Showing posts with label Ha Giang. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Ha Giang. Show all posts
Another off-the-beaten path tour package has just been released by Lotussia Travel. This 6-day itinerary is an easy touring trip taking travelers to the less travelled places in Northern area of Vietnam such as Ba Be National Park, Bao Lac market, Dong Van ancient town and colorful local hill tribe ethnic minorities.
The first highlight of the trip will be the boat trip on Ba Be lake, Vietnam’s largest natural lake and is now the centrepiece of an extensive National Park. The park and the surrounding area is limestone country, so lakes, waterfalls, caves and unusual rock formations abound. The whole area is richly forested and home to many ethnic minority communities.
The second highlight will be the local market in Bao Lac. This market offers travelers the chance to meet peoples from some local small ethnic groups only inhabiting in the area such as Black Lolo, San Chay. They always wear beautiful traditional costumes and jewelleries when they go to the market.
The next highlight will be the area of Dong Van with its ancient town and spectacular sceneries travelers will experience along the road. Dong Van is very beautiful with mountains, forests, hidden grottoes and caves, multicoloured orchid forests, plum and peach trees, persimmon orchards, and more. Visiting Dong Van, one can see Pho Bang, also called Pho Bang Street, which was built a long time ago and features multi-storey houses made of clay bricks and tile roofs.
The 6-day trip will conclude with a relaxing and leixure journey in Nam An lake, used to be a narrow and deep valley, built into a lake for water storage to run a hydraulic power plant. Nam An lake now has become spectacular eco spot with a peninsular for eco-tourist sport. Travelers may swim in the emerald clear water or moving around the lake on bamboo rafts or boats.
The trip can also be extended with a beach vacation, a boat cruise or a easy-touring bicycle tour.
Itinerary:
Day 1: Hanoi – Ba Be National Park (L;D)
You will be met up at your hotel in Hanoi by Lotussia Travel guide, driver and transferred northwards along national road 3. Stop in Thai Nguyen City after about 2 hours driving for paying visit to the Museum of Ethnology. Leaving Thai Nguyen and continue the road ride to Cho Moi townlet for lunch break and then continue the road ride to Na Phac junction. Visit a local Dzao village before arriving hotel around late afternoon. Dinner & overnight in Ba Be guest-house.
Day 2: Ba Be National Park – Bao Lac (B,L,D)
After breakfast, we will take a short walk to the boat pier and then enjoy the whole morning mainly on boat for exploring the pure nature of Ba Be lake and national park with some highlights including visiting to Dau Dang Waterfall and Puong Cave. Lunch will be provided in a local restaurant in town. After lunch, transfer uphill for 160 km to Bao Lac with several stops along the way for admiring spectacular scenery of the western part of Cao Bang Province and paying visit to villages of the Nung peoples.
Arriving in Bao Lac in late afternoon, check-in hotel. Dinner and overnight in a local hotel in Bao Lac.
Day 3: Bao Lac – Meo Vac, Ha Giang
Get up early and attend to Bao Lac market which offers chances for meeting peoples from some local small ethnic groups such as Black Lolo, San Chay,…who always wear beautiful traditional costumes. Leaving Bao Lac at about 09.00 for a drive along the Gam River for an hour before turning right and traveling uphill to the higher land, heading north to Meo Vac Townlet of Ha Giang Province. Stop along the way for visiting several small hamlets of the Nung, Tay and H’mong ethnic peoples scaterring along the Nho Que River. Arriving in Meo Vac at about 13.00, having lunch and check in hotel for a short rest.
Spend the the afternoon by walking along the stunning Nho Que River, admiring scenery of the spectacular Ma Pi Leng Pass, paying visit to villages of the H’mong, Zao and Red Lolo ethnic peoples.
Dinner and overnight in Meo Vac.
Day 4: Meo Vac - Dong Van – Yen Minh (B,L,D)
Leaving Meo Vac at, the clients will enjoy one of the most stunning landscapes of the northern mountain - The Ma Pi Leng Pass. Visit a small H’mong hamlet, set amongst the rocks featuring the very tough life on this famous limestone highland before continuing along the road 4c to Dong Van, the northernmost townlet of Vietnam. Walk along the ancient street of Dong Van before settle down for lunch.
After lunch, enjoy an hour drive to Lung Cu, the northernmost commune of Vietnam, walking to visit a Red Lolo village for half an hour and then driving downhill 24 km to Xa Phin to pay visiting to the famous historical site of the Vuong Family’s Palace famous for its mixture of H’mong architectural style.
Continue our road to Yen Minh where will spend the night.
Day 5: Yen Minh – Nam An Lake (B,L,D)
Leaving Yen Minh for a drive up and downhill over the spectacular Yen Minh mountain pass with some stops for overviewing scenery and visiting a Red Zao village.
Leaving the main road, crossing the Nho Que river by suspension bridge and walk along the bank of the river for an hour through a H’mong village before taking the road ride again to Quan Ba Townlet.
Lunch will be provided in a local restaurant en route.
In the afternoon, we will take another short walk in a H’mong village before driving downhill all the way to Ha Giang Township and onto Nam An eco spot.
Day 6: Nam An Lake – Hanoi (B,L)
Full day road trip from Nam An to Ha Noi along national road 2 with several stops and break along the way. Arrive Hanoi in the afternoon at about 05.00 PM, trip ends.
Pu Peo ethnic minority people live only in the northern mountainous province of Ha Giang. According to the 1999 survey, there were only 705 people living in the districts of Dong Van, Meo Vac and Bac Me. The Pu Peo ethnic group ranks 53rd in the Vietnamese community in term of population.
The Pu Peo in Vietnam were first mentioned as the La Qua by scholar Le Quy Don in his book Kien Van Tieu Luc written in the middle of the 18th century. In early 19th century documents, the Pu Peo were mentioned as the Penti, Pentilolo, Kaobeo and also Pu Peo. In Ha Giang province, the Pu Peo, with a small population, live scattered on high mountainous areas along the Vietnam-China border. Different from the H’Mong people who live high on the mountains, the Pu Peo establish their villages on the flat grounds in mountainous areas. They reside in Pho La, Sung Trang and Phu Lung which has a sub-tropical climate. In this natural condition, the Pu Peo can grow wet rice and make use of forests to earn their living. They believe that the success or failure of each family and each individual depends largely on the position of their land and house. That is why their house building process follows very strict religious procedures, from selection of the land, trees for pillars and the building itself to the relocating ceremony.
The Pu Peo worship three generations including Pe, or parents, Te Ngan, or grand-parents and Te Gao, or great grand-parents. For each generation, they put a loog ten or jar on the altar. Offerings to ancestors on the first day in the new house will be put in the jars. Very often, in each jar, they put a chicken, five small balls of cooked rice and some meat. All procedures must be fulfilled before dawn. After that, relatives and neighbors will come, each bringing a chicken, a bottle of wine or some money to wish the host good luck.
The Pu Peo use the calendar of China’s Zhou dynasty. According to this calendar, a khuop mai or cycle comprises 12 years and a year comprises 12 months. Twenty-nine or 30 days will make a month and 12 “hours” will make a day. Similar to the current lunar calendar, there is a leap year every three years. So, the Pu Peo also celebrates the lunar New Year festival (Tet) as other ethnic groups do.
The Pu Peo in Vietnam were first mentioned as the La Qua by scholar Le Quy Don in his book Kien Van Tieu Luc written in the middle of the 18th century. In early 19th century documents, the Pu Peo were mentioned as the Penti, Pentilolo, Kaobeo and also Pu Peo. In Ha Giang province, the Pu Peo, with a small population, live scattered on high mountainous areas along the Vietnam-China border. Different from the H’Mong people who live high on the mountains, the Pu Peo establish their villages on the flat grounds in mountainous areas. They reside in Pho La, Sung Trang and Phu Lung which has a sub-tropical climate. In this natural condition, the Pu Peo can grow wet rice and make use of forests to earn their living. They believe that the success or failure of each family and each individual depends largely on the position of their land and house. That is why their house building process follows very strict religious procedures, from selection of the land, trees for pillars and the building itself to the relocating ceremony.
The Pu Peo worship three generations including Pe, or parents, Te Ngan, or grand-parents and Te Gao, or great grand-parents. For each generation, they put a loog ten or jar on the altar. Offerings to ancestors on the first day in the new house will be put in the jars. Very often, in each jar, they put a chicken, five small balls of cooked rice and some meat. All procedures must be fulfilled before dawn. After that, relatives and neighbors will come, each bringing a chicken, a bottle of wine or some money to wish the host good luck.
The Pu Peo use the calendar of China’s Zhou dynasty. According to this calendar, a khuop mai or cycle comprises 12 years and a year comprises 12 months. Twenty-nine or 30 days will make a month and 12 “hours” will make a day. Similar to the current lunar calendar, there is a leap year every three years. So, the Pu Peo also celebrates the lunar New Year festival (Tet) as other ethnic groups do.
Hagiang Giay people mainly live on planting water rice and farming milpa. Every years, they organized the “Roong Pooc” ceremony to begin their farming season. Giay built pigsties and hen-coops far away from their houses to fields. Their noteworthy handicraft making are weaving and bamboo knitting.
The dress of Giay people is simply, almost without embroidery and design. Men’s clothing consists of shirt opened at the right armpit with wide sleeves and wide trousers shortened down to the knees. Women’s dress consists of a buttock covering robe, opened at the right arm pit, broad sleeves with a piece of differently coloured cloth.
The Giay live in stilt houses with the middle compartment reserved for ancestor worship. The altar has 3 joss-stick bowls for the Land God, the Kitchen God and the ancestors. When the youth attains the age of marriage, their horoscope has to be taken and only suitable couple can marry. The Giay folkloric culture is very rich with poems, proverbs, phrases, parallel sentences.
The Tay is the second large ethnic minority in Ha Giang, account for 25 percent total population of province. They mainly live on planting wet rice in fields near river, mountain foot and farming slope. Tay villages are usually at mountain foot and include about 15 to 20 houses. They live in house of stilt, thatch roofed houses using palm leaves or grass.
Their family handicraft is quite developed such as, knitting, making wooden furniture, pottery. Besides, weaving fabric of Tay is quite well known, especially, the type of blankets, brocade turbans with rich pattern which a lot of people love. Tay ethnic usually wear cotton clothes, dyed indigo, wear silver necklace and silver rings at their wrists and ankles. Their main color on costumes is indigo. The culture of Tay is very diversified with different kind of ceremony involving production, human life, wedding, funeral, new house celebration. The folkloric literature of Tay community are a rich treasure of legends, myths, ancient stories, verse stories, folkloric songs. Of which, Tay’s folkloric songs are well known for song “ glider”- this is a form of culture of the Vietnamese.
Dao ethnic minority
The Dao ethnic group in DVKP can be divided into sub-group such as Red Dao (Dao đỏ), Coin Dao (Dao tiền), White Trousers Dao, Long Robe Dao (Dao áo dài), Lo River Dao (Dao lô giang) who live by slope and terrace farming. The Dao people have some unique handicraft making such as forging, casting, jeweler, embroidery and wax printing-dyeing clothes. They live in stilt, earth or half stilt-half earth houses, close to water sources. Their dresses usually show traditional features and designs using colour thread, with lots of turban, shirt, skirt types. Their traditional religious culture is very complex, demonstrating communal spirit, conscience and conception. Worshiping and wizardry are not simply superstition but something special indicating the depth of their culture. The Dao folkloric literature is very rich in legends, myths, narrate stories, pop songs, quizzes, proverbs implying their communal perception of the universe and human life
Their family handicraft is quite developed such as, knitting, making wooden furniture, pottery. Besides, weaving fabric of Tay is quite well known, especially, the type of blankets, brocade turbans with rich pattern which a lot of people love. Tay ethnic usually wear cotton clothes, dyed indigo, wear silver necklace and silver rings at their wrists and ankles. Their main color on costumes is indigo. The culture of Tay is very diversified with different kind of ceremony involving production, human life, wedding, funeral, new house celebration. The folkloric literature of Tay community are a rich treasure of legends, myths, ancient stories, verse stories, folkloric songs. Of which, Tay’s folkloric songs are well known for song “ glider”- this is a form of culture of the Vietnamese.
Dao ethnic minority
The Dao ethnic group in DVKP can be divided into sub-group such as Red Dao (Dao đỏ), Coin Dao (Dao tiền), White Trousers Dao, Long Robe Dao (Dao áo dài), Lo River Dao (Dao lô giang) who live by slope and terrace farming. The Dao people have some unique handicraft making such as forging, casting, jeweler, embroidery and wax printing-dyeing clothes. They live in stilt, earth or half stilt-half earth houses, close to water sources. Their dresses usually show traditional features and designs using colour thread, with lots of turban, shirt, skirt types. Their traditional religious culture is very complex, demonstrating communal spirit, conscience and conception. Worshiping and wizardry are not simply superstition but something special indicating the depth of their culture. The Dao folkloric literature is very rich in legends, myths, narrate stories, pop songs, quizzes, proverbs implying their communal perception of the universe and human life
This ceremony started for along time ago. It has been survived and developed together with Pu Peo generations. The forest God worship is a cultural activity, folk belief associated with the multi – God philosophical life of agriculture residents such as, Spring God, River Lord, Mountain God, Forest Lord, Tree God, etc. Creating its own cultural nuances in community life. The festival not only is deeply spiritual values but also confirms the role and position of community in nature.
Pu Peo people in Ha Giang has still preserved many community rituals and a treasure of rich folklore. Together with other ceremony held in the New Year days, forest god worship ceremony wishing for green mountain, security and good health for the people. This is considered as an indispensable agricultural ritual. Thanks to this ritual, forests under the region of Pu Peo lives are often protected very well, especially sacred forest. In fact, the protection of forest for farming and timber are transmitted to proceed generation by generation.
The ceremony takes place in the forbidden forest – the sacred forest, a sorcerer on behalf of the people honorifically faces down in a big trunk, then kowtow twice, each three times to look forward to protected of forest God, water God. Pu Peo people always understand that holding forest is holding the source of water; therefore, paying water God is also paying forest God. That is the reason why the youth in Pu Peo village (girls and boys) always go to Streams to carry water to home for wishing good lucks on New Year days.
During a day, with jubilant and solidarity atmosphere, the ceremony is seriously carried out by Pu Peo ethnic to ensure basic requirements of customary tradition. Next, the people together take part in festival activities with the content of such as, pushing stick, tug of war, playing “ao”, jumping toad, etc. Besides, they organized the dance – song program with singing folk, singing giao duyen , singing retort , etc.
Held in spring, from 1st to 15th January of lunar calendar, on low hill with quite level topography. The ceremony consists of distinct two parts but has closely relationship. The first can not held mentioning its Gau Tao ceremony to pray for happiness and fortune. The second is the Mong’s custom. Ha Giang
One New year’s tree will be set up in the days before Tet, a wine- gourd and a piece of red cloth on its top to inform local people preparing for the festival. In fact that, this is a ritual praying for a child of the families who can not have children or families with sick members.
After the worship undertaken by wizard, there will be festival session with entertainment activities of Mong people such as dance with pan -pipe, humming – top collision, shooting cross bow , shooting bow and arrow , horse race, singing gau plenh, singing love story song, singing retort, singing trao duyen, festival singing, etc.
At the end of the festival, there will be ceremony of taking down on the neu tree and take the red cloth from the Neu tree to hang inside house to aspire to lasting happiness. “Gau tao’ festival is one typical cultural activity on Dong Van karst plateau Geopark.
One New year’s tree will be set up in the days before Tet, a wine- gourd and a piece of red cloth on its top to inform local people preparing for the festival. In fact that, this is a ritual praying for a child of the families who can not have children or families with sick members.
After the worship undertaken by wizard, there will be festival session with entertainment activities of Mong people such as dance with pan -pipe, humming – top collision, shooting cross bow , shooting bow and arrow , horse race, singing gau plenh, singing love story song, singing retort, singing trao duyen, festival singing, etc.
At the end of the festival, there will be ceremony of taking down on the neu tree and take the red cloth from the Neu tree to hang inside house to aspire to lasting happiness. “Gau tao’ festival is one typical cultural activity on Dong Van karst plateau Geopark.
Co Tien double mountain under the type of tectonic – Geomorphic heritage, located in Tam Son town, Quan Ba district, Ha Giang province. It is 47 kilometer from Ha Giang town.
Situated at an altitude of over 1000 meters above sea level, fresh air, wild scenery, majestic nature with endlessly range of Limestone Mountains. The nature has granted here a wonderful place called “Co Tien double mountain”, it is two tops of the limestone mountain. Its shape is the same as “two breasts” of the girl, lie in the middle of the field in Quan Ba. This actually is an unique landscape of Tam Son in particular and Dong Van karst plateau Geopark in general.
“Co Tien double Mountain” is truly product of the process of leaching, erosion with regular practice in the destruction of the fault zone in Quan Ba - Huong Cha that its last phase of activity occurred about 5 million years ago. In fact that, there are many karst scene in the valley of Quan Ba, only “Co Tien double mountain” is the most beautiful and located at the most favorable position to visitors can see.
Situated at an altitude of over 1000 meters above sea level, fresh air, wild scenery, majestic nature with endlessly range of Limestone Mountains. The nature has granted here a wonderful place called “Co Tien double mountain”, it is two tops of the limestone mountain. Its shape is the same as “two breasts” of the girl, lie in the middle of the field in Quan Ba. This actually is an unique landscape of Tam Son in particular and Dong Van karst plateau Geopark in general.
“Co Tien double Mountain” is truly product of the process of leaching, erosion with regular practice in the destruction of the fault zone in Quan Ba - Huong Cha that its last phase of activity occurred about 5 million years ago. In fact that, there are many karst scene in the valley of Quan Ba, only “Co Tien double mountain” is the most beautiful and located at the most favorable position to visitors can see.
Dong Van Highland is situated 1,025 m above sea level and is inhabited by the Tay and H’Mong ethnic groups, Ha Giang. The temperature is approximately 1oC in winter and reaches 24oC on the hottest days. The plateau provides famous products such as Hau plums, peaches, and persimmons without seeds. Dong Van apples are as big as pears. In Dong Van, numerous valuable plants used for their medicinal value are found, including ginseng, anise, and cinnamon.
Dong Van is very beautiful with mountains, forests, hidden grottoes and caves, multicolored orchid forests, plum and peach trees, persimmon orchards, and more. Visiting Dong Van, one can see Pho Bang, also called Pho Bang Street, which was built a long time ago and features multi-storey houses made of clay bricks and tile roofs. Visiting Dong Van on Sundays, one can shop in a very original mountain market where all kinds of goods and multicolored clothes can be purchased.
Dong Van is very beautiful with mountains, forests, hidden grottoes and caves, multicolored orchid forests, plum and peach trees, persimmon orchards, and more. Visiting Dong Van, one can see Pho Bang, also called Pho Bang Street, which was built a long time ago and features multi-storey houses made of clay bricks and tile roofs. Visiting Dong Van on Sundays, one can shop in a very original mountain market where all kinds of goods and multicolored clothes can be purchased.
Often dubbed Vua Meo (king of H’mong), the palace’s official name is Vuong Chinh Sinh. The Hmong king ruled over a vast territory from Dong Van Plateau to Meo Vac Town. During his reign, the charismatic king attracted a lot of attention when he and other Meo residents joined forces with Ho Chi Minh to gain national freedom.
The palace is in Sa Phin valley in Lung Phin Commune, Dong Van District Ha Giang at the base of a mountain, backed by cliffs and topped by a mass of clouds.
Tall sa moc trees surround the palace that is built from stone, fir wood and terra-cotta tiles in the Chinese architectural style of the Man Qing era.
Covering a total area of 1,120 square meters, the palace was used as a residence and fortress during the Vuong Dynasty.
The two storey, 50 meter long palace that took eight years to build has four long houses and six wide houses with 64 rooms for the king’s wives, children and soldiers.
All the walls are 50-60 centimeters thick. Surrounding it is stone barrier which is 2 meters high and 80 centimeters thick.
The palace is divided into many areas such as dining room, bed room, kitchen, marijuana store, rooms of his wives, a prayer altar and an area for criminal executions.
No one lives at the palace anymore but it has been well maintained by the provincial government. It contains wardrobes, fireplace, beds, flour-mill, crossbow and pan-pipe.
Still largely un-restored the palace is a great place to learn about the province’s interesting history.
The palace is in Sa Phin valley in Lung Phin Commune, Dong Van District Ha Giang at the base of a mountain, backed by cliffs and topped by a mass of clouds.
Tall sa moc trees surround the palace that is built from stone, fir wood and terra-cotta tiles in the Chinese architectural style of the Man Qing era.
Covering a total area of 1,120 square meters, the palace was used as a residence and fortress during the Vuong Dynasty.
The two storey, 50 meter long palace that took eight years to build has four long houses and six wide houses with 64 rooms for the king’s wives, children and soldiers.
All the walls are 50-60 centimeters thick. Surrounding it is stone barrier which is 2 meters high and 80 centimeters thick.
The palace is divided into many areas such as dining room, bed room, kitchen, marijuana store, rooms of his wives, a prayer altar and an area for criminal executions.
No one lives at the palace anymore but it has been well maintained by the provincial government. It contains wardrobes, fireplace, beds, flour-mill, crossbow and pan-pipe.
Still largely un-restored the palace is a great place to learn about the province’s interesting history.
The Dong Van plateau was recognized by the UNESCO as one of the 77 geological parks in the world and the second in Southeast Asia on October 3. The park covers four districts of Meo Vac, Dong Van, Yen Minh and Quan Ba, Ha Giang totaling over 2,300sq.km, with nearly 250,000 residents. Up to 80 percent of the plateau is covered by limestone.
Scientists have discovered 40 locations which have special values in terms of natural resources in Dong Van.
Dong Van is home to nearly 20 ethnic groups, with diverse cultures and traditions, which make the plateau an interesting destination for tourists/visitors.
Scientists have discovered 40 locations which have special values in terms of natural resources in Dong Van.
Dong Van is home to nearly 20 ethnic groups, with diverse cultures and traditions, which make the plateau an interesting destination for tourists/visitors.
The national road No.4C, Ha Giang – Dong Van – Meo Vac, is very sinuous. Ma Pi Leng Pass – Meo Vac mount with the length of 7 km, lies between Dong Van and Meo Vac districts where a lot of workers recruited from such provinces as Cao Bang, Lang Son, Thai Nguyen, Tuyen Quang and Ha Giang worked very hard for 11 years to build this road. It is, now, invested to build a stop for tourists taking photos of Nho Que river scenery and enjoying a thrilling feeling.
Ma Pi Leng commune is the vast region which is situated in the middle of Dong Van and Meo Vac district, is 16 kilometer from Meo Vac township. This place is considered as “the most spectacular grandiose”.
During the French time there was no road like we see to day that connected Ha Giang Town with DVKP. Traffic and transportation was all done either by foot or horse and it took 3 days to get to DVKP from Ha Giang Town.
The National Road No. 4C Ha Giang-Dong Van-Meo Vac was decided to be built after North Vietnam was liberated and it took 6 years (1959-1965) to build a distance of app. 300km. So difficult to build and so happy when it was done that the road was called “The Happiness Road”. More than 2 million workdays were spent by youngsters of 16 nations from 8 provinces of North Vietnam. But what is unforgettable is the construction of the Ma Pi Leng Pass, the most difficult pass to build but also the most fascinating and beautiful pass to enjoy in Vietnam. It took the youngsters one and a half year to connect the 24km distance between Dong Van and Meo Vac Towns but the Ma Pi Leng Pass alone already took them 11 months or more than 330 days of hanging themselves on rock cliffs to make it through.
Ma Pi Leng, in Hmong language means “Horse nose bridge”. Some other literature sources argue it actually is Mau Pi Leng, describing the feeling of a mouse when it is going to fall into the clutches of the cat. Both explanations mean nothing else than the dangerous, breath-taking feeling of the traveler when passing by this pass. But perhaps only on this pass can the traveler feel the greatness of Mother Nature, due both to the deep canyon of the Nho Que river underneath and the surrounding high mountains, resulting in the height difference of more than 1km, which is added by vertical cliffs and barren rock deserts all around.
Ma Pi Leng Pass is probably the most worth sightseeing of DVKP, both in terms of landscape and history, but moreover, also in terms of geoheritage. The informed traveller can find here evidence of faulting, folding, karstification, stratigraphic type sections, stratigraphic unconformities, chrono-stratigraphic boundaries and different types of both karst and non-karst landforms – a superbly high concentration of geosites wherefore one would otherwise have to spend days to find. Practically it would not be exaggerating to call Ma Pi Leng Pass a super-geosite. At present a stopover station has been built for the traveller to stop by to enjoy the thrill of the landscape. An explanation board on the geological values of the site was also prepared and a lot more would be provided to completely convince the traveller that he is in the Heaven. The Province is preparing to have it recognized by the Government as a national historic-cultural-landscape vestige to which geological values would be significance addition.
Stand in the peak of Ma Pi Leng, tourists can view the whole scene of huge highland area with endlessly range of mountain of all sizes, particularly interesting shapes. Due to geological changes, a lot of vertical cliffs were formed like giant walls. Bottom the feet of Ma Pi Leng is The Mong’s village loom in the fog, Nho Que river runs like a colorful thread through the cliffs.
Ma Pi Leng not only is beautifully natural landscape but also a historical evidence for memorizing the volunteer youth.
Ma Pi Leng commune is the vast region which is situated in the middle of Dong Van and Meo Vac district, is 16 kilometer from Meo Vac township. This place is considered as “the most spectacular grandiose”.
During the French time there was no road like we see to day that connected Ha Giang Town with DVKP. Traffic and transportation was all done either by foot or horse and it took 3 days to get to DVKP from Ha Giang Town.
The National Road No. 4C Ha Giang-Dong Van-Meo Vac was decided to be built after North Vietnam was liberated and it took 6 years (1959-1965) to build a distance of app. 300km. So difficult to build and so happy when it was done that the road was called “The Happiness Road”. More than 2 million workdays were spent by youngsters of 16 nations from 8 provinces of North Vietnam. But what is unforgettable is the construction of the Ma Pi Leng Pass, the most difficult pass to build but also the most fascinating and beautiful pass to enjoy in Vietnam. It took the youngsters one and a half year to connect the 24km distance between Dong Van and Meo Vac Towns but the Ma Pi Leng Pass alone already took them 11 months or more than 330 days of hanging themselves on rock cliffs to make it through.
Ma Pi Leng, in Hmong language means “Horse nose bridge”. Some other literature sources argue it actually is Mau Pi Leng, describing the feeling of a mouse when it is going to fall into the clutches of the cat. Both explanations mean nothing else than the dangerous, breath-taking feeling of the traveler when passing by this pass. But perhaps only on this pass can the traveler feel the greatness of Mother Nature, due both to the deep canyon of the Nho Que river underneath and the surrounding high mountains, resulting in the height difference of more than 1km, which is added by vertical cliffs and barren rock deserts all around.
Ma Pi Leng Pass is probably the most worth sightseeing of DVKP, both in terms of landscape and history, but moreover, also in terms of geoheritage. The informed traveller can find here evidence of faulting, folding, karstification, stratigraphic type sections, stratigraphic unconformities, chrono-stratigraphic boundaries and different types of both karst and non-karst landforms – a superbly high concentration of geosites wherefore one would otherwise have to spend days to find. Practically it would not be exaggerating to call Ma Pi Leng Pass a super-geosite. At present a stopover station has been built for the traveller to stop by to enjoy the thrill of the landscape. An explanation board on the geological values of the site was also prepared and a lot more would be provided to completely convince the traveller that he is in the Heaven. The Province is preparing to have it recognized by the Government as a national historic-cultural-landscape vestige to which geological values would be significance addition.
Stand in the peak of Ma Pi Leng, tourists can view the whole scene of huge highland area with endlessly range of mountain of all sizes, particularly interesting shapes. Due to geological changes, a lot of vertical cliffs were formed like giant walls. Bottom the feet of Ma Pi Leng is The Mong’s village loom in the fog, Nho Que river runs like a colorful thread through the cliffs.
Ma Pi Leng not only is beautifully natural landscape but also a historical evidence for memorizing the volunteer youth.
Day 1: Hanoi – Ha Giang
You will be met up by Lotussia Travel guide, driver and transferred to Ha Giang province. Enjoy natural landscape and green fields, palm hill and villages. Passing Tuyen quang town, you can visit village of black Tay minority. Arrive Ha Giang town in the late afternoon you’ll arrive at Me village – a hometown of Tay people. Remainder of the day for wandering to peaceful village and having dinner and spend the night in a family’s stilt house.
Day 2: Ha Giang – Yen Minh – Meo Vac – Dong Van
After breakfast, you’ll drive to the small communities of Yen Minh via Quan Ba pass. Today is a real challenge however the breath-taking scenery makes the hardship all worthwhile. Take a 2-hour easy trek to visit villages of Tay and Dzay people enroute before lunch in Yen Minh. In the afternoon, heading to Dong Van via Ma Pi Leng pass. This is one of the best photo stop to enjoy the wonderful sightseeing of this vast limestone mountain range and perpendicular walls of rock, which brings one a feeling of adventure whilst being lost in the rocky h ighlands . Check-in a local guest house in Dong Van. Your guide will show you the Dong Van Old Streets located by the market. You’ll spend the night in Dong Van.
Day 3: Dong Van – Yen Minh – Quan Ba
Breakfast in Dong Van then leave for the Vuong’s Palace. The building used to belong to a King of H’mong people during the French domination. The palace attracts keen interest from architecturally minded visitors due to it mixed style of European and Chinese architecture. You might catch up a weekly market frequented the ethnic minority enroute.Late in the afternoon, you’ll call at in a a flax weaving village before arriving at a guest house in Quan Ba for overnight accommodation.
Day 4: Quan Ba – My Lam hot spring-Tuyen Quang
Breakfast outside of hotel. Local guide says good bye to you, we return to Tuyen Quang, we stop some interest points. Go to My Lam for some hours at leisure at Hot spring. Check in hotel in Tuyen Quang town. Free time to explore the town & afternoon market.
Day 5 Tuyen Quang – Viet Tri – Ha Noi
Breakfast at hotel. Transfer to Ha Noi on No.2 national road. Arrive Vietri – an industrial city, taking break half an hour. We reach to Ha Noi after 4 hours from Tuyen Quang. Free time.
End of our service.
You will be met up by Lotussia Travel guide, driver and transferred to Ha Giang province. Enjoy natural landscape and green fields, palm hill and villages. Passing Tuyen quang town, you can visit village of black Tay minority. Arrive Ha Giang town in the late afternoon you’ll arrive at Me village – a hometown of Tay people. Remainder of the day for wandering to peaceful village and having dinner and spend the night in a family’s stilt house.
Day 2: Ha Giang – Yen Minh – Meo Vac – Dong Van
After breakfast, you’ll drive to the small communities of Yen Minh via Quan Ba pass. Today is a real challenge however the breath-taking scenery makes the hardship all worthwhile. Take a 2-hour easy trek to visit villages of Tay and Dzay people enroute before lunch in Yen Minh. In the afternoon, heading to Dong Van via Ma Pi Leng pass. This is one of the best photo stop to enjoy the wonderful sightseeing of this vast limestone mountain range and perpendicular walls of rock, which brings one a feeling of adventure whilst being lost in the rocky h ighlands . Check-in a local guest house in Dong Van. Your guide will show you the Dong Van Old Streets located by the market. You’ll spend the night in Dong Van.
Day 3: Dong Van – Yen Minh – Quan Ba
Breakfast in Dong Van then leave for the Vuong’s Palace. The building used to belong to a King of H’mong people during the French domination. The palace attracts keen interest from architecturally minded visitors due to it mixed style of European and Chinese architecture. You might catch up a weekly market frequented the ethnic minority enroute.Late in the afternoon, you’ll call at in a a flax weaving village before arriving at a guest house in Quan Ba for overnight accommodation.
Day 4: Quan Ba – My Lam hot spring-Tuyen Quang
Breakfast outside of hotel. Local guide says good bye to you, we return to Tuyen Quang, we stop some interest points. Go to My Lam for some hours at leisure at Hot spring. Check in hotel in Tuyen Quang town. Free time to explore the town & afternoon market.
Day 5 Tuyen Quang – Viet Tri – Ha Noi
Breakfast at hotel. Transfer to Ha Noi on No.2 national road. Arrive Vietri – an industrial city, taking break half an hour. We reach to Ha Noi after 4 hours from Tuyen Quang. Free time.
End of our service.
Day 1: Hanoi – Mai Chau valley.
This morning we enjoy a half day city tour starting with the Ho Chi Minh Complex. This famous site contains the mausoleum of the nation’s founder Ho Chi Minh, the Presidential Palace , the Ho Chi Minh’s house on stilts and the One Pillar Pagoda. The following sights are the Temple of Literature and the peaceful lake of Hoan Kiem with its sacred temple. We also make stop at the impressive Ethnologic Museum, dedicated to Vietnam’s 54 ethnic minorities, some of which we will see on our forthcoming days. Heading out of the town, we travel by road to Mai Chau, an idyllic valley populated by the many White Thai people. There are some opportunities en route to visit the Dao Son Dau and the Muong hill tribe groups. O/N in Mai Chau
Day 2: Mai Chau – Son La.
Upon leaving Mai Chau the roads begins to deteriorate; however many villages dot the hillsides and undulating terrain make for an interesting journey. Along the way we stop in Xa Linh for a two hour trek past many timeless hill villages which are home of the Hmong hill tribe people. Travelling across the Moc Chau Plateau we catch a glimpse of the many tea plantations and see the Black Thai hill tribe people. They belong to the same Thai ethnic group, but are different from the White Thai in Mai Chau by their tradition and habits. O/N in Son La.
Day 3: Son La – Dien Bien Phu.
The provincial museum and the nearby old prison are some of this hill town’s major sights. We have a chance to visit these before we leave for our next destination. The winding roads cross over the Pha Din Pass before reaching Dien Bien Phu, the site of the decisive battle in Vietnam’s struggle for independence in 1954. After checking into our central located hotel we enjoy a walk around to see this fast growing town. Our main stop is Dien Bien Phu’s Museum which details the event in place. We also pay a visit to the old battle field where the lush vegetation grows behind many war relics including old French tanks and artillery pieces. O/N in Dien Bien Phu .
Day 4: Dien Bien Phu – Lai Chau.
The journey north continues on to Lai Chau Town, our base for exploring the surrounding areas These back roads are a great way to explore the real Vietnam. We see very few other travellers, mostly rural dwellers who are just as interested in finding out about our lives as we are of theirs. After checking into hotel, we embark on a boat for a two hour trip along the Da River, passing through the stunning mountain landscapes. The pace is very relaxed, a perfect way to observe the local lifestyle close up. O/N in Lai Chau.
Day 5: Lai Chau – Sin Ho – Tam Duong.
Today we continue venturing into northern Vietnam with the next stop being Sin Ho which is home land of the Red Hmong, Kho Mu, Mang and Dao ethnic minorities. They are settled there longtime ago and still retain their traditional culture and habits. The trip to Sin Ho is occasionally suspended due to the restriction of the local authority. Departing Sin Ho we make our way past the hilly region to Tam Duong. This timeless town is surrounded by stunning mountain backdrops and lush tea plantations. O/N in Tam Duong.
Day 6: Tam Duong – Sapa.
The scenery of the north is unequalled although the conditions are very simple. After breakfast we drive following the main artery of trade in northwestern region. This bumpy road links to many hill towns and villages. At an elevation of 1,500 meters, Sapa was founded in the early years of the last century as a hill resort for French administrators when the heat on the plain became unbearable. After checking into hotel we can soak up the fresh climate as much as we want by spending our time wandering around this charming town and some legacies of the French period. O/N in Sa Pa.
Day 7: Sapa.
The huge range of Phan Si Pan boasts Vietnam’s highest mountain and lends an alpine feel to the area surrounding this hill station. Today we have enough time to visit the bustling Sa Pa Market where the Red Dao, Black Hmong, Tay and Xa Pho ethnic minorities converge from the nearby mountainsides and valleys to trade their goods and buy provisions. We get well off the beaten track as we embark on a walk to discover this beautiful mountain region. Along the way we traverse several rustic villages and see many mountaineers doing their daily works such as logging, herding buffalo and tilling the field. O/N in Sa Pa.
Day 8: Sapa – Bat Xat – Laocai.
Heading out of town, we make our way through the breathtaking mountain landscape to Bat Xat. The weather in this region is cool due to the high altitude. On arrival, we embark on a short walk, passing through several villages which is populated by the Phu La, Dao and Giay ethnic minorities. They are very poor, but have an interesting local culture and a colorful history. A part of the pleasure of travelling in this region is the simple joy of seeing hill tribe people. We continue our trip to Lao Cai border town, our final destination. O/N in Lao Cai.
Day 9: Lao Cai – Bac Ha.
The weekend market of Muong Khuong also attracts a wide variety of ethnic minority groups such as Hmong, Dao, Thu Lao, Pa Di, Tu Di and Phu La. After breakfast, we embark on a two hour drive delivering to Muong Khuong Town. There is a wonderful experience to wander around this colorful congregation. In the early afternoon, we travel by roads to Bac Ha. This is basically an overnight stop to break our long journey. After checking into hotel we can enjoy walk to visit the Hmong King’s former residence and Ban Pho where villagers make the potent local maize alcohol. O/N in Bac Ha.
Day 10: Bac Ha – Hoang Su Phi – Ha Giang.
Upon leaving Bac Ha we set off on a full day journey through Sin Man and Hoang Su Phi to Ha Giang Town. The rough but scenic route traverse a dense jungle before crossing over a pass and dropping down to Sin Man. This day is a real challenge for our driver as we travel by winding roads with many uphill and down hill drives. Along the way we may encounter the Nung Ing, Tay, Red Dao, Dao Ao Dai, La Chi and Co Lao, just some of the many hill tribe groups who have settled there. O/N in Ha Giang.
Day 11: Ha Giang – Sa Phin – Dong Van.
The remote region of Dong Van and Meo Vac is a land of rugged mountains and beautiful hill villages which are unchanged for centuries. Today we head north west out of Ha Giang Town towards this northernmost tip of Vietnam. The former H’mong royal house at Sa Phin is a primary attraction of the region but the blend of hill tribe people’s colorful costumes and the majestic mountainous scenery make this long and bumpy trip an unforgettable experience. O/N in Dong Van.
Day 12: Dong Van – Meo Vac.
The ethnic minority people are frequently seen in this hill town and small vendors along the street sell local textiles and handicraft. We have time to visit Dong Van Town before continuing to Meo Vac which is conquered by the Lo Lo and Pu Peo ethnic minority people. They still retain their age old cultural traditions and are recognisably distinct from each other by their dress. The remoteness and the simple lifestyle of local people are a highlight of Meo Vac although conditions are very basic. We return to Ha Giang via Yen Minh, using a shortcut way. O/N in Ha Giang.
Day 13: Meo Vac – Bao Lac – Ba Be Lakes.
An early morning start to drive through the rolling hills and the picturesque scenery to Ba Be National Park. The roads are very bumpy and zigzagging however we will have a chance to meet the Hmong, Dao, Tay and Nung ethnic minorities who make for the main population of this region. We are sure to attract their attention as this part of the country receive very few visitors. Depending on road and traffic conditions we arrive in Ba Be by late afternoon or early evening, but it is till an interesting day. O/N in Cho Ra.
Day 14: Ba Be Lakes.
The legendary lake of Ba Be is just one continuous water body although the name means” three lakes”. Today we embark on a boat cruising down the Nang River which is the main water source of the lake. This exciting river trip will give us a taste of the tranquil countryside and an enjoyable exploration of the Ba Be National Park. We traverse en route the Poong Grotto before stopping at some nearby hill tribe villages and getting off the beaten track to the scenic Dau Dang Waterfalls. O/N in Cha Ra.
Day 15: Ba Be lakes – Hanoi.
Enjoy a full day drive from Ba Be lakes to Hanoi.
This morning we enjoy a half day city tour starting with the Ho Chi Minh Complex. This famous site contains the mausoleum of the nation’s founder Ho Chi Minh, the Presidential Palace , the Ho Chi Minh’s house on stilts and the One Pillar Pagoda. The following sights are the Temple of Literature and the peaceful lake of Hoan Kiem with its sacred temple. We also make stop at the impressive Ethnologic Museum, dedicated to Vietnam’s 54 ethnic minorities, some of which we will see on our forthcoming days. Heading out of the town, we travel by road to Mai Chau, an idyllic valley populated by the many White Thai people. There are some opportunities en route to visit the Dao Son Dau and the Muong hill tribe groups. O/N in Mai Chau
Day 2: Mai Chau – Son La.
Upon leaving Mai Chau the roads begins to deteriorate; however many villages dot the hillsides and undulating terrain make for an interesting journey. Along the way we stop in Xa Linh for a two hour trek past many timeless hill villages which are home of the Hmong hill tribe people. Travelling across the Moc Chau Plateau we catch a glimpse of the many tea plantations and see the Black Thai hill tribe people. They belong to the same Thai ethnic group, but are different from the White Thai in Mai Chau by their tradition and habits. O/N in Son La.
Day 3: Son La – Dien Bien Phu.
The provincial museum and the nearby old prison are some of this hill town’s major sights. We have a chance to visit these before we leave for our next destination. The winding roads cross over the Pha Din Pass before reaching Dien Bien Phu, the site of the decisive battle in Vietnam’s struggle for independence in 1954. After checking into our central located hotel we enjoy a walk around to see this fast growing town. Our main stop is Dien Bien Phu’s Museum which details the event in place. We also pay a visit to the old battle field where the lush vegetation grows behind many war relics including old French tanks and artillery pieces. O/N in Dien Bien Phu .
Day 4: Dien Bien Phu – Lai Chau.
The journey north continues on to Lai Chau Town, our base for exploring the surrounding areas These back roads are a great way to explore the real Vietnam. We see very few other travellers, mostly rural dwellers who are just as interested in finding out about our lives as we are of theirs. After checking into hotel, we embark on a boat for a two hour trip along the Da River, passing through the stunning mountain landscapes. The pace is very relaxed, a perfect way to observe the local lifestyle close up. O/N in Lai Chau.
Day 5: Lai Chau – Sin Ho – Tam Duong.
Today we continue venturing into northern Vietnam with the next stop being Sin Ho which is home land of the Red Hmong, Kho Mu, Mang and Dao ethnic minorities. They are settled there longtime ago and still retain their traditional culture and habits. The trip to Sin Ho is occasionally suspended due to the restriction of the local authority. Departing Sin Ho we make our way past the hilly region to Tam Duong. This timeless town is surrounded by stunning mountain backdrops and lush tea plantations. O/N in Tam Duong.
Day 6: Tam Duong – Sapa.
The scenery of the north is unequalled although the conditions are very simple. After breakfast we drive following the main artery of trade in northwestern region. This bumpy road links to many hill towns and villages. At an elevation of 1,500 meters, Sapa was founded in the early years of the last century as a hill resort for French administrators when the heat on the plain became unbearable. After checking into hotel we can soak up the fresh climate as much as we want by spending our time wandering around this charming town and some legacies of the French period. O/N in Sa Pa.
Day 7: Sapa.
The huge range of Phan Si Pan boasts Vietnam’s highest mountain and lends an alpine feel to the area surrounding this hill station. Today we have enough time to visit the bustling Sa Pa Market where the Red Dao, Black Hmong, Tay and Xa Pho ethnic minorities converge from the nearby mountainsides and valleys to trade their goods and buy provisions. We get well off the beaten track as we embark on a walk to discover this beautiful mountain region. Along the way we traverse several rustic villages and see many mountaineers doing their daily works such as logging, herding buffalo and tilling the field. O/N in Sa Pa.
Day 8: Sapa – Bat Xat – Laocai.
Heading out of town, we make our way through the breathtaking mountain landscape to Bat Xat. The weather in this region is cool due to the high altitude. On arrival, we embark on a short walk, passing through several villages which is populated by the Phu La, Dao and Giay ethnic minorities. They are very poor, but have an interesting local culture and a colorful history. A part of the pleasure of travelling in this region is the simple joy of seeing hill tribe people. We continue our trip to Lao Cai border town, our final destination. O/N in Lao Cai.
Day 9: Lao Cai – Bac Ha.
The weekend market of Muong Khuong also attracts a wide variety of ethnic minority groups such as Hmong, Dao, Thu Lao, Pa Di, Tu Di and Phu La. After breakfast, we embark on a two hour drive delivering to Muong Khuong Town. There is a wonderful experience to wander around this colorful congregation. In the early afternoon, we travel by roads to Bac Ha. This is basically an overnight stop to break our long journey. After checking into hotel we can enjoy walk to visit the Hmong King’s former residence and Ban Pho where villagers make the potent local maize alcohol. O/N in Bac Ha.
Day 10: Bac Ha – Hoang Su Phi – Ha Giang.
Upon leaving Bac Ha we set off on a full day journey through Sin Man and Hoang Su Phi to Ha Giang Town. The rough but scenic route traverse a dense jungle before crossing over a pass and dropping down to Sin Man. This day is a real challenge for our driver as we travel by winding roads with many uphill and down hill drives. Along the way we may encounter the Nung Ing, Tay, Red Dao, Dao Ao Dai, La Chi and Co Lao, just some of the many hill tribe groups who have settled there. O/N in Ha Giang.
Day 11: Ha Giang – Sa Phin – Dong Van.
The remote region of Dong Van and Meo Vac is a land of rugged mountains and beautiful hill villages which are unchanged for centuries. Today we head north west out of Ha Giang Town towards this northernmost tip of Vietnam. The former H’mong royal house at Sa Phin is a primary attraction of the region but the blend of hill tribe people’s colorful costumes and the majestic mountainous scenery make this long and bumpy trip an unforgettable experience. O/N in Dong Van.
Day 12: Dong Van – Meo Vac.
The ethnic minority people are frequently seen in this hill town and small vendors along the street sell local textiles and handicraft. We have time to visit Dong Van Town before continuing to Meo Vac which is conquered by the Lo Lo and Pu Peo ethnic minority people. They still retain their age old cultural traditions and are recognisably distinct from each other by their dress. The remoteness and the simple lifestyle of local people are a highlight of Meo Vac although conditions are very basic. We return to Ha Giang via Yen Minh, using a shortcut way. O/N in Ha Giang.
Day 13: Meo Vac – Bao Lac – Ba Be Lakes.
An early morning start to drive through the rolling hills and the picturesque scenery to Ba Be National Park. The roads are very bumpy and zigzagging however we will have a chance to meet the Hmong, Dao, Tay and Nung ethnic minorities who make for the main population of this region. We are sure to attract their attention as this part of the country receive very few visitors. Depending on road and traffic conditions we arrive in Ba Be by late afternoon or early evening, but it is till an interesting day. O/N in Cho Ra.
Day 14: Ba Be Lakes.
The legendary lake of Ba Be is just one continuous water body although the name means” three lakes”. Today we embark on a boat cruising down the Nang River which is the main water source of the lake. This exciting river trip will give us a taste of the tranquil countryside and an enjoyable exploration of the Ba Be National Park. We traverse en route the Poong Grotto before stopping at some nearby hill tribe villages and getting off the beaten track to the scenic Dau Dang Waterfalls. O/N in Cha Ra.
Day 15: Ba Be lakes – Hanoi.
Enjoy a full day drive from Ba Be lakes to Hanoi.
