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Meo Vac

Meo Vac Ha Giang: A realm of raw beauty & rich culture

01/12/2024 624 views

Meo Vac stands as a highlight on the famous Ha Giang Loop tour, drawing travelers with its distinct cultural charm and breathtaking scenery. It offers a genuine glimpse into the area’s rich heritage and stunning natural landscapes.

1. What makes Meo Vac (Ha Giang) a must-visit?

Meo Vac Vietnam

Meo Vac Vietnam offers visitors dramatic views of cliffs, valleys, and Hmong villages (Source: Collected)

Meo Vac is a highland district in Ha Giang Province, located in Vietnam’s northernmost region. It is part of the Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark and connects to Ha Giang City via National Highway 4C and Provincial Road 176.

To the north, it borders China’s Guangxi and Yunnan provinces and Dong Van District (Ha Giang); to the east, Bao Lam District (Cao Bang); and to the west and south, Yen Minh District (Ha Giang). Meo Vac is a prominent tourist destination in Ha Giang, known for its breathtaking natural landscape, the imposing Ma Pi Leng Pass, the romantic Nho Que River, and the majestic Tu San Canyon.

Beyond its scenery, Meo Vac Ha Giang is an ideal place to learn about the rich cultural heritage of ethnic minorities in the region. The area is mainly inhabited by the Hmong people and 16 other ethnic groups. Each ethnic group has distinctive customs and lively festivals that preserve their traditional ways of life.

Notable festivals include the Hmong’s Gau Tao Festival, the Lo Lo’s Rain-Worshiping Festival, the Tay’s Long Tong Festival, the Dao’s Cap Sac Ceremony, and the Giay’s New Year Celebration, promising unforgettable cultural experiences.

Discover: Lung Cu: Guide to explore the Vietnam’s northernmost point

2. Helpful info to know about Meo Vac before hitting the road

Before planning a trip to Meo Vac Ha Giang, it is wise to research the best times to visit, transportation options, and accommodations for a memorable and smooth journey.

2.1. Weather

Meo Vac weather

Meo Vac weather is mild and pleasant, making it a year-round destination (Source: Collected)

Meo Vac Vietnam experiences a subtropical monsoon climate with distinct seasons in the Northern Tropic. The rainy season spans from April to September, and the remaining months are dry. The weather is mild and pleasant year-round, with a cold winter lasting from October to April when temperatures can drop to 2°C, sometimes bringing snowfall. 

Thanks to this favorable climate, visitors can enjoy Meo Vac at any time of year, with each season offering its unique charm. Spring is marked by blooming plum and apricot blossoms, summer by shimmering terraced fields full of water, and autumn by golden ripe rice fields. The most highly recommended time to visit is from October to December when the fields of buckwheat flowers and mustard blossoms create a brilliant display.

2.2. Transportation

Meo Vac is over 150 kilometers from Ha Giang City. From the Km0 marker in Ha Giang, the most popular route to Meo Vac is via National Highway 4C through Quan Ba and Yen Minh. Alternative routes include taking National Highway 34, followed by National Highway 4C, or taking Highway 4C and then turning onto Provincial Road 176.

Travelers can reach Meo Vac from Ha Giang City by car or motorbike. Motorbikes are suitable for those who prefer freedom and adventure along steep mountain roads. Cars are better for families, groups, or those wanting a more leisurely journey.

2.3. Accommodation

Meo Vac homestays

There are many beautiful and affordable Meo Vac hotels and homestays (Source: Collected)

Tourism growth has led to various Meo Vac accommodations, including guesthouses, hotels, and homestays. Prices for accommodations range from VND 250,000 to 1,500,000 per double room. Additionally, dormitory options are available from VND 80,000 to 200,000 per night, and camping sites by the white cliffs of Ma Pi Leng Pass offer stunning views of the Nho Que River.

To experience local culture and connect with local people, staying at a Meo Vac homestay is recommended. Homestays are well-developed in Ha Giang and Meo Vac, particularly in the Mong ethnic community cultural village in Pa Vi Commune, with prices from VND 400,000 to VND 600,000 per room. Here, guests can enjoy traditional Hmong homes, observe daily life, and savor authentic Hmong cuisine.

2.4. Packing tips

For the best experience exploring Meo Vac Vietnam, keep the following essentials in mind:

  • For summer trips, pack comfortable, breathable clothing and long sleeves to protect from mosquitoes.
  • For winter visits, bring warm clothing, scarves, and gloves to stay warm.
  • It is wise to carry basic medicines such as those for colds, stomachaches, allergies, and mosquito repellents.
  • Choose comfortable shoes that fit well, ideal for navigating Meo Vac’s winding roads.

Check the Meo Vac weather forecast before your trip

Check the Meo Vac weather forecast before your trip (Source: Collected)

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3. Top things to do in Meo Vac, Vietnam

With its perfect blend of magnificent natural landscapes and rich local culture, a journey through Meo Vac Ha Giang promises an unforgettable experience for travelers.

3.1. Conquer Ma Pi Leng Pass

Ma Pi Leng Pass, a part of Ha Giang Loop, is famed as one of the “Four Great Passes” in Vietnam’s northern mountains. Situated at an elevation of 1,200 meters and spanning approximately 20 kilometers, this dramatic and winding mountain pass connects Dong Van and Meo Vac.

It offers breathtaking views of wild and magnificent landscapes. Traversing the thrilling bends, visitors from the summit can enjoy a panoramic view of the Dong Van Karst Plateau. It is a majestic mountain scene with sheer cliffs on one side and the deep turquoise Nho Que River below.

This pass is not only recognized for its unique geological and scenic heritage but also symbolizes the resilient spirit and unity of the Vietnamese people. It took six years (1959 – 1965) and the efforts of thousands of youth from 16 ethnic groups to build this mountain road.

Ma Pi Leng

Ma Pi Leng – the most majestic Meo Vac pass (Source: Collected)

3.2. Take a boat ride along the Nho Que River

Nho Que River, lying at the base of Ma Pi Leng Pass, is known for its captivating and mystical beauty. Its jade-green waters flow gently, like a soft green ribbon hugging the rugged mountainsides. A must-do activity in Meo Vac Ha Giang is a boat ride on the Nho Que River, where visitors can admire the tranquil water, cliffs, lush greenery, and refreshing, pure atmosphere.

From the Nho Que boat dock, guests can rent a boat for about VND 100,000–150,000 per person to explore the Tu San Canyon, or they may opt for a peaceful kayaking experience on the river’s crystal-clear waters.

3.3. Admire the breathtaking beauty of Tu San Canyon

While cruising along the Nho Que River, visitors can witness the Tu San Canyon. It is the deepest canyon in Southeast Asia, with cliffs rising 700-900 meters high and stretching approximately 1.7 kilometers.

A 20-30 minute upstream ride along the tranquil green waters reveals the gorge’s majestic scenery, with sheer cliffs casting reflections on the jade-colored river. Scattered houses, corn terraces on the mountain slopes, and mist gently shrouding the peaks create a mystical, awe-inspiring landscape. It offers visitors moments of serenity and an escape from everyday worries.

Tu San Canyon

Taking a boat on the Nho Que River to admire the Tu San Canyon is a truly unforgettable experience (Source: Collected)

3.4. Camp on the white cliffs

Located at nearly 1,700 meters above sea level, white cliffs halfway up Ma Pi Leng Pass are ideal for adventure seekers in Meo Vac, Vietnam. The journey to these cliffs requires hiking along steep, winding paths. After the trek, visitors arrive at a relatively flat area often used for overnight camping, where they can enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the surrounding mountains.

The white cliffs offer a perfect vantage point to see mountain ranges, winding passes, and the blue Nho Que River bathed in the light of sunrise and sunset. To camp safely here, it is best to visit on clear days and bring essentials like non-slip shoes, food, water, warm clothing, and camping gear.

3.5. Experience local life in Pa Vi Village

For those interested in local culture, the Hmong Cultural Tourism Village is just over 6 kilometers from Meo Vac town. Nestled in a lush valley, this village showcases the traditional life of the Hmong people, with houses made of earthen walls, yin-yang tiled roofs, stone fences, and scenes of everyday Hmong life.

Visitors can learn about Hmong customs by trying hands-on activities like linen weaving, brocade sewing, corn wine brewing, basket weaving, and dressing in traditional Hmong attire. Additionally, they can enjoy folk games and captivating Hmong singing, dancing, and khen flute performances and visit the market stalls filled with unique Hmong foods.

Pa Vi Village

Discover the unique Meo Vac clay houses in Pa Vi Village (Source: Collected)

3.6. Venture into Meo Vac Sinkhole

Located on a pine hill in Tia Chi Dua Village, Meo Vac Sinkhole is a fascinating site for nature enthusiasts. Getting there requires guidance from locals through a beautiful pine forest. From the top, the sinkhole resembles a giant well with rugged rocks and lush green vegetation.

To descend into the sinkhole, visitors need ropes, helmets, and safety gear, as well as assistance from local guides. Once inside, the green vegetation creates a dreamy atmosphere, with views of the sky framed by the sinkhole’s rim, making it a one-of-a-kind experience.

3.7. Explore Khau Vai Love Market

Khau Vai Love Market, dating back over 100 years, celebrates the sacred bond of love and preserves the traditional cultural values of the local ethnic communities. Held on the 27th day of the third lunar month each year, men and women don their finest traditional attire, looking for companionship while enjoying various festive activities.

This Meo Vac market comes alive with Hmong khen flute performances, Giay sword dances, Lo Lo fire dancing and pole-climbing, and drum dances. Visitors can participate in folk games like pole-throwing, Pao throwing, and crossbow competitions and explore stalls showcasing local handicrafts and Ha Giang delicacies.

Khau Vai Love Market

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the Khau Vai Love Market (Source: Collected)

3.8. Shop for local specialties at Meo Vac Flea Market

For a lively shopping experience and a chance to mingle with locals, don’t miss the Meo Vac Market. It is held every Sunday from early morning until late afternoon in the town center. This is one of the largest and most culturally rich markets on the Dong Van Karst Plateau, filled with people in colorful traditional clothing.

Here, visitors can buy locally grown produce, traditional linens, handicrafts, spices, and herbs. You can also enjoy ethnic dishes from Hmong, Giay, Dao, and Lo Lo cuisines such as men men, thang co, baked rice cakes, and pho—all in the warm ambiance of wood-fired kitchens.

3.9. Celebrate with the locals at festive events

Home to many ethnic communities, Meo Vac Vietnam is known for its vibrant, traditional cultural festivals. Some of the notable festivals include:

  • Dao Ethnic Culture Festival: This festival offers engaging activities that let visitors experience the Dao people’s cultural and spiritual life. Visitors can watch the Cap Sac ceremony and the Ban Vuong worship ritual and listen to traditional love songs. You can also enjoy hand-embroidered brocade demonstrations and traditional sports.
  • Hmong Cultural Festival and Hmong Khen Festival: A lively event that celebrates Hmong culture with numerous activities. Key attractions that visitors should not miss include linen weaving, corn grinding, arm wrestling, and performances of traditional Hmong songs and dances. You can also witness demonstrations of khen making, buckwheat cake baking, and opportunities to taste signature Hmong dishes.
  • Giay People’s Peace-Wishing Festival: Held in Nam Ban Commune, this long-standing festival is dedicated to prayers for peace and community unity, making it a must-visit for all visitors. Coming here, visitors can discover various activities like peace-wishing rituals, traditional sword dances and songs in ethnic costumes, and a communal feast.
  • Lo Lo Ethnic Culture Festival: Visitors to Meo Vac Ha Giang cannot miss this lively celebration showcasing Lo Lo culture. There are various activities for you to enjoy, such as the Village Cleansing Ceremony, wearing colorful ethnic costumes, and participating in folk games like pig catching and tug-of-war. The festival also features the preparation of foods unique to the Lo Lo people.
  • Long Tong Festival of the Tay People: This significant festival is celebrated at the start of each new year, with wishes for peace, happiness, and bountiful harvests. A variety of activities are waiting for your exploration, like a ceremonial plowing ritual and distinctive cultural events such as the pole-throwing game, blindfolded duck catching, and traditional dances and songs.
Meo Vac festival

Meo Vac Valley is home to many ethnic minorities, each with unique, culturally rich festivals (Source: Collected)

4. Must-eats in Meo Vac District, Ha Giang

In Meo Vac, along with immersing yourself in nature and festivals, you cannot miss experiencing the diverse and unique cuisine of the local ethnic groups. Must-try dishes for all visitors include:

  • Thang co: No one should miss thang co – A traditional dish commonly made from various horse parts such as meat, intestines, liver, and lungs. The dish is seasoned with local spices and slow-cooked over a charcoal fire, offering a deep, rich, and distinctive taste.
  • Au tau porridge: Made from the mildly toxic au tau root, this porridge is a nutritious Hmong specialty. The root is combined with soft-cooked rice, rich pork hock, and aromatic herbs, resulting in a slightly bitter yet warming dish.
  • Men men: A rustic dish central to the lives of the local people, made from maize, a staple for the Hmong. After the corn is harvested, it is dried, steamed, and ground, giving men men a golden color, sweet flavor, and distinctive aroma. Visitors can try men men with tofu soup and fresh mustard greens.
  • Smoked Chinese sausage: A specialty in Meo Vac Ha Giang, this sausage is made from free-range pork and hung to dry in the kitchen. When enjoying this dish, you can experience a deep flavor and smoky aroma from kitchen smoke and spices like chili and rice wine.
  • Smoked buffalo meat: A favorite among visitors, this dish features buffalo meat marinated in unique local spices and smoked over a fire. It is a must-try dish that has a sweet, smoky taste with rich spices and reflects the flavors of the region.
  • Banh cuon: Visitors to Ha Giang must try banh cuon – a popular breakfast item, made from steamed rice batter filled with wood ear mushrooms, meat, or eggs. Unlike other types of rice rolls, the Ha Giang version is served with a flavorful bone broth.
Men men

Men men, a traditional dish of the Hmong people, offers an unforgettable rustic flavor (Source: Collected)

5. Top local specialties to bring home as gifts from Meo Vac

After exploring Meo Vac Vietnam, you should pick up some local products and specialties as souvenirs for friends and family. Local goods known for their quality include Khau Mang rice, beef sausage, buckwheat wine, Chi San corn liquor, Me Cung Da corn liquor, mint honey, buckwheat candy, and Cao Nguyen Xanh tea. Visitors can also find beautiful handwoven brocade items made by skilled Hmong artisans, as well as delicious smoked Chinese sausage and buffalo meat.

Meo Vac, Ha Giang, offers travelers an immersive journey into Vietnam’s mountainous charm, rich culture, and striking landscapes. From exploring the Meo Vac clay houses and vibrant markets to traversing majestic mountain passes, Meo Vac Vietnam captures the essence of highland life and traditional heritage. Whether you are drawn to scenic views or local festivals, this captivating destination provides an unforgettable experience.

Beyond Ha Giang, remarkable Vietnam travel can include visits to other spectacular spots such as Ha Long, Hoi An, Nha Trang, and Phu Quoc. These destinations showcase captivating natural beauty, unique architecture, historical landmarks, and opportunities to relax and have fun at VinWonders. Here, visitors can enjoy water parks, wildlife sanctuaries, botanical gardens, exciting rides, and cultural shows, creating unforgettable experiences.

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VinWonders are must-visit Vietnam’s premier entertainment complexes

VinWonders are must-visit Vietnam’s premier entertainment complexes

For travelers looking for luxury, high-end hotels and resorts of Vinpearl offer elegant accommodations with top-notch amenities, guaranteeing a comfortable stay.

 

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