Ha Giang is a Northern province in Vietnam, known for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage, and captivating ethnic minority communities. Often referred to as “the final frontier” of Vietnam. Ha Giang is a haven for adventures and nature enthusiasts, offering a mesmerizing blend of rugged mountains, cascading waterfalls, and verdant valleys.
Why choose Ha Giang?
Ha Giang is less touristy compared to other destinations, providing an authentic and tranquil escape for those who want to wander Vietnam in its most authentic vibe.
Ha Giang is a rugged and remote province in northern Vietnam, bordering China. It is a perfect destination for adventurous activities like trekking and motorbiking. If you’re looking to get off-the-beaten-path in Vietnam, Ha Giang is an excellent choice.
Ha Giang or Sapa?
Most Famous Locations in Ha Giang
– Dong Van Karst Plateau: Global Geopark, recognized by UNESCO, known for its breathtaking scenery
– Ma Pi Leng Pass: One of the most stunning passes in Vietnam
– Quan Ba Heaven Gate: Offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes
– Lung Cu Flag Tower: Marks the northernmost of Vietnam
– Meo Vac Market: A vibrant market showcasing local culture and products
How is Weather in Ha Giang? Best time to visit Ha Giang
Spring (March – May):
Temperature: 15°C – 20°C (59°F – 68°F)
Spring brings mild temperatures and blooming flowers, especially the peach and plum blossoms, making it a beautiful time to visit
Summer (June – August):
Temperature: 25°C – 30°C (77°F – 86°F)
Summer in Ha Giang is warm and humid, with occasional rains. It’s a great time to see lush green landscapes
Autumn (September – November)
Temperature: 15°C – 24°C (59°F – 75°F)
The weather is cool and dry, and the rice terraces are golden, ready for harvest
Winter (December – February)
Temperature:
+ Lower valleys: below 20°C (below 68°F)
+ Higher valleys: below 10°C (below 50°F)
Winter is extremely cold, but it’s also a time when you can experience the unique culture and festivities of the local ethnic minorities.
Overall, the best time to visit Ha Giang is during Autumn (September – November) when the landscapes are at their most stunning
How to Get to Ha Giang from Hanoi
1. Travelling by bus to Ha Giang from Hanoi
Several bus companies operate this route, offering both day and night trips.
– Recommendations:
+ Tech Bus JSC
Duration: 6 hours
Price:
Sleeper 40: US $11–14
VIP 18 Express: US $16–17
VIP 16 Express: US $17
VIP 22: US $17–28
Website: tbusvietnam.com
Phone: 19000385
+ Truly Ha Giang
Duration: 6 hours
Price: US $13 – $16
Website: trulyhagiang.com
Phone: (+84) 984 583 668
2. Travelling by motorbike to Ha Giang from Hanoi
Ha Giang loop is becoming more and more attractive to adventurous travelers, renting a motorbike and riding to Ha Giang is an exciting option. The journey offers stunning views but requires good riding skills and a driver lisence.
– Recommendations:
+ Rental Motorbike Hanoi
Address: 42A Ngo 293 Ngọc Thuy – Long Bien, Hanoi
Phone: (+84) 931 899 334
+ Hanoi Motorbike Rental
Address: 34 Nguyen Huu Huan Street, Ly Thai To, Hoan Kiem district, Hanoi
Whatsapp: (+84) 913 047 509
Other options are taking a private car or taking a full package tour to take you from Hanoi to Ha Giang.
Where to stay in Ha Giang: Recommended accomodations in Ha Giang
Hotels in Ha Giang
Phoenix Hotel
+ Price: ~US $42 (965 000VND) per night
+ Address: 92T Nguyen Trai Street, Nguyen Trai district, Ha Giang city
Elegant quarters in a relaxed riverfront hotel with a restaurant & a garden, plus breakfast
Yen Bien Luxury Hotel
+ Price: ~US $45 (1 030 000VND) per night
+ Address: 186 Thanh Nien Street. Minh Khai district, Ha Giang city
A highly-rated hotel in Ha Giang. Guests praise the hotel for its clean and comfortable room, friendly and helpful staff, excellent location, and delicious breakfast
Royal Hotel Ha Giang
+Price: ~US $19 (450 000VND) per night
+ Address: 38 Tran Hung Dao Street, Ha Giang city
Clean and comfortable rooms, helpful staff. The location is convenient for exploring Ha Giang
Hoa Cuong Hotel
+ Price: ~US $21 (500 000VND) per night
+ Address: 12 Ly Tu Trong Street, Ha Giang city
Spacious rooms and good service. The beakfast receives positive comments for its variety and quality
Ha Giang Wings Bungalow
+ Price: ~US $15 (350 000 VND) per night
+ Address: Lam Dong village, Phuong Thien commune, Ha Giang city
Tranquil setting and unique bungalow experience. The hosts are noted for their friendliness and hospitality
Homestays in Ha Giang
Ha Giang Creekside Homestay
+ Price: ~US $17 (400 000)
+ Address: 86 Nguyen Thai Hoc Street, Ha Giang city
Riverside location and warm hospitality. Praised for its cleanliness and home-cook meals
Jungle Man Homestay
+ Price: ~US $13 (300 000VND) per night
+ Address: Tien Thang village, Phuong Do commune, Ha Giang city
Scenic setting and unique experience of staying in a traditional wooden house. The host is welcoming and helpful
Lo Lo Homestay
+ Price: ~US $15 (350 000VND)
+ Address: Lo Lo Chai village, Lung Cu Commune, Dong Van district, Ha Giang
Rustic charm and cultural immersion. The host is friendly, you have opportunities to participate in local activities.
What to Eat in Ha Giang?
Thang Co
The dish includes horse, beef, pork, or buffalo meat and its organs. Besides the flavor of meat, the broth is what make this dish special
Au Tau Porridge
A worth-trying food, made from au tau tubers, which can only be found in the northern of Vietnam. Au Tau itself is poisonous, and need to be prepared under special process of the cook. This is the most signature dish of Ha Giang.
Five-color Sticky Rice
If you have time to wander all the northwest of Vietnam, you will see this sticky rice is pretty popular. The colors of the rice are all from natural ingredients.
Buckwheat flower cake
Cake which made from the buckwheat flower, can only be found during the buckwheat flower season (October – December)
Smoked buffalo meat
A traditional dish of the Thai ethnic group. The meat is marinated in a mixture of salt, garlic, ginger, lemongrass and some chili powder, then hung over a fire for several hours or days until it absorb all smoky flavor and aroma.
Ha Giang steamed rice roll (banh cuon)
There are many versions of rice roll (banh cuon) all over Vietnam and Ha Giang version is one of the most must-try. The special of this version is that people don’t use fish sauce as dipping sauce, but use bone broth stew instead.
Sour Pho
A new version of Pho, has an excellent flavor from a combination of local ingredients and a sour-spicy soup
Thang Den
Popular in the winter days. Round rice ball served with sweetened soup made from apricot blossom sugar, coconut and ginger.
Recommended Restaurants in Ha Giang
Mr.Hung Bar Restaurant
Price: US $3 – US $20 (80 000VND – 515 000VND)
Address: Lam Dong Phuong Thien, Ha Giang
A European style restaurant with good service and friendly staff, willing to support you at all time
Banh Cuon Co Duc (Rice roll only)
Price: US $1 – $2 (25 000 – 50 000)
Address: 31 Pho Co, Dong Van, Ha Giang
Serve the best rice roll in Ha Giang
Ca Song Lo Restaurant
Price: US $3.93 – $11.8 (100 000VND – 300 000VND)
Address: Cluster 6, Nguyen Trai district, Ha Giang
Stunning view and delicious dishes.
Quan Chao Moc Mien (Au Tau Porridge only)
Price: US $1.57 – $2 (40 000VND – 50 000VND)
Address: 140 Cluster 2, Dong Van town, Dong Van district, Ha Giang
Serve the best Au Tau porridge in Ha Giang
Tu Lan Restaurant
Price: US $2 – $11.8 (50 000VND – 300 000VND)
Address: 125 Cluster 3, Dong Van town, Dong Van district, Ha Giang
Serve mouth-watering local dishes, great service and affordable price, cozy atmosphere.
Ha Giang 3 Days Itinerary
Day 1:
– Explore Quan Ba Heaven Gate
– Visit local market in Quan Ba
Day 2:
– Drive to Dong Van
– Visit Dong Van Karst Plateau
– Explore Lung Cu Flag Tower
Day 3
– Travel to Meo Vac
– Drive Through Ma Pi Leng pass, immerse in the beauty of the pass and Nho Que River
– Return to Ha Giang
Ha Giang Travel Tips
– Plan your route: Ha Giang’s roads are winding and can be challenging, so plan you route carefully
– Check the weather: Weather can affect road conditions, especially during the rainy season when the heavy rain can cause flood at all time
– Respect Local Culture: Be mindful of the custom and traditions of the local ethnic minorities.
FAQs
Is Ha Giang safe for tourists?
Yes, Ha Giang is generally safe for tourists. However, always be cautious, especially when traveling on mountain roads.
Can I rent a motorbike in Ha Giang?
Yes, you can rent yourself a motorbike in Ha Giang city, as long as you have a valid driver license and experience riding in mountainous terrain
What is the best way to explore Ha Giang?
The best way to explore Ha Giang is by motorbike. This allows travelers to fully experience the breathtaking beauty of this remote area. If you are not confident riding by yourself, there are many easy riders service available there. Your trip will be taken care of by professional local guide who is at the same time carry you on his/ her motorbike.
What should I pack for a trip to Ha Giang?
Pack comfortable clothing, sturdy shoes for trekking, a raincoat, warm layers for winter, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and any personal medications.
Are there ATMs in Ha Giang?
Yes, there are ATMs in Ha Giang city. However, its advisable to carry enough cash when traveling to remote areas.
