Introduction

Ha Tinh is a coastal province in Central Vietnam, particularly Northern Central. Like other regional provinces, Ha Tinh borders the South China Sea to the east and Laos to the west. Nghe An is the neighboring province to the north. Traveling to the south you will reach the land of folk songs Quang Binh.

Mount Hong Linh, a natural symbol of Ha Tinh. Source: Tripmap

Mount Hong Linh, a natural symbol of Ha Tinh. Source: Tripmap

Ha Tinh's landscape transitions from the mountainous west to the coastal plains. The local population mainly lives in the lowlands and supports themselves through agriculture and fishing. The province's geography and climate are harsh, yet the people have remained steadfast. This has cultivated resilience inside them. Vietnamese from other regions have a special affection for Ha Tinh people.

Ha Tinh now has historical and cultural destinations full of heroism. Nature has also blessed this land with majestic landmarks. Tourists are gradually discovering the beauty of Ha Tinh and coming here to explore the uniqueness of Vietnamese nature and people. Join Asia King Travel in the article below to learn more about the province!

History

Historically, Ha Tinh and Nghe An were one. They marked Vietnam's southern boundary until the 13th century. The province's history was on a new page in 1831 when King Minh Mang separated two southern prefectures of Nghe An Province to establish Ha Tinh Province.

The heart of Vietnam's resistance movements in the 19th and 20th centuries call this land. As the French almost conquered Vietnam, Phan Dinh Phung led the Huong Khe Uprising, causing the enemy great difficulties for ten years. In 1930, Nghe An and Ha Tinh people once more demonstrated their indomitable spirit by driving out the French and establishing Nghe Tinh Soviets.

Farmers in Ha Tinh revolted and seized power in 1930

Farmers in Ha Tinh revolted and seized power in 1930

During the Vietnam War, Dong Loc Junction became a symbol of fortitude. Vietnamese youth dedicated their lives to keeping the supply lines open for the South. The sacrifice of the 10 young girls at Dong Loc has become legendary, forever remembered by future generations. After the war ended, Ha Tin experienced economic growth in coastal regions while preserving the legacy.

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Weather and Best time to visit Ha Tinh

The transitional climate between the North and the South influences Ha Tinh. While it shares the tropical characteristics of southern Vietnam, Ha Tinh also received chilly winds from the North, resulting in an unpleasant climate. Annually, Ha Tinh has two distinct seasons: summer and winter.

Summer lasts from April to October. A hot and sunny season with dry, hot foehns, and temperatures can reach over 40°C. From late July to October, there are storms causing floods. From November to the following March, the Northeast monsoon pulls the temperature to drop sharply.  The wind combined with the maritime climate creates sudden showers.

Ha Tinh suffered the most heat and severe storms in Vietnam. Source: Toquoc

Ha Tinh suffered the most heat and severe storms in Vietnam. Source: Toquoc

Tourists should take advantage of the transitional months to visit Ha Tinh. March-April or September-October is neither too hot nor too cold times. The weather varies between the plains and the mountains, so checking local forecasts is recommended.

How to get there

By road

Currently, Ha Tinh does not have an international airport. The nearest international airport in Vinh City (Nghe An) only operates a limited number of international flights. Therefore, the most common way to travel to Ha Tinh is by road. From major international airports in the North like Noi Bai (Hanoi), tourists can reach Ha Tinh via National Highway 1A.

Ngang Pass in Ha Tinh is Vietnam's most spectacular road. Source: Dantri

Ngang Pass in Ha Tinh is Vietnam's most spectacular road. Source: Dantri

The distance from Hanoi to Ha Tinh is about 350 kilometers. A passenger bus would be the most convenient mode of transportation, taking about 5 hours. You can also travel by motorbike for a scenic coastal journey, but it requires careful preparation due to the long travel time and unpredictable weather.  If air travel is preferred, a flight to Vinh can significantly reduce travel time.

By train

Going on a train is the quickest way. The Reunification Express stops at Huong Pho Station, Huong Khe Town, about 50 kilometers from Ha Tinh city center. The fastest trains are SE1-2. Ticket prices range from VND 300,000 to VND 1,300,000 one way, depending on the cabin, train type, and departure point. 

Reunification Express trains have undergone a major interior upgrade to enhance passenger comfort

Reunification Express trains have undergone a major interior upgrade to enhance passenger comfort. Source: VnExpress

Specialties in Ha Tinh

Cu Do Candy

Cu Do candy is Ha Tinh's most famous specialty. The filling is made from molasses, sugar, malt, ginger, and peanuts, encased between two rice paper sheets. This candy is chewy and sticky. It has a sweet taste from the malt and a fragrant aroma of ginger. People often enjoy it with green tea, as the candy reduces the bitterness of the tea while the tea decreases the sweetness of the candy.

Cu Do candy is a popular souvenir for tourists visiting Ha Tinh. Source: VnExpress

Cu Do candy is a popular souvenir for tourists visiting Ha Tinh. Source: VnExpress

Phuc Trach Pomelo

Phuoc Trach pomelo is a specialty of the mountainous Huong Khe District. Each pomelo tree here yields about 50 fruits, with some producing over 100. The harvest season is from August to September each year. Phuoc Trach pomelo has a sweet and slightly sour taste, a fragrant aroma, and crisp, juicy segments.

Phuc Trach pomelo is a perfect cooling treat for hot summer days

Phuc Trach pomelo is a perfect cooling treat for hot summer days. Source: VOV

Vung Ang Jumping Squid

Processed while fresh and can still wriggle, so they are called "jumping squid". The squid can be made into many dishes such as salad, stir-fry, and steamed. The meat always maintains a just-right chewy texture. Depending on the season and harvest, the price of Vung Ang jumping squid ranges from VND 400,000 to 700,000 per kilogram.

Vung Ang jumping squid has a special delicious taste. Source: People's Committee of Ha Tinh Province

Vung Ang jumping squid has a special delicious taste. Source: People's Committee of Ha Tinh Province

Explore Ha Tinh with Asia King Travel

Though Ha Tinh has faced many challenges, it will capture your heart. Countless beautiful sights await your discovery, from mountains to the sea. Ha Tinh people have overcome difficulties and written heroic chapters in history, evident in historical sites. Contact Asia King Travel to experience the beauty you will cherish.

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