13+ Things To Do In Ha Giang: Must-Visit Places And Activities

13+ Things To Do In Ha Giang: Must-Visit Places And Activities

17 Mar - 2025

Located in northern Vietnam, Ha Giang is a paradise for adventure seekers and nature lovers. From winding mountain passes to vibrant ethnic markets, there are countless things to do in Ha Giang. This article by Mr.Biu Tour Ha Giang will take you to the most beautiful and famous places, ensuring you do not miss any of the must-do activities in Ha Giang.

Why you should visit Ha Giang at least once in your lifetime

Ha Giang remains one of Vietnam’s most untouched and scenic regions. Unlike mainstream tourist spots, Ha Giang offers an authentic cultural experience with its ethnic minority villages, historical landmarks, and raw natural beauty. The region is famous for the Ha Giang Loop, one of Southeast Asia’s most scenic motorbike routes. If you’re looking for the best things must do in Ha Giang, this rugged destination should be on your travel list.

  • Breathtaking landscapes: Ha Giang is renowned for its majestic limestone mountains, golden terraced rice fields, and deep canyons. It’s a paradise for nature lovers and photographers.
  • Unique culture: Ha Giang is home to numerous ethnic minority groups with distinctive customs and traditions. Tourists can explore highland markets, learn about traditional linen weaving, and savor local cuisine.
  • Adventurous experiences: Besides being a famous tourist spot, Ha Giang is an ideal destination for those who love motorbiking and exploration. You can conquer the Ma Pi Leng Pass, take a boat trip on the Nho Que River, or trek through remote villages.
  • Friendly people: The people of Ha Giang are gentle, hospitable, and always willing to help visitors. You’ll feel their warmth and sincerity throughout your trip.
Ha Giang draws travelers with its beautiful scenery, rich culture, and friendly people
Ha Giang attracts travelers with its picturesque scenery, rich culture, and friendly people

Top things to experience in Ha Giang

Ha Giang offers many incredible experiences, making it one of Vietnam’s most breathtaking and culturally rich destinations. To help you explore the best of this region, we’ve put together the top 13 ultimate list of must-do activities in Ha Giang:

Conquer the scenic Tham Ma Pass

Tham Ma Pass is a thrilling mountain road with multiple hairpin twists that provide breathtaking views of Ha Giang’s rugged terrain. Therefore, conquering this pass is one of the top activities to do in Ha Giang for motorbike riders. Traditionally, locals tested the endurance of their horses here before selling them at the market. Today, it remains a must-stop for travelers seeking incredible panoramic views.

The curving roads of Tham Ma Pass
The zigzagging roads of Tham Ma Pass

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Meo Vac Market

Meo Vac Market is a cultural hub where you can immerse yourself in the local way of life. The market is vivacious on Sundays when ethnic minorities from the surrounding villages gather to trade goods and socialize. You’ll find various products, from traditional clothing and handicrafts to fresh produce and livestock. It’s a great place to sample Ha Giang’s local delicacies and interact with the friendly locals.

A lively market scene with ethnic women in traditional clothing
A lively market scene with ethnic woman in traditional costumes

Explore the historical charm of Pho Bang Ancient Town

Tucked away near the Vietnam-China border, Pho Bang is a small ancient town that feels frozen in time. With its old clay houses and unique architecture, this is a perfect spot to experience Ha Giang’s historical influences. Walking through the quiet streets, you’ll feel like you’ve returned in time. The town’s peaceful atmosphere and well-preserved buildings make it a charming destination for those seeking a tranquil escape. It’s one of the things you can’t miss in Ha Giang for history buffs.

Ancient houses with traditional tiled roofs in Pho Bang
Ancient houses with typical tiled roofs in Pho Bang

Admire the panoramic view from Quan Ba Heaven Gate

Standing at 1,500 meters above sea level, Quan Ba Heaven Gate offers one of the most stunning panoramic views in Ha Giang. You can admire the iconic Twin Mountains (Nui Doi Co Tien) and the lush valleys below from this vantage point. The viewpoint is easily accessible, making it a popular spot for tourists. The scenery is breathtaking during sunrise and sunset when the colors of the sky and mountains create a magical atmosphere. This is one of the best things to experience in Ha Giang for landscape photography.

The Quan Ba Heaven Gate provides a wide view of the valley and stunning nature
The Quan Ba Heaven Gate offers a panoramic view of the valley and majestic nature

Wander through Dong Van Ancient Town and its weekend market

Dong Van Ancient Town is the heart of Ha Giang’s cultural heritage. This ancient town has nearly 40 ancient houses and is hundreds of years old. It has a unique architectural style of tube houses, built with two floors and roofs covered in the harmonious yin and yang style. If you visit Ha Giang on the weekend, don’t miss some activities in the local market of Dong Van town, where different ethnic groups gather to trade goods and socialize. This ancient town is historical and offers a blend of cultural and architectural attractions.

The Dong Van town with ancient stone streets and a busy weekend market
Dong Van town with ancient stone streets and a bustling weekend market

Discover the art of linen weaving in Lung Tam Village

Located not far from Quan Ba ​​Heaven Gate, Lung Tam linen weaving village is also one of the must-visit places in Ha Giang that make you explore Vietnam’s journey. When visiting Lung Tam brocade weaving village, visitors will admire the scene of people busy in their daily lives: H’Mong women sitting in front of looms skillfully making beautiful fabrics or unique brocade products. Travelers also have the opportunity to try weaving and buy handmade linen scarves as souvenirs.

Try weaving linen in Lung Tam Village
Experience weaving linen in Lung Tam Village

Step into history at the H’mong King’s Palace

The Hmong King’s Palace, also known as the Vuong Chinh Sinh Palace, is a historical site that tourists cannot miss when visiting Ha Giang. With a history of over 100 years, the palace is made of stone and wood and showcases a unique combination of Hmong, Chinese, and French architecture. Walking through the palace’s corridors will give you a glimpse into the history of the ethnic groups in Ha Giang. For a more peaceful experience, visiting in the morning when it is least crowded is recommended.

Explore the ancient beauty and history of the Hmong King’s Palace
Immerse in the ancient beauty and history of the Hmong King’s Palace

Visit the famous Pao’s House

Nestled in the picturesque Sung La Valley, Pao’s House is a must-visit for those seeking an authentic glimpse into H’Mong culture. Made famous by the movie “Pao’s Story,” this traditional house showcases the unique architecture and lifestyle of the local people. Exploring Pao’s House, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a different world, where time slows down, and the beauty of simplicity prevails. It’s one of the activities in Ha Giang for a cultural experience.

Pao’s House – A well-known spot featuring traditional Hmong architecture
Pao’s House – A famous destination with its Hmong traditional architecture

Experience local culture at Lo Lo Chai Village

Don’t know what to do in Ha Giang? Pack your bags and travel to Lo Lo Chai Village, home to the Lo Lo ethnic group, one of Vietnam’s lesser-known minorities. This small village boasts unique stilt houses of clay and wood, exquisite hand-woven textiles, and warm hospitality. Here, visitors can learn about their customs, try local delicacies, and even participate in daily activities such as fabric dyeing, traditional cooking, and folk singing. If you are looking for authentic cultural experiences, Lo Lo Chai is one of the top things must do in Ha Giang for an immersive trip. It is an opportunity to connect with the heart and soul of Ha Giang’s diverse communities.

One of the best things to do in Ha Giang is experiencing the unique rammed earth houses and tranquil scenery of Lo Lo Chai Village
Engage in the unique rammed earth houses and peaceful scenery of Lo Lo Chai Village

Reach Vietnam’s northernmost point at Lung Cu Flag Tower

Located at 1,470 meters above sea level, Lung Cu Flag Tower marks the northernmost point of Vietnam. After climbing 839 steps, visitors will be rewarded with breathtaking views of Ha Giang’s rugged, majestic mountains and stunning terraced fields. This is a must-see destination for those seeking adventure and a sense of national pride while exploring the Ha Giang Loop things to do. On the way to Lung Cu, visitors can also stop at some local villages to explore Ha Giang’s rural life.

Visiting Lung Cu Flagpole – Visit a symbol of national pride and Vietnam's northernmost point is one of must things to do in Ha Giang
Visit Lung Cu Flagpole – A symbol of national sovereignty and the northernmost point of Vietnam

Take a boat trip on the emerald waters of the Nho Que River

One of the most fun things to experience in Ha Giang is a boat trip on the Nho Que River. The turquoise water winds through deep canyons, with the green of the mountains and forests, creating one of Vietnam’s most beautiful and majestic landscapes. The journey’s highlight is the boat trip through Tu San Canyon – the deepest canyon in Southeast Asia, promising to bring you a trip that lasts for a lifetime. Gliding through the peaceful river, you will be surrounded by towering limestone cliffs, making this the perfect place to take photos and relax. If you visit Nho Que river around March to April, you will see a forest of bright red cotton flowers on both sides.

Enjoy the peaceful beauty and cool waters while boating on the Nho Que River
Enjoy the serene beauty and feel the cool waters while boating on the Nho Que River

Trekking adventures in Hoang Su Phi’s golden rice terraces – The best things to do in Ha Giang

During your Ha Giang exploration, don’t forget to visit Hoang Su Phi, a region known as the “golden bark land,” with its vast stretches of ripe rice fields, blooming buckwheat flowers, and layers upon layers of mountains. Thanks to its terrain, which is segmented by mountains and streams, Hoang Su Phi possesses a unique and rich beauty that entices visitors to experience it firsthand. When visiting this scenic area, travelers can also witness clouds drifting over the peak of Tay Con Linh or savor a variety of local ethnic cuisine. Besides, you can join trekking activities and go through Hoang Su Phi to interact with the Dao and Nung people, who still maintain traditional farming methods.

The Hoang Su Phi rice terraces are bathed in a golden hue during the harvest season
The Hoang Su Phi rice terraces are bathed in a golden hue during the harvest season

Unwind in the peaceful nature of Du Gia Village

Du Gia Village in Ha Giang is a compelling destination on Vietnam’s travel map for those with severe wanderlust and a love for adventure. It’s renowned for its untouched, majestic natural scenery, where mountains meet sky and clouds. Yet, it retains a dreamy, poetic quality that captivates anyone who sets foot here, making them fall in love with its fairytale-like beauty. As a result, Du Gia Ha Giang is steadily becoming a popular travel spot for domestic and international visitors. Beyond immersing oneself in the golden rice terraces and the pristine white Tham Luong waterfall, visitors to Du Gia can discover and experience the unique cultural identity and customs of the hospitable and friendly local ethnic communities.

Soak in the wild and peaceful nature while visiting Du Gia Village
Immerse in the wild and peaceful natural scenery when traveling to Du Gia Village

Experience the tranquil beauty of Pa Vi Village

Nestled peacefully at the foot of Ma Pi Leng Pass, the Pa Vi Ha Community-Based Cultural Tourism Village blossoms like a vibrant flower, offering picturesque scenery in the northernmost region of Vietnam. The village is home to 26 H’Mong ethnic households, showcasing a space rich in cultural identity. On a beautiful sunny day, visitors to the Pa Vi Village can witness the majestic yet poetic landscape, savor traditional dishes, and enjoy moments of delightful relaxation. Furthermore, guests can dress in colorful H’Mong maiden attire, experience daily activities like weaving and flax processing, or capture stunning moments with beautiful photos.

Visiting traditional houses in Pa Vi Village and learning about the culture are must-do activities in Ha Giang
Visit traditional houses in Pa Vi village and learn about their culture are activities to do in Ha Giang

Conquer the legendary Ma Pi Leng Pass

No trip to Ha Giang is complete without riding through Ma Pi Leng Pass, one of the most thrilling roads in Vietnam. The “King of Passes” stretches 20 km along dizzying cliffs, offering heart-stopping views of the Nho Que River below. Whether you ride a motorbike or hike along the Sky Path, this pass is a dream for adventure seekers. As you ascend Ma Pi Leng Pass, you’ll encounter terraced rice fields that turn a vast, golden hue during harvest, blanketing the entire northeastern mountain region.

Admire the winding roads and stunning landscapes on the way to Ma Pi Leng Pass
Take in the winding roads and majestic landscapes along the route to Ma Pi Leng Pass

When is the best time to explore Ha Giang?

For the best conditions, September to November is an ideal time to explore Ha Giang. During this period, the rice terraces in Hoang Su Phi turn golden, creating one of the most spectacular sights in northern Vietnam. The weather is also cool and dry, ideal for hiking, motorcycle trips, and admiring the panoramic mountain vistas.

If you visit from December to February, be prepared for cold temperatures, especially in the higher altitudes. While the chill adds a unique atmosphere, motorbiking can be more challenging with misty mountains and occasional frost. However, this season is excellent for those exploring Ha Giang’s peaceful landscapes without crowds.

April to June brings lush greenery and comfortable temperatures, making visiting another great time. However, it’s best to avoid July and August due to heavy rainfall and a higher risk of landslides, making roads dangerous for travel.

The ideal time to experience Ha Giang's beauty is from September to November
The best time to explore the beauty of Ha Giang is from September to November

How to get to Ha Giang and travel around with ease?

For the ultimate Ha Giang adventure, you can explore stunning landscapes by bus, private car, or motorbike. To be more specific:

Getting to Ha Giang

Ha Giang is about 300 km from Hanoi and has no airport or train station yet. If you want to get there, refer to these two options:

  • By Bus: The easiest way to reach and experience activities in Ha Giang is by taking a sleeper bus or limousine van (VIP option) from Hanoi. Several bus companies operate overnight routes, departing from My Dinh, Giap Bat, or Gia Lam bus stations. The journey takes 6-7 hours, and ticket prices range from 250,000 – 400,000 VND ($10 – $17). Some popular bus operators include Quang Nghị, Bang Phan, and Express Ha Giang.
  • By Private Car: Hiring a private car with a driver is an excellent option if you prefer more comfort. This is ideal for families or groups who want flexibility and convenience. The trip to Ha Giang by private car takes 5-6 hours, and you can make any stops for sightseeing.

Getting Around Ha Giang

Once in Ha Giang, the best way to explore is by motorbike, car, or guided tour:

  • By Motorbike: Ha Giang’s winding mountain roads make it one of the best places for motorbike travel in Vietnam. Many travelers complete the famous Ha Giang Loop, a 3-4 day journey through stunning landscapes, including Ma Pi Leng Pass, Dong Van Karst Plateau, and Lung Cu Flag Tower. You can rent a semi-automatic or manual bike in Ha Giang City for 250,000 –500,000 VND ($10 – $17) daily. However, if you are an inexperienced driver, you can take an easy rider for more safety.
  • By Car: If you’re not confident riding a motorbike, hiring a private car is a great alternative. This option is ideal for those who want to enjoy the scenery without worrying about road conditions.
  • By Local Bus: Another good way to travel around Ha Giang is by bus. Some local buses run between Ha Giang City and nearby towns like Dong Van, Meo Vac, and Yen Minh. While this is the cheapest option, buses are infrequent and unsuitable for flexible travel.
Useful transportation tips for getting around Ha Giang
Helpful transportation tips for traveling in Ha Giang

Explore Ha Giang like a local with Mr. Biu Tour

If you are looking for an authentic way to experience breathtaking landscapes, let’s skip the hassle of planning and exploring Ha Giang like a local with Mr. Biu Tour Ha Giang. With 5 years of extensive experience as the best-rated adventure company for thrill-seekers and explorers, we don’t just take you to famous attractions; we also guide you to explore hidden gems and experience the daily life of the local people. Here are some of the best benefits if you book any tour of Mr.Biu Tour Ha Giang:

  • Experienced and good take-care guides with deep knowledge of Ha Giang’s terrain and culture ensure a safe and memorable trip.
  • Offers tourists reasonable prices, along with dedicated 24/7 support.
  • Get an authentic experience when booking a tour of Mr.Biu Tour Ha Giang by staying in ethnic minority homestays, eating traditional food, and riding through the most scenic roads in Vietnam.

Choose your adventure at Mr.Biu Tour Ha Giang today:

4 Days 3 Nights Tour 3 Days 2 Nights Tour
This Ha Giang 4 days motorbike tour covers Ma Pi Leng Pass, Dong Van Karst Plateau, and more. This tour is perfect for those who want to take their time, soak in the scenery, and explore relaxed. The Ha Giang 3 days motorbike tour is a shorter but the action-packed journey still including Ha Giang’s must-see spots. Ride through dramatic mountain landscapes, explore ethnic villages, and experience the best of Ha Giang in a condensed itinerary.
Explore the beauty of Ha Giang Loop with Mr. Biu
Discover the beauty of Ha Giang Loop with Mr. Biu

For more details about the payment, booking, and policies or to discuss your requests, please get in touch with Mr.Biu Tour Ha Giang anytime!

Above is a list of things to do in Ha Giang and suggested ways to get there to help visitors have a complete and memorable trip. With countless beautiful and majestic landscapes of the country and the hospitality and friendliness of the local people, this journey will bring you unique and different experiences to last a lifetime. So what are you waiting for? Pack your backpack and join Mr.Biu Tour Ha Giang to conquer Ha Giang today.