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Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark

Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark: The ultimate guide

25/11/2024 964 views

Located in Ha Giang Province, the Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark offers breathtaking landscapes and unique geological features. With majestic limestone peaks and sharp cliffs, this area boasts a captivating vista steeped in history.

Dong Van Karst Plateau

The Dong Van Karst Plateau UNESCO Global Geopark (Source: Collected)

1. Overview of Dong Van Karst Plateau

The Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark encompasses four highland districts in Ha Giang: Quan Ba, Yen Minh, Meo Vac, and Dong Van. Situated at an elevation of 1,000 to 1,600 meters above sea level, it spans over 2,356 square kilometers. 

This unique limestone region draws tourists and researchers alike, thanks to its rich geological history, striking landscapes, and high biodiversity. The Dong Van Geopark features 11 geological strata identified by the Institute of Geosciences and Mineral Resources, with the oldest being Chang Pung, dating back over 545 million years. 

Since 2010, the Dong Van Plateau has been part of the Asia Pacific Geoparks Network and has been designated a UNESCO Global Geopark three times—in 2014, 2019, and 2023.

The majestic beauty of the Dong Van Karst Plateau

The Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark’s stunning landscape (Source: Collected)

2. Entrance fees of Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark

Tourists visiting the Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark, which covers the districts of Dong Van, Yen Minh, Meo Vac, and Quan Ba, will incur an entrance fee of VND 30,000 per adult per night.

The available discounts include:

  • 50% off for:
    • Vietnamese veterans
    • Individuals with severe disabilities
    • Children aged 6 to 15 years
  • Fee exemptions for:
    • Vietnamese Heroic Mothers
    • Individuals with extremely severe disabilities
    • Seniors over 70 years old
    • Children under 6 years old

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3. Is Dong Van Karst Plateau worth visiting?

Yes, the Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark is definitely worth visiting for its unique geological features, breathtaking landscapes, and rich heritage.

3.1. Geological wonders

The Dong Van Karst Plateau, with over 90% of its area composed of limestone mountains, is a remarkable karst landscape. It features sharp peaks, narrow valleys, and stunning natural formations resembling a “stone forest.” The plateau is rich in geological heritage, with around 150 identified sites, some of international significance. Often called the “Kingdom of Limestone Peaks,” it showcases unique formations like triangular peaks in Quan Ba and Meo Vac and “stone books” in Lung Cu, Lung Tao, and Van Chai.

Known also as the “Land of Canyons,” its deep gorges, including Tu San Canyon on the Nho Que River (700 – 800 meters deep), are shaped by fault lines and water erosion. Other notable features include the Lao Va Chai fault in Yen Minh and limestone powder deposits in Quan Ba. The Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark offers a glimpse into ancient life, with fossils such as trilobites dating back over 500 million years and recent formations like the Co Tien Mountain twin peaks, formed in the last 5 million years.

Tu San Canyon

Tu San Canyon offers breathtaking views (Source: Collected)

3.2. Cultural treasures

The Dong Van Karst Geopark is home to 17 ethnic groups, including the Hmong, Dao, Tay, Nung, Lo Lo, and Pu Peo, with a population of around 240,000. The Hmong, primarily White Hmong, make up about 70% of the population. Each community brings a unique cultural heritage shaped by centuries of harmonious adaptation to their environment, creating a diverse and vibrant cultural landscape.

Visitors can experience this heritage firsthand—hearing Hmong flute music among the mountains, watching Hmong women weaving linen, or trying on colorful traditional clothing in the stunning natural scenery. The plateau’s markets offer authentic cultural exchanges, with specialties like corn wine enjoyed in the highland’s cool air. Each group celebrates its own traditions, such as the Lo Lo Rain Praying Festival and Hmong Gau Tao Festival. Long-term cultural blending has also led to shared festivals, like Lunar New Year and the famous Khau Vai Love Market.

Khau Vai Love Market

Khau Vai Love Market is a unique cultural event honoring traditional ethnic customs (Source: Collected)

3.3. Biodiverse haven

The Dong Van Karst Plateau is home to diverse flora and fauna, including 289 plant species and 171 animal species. Among these, 27 species are listed in Vietnam’s Red Data Book. One of the most notable species is the black-shanked douc langur, also known as the snow monkey. It is considered one of the world’s 25 most endangered primate species, with around 200 individuals remaining in Ha Giang.

A visit to Du Gia National Park on the Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark, formed by merging the Du Gia Nature Reserve and Khau Ca Reserve, is highly recommended. Visitors can enjoy trekking through the park’s scenic trails, exploring the region’s rich biodiversity, spotting rare species, and immersing themselves in the tranquil environment. It’s an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts and those interested in conservation efforts.

The plateau also showcases breathtaking flower fields throughout the year. From January to February, visitors can admire the blooming peach and plum flowers. In March and April, vibrant red cotton flowers appear, followed by the distinctive buckwheat flowers from October to December. The season ends with the bright yellow mustard flowers in December.

black-shanked douc langur

Snow monkey, one of the world’s most endangered primate species (Source: Collected)

3.4. Iconic landmarks

Wondering where to explore in Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark? This remarkable destination boasts a range of iconic landmarks, including:

  • Ma Pi Leng Pass: At 1,200 meters above sea level, this pass offers stunning views of deep canyons, jagged limestone peaks, and the meandering Nho Que River. The winding roads provide numerous viewpoints for unforgettable photos.
  • Nho Que River: Known for its serene beauty, the Nho Que River winds through steep valleys and lush landscapes. Its emerald waters, flanked by towering cliffs, make for a picturesque sight that attracts nature lovers.
  • Lung Cu Flag Tower: Located at Vietnam’s northernmost point, this historic tower stands against a backdrop of karst landscapes. It offers panoramic views of the geopark and beyond.
  • Hmong King’s Palace: Built in the early 20th century, this grand mansion showcases a fusion of Chinese and European architectural styles. It reflects the Hmong family’s wealth and legacy, with intricate carvings and expansive courtyards that reveal the region’s rich history.
  • Quan Ba Heaven Gate: Situated at 1,500 meters above sea level, this gate provides breathtaking views of rolling hills, terraced fields, and unique rock formations, welcoming visitors to explore the stunning landscapes beyond.
Lung Cu Flag Tower

Lung Cu Flag Tower is a symbol of national pride (Source: Collected)

3.5. Delectable dishes

When visiting the Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark, don’t miss out on these eight must-try dishes:

  • Trang Kim pho: The thick, chewy noodles combined with tender mountain chicken are delicious. You can try pho at local restaurants in Trang Kim Village or during the weekly market on Thursdays.
  • Thang co and corn wine: A hearty bowl of thang co, made with horse or beef organs, is best enjoyed with a cup of corn wine for a memorable breakfast experience.
  • Steamed rice rolls with soup: This dish is a must-try for any visitor to Dong Van. Thin rice rolls are filled with meat or eggs, served in a rich bone soup, topped with pork rolls, and flavored with green onions.
  • Thang den: A specialty of the Dong Van Karst Plateau, thang den are small rice flour balls in a sweet, creamy coconut and ginger syrup, topped with roasted peanuts or sesame.
  • Men men: Men men is a dish made from corn, processed into corn flour, and steamed. Served hot, it offers a sweet, nutty taste when chewed.
  • Five-colored sticky rice: The sticky rice is steamed with forest leaves, creating vibrant colors. A delicious, colorful dish, each color offers a unique flavor that’s truly captivating.
  • Fried buckwheat cake: Made from a mixture of sticky rice flour, buckwheat flour, and mashed mulberry leaves, the cake combines the chewy texture of sticky rice with the unique flavor of buckwheat.
  • Au Tau porridge: A famous delicacy in Ha Giang, the dish is made with rice, minced meat or pig’s trotters, and the key ingredient, Au Tau, a local herb with unique flavor. The bitterness of Au Tau may be off-putting at first, but once you get used to it, it becomes addictive.

These dishes offer a true taste of the local culture and are a treat for both food lovers and adventurers.

Au Tau porridge

Au Tau porridge, a must-try dish for Ha Giang trip (Source: Collected)

3.6. Thrilling motorbike adventures

Renting a motorbike is the best way to navigate the winding roads and venture deep into the villages of the local ethnic communities. One of the highlights is Ma Pi Leng, known as the “king of northern mountain passes.” Famous for its challenging terrain and stunning landscapes, the pass also carries the legacy of young volunteers who bravely constructed the road through this treacherous route. As you stand at the top of Ma Pi Leng with your arms wide open, it feels as though you’re floating above the world. 

The roads in Ha Giang twist through towering limestone peaks and stretch across vast rice fields. With thrilling slopes like Bac Sum, Cong Troi, Tham Ma, Chin Khoanh, and Ma Pi Leng, each turn presents a new challenge, but the magnificent views from the top make every moment unforgettable.

Ma Pi Leng pass

Breathtaking panoramic view from Ma Pi Leng pass (Source: Collected)

4. Sightseeing routes of Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark

Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark offers four distinct and captivating sightseeing routes that showcase the natural beauty, cultural heritage, and sustainable future of this UNESCO Global Geopark.

  • Journey to the Source of Life: Departing from Ha Giang, this route takes you through iconic geological wonders and a rich cultural tapestry. Key highlights include the twin limestone peaks of “Co Tien Mountain,” the “Fairy’s Milk River” (Mien River), and the region’s lush, fertile lands. Must-see stops along the way are Lang Dan Temple, Thach Son Than Geosites, Quan Ba Heaven Gate, and the Thanh Van Corn Wine Cooperative.
  • The Melody of Life on the Rocky Lands: This exhilarating route winds through sharp peaks and deep valleys, offering a glimpse into the local “stone culture.” Discover unique stone-built homes and innovative farming methods amidst rugged terrain. Notable stops include Van Chai Stone Books, Sung La Village, Sa Phin’s moon-like landscape, and the Dong Van Fossil Museum.
  • Journey to Pride and Happiness: This unforgettable route showcases the majestic Tu San Gorge, the breathtaking Ma Pi Leng Pass, and the symbolic Lung Cu Flag Tower—emblems of national pride. Key stops include the Seo Ho Hydroelectric Plant, Meo Vac Mong Cultural House, Ma Pi Leng Scenic Lookout, and the Young Volunteers Monument.
  • Journey to a Green Future: A celebration of eco-tourism, this route explores the biodiversity and natural beauty of Yen Minh, Dong Van, and Meo Vac. Key sites include the Long Pha Thach Geosite, Dao Sung Mang Village, Na Luong Cave, and the Khau Ca Wildlife Sanctuary.
Sung La Village

The Melody of Life on the Rocky Lands route highlighting the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage (Source: Collected)

5. Useful tips for a perfect journey to Dong Van Geopark

5.1. Best time to visit

The Dong Van Karst Plateau experiences a tropical monsoon climate with two distinct seasons: a rainy season from May to October and a dry, cold winter from November to April. Visitors can enjoy the plateau year-round, with each season offering its own charm.

In spring, the plateau bursts with vibrant colors as peach, plum, and pear flowers bloom. Summer brings lush greenery as corn thrives, replacing the usual gray landscape. May and June are also the harvest times for flax, used by the local H’mong people in textile production.

By September, fall begins with cooler weather, dry winds, and decreasing rainfall. October to November is the buckwheat flower season, blanketing the plateau in stunning pink and white blooms. In winter, from December to February, the plateau becomes sharply cold, with temperatures often dipping below 0°C, and snow can occasionally appear at higher altitudes. It’s best to monitor weather forecasts for optimal planning of your visit.

Buckwheat flower season

Buckwheat flower season in Ha Giang (Source: Collected)

5.2. Transportation

Dong Van is located 150 kilometers north of Ha Giang city. To get there, visitors can take National Route 4C, using various transportation options such as motorbikes, self-driving cars, rental cars, or sleeper buses. The journey typically takes 3-5 hours, depending on the chosen mode of travel. Once in Dong Van town, visitors can easily rent a motorbike for around VND 100,000 per day.

5.3. Accommodation

Dong Van offers various accommodation options, including guesthouses, homestays, and hotels. Homestays are the most common and can be found from the town center to surrounding villages, with options like Hagiang Holic, Plum Homestay, Dong Van Cliffside House, and Khoi Home. Prices range from VND 400,000 to VND 1 million per room, or VND 100,000 to VND 250,000 for a dorm bed or mat in a shared area. 

In Meo Vac, accommodations also include guesthouses, hotels, and homestays, with prices ranging from VND 250,000 to VND 1.5 million per room. Dorm beds cost between VND 80,000 and 200,000. Popular homestays include Meo Vac H’Mong Ecolodge, Auberge de Meo Vac, and Meo Vac Clay House. For something unique, visitors can stay at H’Mong Village in Quan Ba, with prices starting at VND 400,000 per night for a communal room.

Homestay Ha Giang

Homestays are the most common accommodation options (Source: Collected)

5.4. Contacts

The Dong Van Stone Plateau Global Geopark is managed by the Ha Giang Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism. Here are the contact details:

  • Dong Van Global Geopark Management Board
    • Address: Group 20, Minh Khai Ward, Ha Giang City
    • Phone: 02193 860 393
  • Quan Ba District Information Station
    • Address: Na Khoang 2 Village, Quan Ba Commune, Quan Ba District, Ha Giang
    • Phone: 0987 995 888
  • Yen Minh District Information Station
    • Address: Ngai Chai Village, Lao Va Chai Commune, Yen Minh District, Ha Giang
    • Phone: 0914 796 323
  • Dong Van District Information Station
    • Address: Quan Din Ngai Village, Dong Van Town, Ha Giang
    • Phone: 0967 987 676
  • Meo Vac District Information Station
    • Address: Group 1, Meo Vac Town, Meo Vac District, Ha Giang
    • Phone: 0912 514 932

Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark is the perfect destination for nature lovers, culture seekers, or those in search of a unique adventure. This remarkable place combines geological marvels with rich human history, ensuring a memorable experience for every traveler who visits. Immerse yourself in the beauty and wonder of Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark, and let its captivating landscapes and stories leave a lasting impression on you.

In addition to Ha Giang, Vietnam boasts a variety of other captivating travel destinations, such as Hanoi, Hoi An, Nha Trang, Phu Quoc, Ha Long, Danang, and more, each place contributing to a truly unique and unforgettable Vietnam travel.

In these cities, it’s highly recommended to relax and enjoy the entertainment hubs of VinWonders and stay at the luxurious hotels and resorts of Vinpearl. VinWonders is the perfect spot for adventure enthusiasts, offering a full day of excitement with a variety of thrilling rides, engaging performances, and fun-filled activities for all ages. 

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On the other hand, Vinpearl’s premium hotels and resorts provide an ideal escape for those seeking relaxation and comfort. With world-class amenities, stunning views, and top-notch services, a stay at Vinpearl ensures a truly memorable experience.

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