Bac Ha: 7 questions about the land of Northwest ethnic groups

Bac Ha is a small mountain town nestled in the northwest of Vietnam. Less known than its neighbor Sapa, the magnificent region of Bac Ha has nothing to envy about its neighbor. With its authentic panoramas and the genuine way of life of the various welcoming ethnic groups, Bac Ha will seduce you. Traveling to Bac Ha means discovering breathtaking landscapes off the beaten path: beautiful green valleys ideal for hiking, rice fields, orchards, traditional houses, and amazing customs. This article will reveal all the cultural and natural treasures of Bac Ha that you absolutely must visit during your trip to northern Vietnam.

Written by Hung DAO (Local Expert) Updated on 11-04-2024

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1. Where is Bac Ha located?

Bac Ha is located in the northwest of Vietnam, approximately 135 km from Sapa. A trip to Bac Ha takes about 4 hours. This charming mountain town sits at elevations between 1000 and 1500 meters above sea level and is home to a mosaic of 14 different minority ethnic groups. Among them, the H''mong people stand out with their vibrant attire and hold a prominent place.

2. What makes Bac Ha an oasis of preserved nature in the face of mass tourism?

Decades before 1985, the Bac Ha region was nicknamed the ''white plateau'' due to the vast fields of poppies planted by the locals. It wasn''t until 1993 that the hills around Bac Ha were adorned with the whiteness of plum blossoms, replacing the poppies, which had been banned by the Vietnamese government. Since then, time seems to have stood still in Bac Ha, despite social developments and the excitement of global trade. Authenticity reigns in this place with its many cultural and natural treasures. This can be attributed to its less accessible location compared to other provinces, which has slowed down the economic development of Bac Ha. This region, often overshadowed by its neighbor Sapa, shines with its authentic preservation and its breathtaking landscapes, including magnificent rice terraces and its diverse mountain ethnic groups.

The Bac Ha region has recently opened up to tourism, thanks in large part to its vibrant and colorful Sunday ethnic market, as well as the surrounding mountainous villages. Bac Ha has finally emerged from obscurity and is beginning to compete with its neighbor, Sapa. The ethnic villages near Bac Ha, nestled in lush valleys, offer breathtaking panoramas and a fabulous experience that you can discover through hiking or trekking.

In the vicinity of Bac Ha, green valleys blend seamlessly with charming traditional villages. Here, one adopts an ancestral, peaceful, and authentic way of life. In the Bac Ha region, you have the chance to explore trails along the mountainsides, adorned with splendid rice terraces and beautiful plum tree plantations. These trails lead to hamlets where various ethnic groups reside, surrounded by the lush greenery of nature—a peaceful haven still untouched by hordes of tourists.

3. When are the best times to visit?

Like many destinations in northern Vietnam, visiting Bac Ha is possible year-round, but we advise you to consider the months of April to November when the weather is pleasant and ideal for hiking in the less-visited villages of the region.

If you want to visit Bac Ha to see the plum blossoms, February is the best time to come. If you enjoy admiring beautiful rice terraces, we recommend visiting from May to September. In June, you''ll have the opportunity to participate in the lively horse racing festival in Bac Ha, where laughter and a festive atmosphere are guaranteed. To witness the red valleys of Bac Ha when the plums are ripe, visit the region in May—an absolute delight for the eyes!

If you're considering a trip to Vietnam to explore its captivating sights, we're here to provide you with Vietnam essential travel tips.

4. How to get to Bac Ha?

From Hanoi, you first need to reach Lao Cai, either by train or bus. After that, you can take a bus or private vehicle to Bac Ha, which is a journey of over 2 hours, offering scenic views along a magnificent mountainous road.

To travel from Hanoi to Lao Cai by bus, there are several coach companies that offer this route, taking approximately 5 hours. You can choose between tourist buses (comfortable limousines) or local buses (cheaper but less comfortable and slower).

If you prefer to take the train from Hanoi to Lao Cai, head to Hanoi Central Station. Night trains departing around 8 or 9 p.m. will arrive in Lao Cai at approximately 5 or 6 a.m. the following morning.

Bac Ha, Vietnam, is also accessible from Sapa and Ha Giang by bus and motorbike. If you are adventurous at heart and enjoy biking, you can undertake these trips by motorbike. However, we do not recommend it for beginners because even though the experience is unique and original, riding a motorbike or scooter can be very dangerous on the winding mountain roads if you are not accustomed to it.

On the other hand, for those who prefer a worry-free journey, consider booking through a travel agency to rent a private car with a driver and guide. This way, you can travel directly to Bac Ha without the need to change vehicles or worry about public transport schedules.

5. What to do and see in Bac Ha?

• Weekly Markets around Bac Ha

The Bac Ha region hosts a multitude of fascinating ethnic markets, making them favorites among travelers in this dragon-shaped country. These mountain trading centers are held in different locations depending on the day of the week:

Bac Ha Market stands out as the largest and most impressive market in the region. Every Sunday morning, the town center of Bac Ha, Vietnam, transforms into a multicultural hub where various ethnic groups from the region gather. Men and women, adorned in their finest traditional attire, proudly representing the local colors of their communities, convene to trade and negotiate goods, including food, livestock, clothing, and various items. There''s something for everyone! Don''t hesitate to wander from stall to stall, immersing yourself in this sensory feast of colors and delightful aromas. It''s an excellent, original, unique, and sometimes even comical change of scenery.

Can Cau Market, located 20 km from Bac Ha Market, is an excellent choice for travelers staying in the area on Saturday mornings. Smaller and more intimate than Bac Ha, Can Cau Market delights visitors with its beautiful panoramic road leading to Can Cau and its diverse livestock market. Along the way, you can make several stops to admire the original cob houses of the Hmong

Coc Ly Market takes place on the banks of the picturesque Chay River every Tuesday morning. This smaller market is just as authentic and lively as the others in the region. Coc Ly Market offers travelers more than just a simple discovery—it includes a pleasant stroll downstream along the Chay River, offering splendid views of the recently built dam. You''ll also have a front-row seat to admire the magnificent karst landscapes, charming waterfalls, and the ethnic villages of the Hmong and Tay in Trung Do.

• Top Hikes and Treks in Bac Ha

While Bac Ha is well-known for its ethnic market, it offers more than just this event. In fact, its winding mountain trails and scattered ethnic villages around town provide numerous hiking opportunities. One of the most common and easy Bac Ha treks is a visit to the Hmong village, where travelers can meet the Hmong people in their charming cob houses, learn about their way of life, and even sample corn alcohol.

• Authentic Villages amidst Bac Ha''s Natural Beauty

The must-visit villages in Bac Ha include Ta Van Chu, Thai Giang Pho, Ngai Thau, and more. Among them, Ta Van Chu is considered one of the most beautiful and easily accessible. To reach Ta Van Chu, you can depart from the heart of Bac Ha district and head northwest for approximately 20 km to reach this stunning region. Those who have had the opportunity to explore this place often liken it to a small slice of paradise similar to Sapa. However, Ta Van Chu boasts an even more untamed, authentic, and serene atmosphere. The village is home to the Mong ethnic community, creating a unique cultural mosaic.

• Homestays in Bac Ha

For a deep immersion into the culture of the country you''re visiting, there''s no better way than staying with locals. Staying with locals allows you to rediscover yourself and compare your Western way of life with the highly traditional one of your host. It''s undoubtedly the best way to experience Vietnam.

A 3 or 4-day hiking tour, accompanied by a French-speaking guide, is an excellent way to delve deeper into northern Vietnam. Travelers benefit from a wealth of information and advice from the guide, which enhances their understanding of local culture and allows for interaction with locals during stays with families from different ethnic groups. Dinners with your hosts, accompanied by glasses of rice wine and snippets of conversation, will create cherished memories.

The culinary delights, conviviality, and insights into the customs of the Hmong and Tay ethnic groups will help you overlook the basic comforts of the accommodations (for one night, you''ll live like a true ethnic group!). Isn''t it lovely to wake up to the sweet chirping of birds the next morning with views of rice fields or orchards? 

Bac Ha, Sapa, Ta Xua, and many more are just a few of Vietnam's breathtaking mountain vistas waiting to be explored. If you're ready to witness these majestic sights, we're here to assist you every step of the way. Contact us to ensure your trip is unforgettable!

• Palace of Hoang A Tuong, King of the Hmong

The Hoang A Tuong Palace, constructed by the French between 1914 and 1921, boasts a distinctive architectural style that blends elements of the stilt houses of the Tay ethnic group with features reminiscent of old French colonial residences. Perched on a hill overlooking the valley, this former palace of the Hmong King provides visitors with a breathtaking view of the surrounding natural landscape. A true historical relic from the colonial era, this palace is a must-visit site during your stay in Bac Ha.

6. What local specialty drink should you try?

Bac Ha Corn Alcohol, also known as ''Ban Pho Village Corn Alcohol,'' derives its name from the village of Ban Pho, where it is carefully crafted. This delightful Bac Ha beverage is crafted directly from the bountiful corn harvest that thrives in this region. After the harvest, locals dry the corn by hanging it in their homes, creating a rustic and impressive sight.

Following an ancient recipe passed down from generation to generation, the Hmong people of Ban Pho create this alcohol by combining corn with their special blend of herbs. Corn alcohol, renowned for its exquisite taste and captivating fragrance, offers a truly unique flavor that can''t be found anywhere else. It''s a must-try experience during your visit to Bac Ha.

When you visit Ban Pho, the heart of Bac Ha, you not only have the opportunity to savor this delightful corn alcohol but also to immerse yourself in the tranquility of the daily life of the local people. It''s a simple and peaceful existence, painted with the vibrant colors of corn.

7. What are the ideal itineraries?

Bac Ha is just one of the off-the-beaten-path destinations in northern Vietnam, offering the opportunity to combine your trip with other regions in the north of the country. Here are several suggested itineraries:

• Hanoi – Bac Ha – Sapa:

If you are starting your journey in Hanoi and planning to visit Sapa, consider including a stop in Bac Ha to fully appreciate the magnificent natural landscapes and colorful ethnic markets filled with entertainment. The Bac Ha to Sapa route can be completed in a day or over several days if you prefer to hike or trek. For those seeking to escape the crowds of Sapa, Bac Ha is now accessible from Hanoi via a 6-hour highway journey. Learn more about Sapa.

• Bac Ha – Ha Giang:

Bac Ha serves as the gateway to the vast rice terraces and picturesque landscapes of Ha Giang. From Bac Ha, you can continue your journey to Hoang Su Phi, home to marvelous rice terraces classified as national heritage sites. Extend your visual delight by exploring the limestone plateau of Dong Van, the breathtaking Ma Pi Leng Pass in Meo Vac, and the Tay Con Linh mountain range.

Explore the majesty of Ha Giang for an unforgettable experience

In conclusion

Like a newly discovered mine of precious stones, Bac Ha gradually unveils its treasures, while the locals faithfully preserve their traditional way of life. Bac Ha remains relatively undiscovered, thus maintaining its authenticity. This destination will undoubtedly pique your curiosity and satisfy your desire for adventure in Vietnam, far from the usual tourist routes.

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