Ha Giang

Ha Giang is Vietnam's northernmost region, home to the Dong Van Karst Plateau UNESCO Global Geopark (recognized in 2010). The "Northeast Loop" winds past mountain passes, cliffs and valleys and is among the most beautiful roads in Vietnam.

Top sights

• Lung Cu Flag Tower – Vietnam's northernmost point, with 839 steps up to the flagpole.

• Ma Pi Leng Pass – the "king of passes" overlooking the emerald Nho Que River and the Tu San canyon, hundreds of metres deep.

• Vuong Family Mansion (Sa Phin) – the home of the "H'Mong King", blending Chinese and H'Mong architecture.

• Dong Van Old Quarter and Sunday market – where people of many ethnic groups come down to trade.

• Quan Ba Heaven's Gate, Co Tien Mountain and Sung La Valley – lovely stops along the way.

• Nho Que River – boat trip through the Tu San canyon (best from June to December).

Local food

Thang den dumplings, egg rice rolls, sour pho, smoked buffalo, au tau porridge (eat only at reputable places), Thanh Van corn wine, mint honey and buckwheat cakes.

Best time to visit

October – November for buckwheat flowers; March – April for peach, plum and pear blossoms; September – October for ripe rice in Hoang Su Phi. The rainy season (June – August) brings landslides; winter is very cold.

Good to know

Foreign visitors need a border-area permit (the tour operator will arrange it). The roads have many sharp bends, so travel with an experienced local driver, or ride with a local guide. From Hanoi to Ha Giang City is about 300 km, 6 – 7 hours.