Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark

Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark, located at the northernmost point of Vietnam, is renowned for its magnificent, untouched beauty and unique cultural values. Situated at an altitude of over 1,000 meters above sea level, the plateau spans across four districts: Quan Ba, Yen Minh, Meo Vac, and Dong Van. It creates an impressive natural landscape with winding roads, majestic limestone mountains, and lush green valleys. When visiting Dong Van, tourists should not miss famous landmarks such as the Lũng Cú Flagpole, the northernmost point of the country, the Vuong Family Residence, an architectural marvel of the Hmong people, the Dong Van Old Quarter, the only ancient town in the northern mountainous region, or the Ma Pi Leng Pass, one of Vietnam’s “four great mountain passes.” In addition to its natural beauty, Dong Van attracts visitors with the unique culture of the ethnic minorities living there. Tourists can participate in traditional festivals, enjoy local specialties, and learn about the customs and traditions of the local people.

 

Lung Cu Flag Tower

Lung Cu Flag Tower, located in Lung Cu Commune, Dong Van District, Ha Giang Province, is the northernmost point of Vietnam, attracting tourists with its majestic beauty, significant historical significance, and challenging conquest experiences. To reach the flagpole, visitors must conquer 389 stone steps and 140 spiral steps inside the flagpole itself. Standing atop the flagpole, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of continuous limestone mountains, small villages hidden in the mist, and the red flag with a yellow star fluttering in the wind, evoking feelings of pride and emotion. The Flagpole of Lũng Cú is not only a tourist attraction but also an educational site instilling patriotism and ethnic pride in the younger generation.

 

Quan Ba Heaven Gate

Quan Ba Heaven Gate is a famous tourist destination located on National Highway 4C, in Quan Ba District, Ha Giang Province. It is known as the “heaven amidst the clouds,” standing at an altitude of over 1,500 meters above sea level, making it one of the highest points of Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark. Quan Ba Heaven Gate is a stone gate built on the summit of a mountain pass, marking the border between Ha Giang and Cao Bang provinces. The gate is constructed with unique architecture, reflecting the cultural imprint of the Tay ethnic group. Additionally, this area is home to the Tay ethnic people, with their unique traditional cultural identity. Visitors can participate in traditional festivals, enjoy local specialties, and learn about the local way of life.

 

Quan Ba Twin Mountain

Quan Ba Twin Mountain is one of the most famous landmarks in Ha Giang province. The mountain is located on Highway 4C, about 40 km north of Ha Giang City, in the area of Tam Sơn town, Quan Ba district. Quan Ba Twin Mountain is often likened to the “masterpiece of nature” in the land of Ha Giang, with its unique and majestic beauty. Formed millions of years ago due to geological factors, the mountain stands approximately 800m above sea level and is covered with lush green forests, creating an incredibly grand and picturesque natural landscape. Quan Ba Twin Mountain is an ideal destination for those who love exploring and experiencing nature. Visitors can engage in various exciting activities such as mountain climbing, trekking, camping, and photography.

 

Cam Son Mountain

Cam Son Mountain is a majestic limestone mountain situated right in the heart of Ha Giang City. This place possesses a rugged, magnificent beauty along with many historical, cultural, and spiritual values that attract numerous visitors to explore and discover. Cam Son Mountain features pristine, towering limestone cliffs, mysterious caves, and lush primeval forests. Visitors can immerse themselves in nature, enjoy the fresh air, and experience the tranquility of this place. Additionally, Cấm Sơn is a site preserving many long-standing historical and cultural values of the local people, especially numerous historical relics such as temples, pagodas, and caves, along with various traditional festivals held at different times throughout the year.

 

Sam Pun Border Gate

Sam Pun Border Gate is located in Meo Vac District, Ha Giang Province, and serves as the northernmost point of Ha Giang Province. It attracts tourists with its majestic, pristine beauty and significant historical importance. To reach Săm Pun Border Gate, visitors must conquer the Ma Pi Leng Pass – one of the most beautiful mountain passes in Vietnam, characterized by winding roads, towering cliffs, and breathtaking natural scenery. Săm Pun Border Gate is not only a tourist attraction but also a place of great historical significance, marking the sovereignty of Vietnam in the north.

 

Tu San Alley

Tu San Alley, located on the Nho Que River in Quan Ba District, Ha Giang Province, is a destination that attracts tourists with its pristine, majestic beauty and unique exploration experiences. To reach Tu San Alley, visitors must travel by motorboat along the Nho Que River. Upon entering Tu San Alley, visitors will be amazed by the towering cliffs on both sides, reaching heights of 700 – 900 meters, creating an incredibly impressive scene. A special feature of Tu San Alley is the small caves hidden within the cliffs, where visitors can explore the mysteries of nature. Additionally, tourists can participate in activities such as kayaking and savoring local specialties.

 

Dong Van Old Quarter

Dong Van Old Quarter, situated on Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark in Ha Giang Province, is a destination that attracts tourists with its ancient, unique beauty and the rich cultural values of ethnic minorities. A special feature of Dong Van Old Quarter is the Dong Van Market – the liveliest market on the karst plateau, held every Sunday morning. Here, visitors can find unique local products, savor delicious specialties, and immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of the market. Additionally, tourists can visit Quan Cong Gate, King Meo’s Palace, the Cultural Village of Ethnic Minorities, and Lung Cu Flag Tower – the northernmost point of the country.

 

Cang Bac Me

Cang Bac Me is a national historical site located on the slope of Dragon Mountain, in Don Đienn hamlet, Yen Cuong commune, Bac Me district, Ha Giang province. This place was once built by the French colonialists as a fortress to control the entire transportation route connecting three provinces: Ha Giang, Cao Bang, and Tuyen Quang. After many years of war, Cang Bac Me suffered considerable damage. However, the site still preserves intact the important historical and cultural values. Cang Bac Me has been restored and renovated several times and is now an attractive tourist destination for visitors from both within and outside the country.

 

Milestone 428

Milestone 428, also known as Border Marker 428, is an important landmark marking the northernmost point on the mainland of Vietnam, located in the area of Xéo Lủng hamlet, Lũng Cú commune, Đồng Văn district, Hà Giang province. Built in 2008, Milestone 428 stands at a height of 1,433.73 meters above sea level. Made of granite, the milestone is 6.2 meters tall with a diameter of 2.4 meters, and the national flag of Vietnam is mounted on its top. Milestone 428 is a symbol of the sacred sovereignty of Vietnam and a source of pride for the nation. This location attracts a large number of tourists who come to visit and learn about the history and culture of the frontier land of the homeland.

 

Sung La Valley

Sung La Valley is renowned for its vibrant fields of buckwheat flowers. During the blooming season of buckwheat flowers (around September to October), Sung La Valley becomes a kaleidoscope of colors with vast expanses of buckwheat fields stretching as far as the eye can see. This is the perfect time for visitors to come and capture photos, preserving the most beautiful moments. In addition to buckwheat flowers, Sung La Valley also features brilliant fields of mustard flowers. During the blooming season of mustard flowers (around November to December), Sung La Valley becomes enchanting and surreal with golden fields of mustard flowers spreading out like shimmering golden carpets.

 

Lung Cam Cultural Tourist Village

Lung Cam Cultural Tourist Village is located in Dong Van District, Hà Giang Province. This place is known as a “hidden paradise” nestled amidst the pristine mountains and forests of Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark, attracting tourists with its peaceful, picturesque beauty and the unique traditional cultural values of the Hmong ethnic people. Lung Cam Village is surrounded by majestic limestone mountain ranges, creating an incredibly distinctive natural landscape. Visitors here can participate in activities such as trekking, mountain climbing, cave exploration, and admire the magnificent beauty of Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark. In addition, the people of Lung Cam are mainly from the Hmong ethnic group, who have preserved their unique traditional cultural identity. Visitors to this area can take part in traditional festivals, enjoy local specialties, and learn about the daily life of the local people.

 

Sung Khanh Pagoda 

Nestled amidst the majestic mountains and forests of Ha Giang Province, Sung Khanh Pagoda exudes a serene, ancient beauty with its unique architecture and significant historical value. The pagoda is famous for its two ancient stone steles, recognized as National Treasures, which document the history and culture of this region. Visitors come here not only to seek peace and tranquility but also to explore the unique architecture, immerse themselves in the pristine nature, and learn about the local culture.

 

Ma Pi Leng Pass

Renowned as one of Vietnam’s “four great mountain passes,” the Ma Pi Leng Pass in Ha Giang captivates visitors with its wild, majestic natural beauty and the challenging experiences it offers. The 20-kilometer long pass winds through towering rocky cliffs, embracing the emerald green Nho Que River, creating a breathtaking landscape. From the summit of the pass, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the awe-inspiring natural scenery, with continuous limestone mountains and small villages appearing through the mist. Additionally, visitors can engage in various activities such as boating on the Nho Que River, trekking to explore the villages, or simply relaxing to enjoy the fresh air and stunning natural surroundings.

 

Wind Pass

The Wind Pass (Deo Gio) is one of the most treacherous and challenging mountain passes for drivers in Vietnam, located in Xin Man District, Ha Giang Province. This area is renowned for its daring, winding roads and wild, majestic natural scenery, featuring towering rocky cliffs. From the summit of Wind Pass, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of the landscape, with continuous limestone mountains and small villages peeking through the mist. In addition to its natural beauty, Wind Pass attracts visitors with the unique culture of the ethnic minorities living in the area. Tourists can visit villages, learn about the customs and traditions of the local people, particularly the H’mong ethnic group, and enjoy delicious local specialties.

 

Lung Khuy Cave

Lung Khuy Cave, also known as the “First Cave of the Plateau,” is located in Quan Ba District, Ha Giang Province. It attracts tourists with its wild, majestic beauty and unique geological value. To reach Lung Khuy Cave, visitors must navigate winding mountain roads with steep slopes and sharp bends. However, the magnificent natural scenery and fresh air along the way make the journey worthwhile. Upon entering the cave, visitors are awestruck by the stunning stalactites and stalagmites in fantastic shapes, formed by nature over millions of years. Electric lights illuminate the shimmering, magical rock formations, creating a mystical and splendid atmosphere. Additionally, visitors can explore the Stalactite Lake, with its crystal-clear and cool water, and the Skylight, where sunlight filters through rock crevices, casting sparkling light patterns on the lake’s surface.

 

Swallow Cave 

Swallow Cave (Dong En) in Hà Giang, nestled in the wild mountains and forests of Yen Minh District, is a destination that captivates visitors with its pristine, majestic beauty and fresh, cool atmosphere. Upon entering the cave, tourists are overwhelmed by the unique shapes of the stalactites and stalagmites, sculpted by nature over millions of years. The electric lights illuminate the shimmering, magical formations, creating a mystical and splendid ambiance. Swallow Cave is also home to the swiftlets, a bird species familiar to the locals. A distinctive feature of En Cave is its clear blue lake, surrounded by moss-covered rock walls. Visitors can paddle on the lake, enjoying the stunning natural scenery, which offers a precious opportunity to immerse themselves in the serene environment and marvel at the breathtaking landscape.

 

Na Luong Cave

Located deep within the limestone mountains, Na Luong cave boasts an extensive cave system stretching over 25 kilometers, adorned with uniquely shaped stalactites and stalagmites. A distinctive feature of Na Luong cave is the underground streams that weave through the rocky walls, creating a melodious sound that enhances the cave’s majestic beauty. Additionally, visitors can explore the surrounding smaller caves, uncovering the mysteries of nature and learning about the local culture.

 

Tung Ba Cave

Tung Ba Cave, also known as the Cave of 999 Steps, is located in Tung Ba Commune, Vi Xuyen District, Ha Giang Province. This destination captivates visitors with the pristine, majestic beauty of the northeastern mountains of Vietnam. To reach Tung Ba Cave, visitors must climb 999 stone steps built along the mountainside. Although the journey is quite strenuous, the magnificent natural scenery and fresh air help to alleviate the fatigue. A distinctive feature of Tung Ba Cave is its numerous uniquely shaped stalactites and stalagmites, which spark the imagination of visitors. Some formations resemble animals, flowers, or traditional Vietnamese pagodas and temples, creating a vivid and dynamic natural tableau.

 

Phuong Thien Cave

Phuong Thien Cave, located in Lung Cum hamlet, Dong Van commune, Dong Van district, Ha Giang province, is a beautiful and pristine limestone cave, often likened to a “paradise amidst the mountain forests” for its mysterious and enchanting beauty. Phuong Thien Cave is home to many rare and precious cave-dwelling species of flora and fauna. Visitors can explore and learn about the diverse ecosystem here.

 

Nam Pau Cave

Nam Pau Cave is a beautiful and pristine limestone cave located in Thuong Binh commune, Bac Quang district, Ha Giang province. The cave boasts a spacious and cool environment adorned with unique and fantastical stalactites and stalagmites. Additionally, Nam Pau Cave is situated within a primeval forest abundant with ancient trees that are hundreds of years old. Visitors can engage in activities such as trekking, mountain climbing, camping, and immersing themselves in nature.

 

Bach Son Cave

Bach Son Cave is a beautiful and pristine limestone cave located in Bach Son commune, Bac Me district, Ha Giang province. Possessing majestic beauty, Bach Son shines brilliantly with unique and surreal limestone formations. Visitors will have the opportunity to admire the magnificent works of art created by nature, unlike anywhere else. This is an ideal destination for those who love to explore, appreciate nature, and seek moments of wonderful relaxation.

 

Lung Tam Linen Weaving Village

Lung Tam Linen Weaving Village is located in Hop Tien Hamlet, Lung Tam Commune, Quản Bạ District, Hà Giang Province. This place is known as the “kingdom of brocade” amidst the pristine mountains and forests of Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark, attracting tourists with its unique, exquisite brocade products and the distinctive traditional cultural values of the Hmong ethnic people. Lung Tam Village is famous for its traditional brocade weaving craft that has been passed down for hundreds of years. The people here use natural materials such as cotton, hemp, and tree bark to weave colorful, intricate brocade pieces. When visiting Lung Tam, guests can observe the process of creating brocade pieces firsthand, experience the weaving process, and purchase these products as souvenirs.

 

Yen Minh Pine Forest

Yen Minh Pine Forest is situated along National Highway 4C, in Yen Minh District, Ha Giang Province, approximately 10km from the town center of Yen Minh. It is nicknamed the “Mini Dalat” of Ha Giang due to its romantic and picturesque beauty, becoming a favorite destination for both domestic and international tourists. Covering an area of about 80 hectares, Yen Minh Pine Forest features lush green pine trees stretching along the hillsides. The tall, towering pines with wide-spreading branches create a fresh and cool atmosphere. Visitors to the pine forest can experience activities such as hiking through the pine forest, taking photos for check-in purposes, camping, and exploring the villages of the Tay and Dao ethnic minorities.

 

Nam Dan Ancient Rock Field

Nam Dan Ancient Rock Field, also known as Xin Man Ancient Rock Field, is a national heritage site located in Nam Dan Commune, Xin Man District, Ha Giang Province. Discovered in 2004, it quickly captured the attention of archaeologists due to the mysterious carvings on large stone slabs. Nam Dan Ancient Rock Field is situated along the Nam Khoong stream, covering an area of about 3 hectares. Scattered across the area are thousands of peculiar carvings, believed to date back from 1,500 to 2,000 years ago. These carvings were created using various techniques, including engraving, drawing, and grinding. The content of these carvings remains a mystery to scientists, but they are thought to be related to the spiritual beliefs and rituals of the ethnic minorities living in the area. Nam Dan Ancient Rock Field is an invaluable cultural heritage of Vietnam, serving as evidence of the unique culture of the ethnic minorities in Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark region..

 

Hoang Su Phi

Hoang Su Phi is a mountainous border district in Ha Giang province, Vietnam. It is famous for its terraced rice fields, which turn golden during the autumn, often likened to “shimmering gold amidst the grand mountains.” When visiting Hoang Su Phi, tourists will immerse themselves in the “kingdom of terraced fields” with terraced fields stretching along the mountainsides, creating an incredibly majestic and magnificent natural landscape. Moreover, Hoang Su Phi is home to many ethnic minority groups such as the Nung, Dao, Mong, La Chi, each with its own unique cultural characteristics. Therefore, visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture and enjoy traditional cuisine there.

 

Noong Lake

Noong Lake is a natural freshwater lake situated in the Tay Con Linh mountain range, within the territory of Phu Linh commune, Vi Xuyen district, Ha Giang province. This place is dubbed as the “fairyland” in the heart of Ha Giang for its pristine, picturesque, and mysterious beauty. Noong Lake is surrounded by steep cliffs, pristine forests, and terraced fields of ethnic minority people. The lake boasts crystal-clear waters like jade, reflecting the sky and the majestic surrounding mountains.

 

The Triangle Buckwheat Flower Garden

The Triangle Buckwheat Flower Garden is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Hà Giang, attracting visitors with its romantic and picturesque beauty. The buckwheat flower season in Hà Giang typically begins from September to November. During this time, the vast fields of buckwheat flowers bloom vibrantly, creating an incredibly impressive natural landscape. Visitors can freely admire the expansive fields of buckwheat flowers stretching to the horizon. Additionally, tourists can participate in various exciting activities such as taking souvenir photos, strolling through the flower fields, and joining buckwheat flower festivals.

 

Thac Tien Tourist Area

Thac Tien Tourist Area is located in Nam Dan commune, Xin Man district, Ha Giang province. It is renowned as a “paradise amidst the mountains and forests” with its pristine, majestic beauty, and a variety of engaging recreational activities. The area is famous for its magnificent waterfall, which is nearly 70 meters high, cascading down from moss-covered cliffs, creating an incredibly impressive landscape. Visitors can enjoy activities such as swimming in the streams, admiring the waterfall, and immersing themselves in the fresh, cool air.

 

The Mansion of Vuong Family

The Mansion of Vuong Family (also known as King Meo’s Mansion) is a unique architectural structure located in the Sa Phin Valley, Lung Phin commune, Dong Van district, Ha Giang province. The mansion was built in the early 20th century by King Meo Vuong Chinh Duc, a prominent Hmong leader with significant influence in the region. The mansion features a blend of Chinese, French, and Hmong cultural influences in its architectural style. It consists of 4 horizontal houses, 6 vertical houses, divided into 3 main areas: the front courtyard, middle courtyard, and rear courtyard. In total, there are 64 rooms constructed in a two-story layout with walls made of blue stone, wooden walls, and roofs made of locally-made tiles. The Mansion of Vuong Family is a unique architectural marvel, reflecting the cultural heritage of the Hmong people. It is not only a popular tourist attraction but also a place that preserves many historical and cultural values of the Dong Van region.

 

Fairy waterfall

Fairy waterfall, is a beautiful waterfall located on the Nam Dan River, in the Ngam Lâm village, Nam Dan commune, Xin Dan district, Hà Giang province. Fairy waterfall is dubbed as a “paradise amidst the mountains and forests” with its pristine and majestic beauty. It is home to many rare and precious plant and animal species, surrounded by ancient trees that are hundreds of years old. When visiting Fairy waterfall, visitors can fully admire the scene of water cascading down from a height of about 70 meters, creating an incredibly impressive landscape. Additionally, tourists can swim in the stream, enjoy the waterfall, and immerse themselves in the fresh and cool atmosphere.

 

Thi Waterfall 

Thi Waterfall is a beautiful and pristine waterfall located in Bac Quang district, Ha Giang province. The waterfall is known as the “strip of white silk amidst the mountains and forests” for its romantic and mysterious beauty. Thi Waterfall  is approximately 200 meters high, divided into 4 cascading tiers, creating a dreamy white foam as it flows down the mountainside. Moreover, it is the habitat of many rare species of flora and fauna. Visitors can explore and learn about the diverse ecosystem here.