Bac Ha

Bac Ha is a lush jewel in Lao Cai, Vietnam's Northwest highlands, perfect for individuals who enjoy nature and traditional culture. With breathtaking mountain views, cool climate all year, and rich cultural of ethnic minority, provides visitor many remarkable experiences. Let's Asia King Travel take you to a trip into the highlands' unique traditional values.

About Bac Ha 

Bac Ha is a highland district located in the northeastern part of Lao Cai Province, often referred to as the “roof” of the Northwestern region of Vietnam. To the north, it borders Si Ma Cai District; to the south, it adjoins Bao Yen and Bao Thang districts; to the east, it connects with Xin Man District of Ha Giang Province; and to the west, it borders Muong Khuong District.

The name Bac Ha originates from the Tay language phrase “Pac Ha,” meaning “one hundred bundles of thatch,” an image that evokes traditional stilt houses roofed with golden grass, nestled among the mountains and forests.

Best time to visit Bac Ha

The best time to explore Bac Ha is during the Lunar New Year. At this time, the land is filled with the colors of peach, plum and pear flowers blooming across the hills. Visitors also have the chance to experience local culture and daily life through many festivals of the Tay people and the H’Mong.

Plum and pear flower season in Bac Ha

Bac Ha is beautiful all year round, with each season offering a unique charm:

• Spring (February – April): The land become more romantic with plum and pear flowers bloom across the hillsides. The weather is cool and pleasant, making it perfect for sightseeing and photography.
• Summer (May - June): This is the season when rice fields are flooded with water and the terraced fields glow in the golden sun.The Bac Ha weekly market becomes even more vibrant, with many fresh seasonal products.
• Autumn (September - October): The rice becomes golden on the terraced fields, producing a lovely and romantic image. It is also an excellent time to discover Highland culture and local events.
• Winter (November - January): The temperature is cold, with occasional frost, giving Bac Ha a quiet and pleasant atmosphere—ideal for those who want calm and tranquil surroundings.

How to get there 

• Buses and limousines: You can buy a ticket and depart from Hanoi's Yen Nghia, My Dinh, and Giap Bat bus stations.The overall journey time is approximately 5-6 hours.
• Train: From Hanoi, take the train to Lao Cai, then take a taxi for about 70 kilometers to Bac Ha.The train ride takes around 7-8 hours.
• Motorbike or Private Car: This road takes you from Hanoi to Vinh Phuc, Viet Tri, Yen Bai, Lao Cai, and Bac Ha.The road to Bac Ha has been renovated and is relatively easy to navigate. Total trip time is approximately 6-7 hours.

The road to Bac Ha is relatively easy to navigate

Things to do and see in Bac Ha

Bac Ha Flower Valley

Located about 1.5 km from Bac Ha town, Bac Ha Flower Valley is in Sân Bay Hamlet, Thai Gang Commune, Bac Ha District. Covering an area of around 1 hectare, the valley is surrounded by mountains on all sides. It attracts visitors with colorful flowers blooming throughout the year and its unique landscaped settings.

When visiting the valley, you can enjoy activities like crossing a bamboo bridge, going on a leisurely walk, or participating in traditional highland dances. The region also provides homestay housing, food services, and camping, making it an ideal stop for travelers.

Bac Ha Flower Valley

Explore our itinerary: Sapa Bac Ha Mu Cang Chai Tour 5 Days: Into the Heart of Northern Vietnam

Bac Ha Sunday Market

Bac Ha Sunday Market occurs every Sunday. The Bac Ha Sunday Market offers a wide range of products, including traditional fabrics, handicrafts, fresh produce, animals, and more. It serves as a gathering place for numerous ethnic minority groups, including the Hmong and Flower Hmong, who go from nearby villages to sell their wares and engage in cultural exchanges.

Bac Ha Sunday Market

Fairy Cave

Co Tien Mountain is situated in Muong Khuong Commune, Bac Ha District, Lao Cai Province. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Bac Ha and should not be missed.

When you visit Fairy Cave, you will have a 6-kilometer river excursion on a boat while listening to local boatmen tell you about Hang Tien's legendary tales. You will be immersed in the beautiful green surroundings, blending with nature on both sides of the river. It's as if you're entering a foreign planet, utterly disconnected from your daily existence.

The magical beauty inside Fairy Caves

Ham Rong Cave

The cave is located in Tung Chung Commune, Muong Khuong District. According to local legend, whenever there is heavy rain, a dragon appears and comes to live inside the cave. The cave features many stalactites and rock formations with unique shapes.

Combined with natural light shining into the cave, the rocks create a mysterious and impressive atmosphere. This is one of the most popular attractions near Bac Ha, especially among travelers who enjoy exploration and unique experiences.

Ham Rong Cave

Hoang A Tuong Palace

Hoang A Tuong Palace was built in a unique blend of Asian and European architectural styles over a century ago. The palace covers an area of approximately 4,000 square meters and was constructed over seven years, from 1914 to 1921. It is situated atop a spacious hill in the northern region of Bac Ha, now the center of Bac Ha town. The palace is surrounded by mountains on both sides and faces a winding stream with a picturesque mountainous backdrop.

Hoang A Tuong Palace

Bac Ha Temple 

Location: DT153 Road, at the main intersection in the center of Bac Ha Town, Lao Cai Province.

Bac Ha Temple is one of the most significant spiritual and cultural attractions in the area. It is a religious spot that is frequently visited by locals and attracts a large number of visitors to Bac Ha. The shrine is dedicated to Vu Van Mat, a respected general who helped preserve the border region and improve the lives of locals during King Le Chieu Tong's reign.

Bac Ha Temple

Ngai Thau grass hill

Ngai Thau Grass Hill is known for its beautiful green grasslands, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. It's a popular spot for trekking and outdoor activities, where visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the area. The hill provides a peaceful escape and a chance to immerse oneself in the serene countryside of northern Vietnam.

The panoramic view of Ngai Thau peak

Song Lam Waterfall

Song Lam Waterfall is a must-visit destination in Bac Ha, situated in Song Lam Village, Ta Cu Ty Commune, approximately 30 kilometers away from Bac Ha town. Here, you can witness the majestic waterfall cascading gracefully through the lush forest. Additionally, you'll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the everyday routines of the Nung community residing in Song Lam Village. Their livelihood revolves around agricultural activities like cultivating maize and rice, raising livestock and poultry, collecting cardamom, and cultivating tea.

Song Lam Waterfall

Conclusion

The journey to Bac Ha is not only about discovering beautiful landscapes or local cuisine, but also a chance to experience the rich cultural traditions of Northern Vietnam. Don't miss the chance to explore the beauty and charm of Bac Ha on your next adventure! Book your tour at Asia King Travel now.

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