauty and tranquility, the lake has gradually become a popular check-in spot for many tourists.

2.14 Cô Tô Island (Quảng Ninh)

It would be remiss not to mention Cô Tô Island in the list of the most beautiful tourist destinations in Northeast Vietnam. Cô Tô is an island district located in the eastern part of Quảng Ninh Province, about 80 km from the mainland. Cô Tô is famous for its pristine, magnificent small islands that leave people in awe.

Any scenery in Cô Tô can produce 'thousand-likes' photos (Source: Collection)

Cô Tô is not just a vacation spot for many families but also a 'million-view coordinates' for check-ins and admiring sunrise and sunset. If you're in need of a perfect place to relax and unwind, there's no destination quite like Cô Tô.

2.15 Mount Yên Tử (Quảng Ninh)

Mount Yên Tử, standing majestically on the border between Quảng Ninh and Bắc Giang provinces, reaches a height of 1068 meters. Unlike other tourist destinations in Northeast Vietnam, Mount Yên Tử is a renowned spiritual tourism site with a vast and ancient system of relics. Visitors to Mount Yên Tử can pay homage, seek blessings, and immerse themselves in the sacred mountain forest environment. A trip to Mount Yên Tử promises to help relieve stress and worries in everyday life.

Mount Yên Tử has become a famous spiritual tourism destination in recent years (Source: Collection)

3. What to Prepare for Northeast Travel?

As the Northeast is located on a vast plateau, it experiences rather harsh weather conditions. Particularly, tourist spots in Northeast Vietnam are often situated near the border areas. Therefore, thorough and complete preparation of clothing, equipment, and supplies is essential.

3.1 Dressing for Northeast Travel

• In summer: It's advisable to bring along a thin jacket to keep warm in the evenings.

• In winter: Don't forget to pack winter clothes along with warmth-preserving accessories such as wool hats, scarves, sweaters, sunglasses, umbrellas, etc. Additionally, consider bringing a padded jacket or leather jacket to keep warm and prevent catching a cold due to sudden drizzles.

3.2 Footwear

Absolutely avoid bringing flip-flops or high heels as the terrain in the Northeast is quite rugged and slippery. This could pose a danger to you. Instead, opt for shoes with high friction, providing comfort and convenience for hiking or long walks.

3.3 Essential Items to Bring

• Sunscreen.

• Flashlight, power bank.

• 4G SIM card with internet connection.

• Personal items (toothpaste, toothbrush, comb, towel, etc.).

• Medical supplies: Specialized medicines such as cold medicine, motion sickness pills, mosquito repellent, etc.

Above is all the detailed information about the most beautiful Northeast travel destinations to check-in. With these insights from Mytour, we hope you'll capture those 'thousand likes' photos at the scenic spots in the Northeast region. If you need to book a budget Northeast tour package, please contact the Mytour hotline for free consultation!