Ha Giang, with majestic mountains and a unique culture, is a destination not to be missed for those who love to explore and adventure. Located in the northernmost part of Vietnam, Ha Giang brings visitors unique experiences, from the winding passes and the emerald green river dreams to the markets with a rich ethnic cultural identity. Therefore, it is not difficult to understand why Ha Giang is always on the list of the most attractive destinations in the country. In this article, let ZingHome Ha Giang discover the top 13 things to do in Ha Giang.
1. Why should you visit Ha Giang?
Are you looking for a special journey, where nature is still pristine and culture imbued with national identity? Ha Giang is the place for you. Unlike other mass tourist destinations in Vietnam, Ha Giang still retains its wild, poetic, and mysterious beauty. Here are the reasons why the big things to do in Ha Giang become a must-try experience in your journey to explore North Vietnam:
Spectacular, unspoiled landscapes
Ha Giang is a place where you can admire every subtle detail of nature through each season. In the spring, Ha Giang is full of vitality with peach blossoms and plum blossoms blooming white in the sky. In the summer, the green terraced fields are under the sun. In the fall, the golden rice fields create a bright natural picture. At the end of the year, when winter comes, the mustard flowers and the buckwheat flowers are blooming throughout the hillsides, bringing a gentle and romantic beauty. Smoke-free urban dust, not crowded like famous destinations, this is the top reason on the list of Things to do in Ha Giang.
Culture of unique ethnic groups, with many traditional experiences
With more than 20 ethnic groups, Ha Giang is a convergence of cultural diversity. From the colorful fair to traditional rituals, every day here is an opportunity for you to enter a new world. The stay in the homestay, eating with the indigenous people, learning to cook traditional food, or simply listening to them telling stories of life – all the things to do in Ha Giang cannot be missed.
Suitable for adventurous and close to nature
Ha Giang is not only an attractive cultural destination but also a paradise for those who love outdoor activities. Visitors can choose to explore Ha Giang by motorbike freely on winding roads, and watch Ha Giang from above. Unique experiences such as kayaking on Nho Que River, trekking through Hoang Su Phi fields, or even bathing in Du Gia Waterfall all bring you an interesting feeling about the majestic Ha Giang. Each activity not only satisfies the passion for discovery but also helps you understand more about this land. This is the perfect place for those looking for adventurous things to do in Ha Giang.
2. Top 13 best things to do in Ha Giang
Activities in Ha Giang are not merely beautiful scenery tours but also a journey to experience the culture and life of the people here. Here are the best things to do in Ha Giang that any tourist should not miss.
Experience to explore Ha Giang by motorbike
Discovering Ha Giang by motorbike is a great way to admire the natural beauty here in the most complete way. The feeling of freely driving a motorbike at its own speed, feeling each cool breeze, gaining more understanding about the passes, crossing the steep roads to occupy a mysterious space. Motorbikes are an ideal means to admire the majestic mountain landscape of Ha Giang. From the coincidental mountains, the winding passes to the peaceful valley areas, stopping wherever you like, it is what makes driving yourself one of the most favorite Things to do in Ha Giang.
Visit Dong Van Karst Plateau
Dong Van Karst Plateau is one of the highlights of this country. Considered by UNESCO as a global geological park, it possesses a spectacular landscape with millions of black cat ear stones mainly from the life. This unique landscape not only expresses the process of geological formation but also a work of art.
Coming to Dong Van, you not only discover the strange natural scenery but also have the opportunity to learn about the unique life of the ethnic minorities here, those who are familiar with the life of this majestic mountainous land. If you love nature and history, this is an ideal place to explore. A light trekking trip around this area is also worthy of the list of Things to do in Ha Giang.
Riding a motorbike to conquer Ma Pi Leng pass
Riding a motorbike to conquer Ma Pi Leng Pass is an indispensable adventure experience in the list of Things to do in Ha Giang. Ma Pi Leng Pass is about 20 km long, is one of the special challenges for those who love the feeling of adventure. Known for many dangerous bends, this place gives you a panoramic view of the most pristine and majestic natural beauty of Ha Giang. Each road hugging the cliff, below is the jade green, romantic Nho Que river. This is a place not to be missed if you are looking for an adventure journey with enchanting scenes.
Boat ride on the Nho Que River
After admiring the Nho Que River from above, do not miss the opportunity to row a kayak or take a motorbike boat right on the turquoise water. Visitors sitting on the boat can enjoy the majestic mountains, listen to the sound of murmuring water, and enjoy the smooth feeling when their heart blends with the white scenery of limestone rocks. This is the most prominent feature in the top Things to do in Ha Giang for tourists to love nature.
Walking and enjoying coffee in the Dong Van old quarter
Walking and enjoying coffee in Dong Van ancient quarter is one of the best things to do in Ha Giang is both gentle and cultural. In the middle of the ancient space of yin-yang tile roof houses, mossy gold walls, visitors can leisurely walk, breathe fresh air in the highlands, and stop at a small cafe to enjoy a rich cup of coffee.
Shops like Café Old Town or Old Town Coffee not only bring great flavor but also an ideal place to watch the bustling old town or immerse yourself in the peaceful scenery early tomorrow. This is really a memorable experience in the journey to explore Things to do in Ha Giang.
Explore the local market
The market is a typical cultural feature of the northern mountainous region that you should not miss when coming to Ha Giang. Here, you can learn more about indigenous culture and customs through each item; From delicious fresh vegetables, poultry, brocade woven fabric, or unique jewelry, all have a bold upland imprint. The most prominent feature of the markets is the busy buying scene, where you can enjoy local specialties or buy exquisite craft items. These are things to do in Ha Giang that you should go on weekends to feel completely.
In the homestay of the local people
Choosing the Ha Giang homestay is not only a cost-saving way, but also an opportunity for you to really immerse yourself in the life of the local people. Here, you will experience the simple but poetic lifestyle of the indigenous people through warm meals, stories about the night, and the interesting customs that only exist between them. You can discover it all.
Bath at Du Gia waterfall
Another active activity in the list of best things to do in Ha Giang is a bath in Du Gia Waterfall, where you can immerse yourself in the cool water from the waterfall between the green background of the mountains. The waterfall flows all year round, bringing the ideal space to relax and enjoy the peaceful moments, separating from the noise and bustle of the usual day. Waterfalls are not only an ideal place to relax but also bring a memorable experience in nature.
Visit the traditional weaving village
Visiting the traditional weaving village is one of the big things to do in Ha Giang to help you feel more clearly about the quintessence of the national culture here. In the villages of Lo Lo, Dao, or H’Mong people, you will witness the process of manual brocade weaving – from the fiber, dyeing with leaves to create sophisticated patterns. This experience not only helps you better understand the traditional beauty but also contributes to preserving and spreading cultural values. If you are looking for Things to do in Ha Giang with cultural depth, the weaving village is definitely a stop that cannot be missed.
Trekking terraced fields in Hoang Su Phi
Hoang Su Phi terraced field is famous for the image of the layer stretched across the hillside, from the low batch to the undulating mounds. Trekking through these fields not only brings the opportunity to immerse oneself in the beautiful natural space, but also provides more knowledge about the agricultural farming techniques of indigenous people. This will be a trip worth experiencing, immersed in the fresh air and unforgettable majestic scenery.
Conquer the Lung Cu Flag Tower
Lung Cu Flag Tower – the sacred symbol in the Northernmost part of Vietnam, is the stop that can be missed in the list of Things to do in Ha Giang. From a height of 1,470m, you will admire the panoramic view of the majestic mountains, Lo Lo villages, and green fields. The journey to climb more than 500 stone steps up to the flag tower is not only a challenge but also an emotional experience, especially for visitors who want to better understand the culture and pride of the Vietnamese nation.
Enjoy Ha Giang cuisine
One of the best things to do in Ha Giang is to taste the local food – it’s simple, hearty, and full of mountain flavor. Try the famous Banh Cuon (steamed rice rolls with egg), served with a warm pork broth – a popular breakfast for locals. Feeling adventurous? Sample Thang Co, a spicy stew made with horse meat, often found at ethnic markets. For something truly unique, don’t miss Chao Au Tau – a sticky rice porridge made with poisonous tubers (yes, really!), which are safe only after hours of cooking. Pair your meal with a glass of corn wine and enjoy a real taste of Ha Giang’s culture.
Join the festival
The festival is an indispensable part of the lives of the people of Ha Giang, an opportunity to meet, connect the community, and show the spirit of solidarity. Khau Vai Love Market, Gau Tao Festival, or Buckwheat Flower Festival all bring unique and memorable experiences for those who have the opportunity to participate. Each festival has a special meaning, opening up interesting stories, making you passionate about culture and people here.
3. Ha Giang travel experience
After learning the best things to do in Ha Giang, you need to prepare carefully to make the trip more complete.
The best time to go to Ha Giang
Each time Ha Giang brings a unique beauty. However, the best time to visit Ha Giang is from September to November. The ripe rice season lasts from the end of September to mid-October, and highlands like Hoang Su Phi promise beautiful golden fields. In November, you will admire the pure white of mustard flowers and the romantic purple-pink of buckwheat flowers, making this land a perfect picture.
Ha Giang Loop accommodation
ZingHome Ha Giang
Choosing the right accommodation is very important when traveling to Ha Giang. There are many options from cheap homestays to high-class motels or hotels.
In Ha Giang City:
- ZingHome Ha Giang: This place is near the bus station, rent a motorbike, and organize the Ha Giang Loop tour. Nice room, airy, parking, and outdoor chill space. Price: 350,000 – 500,000 VND/double room.
- QT Guest House brings a comfortable space with modern decoration. Price: 400,000 – 600,000 VND/double room
- Kiki’s House is a popular place for international visitors thanks to the friendly and exciting atmosphere. Price: 300,000 – 450,000 VND/double room
In Dong Van:
- Green Karst Hostel & Bar provides utility services, from coffee in the morning to cold beer in the evening. Price: 200,000 VND (dorm) – 500,000 VND/private room.
- Binh Minh Hostel with good services and pays attention to every small detail to please customers. Price: 250,000 – 350,000 VND/double room.
- Lam Tung Hotel has many spacious rooms and a convenient location near the main attractions. Price: 400,000 – 600,000 VND/double room
In Meo Vac:
- Ong Vang Meo Vac Hotel provides a relaxing resort service. Price: 500,000 – 700,000 VND/room.
- Little Yen’s Homestay offers an experience in the middle of the culture with the indigenous homestay model. Price: 250,000 – 400,000 VND/room
The options to explore Ha Giang
Each form of tourism will bring a different experience, depending on your preferences and physical strength. You can choose the right way to perform the things to do in Ha Giang:
- Motorbike: This is a common means for many visitors because of the freedom and convenience. Discover Ha Giang by motorbike to help you stop anywhere, enjoy the moment with nature, and live in the beat of the land.
- Car: This is an ideal solution for a group of tourists who are not used to traveling on motorcycles but still want to enjoy the natural beauty. Car rental services with experienced drivers are ready to serve, helping you have a safe and interesting trip.
- The bicycle is a great way for you to completely immerse yourself in the different atmosphere of this mountainous land. With a moderate, slow speed, you will feel more clearly each scene passing.
- Trekking through mountainous areas when beautiful weather is always an unforgettable experience. Those who love discovery, seek new challenges, and the tranquility of nature, trekking in Ha Giang is a journey worth trying.
Tips to note when exploring activities in Ha Giang
To help you have the most complete trip, here are some useful tips when exploring things to do in Ha Giang.
- Always prepare an offline map or Google Maps already downloaded, because of some lose signal.
- Quality motorbike rental from reputable stores such as ZingHome Ha Giang, QT Motorbike – Insurance, new motorbikes, and good helmets.
- Wear warm enough, carrying raincoats and anti-slip shoes, especially when going in the cold or rainy season.
- Carrying cash, because some places do not accept payment by card or e-wallet.
- Learning a few basic Vietnamese communication sentences will help you easily interact with indigenous people, especially when participating in Things to do in Ha Giang in the village.
- Respect local culture, and do not take photos of people without permission.
- Book in advance the homestay or hotel in the peak season to avoid ruin.
- Bring snacks, drinking water, especially when trekking or going through remote areas.
Ha Giang is not only a destination for majestic roads but also the land of indigenous culture, unique cuisine, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you like to conquer rugged passes, explore peaceful villages, or simply sip coffee in the mountains, there are always countless things to do in Ha Giang waiting for you to explore. Let this journey bring you really valuable memories – and if you need to plan, don’t forget to visit ZingHome Ha Giang to learn more!
