How to get from Ha Giang to Bac Ha

If you're planning a trip to Northern Vietnam, you're in for an unforgettable adventure. One of the most scenic routes you can take is from Ha Giang to Bac Ha. Whether you're on a budget, in a rush, or looking for the most scenic views, I've got you covered. In this post, I'll break down the best ways to get from Ha Giang to Bac Ha, including options for every type of traveler. So buckle up, grab a map, and let's dive into this exciting journey!

A little bit about Bac Ha

Bac Ha is a beautiful town nestled in Lao Cai, in the northwest of Vietnam. To the north, it borders Si Ma Cai district. To the south, it borders Bao Yen and Bao Thang districts. To the east, it borders Xin Man district, Ha Giang. To the west, it borders Muong Khuong district. The name Bac Ha originates from the Tay word "Pạc ha," which means "a hundred bundles of reeds."

Bac Ha has a fresh and cool climate with diverse characteristics. Located at an average altitude of 1,000m – 1,400m, Bac Ha's climate is somewhat temperate, with an average temperature of 18-22°C. From June to September, Bac Ha experiences a lot of rain. During winter, the temperature in Bac Ha can drop to 0 degrees, sometimes with frost.

Bac Ha is home to 4 ethnic groups: Kinh, Tay, Nung, and Mong. Almost all the sites in Bac Ha will be encapsulated in the heart of the town, making it super convenient. You can visit Hoang A Tuong Palace, experience local cuisine or shop at Bac Ha market, and visit Bac Ha Temple in just one day. Outside Bac Ha town, you can go to Lung Phinh Heaven Gate, Coc Sam steppe, or go boating on the Chay River.

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Coc Sam Steppe in Bac Ha (Source: Bao Lao Cai)

How far is Bac Ha from Ha Giang?

Bac Ha is roughly 150 kilometers, or about 93 miles, from Ha Giang. If you're planning to travel between the two, you're in for a treat with some beautiful landscapes along the way. The journey will probably take you around 5–6 hours minimum, maybe more if you’re taking different stops. The roads can be a bit winding and sometimes bumpy, but that's all part of the adventure, right? Whether you're driving yourself or riding with someone, it's a great opportunity to enjoy the stunning views and maybe even snap some amazing photos.

How to get from Ha Giang to Bac Ha?

Bus Ha Giang to Bac Ha

If you're on a budget, the cheapest way to get from Ha Giang to Bac Ha is to hop on a local bus or shuttle. The bus ride will take a bit longer, but it's a great way to see the countryside and save some cash. Currently, there is only one bus company that runs this route, and that is Vu Han Group.

The Vu Han Group offers bus rides from Ha Giang to Bac Ha via Sapa, which take around 10 hours and 29 minutes. If you don’t mind taking a bit of time in transit, this is a great and affordable option, for about $19-20 USD per ticket (about 480.000–500.000 VND). To book tickets, you can visit the website https://vexere.com/en-US, or call 1900 888684.

Via a Local Travel Agency

If you're in a hurry and looking for the fastest way to get from Ha Giang to Bac Ha, hiring a private car and driver is your best bet. Driving from Ha Giang to Bac Ha usually takes around 5–6 hours, which is half the time compared to taking the bus. You can arrange this via a local travel agency, and they can set you up with a driver who knows the area well. This way, you can cut down on travel time and get to Bac Ha quicker. I would gladly pay more, about $90–100 USD (2.200.000–2.500.000 VND) if it means significantly less travel time.

You can book your trip via Vietnam Original Travel. They can arrange everything from bus tickets to private car hires. Plus, they have good advice on the best routes and any must-see spots along the way.

Best time to visit Bac Ha

Plum blossom season in Bac Ha (Source: Bac Ha Tourism)

Bac Ha is beautiful year-round, especially during spring (January to April), when peach blossoms, plum blossoms, and pear flowers bloom everywhere. Visitors to Bac Ha during this period also have the opportunity to participate in festivals such as the Long Tong festival of the Tay people, the Say San festival of the Hmong people, and the Bac Ha Temple festival.

Alternatively, if you want to experience plum picking and watch the famous Bac Ha horse racing festival, they should go in early June every year. Those who love photographing terraced fields should visit Bac Ha around May and June (the rice watering season), or September and October (the ripe rice season).

Ha Giang To Bac Ha Itinerary

Day 1: Hanoi - Ha Giang

Depart from Hanoi. You can take a sleeper bus to Ha Giang at night, or opt for a private car service in the morning. The journey takes approximately 6-7 hours. Arrive in Ha Giang. Check into your accommodation and take some time to rest.

Day 2: Ha Giang - Meo Vac - Dong Van

Start your journey to Dong Van, passing through Quan Ba Heaven Gate and the Twin Mountains. Stop at Yen Minh for lunch. Continue to Meo Vac via the Ma Pi Leng Pass, one of the most breathtaking roads in Vietnam. Enjoy the stunning views and take some photos. Arrive in Dong Van. Check into your accommodation, explore the old town, and try the local dishes.

>>> Read more: Dong Van Old Quarter

Day 3: Dong Van - Ha Giang - Bac Ha

Visit the Dong Van Sunday Market if it's market day. Afterward, head back to Ha Giang, stopping at various viewpoints along the way. Arrive in Ha Giang, have lunch, and then continue your journey to Bac Ha. Reach Bac Ha in the afternoon, check into your accommodation, and take some rest. In the evening, explore Bac Ha town and enjoy the local cuisine. If you're lucky, you might catch a local festival or cultural event.

Day 4: Bac Ha - Lao Cai - Hanoi

Visit Bac Ha Market if it's Sunday, or explore local attractions like Bac Ha Temple and Hoang A Tuong’s Palace. Then, depart for Lao Cai. The drive takes about 1-2 hours. From Lao Cai, you can catch a bus or train back to Hanoi. Arrive in Hanoi, marking the end of your adventure.

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Hoang A Tuong Palace (Source: Golden Holiday Travel)

Where to stay in Bac Ha

Here are a few places to crash after the long travel from Ha Giang to Bac Ha:

1. Ngan Nga Bac Ha Hotel

Address: 117 Ngoc Uyen Street, Bac Ha Town, Lao Cai
Price: Approximately 500,000 VND per night ($20 USD)
This hotel offers clean, comfortable rooms and a restaurant serving local dishes. It's centrally located, making it convenient to explore the town.

2. Sao Mai Hotel

Address: 20/9 Street, Bac Ha Town, Lao Cai
Price: Around 400,000 VND per night ($16 USD)
A popular choice among travelers, Sao Mai Hotel features basic amenities, friendly staff, and easy access to Bac Ha Market and other attractions.

3. Homestay Ta Van Chu

Address: Ta Van Chu Village, Bac Ha Town, Lao Cai
Price: Approximately 00,000 VND per night ($20 USD)
Experience local culture by staying in a traditional homestay. The hosts are welcoming, and you’ll get to enjoy home-cooked meals and insights into local life.

4. Cong Fu Hotel

Address: 152 Ngoc Uyen Street, Bac Ha Town, Lao Cai
Price: Around 450,000 VND per night ($18 USD)
Cong Fu Hotel offers modern facilities, including a restaurant and bar. The rooms are spacious and well-maintained.

5. Huy Trung Homestay

Address: Na Quang, Bac Ha Town, Lao Cai
Price: Around 600,000 VND per night ($24 USD)
A cozy option with clean rooms and helpful staff. It’s close to the main market and other key attractions in Bac Ha.

There you have it, folks! From budget-friendly buses to quick private car rides, there are plenty of options to get you from Ha Giang to Bac Ha. No matter which route you choose, you're bound to experience some of the most breathtaking landscapes Vietnam has to offer. If you still planning your travel and need some advice, don’t hesitate to contact us!

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