Dong Van

Dong Van, located in Ha Giang province, is a charming town nestled in the northernmost part of Vietnam. It's known for its stunning landscapes, with rugged mountains and terraced fields that create breathtaking scenery.

Some information about Dong Van

Dong Van district, located in the northernmost region of Vietnam, in Ha Giang province, is a wonderful destination with unique cultural values. Dong Van is part of the Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark, a UNESCO-recognized geopark. 

Canola flower season in Dong Van

The history of Dong Van is closely intertwined with the mountainous ethnic communities, such as the H'Mong, Lolo, and Tay people. These ethnic minority groups have established traditional villages and have preserved their diverse cultures to this day.

Things to do and see in Dong Van

Doc Tham Ma

"Doc Tham Ma," a winding mountain pass, is a captivating spot for adventure seekers looking to admire the majestic natural beauty of the Dong Van region. The name "Tham Ma" can be understood literally as the road used to assess the strength of horses, stemming from ancient traditions when this area was utilized to check the health of horses.

Doc Tham Ma

Pho Bang Town

The town of Pho Bang, with a population of around 3,000 people, is mainly inhabited by the H'Mong and Han Chinese communities. The houses in this area are simple, constructed with adobe walls, tiled roof, and weathered wooden doors. As you stroll through the town, travelers can immerse themselves in the serenity and rustic atmosphere of its residents. Particularly, visiting Pho Bang on rainy days adds a sense of melancholy and unparalleled tranquility. Nearby, you can also admire the rose valley and the vibrant blooming buckwheat flowers lining the roadsides.

A corner of Pho Bang town

Film set of “Pao’s story”

One of the renowned attractions for tourists visiting Dong Van is the film set of the movie "Pao's Story." This is an ancient house that was constructed in 1947 and reflects the traditional architecture of the H'Mong people in the rocky highlands.

Film set of “Pao’s story”

The two-story house is primarily built from earth, wooden pillars, and tiled roofs. It used to be the residence of Mr. Mua Sua Pao, who held the position of Deputy Squad Leader in the Meo King's Army before the August 1945 Revolution. On the house's walls, you can find numerous images of Pao and scenes from the famous movie that were filmed here. This house is still the dwelling place of Mr. Mua Sua Pao's descendants and serves as an intriguing tourist spot when traveling in Dong Van.

Vuong family mansion

Vuong family mansion, also known as the Cat King's mansion, is situated in the Sa Phin Valley, Dong Van. Nestled amidst the picturesque mountainous landscape, this over a century-old architectural marvel is a true beauty. Combining H'Mong cultural elements with French architectural style, the palace boasts 64 rooms and a series of longitudinal and transverse houses. The entire structure is constructed using stone, its roofs made of fired clay tiles and pine wood.

Vuong family mansion

The Old Quarter of Dong Van

The Old Quarter of Dong Van is a historic district built in the 20th century in the town of Dong Van, Ha Giang Province. It's not just a place where various ethnic communities reside but also one of the cultural and architectural features that need to be preserved and protected in Ha Giang Province.

The Old Quarter of Dong Van

Within the Old Quarter, there are approximately 40 houses that are over 100 years old, closely nestled together and surrounded by rocky mountains. Here, travelers have the opportunity to admire the serene and ancient beauty of gray walls bathed in the morning's golden sunlight. At night, it transforms into a lively scene with the sounds of traditional instruments and the rhythmic dances of local men and women.

Dong Van Market

The Dong Van Sunday Market in Ha Giang is a place that promises wonderful experiences for those who appreciate local culture and cuisine. This open-air market is typically held every Sunday or during special market sessions that occur roughly in the middle of each month.

At the market, you will have the opportunity to closely observe the daily life of local people from various ethnic backgrounds, each with their distinct languages. You can also savor delicious local specialties. Moreover, the Dong Van market is a place where you can find and purchase handmade products such as traditional clothing and ethnic bags, adorned with unique patterns and vibrant colors characteristic of the Northeastern region.

Dong Van Market

When you visit Dong Van and spend more time immersing yourself in the local culture here, you will find that Dong Van is incredibly tranquil and full of old-world charm. Everything, from the people to the nature in this place, promises to deliver unforgettable memories.