Travelling Tips

13.03.23

Ha Giang and the mysteries not everyone knows

Son Nguyen Minh

Ha Giang is a province in the northernmost part of Vietnam, known for its rugged and breathtakingly beautiful landscapes, diverse cultures of ethnic minorities, and unique customs and traditions.

Ha Giang is one of the top destinations for many backpackers and travel enthusiasts. Because in Ha Giang there are mountains, majestic forests, and gentle and poetic rivers. There are beautiful ethereal buckwheat fields,... In particular, this land at the top of the country has many other interesting and thrilling things as it invites tourists to visit. So what are you waiting for without making a trip to discover Ha Giang and the mysteries that not everyone has the opportunity to see and hear?

1. The Legend of Lung Cu Flag Tower

The Lung Cu Flag Tower is a national landmark in Ha Giang, located at the northernmost point of Vietnam. Legend has it that a giant once lived in the area and would throw boulders at passing travelers. The king of the land ordered a group of men to kill the giant, but they failed. A young girl named Au Co volunteered to take on the giant, and with her cunning and wits, she was able to defeat him. As a result, the king rewarded her by making her the queen and naming the area after her. Now the Lung Cu Flagpole is a national landmark located in Ha Giang province. The flagpole itself stands at over 33 meters tall and is adorned with the national flag of Vietnam. It is located on a hilltop and offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

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The history of the Lung Cu Flagpole dates back to the 1960s, when the Vietnamese government decided to build a monument at the northernmost point of the country to assert Vietnam's sovereignty over the region. The flagpole was completed in 1975 and has since become a symbol of national pride for the Vietnamese people.

In addition to its historical and cultural significance, the Lung Cu Flagpole is also known for its stunning natural beauty. The surrounding area is characterized by rugged mountains, deep valleys, and pristine forests, making it a popular destination for trekking and hiking enthusiasts.

Visitors to the Lung Cu Flagpole can climb to the top of the hill to get a closer look at the flagpole and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. There are also several nearby villages inhabited by ethnic minorities, where visitors can learn more about the unique cultures and traditions of the local people.

2. The Ancient Fossil Tree:

In Quan Ba district, there is an ancient fossilized tree that is estimated to be over 200 million years old. The tree was discovered in 1997 and is believed to be the only one of its kind in Southeast Asia.

The Ancient Fossil Tree is a significant scientific and geological discovery. Its discovery has helped researchers gain a better understanding of the geological history of the region and the evolution of plant life on Earth.

The tree's petrified remains are now on display in a museum in Quan Ba district, where visitors can see the trunk and branches of the tree, which have been turned to stone over millions of years. The museum also has a collection of other fossils and geological specimens, providing visitors with an insight into the geology and natural history of the region.

Visiting the Ancient Fossil Tree is a unique and educational experience, offering visitors a glimpse into the ancient past and the natural wonders of Vietnam. It is a must-see destination for anyone interested in science, geology, or natural history.

3. The Khau Vai Love Market:

The Khau Vai Love Market is a unique and colorful cultural event that takes place annually in Khau Vai commune, Meo Vac district of Ha Giang province, Vietnam. The market is held on the 27th day of the third lunar month, which usually falls in late April or early May.

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The Khau Vai Love Market is a traditional gathering of ethnic minority groups from the surrounding areas, where unmarried men and women come together to meet and form romantic relationships. The market has a long history, dating back hundreds of years, and is believed to have originated from a legend about a tragic love affair between a H'mong boy and a Giay girl.

During the market, men and women dress up in traditional costumes and come to the market to buy and sell goods, socialize with friends and family, and possibly meet a potential romantic partner. The market is also known for its food, music, and dancing, creating a festive atmosphere.

The Khau Vai Love Market is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over Vietnam and around the world. It offers a unique opportunity to experience the rich cultural heritage of the ethnic minority groups in Ha Giang province, as well as witness a traditional cultural event that has been passed down for generations.

4. The Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark:

The Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark is a UNESCO-recognized geopark located in Ha Giang province, Vietnam. It covers an area of over 2,300 square kilometers and is home to a diverse range of natural and cultural attractions.

The geopark is characterized by its rugged and dramatic landscape, which features towering limestone cliffs, deep valleys, and winding rivers. It is also home to a wide range of plant and animal species, including many rare and endangered species.

The Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark is known for its rich geological heritage, with a history dating back over 400 million years. The area is home to many unique geological formations, including karst limestone formations, fossilized coral reefs, and ancient volcanoes.

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In addition to its geological significance, the geopark is also home to many cultural and historical sites, including ancient rock formations, traditional villages, and historical landmarks. The area is home to many ethnic minority groups, each with their own unique culture and traditions.

5. The Pao's Story:

The Pao's Story is a famous novel written by Paulus Hochgatterer, an Austrian author, and psychiatrist. The novel tells the story of a young girl named Pao, who lives in a remote village in Ha Giang province, Vietnam.

Pao is a member of the Hmong ethnic minority group, and the novel explores the challenges and struggles she faces as she tries to navigate the complexities of her community and the modern world around her. The story is set against the backdrop of the Vietnam War and the rapid modernization and development of Vietnam in the post-war era.

The novel is known for its vivid descriptions of life in the rural areas of Vietnam, and for its portrayal of the struggles and triumphs of the Hmong people. It also explores themes of cultural identity, tradition, and modernization, and offers a unique perspective on the complex issues facing ethnic minority groups in Vietnam and other parts of the world.

The Pao's Story has been translated into many languages and has received critical acclaim for its powerful storytelling and poignant exploration of the human experience. It has become a beloved work of literature in Vietnam and around the world, and has helped to bring greater awareness and understanding to the unique cultural heritage and traditions of the Hmong people.

Exploring Ha Giang with Local Buddy

Exploring Ha Giang with Local Buddy is a different and exciting experience. While traditional tours will often take you to famous tourist destinations, you will often hear stories told to many people over and over again. Then Local Buddy will take you to places that not everyone knows. Because the mountains and forests of Vietnam are always something mysterious and wonderful that is hard to put into words. "I still vividly remember the journeys with that friend. He took me to the top of the high mountain, fermenting wine from the sap of the forest trees. We brewed that rare bottle of wine in a cave but had to wait. until at least 6 months later to drink. An unforgettable experience I have never had in my life" - A "thrilling" story of an unforgettable trip with a local by a tourist.