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Hà Giang has always been an ideal destination where you can admire the majestic natural landscapes and indulge in the famous local delicacies. So, what's new about Hà Giang travel in 2023? Let's explore together.
Hà Giang – a promised land captivating the souls of wanderers, yearning to traverse its beautiful realms like mythical beings. Hà Giang – a place everyone desires to visit, eager to witness the allure of buckwheat flowers, conquer hidden rugged mountain passes, and reach the summit of towering peaks. Exploring Hà Giang, you may find yourself enchanted by the majestic mountains, alluring and wild, or immersed in the subtle fragrance, witnessing vibrant flowers covering the small villages.
1. Ideal Times to Explore Hà Giang
1.1. January – March: Immerse in the Colors of Spring Flowers
Hà Giang's land is adorned with the vibrant colors of spring flowers (Photo: collected)
From January to March, Hà Giang is immersed in the hues of various flowers like white plum blossoms and pink peach blossoms. This period also witnesses numerous unique festivals in the mountainous town, such as the Gầu Tào Festival of the H'Mong people, Lồng Tồng Festival of the Tày people, and Lập Tịnh Festival of the Dao people.
1.2. April: Khâu Vai Love Market
Join the extraordinary Khâu Vai Love Market (Photo: collected)
April still carries a lingering scent of peach and plum blossoms, but the Khâu Vai Love Market festival is the most remarkable. This annual festival is a significant occasion for young men and women to meet, get acquainted, and even for couples separated by fate to chat and share their feelings.
1.3. May – June: Admire the Terraced Fields During the Flooding Season
The picturesque scene of flooded terraced fields (Photo: collected)
Visiting Hoang Su Phi, Hà Giang during this season, you will find it truly enchanting with waterfalls cascading over the terraced fields. No longer confined to images, you'll witness waterfalls streaming down from the mountain peaks, meandering through the small terraced fields, creating a vibrant and lively scene. During this season, locals start descending to the fields to sow the first seeds for the upcoming crop, creating a bustling atmosphere.
1.4. September - Captivated by the Radiant Yellow of Ripening Rice
A golden painting unfolds from September to October, as the terraced fields begin to ripen with vitality. With such a masterpiece of nature, merely admiring is not enough; you must also inhale and fully experience the gentle fragrance of the newly ripened rice.
1.5. November - Overflowing with the Purple Hue of Buckwheat Flowers
The transitional period between October and November is when Hà Giang is bathed in the purple hues of buckwheat flowers, like a blanket covering the entire sky, full of tranquility and dreaminess. Flowers bloom everywhere, from hillside forests to winding alleys, symbolizing the vigorous and sublime vitality of the people in this region. Notably, the buckwheat flower festival is organized annually here.
1.6. December - Admire the Golden Beauty of Mustard Flowers
December is the season of golden mustard flowers, brightening a corner of the sky. The tiny, vibrant mustard flowers, full of vitality under the sun and wind, become a prominent highlight amidst the greenery of the mountains and forests, creating a romantic and poignant space.
2. Getting to Hà Giang
Currently, there are no direct flights to Hà Giang. For the utmost convenience, it is advisable to stop in Hanoi before traveling to Hà Giang. Subsequently, the 280km journey from Hanoi to Hà Giang offers various transportation options for you to choose from.
2.1. Traveling by Motorbike
Traveling to Hà Giang by motorbike is a popular choice for many young enthusiasts (Photo: collected)
The 'off-road' route from Hanoi to Hà Giang by motorbike takes about 6-7 hours and has two routes: the route through Vĩnh Phúc and the route through Phú Thọ. Regardless of the chosen direction, the journey to Hà Giang is quite winding and perilous. Therefore, ensure a firm grip on the handlebars and possess experience in long-distance or mountainous road riding for a safe Hà Giang trip.
2.2. Traveling by Car
Passenger Car
At Mỹ Đình Bus Station, there are reputable bus companies such as Hưng Thành, Bằng Phấn, Quang Nghị, Hải Vân offering a variety of trips from 16:00 to 21:00 for you to choose from, with ticket prices ranging from 200,000 to 300,000 VND/bed. To make the most of your time, you can choose a late bus to sleep through the journey. If you are coming from the South or Central regions, you can arrange for the bus to pick you up at Nội Bài Intersection (near Nội Bài Airport) to save travel time.
Limousine Car
Car is also a suitable choice for the journey to Hà Giang (Photo: collected)
Limousine tickets, with more privacy, tend to be slightly higher than bus tickets, averaging from 250,000 to 350,000 VND/ticket. If traveling in a group of over 8 people, you may consider renting the entire car with prices ranging from 2,800,000 to 3,500,000 VND, saving money while having a private space and flexible transportation.
3. Transportation in Hà Giang
Motorbike
Due to the continuous steep terrain and narrow winding roads in Hà Giang, motorcycles are the most preferred means of transportation by many tourists. Motorcycle rental services in Hà Giang are diverse; however, to ensure safety when conquering this mountainous region, consider choosing a new motorcycle for the utmost security.
Taxi
Choosing a taxi provides more flexibility and control over time and locations for groups of friends or family traveling. Additionally, you can also hire a driver who doubles as a dedicated 'tour guide' to passionately introduce interesting destinations and local delicacies that few tourists know about.
4. Accommodation options when traveling to Hà Giang
4.1. Hotels
Many people choose to stay at hotels when visiting Hà Giang (Photo: collected)
– In Đồng Văn: 3-star hotels like Hoa Cương, Lâm Tùng, Trường Anh 1-2, Hoàng Ngọc Hotel with private clean rooms and full amenities.
– In Mèo Vạc: 3-star hotels like Hoa Cương, Mai Đào, Giang Sơn, Huyền Lợi, Tiến Cường, Tiến Tài, especially the most beautiful is Pả Vi Cultural Village (featuring an entertainment complex and accommodation facilities within).
– In Yên Minh: 3-star hotels like Phương Đông, Thảo Nguyên, Kiên Thảo,..
Additionally, there are hotels like Phoenix, Huy Hoàn, Hà Giang Historic House, all highly-rated by the community with full amenities, providing a comfortable resting place for your Hà Giang trip.
4.2. Homestays
Homestays are a popular accommodation option in Hà Giang (Photo: collected)
Homestays are the ideal choice for young independent travelers exploring Hà Giang, seeking authentic local cultural experiences at reasonable prices. Many homestays, established by local communities, offer communal meals cooked by the hosts themselves. This is also a convenient option for backpackers as homestays are prevalent in various areas in Hà Giang. Some recommended beautiful homestays by region:
– In Quản Bạ: Dao Lodge Homestay, Lý Đành Homestay, Hong Thu Homestay
– In Hà Giang City: Làng Tày Homestay, Kiki’s House, Ha Giang Homestay, Bui Ty Ha Homestay
– In Yên Minh: Bống Bang Homestay, Ha Anh Homestay, Eco Homestay, Tày Cốc Pảng Homestay
– In Mèo Vạc: Vá’s Homestay, Giấc xưa Guesthouse, Auberge de MeoVac, Lô Lô Homestay
– In Đồng Văn: Bụi Homestay, Đồng Văn B&B
4.3. Resorts
P’apiu Resort offers a unique experience in Hà Giang (Photo: Collection)
In Hà Giang, there are not many resorts, but there are still some places that offer unforgettable experiences for tourists. At the top of the list of Hà Giang resorts, P’apiu Resort, located 13km from the center of Hà Giang, will provide you with a ticket to get lost in the majestic mountains, amidst the breathtaking terraced fields, and in the poetic sky of the northernmost region of the country.
5. Must-Visit Places in Hà Giang
5.1. Lũng Cú Flagpole
The Lũng Cú Flagpole is located on the summit of Rong Mountain, 1,470m above sea level, considered the sacred northernmost landmark of the homeland. To 'check-in' at the flagpole, you have to climb 839 stone steps and an additional 140 spiral staircase steps to touch the national flag, officially standing at the highest point of the Far North.
5.2. Mã Pì Lèng Pass
With a 20km winding and treacherous pass, the beauty of Mã Pì Lèng Pass is renowned as one of the 'four great mountain passes' in the northern mountains, connecting Đồng Văn and Mèo Vạc. It is one of the most coveted destinations for independent travelers. From the summit, you can see the magnificent scenery of the emerald-green Nho Quế River meandering around the layered mountains.
5.3. Tu Sản Alley – Nho Quế River
You cannot claim to have visited Hà Giang without conquering Tu Sản Alley – Nho Quế River. With a rock wall height of nearly 800m, a depth of almost 1km, and a length of 1.7km, Tu Sản deserves to be the 'number one spectacular sight' on the Dong Van Karst Plateau.
One of the most unforgettable experiences when traveling independently in Hà Giang is rowing a boat on the Nho Quế River to get close and truly feel the overwhelming grandeur of Tu Sản Alley.
5.4. Twin Mountains in Quản Bạ
True to its name, the Twin Mountains in Quản Bạ (also known as the Fairy's Twin Mountains) are a fascinating masterpiece of nature, resembling a mother's breast, bringing richness to this region. Depending on the time, you can admire the Twin Mountains in different 'color palettes': the pink of buckwheat flowers, the ripe yellow of rice, or the green covered with white clouds in misty mornings.
5.5. Dong Van Old Quarter
Dong Van Old Quarter Center (Photo: collected)
Dong Van Old Quarter is a gathering place for various ethnic groups such as Tay, Hoa, Mong, Nung, Dao, and Kinh, who settled here from the early 20th century. The old quarter still retains its ancient beauty and nostalgic atmosphere with characteristic houses, adorned with the golden mossy hue of time. The best time to visit the old quarter is during the weekly Sunday market. You will immerse yourself in the daily life of the locals with vibrant traditional costumes and the unique mountainous products.
5.6. Vuong Family's Palace
The Vuong Family's Palace, also known as the Palace of the Hmong King Vuong Duc Chinh, or the Hmong King's Palace, is a majestic residence built from the 1890s. The palace is located in the valley of Xa Phin, Dong Van. Beyond its unique ancient architectural space, visitors to Hà Giang will learn more about the glorious history and patriotic stories of this family.
6. What to Eat When Traveling to Ha Giang?
Culinary delights are always an endless topic for regions, and Ha Giang tourism is no exception. Ha Giang is famous for its unique dishes, rich with the flavors of the mountains and forests in the area. Explore the must-try dishes during your upcoming 2023 trip to Ha Giang.
6.1. Five-color Sticky Rice
The colors in the sticky rice are not from artificial dyes but are cooked from various forest leaves. Each leaf is used to extract color, resulting in the five favorite colors of sticky rice.
6.2. Smoked Buffalo Meat
Distinctive flavor of smoked buffalo meat (Photo: collected)
With a delicious and unique flavor from the northern mountains and forests, smoked buffalo meat is an enticing dish often brought back by tourists. Originating from the Thai ethnic group, it is a method of preserving natural buffalo meat by placing it on a kitchen shelf, drying the meat through temperature and smoke. To enhance the flavor, before being placed on the shelf, buffalo meat is marinated with chili, ginger, garlic, wild pepper, forest herbs, etc. After two months of smoking on the kitchen shelf, the buffalo meat turns into a black block with a distinctive aroma.
6.3. Thắng Cố (Victory Banquet)
Arriving in Ha Giang, one cannot ignore Victory Banquet (Photo: collected)
Victory Banquet is perhaps one of the most famous specialties of the highland rocky plateau. The main ingredients of this dish come from the meat and organs of buffalo, cow, or horse, stir-fried and then simmered for hours with various spices and characteristic mountain herbs. This dish is often available in local markets. Don't forget to order a cup of aromatic and sweet corn wine to fully enjoy the authentic Victory Banquet according to the ethnic standard.
6.4. Triangle Buckwheat Cake
Triangle Buckwheat Cake – a unique cake with the flavor of the mountains and forests (Photo: collected)
Triangle buckwheat seeds, half the size of regular soybeans after harvesting, are dried and hand-ground until smooth. Knead this flour with water, mold it into round, flat shapes using two hands. The cakes are steamed before baking to create a beautiful, crispy, fragrant brown crust, while remaining soft and fluffy inside. These cakes are often sold in local markets for prices ranging from 10,000 to 15,000 VND/piece.
6.5. Au Tau Porridge
You can only savor Au Tau Porridge in Ha Giang (Photo: collected)
Au Tau Porridge, also known as bitter porridge, is made from the bitter tuber of a plant abundant in the northern mountainous region. The tuber is soaked in rice water overnight and then simmered for 4 hours until it becomes dense, usually taking around 4 hours. It is then cooked with broth made from lean meat and pork legs. Au Tau Porridge is best enjoyed hot with green onions, basil, raw egg yolks, and minced meat.
6.6. Ha Giang Egg Rolls
Ha Giang Egg Rolls offer a unique culinary experience (Photo: collected)
Resembling Hanoi's rolled rice pancakes, Ha Giang Egg Rolls provide a distinctly different culinary adventure. Instead of dipping in fish sauce, Ha Giang Egg Rolls with egg and bamboo shoot fillings are enjoyed with bone broth, offering a unique and delicious savory flavor.
7. What to Buy in Ha Giang as Souvenirs?
Ha Giang's specialty snow Shan tea makes a perfect gift (Photo: collected)
If you still remember the 'scent' of Ha Giang and want to bring it back to share with friends and family, consider gifting them snow Shan tea, smoked sausage, smoked buffalo meat, Bac Quang oranges, or hand-carried pork. Each specialty carries distinct flavors that will make people fondly remember the beloved land of Ha Giang.
8. Travel Tips for Ha Giang
Important reminders for your Ha Giang trip (Photo: collected)
- Clothing and footwear: If you're visiting Ha Giang in winter, make sure to bring warm clothes as the mountainous weather here is much colder than the plains. In summer, bring a light jacket for chilly evenings and wear comfortable sports shoes or soft-soled shoes for walking around. Some attractions in Ha Giang, such as the Lung Cu flagpole, Nho Que River, or the white rock cliffs, may require some walking, so sports shoes are convenient.
- Medications: It's advisable to carry blood circulation medicines, various tonic herbs, or motion sickness medication because Ha Giang's mountainous roads can be winding, making even seasoned drivers susceptible to motion sickness. Additionally, bring some pain relievers, stomachache medication, band-aids, and insect repellent spray.
- Documents and other luggage: Always carry your ID as it may be required for accommodations or when renting a motorcycle. Ensure you keep your luggage secure throughout your journey.
The above are some of the latest travel tips for Ha Giang. Hopefully, these insights will provide you with a comprehensive overview of Ha Giang, helping you plan your upcoming vacation. You can refer to some of our Ha Giang tours for more information.
Explore the Tam Giac Mach Plateau with Ha Giang Tour
Posted by: Nguyen Thi My
Keywords: Ha Giang Travel 2023 - Latest Comprehensive Experiences
