The Ha Giang Loop in Vietnam is a must-do adventure for travelers seeking breathtaking landscapes and cultural immersion. There are many reasons that adventurers want to join Ha Giang journey to get once in a lifetime experience.
7 Highlights of The Ha Giang Loop That you Should not Miss
As you embark on your adventure along the Ha Giang loop, prepare to be mesmerized by a series of natural wonders, cultural gems, and awe-inspiring vistas that will leave an indelible mark on your memory. Each twist and turn of the winding roads presents a new revelation, and here are some of the top highlights that you won’t want to miss!
Quan Ba Heaven’s Gate – Touching The Sky Amidst The Twin Mountains
A journey through Ha Giang wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the breathtaking wonder of Quan Ba Heaven’s Gate. Located roughly 40 kilometers from Ha Giang city, this ethereal gateway invites travelers to touch the sky and witness the extraordinary Twin Mountains after crossing Quan Ba town. These twin peaks, aptly nicknamed “The Twin Mountains” or “Fairy Bosom,” emerge as an awe-inspiring masterpiece of nature. As you approach the Quan Ba Pass, the dramatic silhouette of these mountains, resembling two cherries atop a hill, captures the imagination and leaves an indelible mark on your senses.
Standing at Quan Ba Heaven’s Gate, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The lush valleys and rolling hills that extend far below paint a picture of serenity and majesty. Whether you’re an avid photographer seeking the perfect shot or simply a traveler in search of a moment of reflection, this vantage point offers a remarkable perspective on the natural beauty that defines Ha Giang. Quan Ba Heaven’s Gate is not just a stop along the journey; it’s a destination in itself, inviting you to revel in the splendor of the Vietnamese countryside and the magic of the Twin Mountains.
Yen Minh – A Subterranean Marvel
Nestled amidst the stunning landscapes between Quan Ba and Dong Van, Yen Minh Town serves as a captivating stop on the southwestern edge of the Dong Van Plateau in Ha Giang. Although it might not boast an abundance of tourist attractions, Yen Minh exudes an authentic charm that has remained remarkably untouched by the traveler’s gaze. As you journey through this Ha Giang region, don’t miss a hike to the Lao Va Chai viewpoint, offering breathtaking vistas of Yen Minh Valley. We recommend you can spend a night at Du Gia Village – an unknown quiet village in Ha Giang Loop!
Yen Minh’s allure lies in its tranquil ambiance and regional gastronomic delights, including the famous “Yen Minh Cake” and rice paper rolls. Beyond the town, an exploration into the surrounding countryside reveals a pristine rural Vietnam devoid of crowds. If you visit during the 6th day of the 6th lunar month, you may even stumble upon the Pu Peo Forest Festival, showcasing captivating cultural rituals and traditions.
Lung Khuy Cave – Nature’s Ancient Artistry
Hidden in Lung Khuy village, Quan Ba district, Lung Khuy Cave, also known as the “First Cave of the Plateau,” offers a mesmerizing journey into geological history. Discovered in 2015 and opened for exploration on November 12th of the same year, this cave is a testament to Earth’s enduring transformation.
Lung Khuy Cave showcases limestone formations dating back 400 million years, shaped by an ancient sea. Its surroundings feature a captivating karst landscape, complete with peak clusters, depressions, cones, dolines, and terraces, nestled within a plateau ranging from 850 to 1100 meters above sea level. Inside, you’ll encounter vast chambers adorned with stunning speleothems like the King’s column and stone lion, accompanied by the gentle melody of water droplets from the cave ceiling.
The cave even houses the legendary “Fairy’s well,” a place of wishes and blessings during holidays and festivals. With dimensions of 517.5 meters in length, 31 meters in depth, and an area of 14,983 square meters, Lung Khuy Cave showcases Ha Giang’s geological wonders, offering an unforgettable experience for explorers.
Currently, the Dong Van UNESCO Global Geopark Management Board is crafting a walking trail connecting Lung Khuy Cave to Can Ty Old Forest, Nam Dam Dao cultural village, Lung Tam Mong Textile cooperative, and other captivating attractions, ensuring that visitors can continue to discover the natural and cultural riches of this remarkable region.
Meo Vac – Nature’s Retreat In Ha Giang
Nestled 164 kilometers from Ha Giang’s city center, Meo Vac is a serene border district renowned for its limestone mountains and the graceful Nho Que River. This tranquil corner of Ha Giang offers year-round cool weather and serves as a gateway to awe-inspiring natural beauty and cultural treasures.
Meo Vac is perhaps most famous for the legendary Ma Pi Leng Pass, often referred to as the “King of Passes.” This daring road winds along steep cliffs, offering unparalleled views of the Nho Que River below. Additionally, Meo Vac hosts the vibrant Khau Vai Love Market, a unique celebration of love among local ethnic communities. Here, you can witness colorful exchanges and traditional performances, immersing yourself in the rich culture of this remote region.
Beyond these landmarks, Meo Vac invites travelers to explore its ethnic villages, each offering a unique glimpse into their customs and traditions. With its breathtaking landscapes and cultural richness, Meo Vac is a destination that promises an authentic and unforgettable adventure.
Pi Leng Pass – Nature’s Breathtaking Beauty
The Ma Pi Leng Pass in Ha Giang is a stunning natural wonder. It’s famous for its dramatic scenery, with towering mountains alongside the Nho Que River. While the roads can be challenging, the views are truly worth it. You could stop and take in the breathtaking landscapes that stretch as far as you can see. Whether you love nature or adventure, Ma Pi Leng Pass is a must-visit spot on your Ha Giang journey, promising unforgettable memories of its beauty.
Nho Que River – The Serene Beauty Of Ha Giang’s Lifeline
Nho Que River, a pristine and meandering waterway, flows gracefully through the heart of the Ha Giang province, etching its way through the rugged terrain of the Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark. With emerald waters that cut through deep limestone gorges, the Nho Que River is a breathtaking natural wonder.
It is best known for the awe-inspiring Ma Pi Leng Pass, where the river dramatically courses through a sheer canyon, and intrepid travelers can cross the perilous yet exhilarating Ma Pi Leng Pass Bridge to take in unparalleled views of this majestic river, which has earned its reputation as one of the most scenic and exhilarating destinations in Northern Vietnam.
Dong Van – A Geological Marvel & Cultural Gem
Dong Van, nestled within the breathtaking Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark, stands as a geological marvel and a cultural treasure trove. This remote town is a gateway to rugged landscapes of towering limestone karsts, verdant valleys, and winding mountain roads that defy gravity.
Beyond its natural wonders, Dong Van Town boasts a rich cultural tapestry, with ethnic Hmong, Tay, and Dao communities residing in the area for generations. The town itself is home to historical relics like the Hmong King’s Palace, offering a glimpse into the region’s history. For travelers seeking both geological marvels and cultural immersion, Dong Van is an enchanting destination that seamlessly blends the ancient with the awe-inspiring.
Lung Cu – Vietnam’s Northernmost Point & Symbol Of Unity
Lung Cu, a remote and culturally significant destination in Ha Giang, proudly stands as the northernmost point of Vietnam. Here, atop a rugged hill, you’ll find the iconic Lung Cu Flag Tower, a symbol of the nation’s territorial integrity. The ascent to this historic site rewards visitors with sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, where verdant mountains, deep valleys like Sung La Valley, and pristine rivers stretch out as far as the eye can see.
Lung Cu not only offers a visual testament to Vietnam’s geographical extremity but also provides an opportunity for reflection on the nation’s resilience and unity. It’s a place where travelers can stand at the edge of the country and feel the rich history and natural beauty that define Ha Giang Loop.
