About Bac Ha
Bac Ha is a district in northern Vietnam’s Lao Cai Province, located near the more famous tourist hub of Sapa. The district’s mountainous landscape is dotted with lush valleys, terraced fields, and small ethnic villages, offering a quieter alternative to Sapa’s bustling tourism. At the heart of the district is Bac Ha town, often referred to as the “capital of the Flower Hmong,” one of Vietnam’s 54 recognized ethnic groups.
Bac Ha is best known for its vibrant Sunday Market, where thousands of locals gather, with women dressed in their intricately handcrafted traditional attire. Historically, Bac Ha played a role during French colonial times and saw activity during the Sino-Vietnamese War. Today, it is a destination celebrated for its cultural richness, traditional way of life, and scenic trekking opportunities. There are many things to do in Bac Ha, whether you’re exploring its famous markets or venturing into the surrounding countryside.
Is Bac Ha worth to visit?
Bac Ha is an excellent region to explore, particularly for its cultural markets and authentic rural experiences. However, whether it’s worth a visit depends on your travel priorities.
Bac Ha as a day trip
Bac Ha can be visited as a day trip from Sapa, though the journey takes over two hours each way. If you’re visiting for the Sunday Market, you’ll need to leave early in the morning to experience it at its best. To maximize your time, consider combining the market with other sights or trekking routes along the way.
Worth to stay in Bac Ha?
Staying overnight in Bac Ha allows you to explore the area at a more relaxed pace and start your day early before the day-trippers arrive. While Bac Ha is less developed than Sapa, it offers enough accommodations to meet most needs, though luxury options like resorts and retreats are limited. The evenings in Bac Ha are quieter and less lively, which may be a drawback for some but a perfect escape for others.
Bac Ha worth besides the market?
If you’re not in Bac Ha during its famous Sunday or Saturday markets, the district can still be worth visiting. Trekking opportunities abound, and the trails are far less crowded than those near Sapa. While there are fewer major sights to visit, the untouched beauty of the countryside and the authentic experience of walking through unspoiled villages make Bac Ha an appealing choice for adventurous travelers.
Bac Ha vs Sapa
Sapa is far more developed and tourist-friendly, offering a wide range of accommodations from budget hostels to luxury resorts. It also features numerous man-made attractions like glass bridges and photo spots, making it easier to enjoy for those who prefer convenience.
Bac Ha, in contrast, is less developed and more adventurous. Its main draw is the vibrant markets and opportunities to trek off the beaten path. While Sapa’s popularity means you can find quieter trails with effort, Bac Ha provides a more immediate escape from the crowds. Ultimately, Bac Ha is ideal for those seeking cultural immersion and tranquility, while Sapa caters to travelers looking for a blend of nature, comfort, and convenience.
Best time to visit Bac Ha
Best day of the week
The best day to visit Bac Ha is Sunday, as this is when the famous Bac Ha Market takes place in the early morning. The market is the district’s main highlight, with vibrant gatherings of ethnic minority groups, particularly the Flower Hmong, dressed in their traditional attire. If you’re visiting over the weekend, consider starting with Coc Ly Market on Saturday, located nearby. You can then stay overnight in Bac Ha and visit the Sunday market for a well-rounded experience.
Best weather
Bac Ha is best visited during the dry season, which runs from October to April. These months offer clearer skies and more pleasant conditions for exploring the markets and trekking. However, keep in mind that the winter months, particularly December and January, can be cold, especially in the mornings and evenings. Pack warm clothing if you’re visiting during this period.
Most beautiful season
While Bac Ha doesn’t have the expansive terraced valleys of Muong Hoa near Sapa, it still boasts impressive terraced rice fields in the surrounding areas. To see these fields at their best, plan your visit during the harvest season in early September, when the golden rice fields are in full bloom. The months leading up to harvest also offer lush green landscapes.
Another stunning time to visit is during the watering season in May, when the fields are filled with water, creating a beautiful mirror-like effect that reflects the sky and surrounding mountains.
From Hanoi to Bac Ha
Bac Ha is located about 300 km (186 miles) from Hanoi. Thanks to the express highway for most of the journey, the trip can take just 5 hours if traveling directly. However, because Bac Ha is a small town, direct transportation options are limited, and additional planning may be required.
Bus options
Direct buses between Hanoi and Bac Ha are limited, but they do exist. These buses typically stop along the way for pickups and drop-offs, making the journey around 6 to 7 hours. Night buses are a popular option for saving daytime hours, though not all travelers find them comfortable.
Another alternative is to take one of the many buses from Hanoi to Lao Cai, a much larger transportation hub. From Lao Cai, you can arrange a car or taxi for the remaining two-hour drive to Bac Ha.
Train connections
Taking the train is one of the most popular ways to travel to Lao Cai, as it offers a comfortable and scenic overnight journey. Sleeper trains depart from Hanoi in the evening and arrive early the next morning in Lao Cai. From Lao Cai train station, you can hire a taxi or, ideally, arrange a car in advance for the 70 km (43 miles) drive to Bac Ha, which takes less than two hours. Opt for tourist trains for better comfort and amenities, including cleaner toilets.
Private car with driver
The fastest and most flexible option is hiring a private car with a driver. This service provides door-to-door transportation between Hanoi and your accommodation in Bac Ha, with the convenience of a fixed price. You can customize your trip to include sightseeing along the way or even extend it into a multi-day journey, continuing to destinations like Sapa or Ha Giang after visiting Bac Ha.
From Sapa to Bac Ha
Bac Ha is about 2.5 hours by car from Sapa, making it a popular addition to a Sapa itinerary, especially for visiting the Sunday market.
Group tours to Bac Ha Market from Sapa
Group tours are a common way to visit Bac Ha Market from Sapa. These tours are cost-effective compared to arranging your own transportation, as the drive is over four hours round trip. While group tours may not suit everyone, they are ideal for budget-conscious travelers and provide a hassle-free way to visit the market.
Private tours
Private tours offer more flexibility and comfort. You can start earlier to arrive at the market before the crowds from group tours. Additionally, private tours allow for customized itineraries, such as combining the market visit with trekking or exploring other attractions in the Bac Ha region.
Renting a car with driver
Renting a private car with a driver is a more straightforward option for those who only want transportation to and from Bac Ha. This is typically less expensive than a private tour, as it does not include guiding services or additional activities like trekking. A private car is ideal if you prefer to explore the market independently. Do keep in mind that the driver is just a driver and not a guide.
Driving motorbike
For adventurous travelers, renting a motorbike from Sapa and driving to Bac Ha is a thrilling and economical option. The route is easy to navigate with a smartphone and offline maps, though having a Vietnamese SIM card with internet access is recommended.
Keep in mind that this option involves over two hours of driving through mountainous terrain, often starting early in the morning to visit the market at its peak. This is only suitable for experienced motorbike drivers comfortable with winding roads and traffic conditions in Vietnam.
Things to Do in Bac Ha
Bac Ha offers a mix of cultural experiences, natural beauty, and opportunities to connect with the traditions of Vietnam’s ethnic minorities. The highlight of any visit is the vibrant markets, where locals from different ethnic groups gather to trade goods and socialize. Beyond the markets, the district offers trekking opportunities, historical sites, and picturesque mountain landscapes. Below, we highlight some of the best things to do in Bac Ha, starting with its famous markets.
1. Bac Ha Market
Bac Ha Market is the largest and most famous market in the region, taking place every Sunday morning. This bustling gathering is a vibrant showcase of local culture, with ethnic minority groups like the Flower Hmong, Phu La, and Tay arriving from surrounding villages. The market is divided into sections, including livestock trading areas, food stalls, and zones selling traditional clothing and handmade crafts.
Visitors can observe the lively atmosphere, sample local dishes such as thang co (a traditional soup made from horse meat), and shop for unique souvenirs like brocade textiles and ethnic jewelry. To experience the market at its liveliest, arrive early in the morning, before the influx of tour groups.
2. Coc Ly Market
Coc Ly Market, held every Tuesday, is smaller than Bac Ha Market but equally charming. Located along the Chay River, about 35 km (22 miles) from Bac Ha, the market serves as a trading hub for the Tay, Nung, and Flower Hmong people.
The market offers a more intimate experience compared to Bac Ha, with fewer tourists and a focus on authentic local interactions. After exploring the market, visitors can enjoy a scenic boat ride along the river, which passes through picturesque valleys and small villages.
3. Lung Phin Market
Lung Phin Market, held every Friday, is located about 12 km (7.5 miles) from Bac Ha town. This lesser-known market is quieter than Bac Ha and offers a truly local feel. It is a gathering point for ethnic groups such as the Giay, Phu La, and Mong, who come from Bac Ha and neighboring districts like Si Ma Cai and Xin Man (Ha Giang).
The market is divided into distinct sections:
- Food Zone: Featuring dishes like sour pho from the Phu La people and thang co prepared by the Mong.
- Wine Zone: Known for locally brewed Ban Pho corn wine.
- Livestock Area: The busiest part of the market, where buffaloes, pigs, goats, and other animals are traded.
- Handicraft Stalls: Selling brocade textiles, cardamom, and household tools like knives and plow blades.
Lung Phin Market is an excellent alternative for those looking to avoid larger crowds and enjoy a more relaxed, authentic atmosphere.
4. Hoang A Tuong Palace
Hoang A Tuong Palace, also known as the “Hmong King Palace,” is a unique historical site in Bac Ha. Built in 1921 by French and Chinese architects, the palace showcases an interesting mix of European and Asian architectural styles. The two-story structure features grand arches, spacious rooms, and intricate designs, offering a glimpse into the life of the Hmong aristocracy during the colonial period.
The palace is surrounded by beautiful gardens and provides excellent photo opportunities, making it a worthwhile stop for history enthusiasts and photographers. Interpretive signs provide context about its history and significance, adding depth to your visit.
5. Trekking Tours in Bac Ha
Bac Ha is an excellent base for trekking, offering less crowded trails compared to nearby Sapa. Trekking routes take you through lush valleys, terraced rice fields, and small ethnic villages, where you can experience the authentic daily life of the local communities.
Guided trekking tours are available and often include visits to remote villages, such as Ban Pho and Ta Van Chu, where you can interact with the Hmong, Tay, and Phu La people. These tours range from half-day hikes to multi-day adventures, catering to both casual walkers and experienced trekkers.
6. Bac Ha Temple
Bac Ha Temple is a historically significant site built in the 16th century to honor Gia Quoc Cong Vu Van Mat, a revered general during the Le Trung Hung period. Located on a low hill, the temple offers views of Bac Ha’s surrounding landscape and is an excellent place for those interested in Vietnamese history and culture.
The temple’s traditional architecture includes intricately carved wooden patterns, a spacious courtyard, and three entrance gates. Each year, on the 7th day of the first lunar month, a large festival is held here, attracting visitors with its vibrant ceremonies, folk games, and cultural performances.
7.Ban Pho
Ban Pho is a traditional Hmong village located about 4 km (2.5 miles) from Bac Ha town. Known for its picturesque terraced rice fields, Tam Hoa plum orchards, and serene mountain views, the village is a charming destination for nature lovers.
Ban Pho is also famous for its corn wine, made using traditional methods and spring water from the surrounding mountains. Visitors can taste this unique specialty along with local dishes such as smoked meat and thang co.
The village retains its cultural authenticity, with rammed-earth houses, handicraft production, and traditional festivals providing an immersive experience. Infrastructure improvements in recent years have made the village more accessible while preserving its rustic charm.
8. Ta Van Chu Village
Ta Van Chu is another charming village in Bac Ha, known for its untouched beauty and vibrant culture. Located about 20 km (12 miles) from Bac Ha town, it is home to the Flower Hmong community. The village offers picturesque trekking routes with views of terraced rice fields, cornfields, and traditional houses. Visitors can also witness brocade weaving and participate in local cultural activities.
9. Explore Plum Orchards
Bac Ha is famous for its Tam Hoa plums, which thrive in the highland climate. Visiting during the plum season (May to June) allows travelers to walk through lush orchards, pick fresh plums, and learn about the cultivation process. Many local families open their farms to visitors, offering a unique agricultural experience.
10. Horse Racing Festival
Held annually in June, the Bac Ha Horse Racing Festival is a thrilling cultural event that showcases the traditional skills of local ethnic groups. Riders compete bareback on local horses in a spirited race that draws crowds from across the region. The festival also features food stalls, folk performances, and games, making it a vibrant and entertaining event for visitors.
11. Chay River boat ride
While Coc Ly Market is the primary attraction near the Chay River, the river itself is worth exploring. Boat rides take you through serene landscapes of limestone karsts, small villages, and lush vegetation. These trips often include stops at caves and local fishing spots, providing a peaceful way to enjoy Bac Ha’s natural beauty.
Where to stay in Bac Ha
Most accommodations in Bac Ha are located in Bac Ha town or its immediate surroundings. The town offers a range of options, including budget guesthouses, homestays, and small hotels. Many of these places are run by local families, providing a warm and authentic experience. While Bac Ha does not have luxury resorts like Sapa, the accommodations are comfortable and cater well to travelers looking for an affordable and unique stay.
Staying in Bac Ha also means enjoying local restaurants serving traditional dishes like thang co and corn wine. The town’s nightlife is quiet, with minimal activities after dark. Most evenings are spent relaxing in the peaceful surroundings or chatting with locals and other travelers.
Accommodations outside Bac Ha Town
For those seeking a more secluded experience, there are a few homestays and eco-lodges located further away from the town, in villages like Ban Pho or Ta Van Chu. These accommodations are often more rustic, providing an immersive experience of rural life in the highlands. Expect simpler amenities and a more off-the-grid atmosphere, with opportunities to engage with local families and explore the surrounding nature.
Staying outside Bac Ha town is ideal for travelers interested in trekking, experiencing traditional village life, or escaping the tourist crowds. However, it’s worth noting that dining options may be limited to what your host family provides, and it’s advisable to bring any essentials you may need.
