Ba Be

Overlooked from Ma Pi Leng Pass, Nho Que River is so wild but charismatic and poetic. What a breathtaking attraction that you cannot miss when you visit Ha Giang! Have ever heard about the origin of this river? Today, we would like to share you a very fascinating story about Nho Que River.

Once upon the time, there was a whole big mountain in Ha Giang Loop that blocked the river effort from spreading life to the barren land on the other side, where was completely arid. The River God was trying to negotiate with the Mountain God to asked him to move aside. However, The Mountain God pretended to be deaf and stayed still for years. Knowing that story, the King of Heaven ordered the Thunder God to settle the situation. One day, the sky was scattered with deafening thunderbolts. The Thunder God swung down his sword to the mountain. Suddenly, there was an explosion that trembled the mountain and separated it into two. The stream of water rushed around the valley and turned things ‘alive’ as the hope of life kept going since then. Now becomes the charming Nho Que River, cutting through Ma Pi Leng while the other side is Sam Pun.

Nho Que River flows from Nghiem Son Mountain, China through Ha Giang, Viet Nam and Cao Bang province of Vietnam with a length of 192 km. It starts in the area of Seo Lung Village to Tu San Canyon and runs along with Ma Pi Leng to Meo Vac, then pouring as a tributary of Gam River. The catchment of the river is approximately 6052 km². So Nho Que brings a major contribution to local life by supplying plentiful water to agricultural and hydroelectric activities in dry seasons. This is also a captivating spot along the mountainside for tourists these days. Trekking down Tu San Canyon, the deepest point of the river might challenge us a bit as we are supposed to have good breath control. Yet, we will have something in return. The best experience is to try on kayaking or motorboat on the river and admire the majestic of nature hidden in cloud and sunshine.

Ha Giang, about 280 kilometers from Hanoi, is one of the most attractive destinations in the North of Vietnam. It borders Cao Bang Province in the East, Yen Bai and Lao Cai Provinces in the West, Tuyen Quang Province in the South, and China in the North.

With a total area of nearly 8000 square kilometres, Ha Giang is famous for its stunning landscapes of mountains, rivers, forests, and terraced rice fields. Thanks to these natural conditions, this destination is exceptionally ideal for trekking, rock climbing, and scenic driving.

Besides natural beauty and adventurous activities, Ha Giang is also well-known for its rich cultural and ethnic identities. It is home to diverse ethnic groups, including the Dao, Hmong, and Tay, with their own unique customs and traditions. When you travel to Ha Giang, you will have a chance to learn about the ethnic minority people’s culture and daily life by visiting local markets, talking with locals,  joining their festivals, etc. The Love Market and New Rice festivals are outstanding festivals in Ha Giang.

In general, Ha Giang will surely exceed your expectations, whether you come here to relax, soak in nature, or learn more about ethnic minorities here. Let’s continue reading for more information!

Ha Giang is located in the far north of Vietnam, about 280 kilometers from Hanoi. The impressive mountains in combination with the unique culture of ethnic minorities are attracting more and more tourists.

1. The most impressive mountain scenery

The whole of the north of Vietnam is known for its beautiful mountain area, but the most impressive mountains can be found in the province of Ha Giang.

There are several mountain passes that you have to overcome when driving through this area. The most famous mountain pass is the Ma Pi Leng pass which runs between Dong Van and Meo Vac.

2. Unique cultures

The province Ha Giang has the biggest population of ethnic minorities. You will find here mainly the Dao, Lo Lo, Giay, Nung, Tay and  Hmong ethnic groups.

Because tourism has only been on the rise here for a few years, everything still feels very authentic. When you drive around you will easily spot the beautiful and colorfully dressed minorities.

3. Trekking

It may not be as well organized as Sapa, also in Ha Giang you can make beautiful trekking tours. Since the mountains in this area are made of limestone, it is not suitable for terraced rice paddies in most places. The hiking routes mainly promise mountain views and visits to local remote villages.

In addition, a walk through the mountains is a wonderful change after days of sitting on a motorcycle or in a car. If you are looking for terraced rice fields, you can also combine the Ha Giang loop with Hoang Su Phi.

4. The most northern point of Vietnam

At the very northernmost point of Vietnam you will find Lung Cu and the flag tower, which you can climb. To be fair, the views along the way are more exciting and perhaps the best in the province, but it is of course nice to wave to China.

The flag tower is located on top of a hill that you can reach by walking up 300 steps and the views across rural countryside and villages are stunning.

5. Motorbike loop

To see the most special sights, a route has been mapped out that starts and ends in Ha Giang city, the provincial capital. This route is also called the Ha Giang loop. The most popular way to get around this loop is by motorcycle.

The Ha Giang Loop usually takes three to four days and takes you across the QL4C from Ha Giang to Bao Lam, and the QL34 that takes you from Bao Lam to Ha Giang.

If you don’t have a driver’s license or are confident enough to drive through the dangerous mountains of northern Vietnam, it’s best to go with a guide.

While Ha Giang is famed for its breathtaking mountains and ethnic culture, it also hides tranquil swimming spots perfect for cooling off after a day of adventure. Tucked away in remote villages and valleys, you’ll find crystal-clear waterfalls, natural streams, and gentle rivers—ideal for a refreshing dip surrounded by untouched landscapes. Whether it’s swimming in a jungle-fringed pool in Du Gia or dipping your feet in the emerald waters of the Nho Que River, these quiet moments add a peaceful contrast to the thrill of exploring Ha Giang’s rugged highlands.