Bac Ha - Discovering Vietnam

Travelling to Bac Ha

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Bac Ha, a pretty good destination in Vietnam (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Bac Ha and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Bac Ha, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Vietnam, here's everything to know about Bac Ha for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Bac Ha

Bac Ha is a mountainous district located in Lao Cai Province, in the northwestern part of Vietnam. It is known for its picturesque landscapes of rice terraces, lush green hills, valleys, and the colorful Bac Ha market, which is the largest and most vibrant market of the region, where local hill-tribes such as the Hmong, Tay, Dao, and Nung gather to trade and sell their goods and handicrafts. Bac Ha is also a great starting point for trekking and hiking to explore the nearby villages, where you can witness the traditional lifestyle, culture, and customs of the ethnic minorities of the area.

What to visit in Bac Ha

Bac Ha is a beautiful town located in the Lao Cai province of Vietnam. Here are some of the popular tourist attractions in and around Bac Ha: 1. Bac Ha Market: One of the main attractions of Bac Ha is the Bac Ha Market which takes place every Sunday. This market is a vibrant and colorful place where locals from nearby villages come to sell their wares. Visitors can find local handicrafts, fabrics, and food stalls here.
2. Thai Giang Pho Waterfall: Located around 19 kilometers from Bac Ha, Thai Giang Pho Waterfall is a natural wonder and a perfect place for a day trip. Visitors can enjoy the stunning views of the waterfall and explore the surrounding lush green forests.
3. Hoang A Tuong Castle: This castle is a striking example of French architecture and is located in nearby Hoang Su Phi district. It was built in the early 20th century by a local Vietnamese lord, and is now a popular attraction for tourists visiting Bac Ha.
4. Ban Pho Village: Located around 4 kilometers from Bac Ha, Ban Pho Village is home to the Flower H'mong people, one of the ethnic minority groups in Vietnam. Visitors can learn about the local culture and customs, and witness the traditional embroidery and textile weaving techniques.
5. Lung Phin Market: This is a smaller market compared to Bac Ha Market, but it is just as fascinating. Located around 15 kilometers from Bac Ha, this market specializes in herbs, spices, and traditional medicines. Visitors can also see the beautiful handicrafts made by the local artisans.
6. Trung Do Village: This is a small village located on the banks of the Chay River, around 17 kilometers from Bac Ha. Visitors can take a boat ride to explore the scenic beauty of the river and visit the village to learn about the local culture and lifestyle of the Tay people.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Vietnam, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Bac Ha.

When to go on holiday to Bac Ha

The best time to visit Bac Ha is from September to November or from March to May. During these months, the weather is temperate with little rainfall, and the landscape is lush and green. Moreover, Bac Ha's famous Sunday market is open during these times, where visitors can witness the diverse culture of ethnic minority groups and interact with locals. However, if you plan to trek or hike in the surrounding mountains, it’s better to travel between March and May, as the weather is drier and there is less possibility of landslides or floods.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Bac Ha

To get to Bac Ha from Hanoi, you have a few options: 1. By bus: You can take a bus from Hanoi to Lao Cai, and from Lao Cai to Bac Ha. There are several bus companies that operate this route, and the journey can take anywhere from 6 to 8 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
2. By train: You can take a train from Hanoi to Lao Cai, and from Lao Cai to Bac Ha. This option is a bit more expensive than taking the bus, but it's more comfortable and offers stunning views along the way.
3. By private car: You can also hire a private car to take you from Hanoi to Bac Ha. This option is more expensive than taking the bus or train, but it's more convenient and you'll have the flexibility to stop along the way.
Whatever option you choose, be sure to plan ahead and book your transportation in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. It's also a good idea to check the weather conditions and road closures in the area before you travel.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Bac Ha, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Bac Ha

Bac Ha is a small town in Northern Vietnam known for its unique cuisine that blends traditional Vietnamese food with French cuisine. Here are some typical foods of Bac Ha along with a short description for each of them: 1. Thang Co - a traditional soup made with stewed horse meat, horse organs, and aromatic herbs. It is often served with a side of rice noodles and fresh herbs.
2. Buffalo meat - Bac Ha is known for its buffalo meat, which is tender and flavorful. It is often grilled or stir-fried with vegetables and served with rice.
3. Banh Cuon - a Vietnamese-style crepe made with rice flour and filled with ground pork and mushrooms. It is typically served with a dipping sauce of nuoc cham (fish sauce, sugar, lime, and chili).
4. Shan Tuyet Tea - grown in Bac Ha’s highlands, Shan Tuyet tea is a premium green tea with a delicate and smooth flavor.
5. Noc Nha - a traditional dish made with chicken and lemongrass, stewed with ginger, garlic, and onions. It is typically served with rice and fresh herbs.
6. Muong Khuong Beef - a type of beef that is marinated with spices and grilled over an open flame. It is served with a side of rice noodles and fresh herbs.
7. Bac Ha white sticky rice - a type of sticky rice that is light and fluffy in texture, and is often served with a variety of dishes.
Overall, the cuisine of Bac Ha is known for its unique blend of traditional Vietnamese flavors and French influences, using fresh ingredients and local produce.
You can find general info about typical foods in Vietnam here.

Is Bac Ha an expensive destination for tourists?

Bac Ha, Vietnam can be considered a moderately priced destination for tourists. The cost of accommodation, food, and activities are generally cheaper compared to major cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. However, as with any tourist destination, prices can vary depending on the season and type of accommodation or activities you choose.
Overall, Bac Ha is quite affordable for both budget and mid-range travelers. Prices for accommodation can range from $10 to $50 per night, depending on the type of accommodation. Local food and street food options are relatively cheap, with meals costing around $2-5. However, Western-style restaurants and foreign cuisine options can be more expensive.
Transportation can be affordable through public buses, which cost around $5-10 for a one-way ride. Private taxis or transfers can be more expensive.
Therefore, while Bac Ha may not be the cheapest destination in Vietnam, it is still a reasonably priced option for travelers.

Where to find accomodation in Bac Ha

For visiting Bac Ha in Vietnam, it is best to find accommodation in or around Bac Ha town. This is where most of the popular attractions are located, such as the Bac Ha Market and the Hoang A Tuong Palace. You can also consider staying in nearby towns such as Sapa, Lao Cai, or Dien Bien Phu, which are located within reasonable distance of Bac Ha and offer a wide range of accommodations to suit every budget and preference. Additionally, if you are looking to explore the natural beauty of the area, you might want to consider staying in one of the many homestays in the surrounding villages, which offer a unique and authentic experience.
You can check hotel prices at Bac Ha here:
Booking.com

Is Bac Ha a safe destination for tourists?

Bac Ha is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it is important to take basic safety precautions such as being aware of your surroundings and belongings, not carrying large amounts of cash, and avoiding unlit or unfamiliar areas at night. It is also important to be respectful of local customs and traditions, and to obey local laws and regulations. Overall, if you exercise common sense and caution, you should have a safe and enjoyable trip to Bac Ha.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Vietnam here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Bac Ha.

What type of travelers will enjoy Bac Ha the most?

Bac Ha, Vietnam is a great place for a wide range of travelers, particularly those interested in culture and nature. It's best suited for families, couples, and groups of friends who are looking for a peaceful and relaxing getaway. It's also an ideal destination for those looking to get away from the crowds and explore a less touristy area of Vietnam. With its beautiful scenery, friendly locals, and traditional markets, Bac Ha is perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in the local culture and way of life. That being said, young people looking for a party scene may not find what they are looking for in Bac Ha.

How to get around Bac Ha

In Bac Ha, Vietnam, the most common mode of transportation for tourists is motorbike rentals. Taxis and shared mini-buses are also available, but they can be more expensive. If you're comfortable riding a motorbike, it can be a convenient and flexible option to explore the town and the surrounding areas.

What to see around Bac Ha

Sure, I'd be happy to suggest some places to visit on a day trip from Bac Ha, Vietnam. Here are a few options: 1. Sapa - Sapa is located only 50 kilometers from Bac Ha and is a popular destination for its stunning rice terraces, local hill tribes, and hiking opportunities.
2. Can Cau Market - Can Cau Market is a colorful and vibrant hill tribal market that takes place on Saturdays, located about 20 kilometers from Bac Ha.
3. Hoang Yen Chao Castle - This beautifully preserved castle was built by a local ethnic minority leader in the early 20th century and is only 15 kilometers from Bac Ha.
4. Lung Phin Market - This weekly market is held on Sundays and is a great place to see authentic local life and traditional crafts.
5. Ban Pho Village - Located only 5 kilometers from Bac Ha, this charming little village is known for its production of traditional rice wine and has beautiful scenery surrounded by mountains.
I hope these suggestions are helpful in planning your day trip from Bac Ha!
For every travel information about Vietnam you can click here.

Wild Trips is the Wikipedia of travel and this page was partly created with the help of AI: in the unfortunate case you find an error, please write to us to correct it... Thank you!
Follow us on Facebook if you like wild trips around the world and beautiful itineraries in Italy: https://www.facebook.com/wildtrips.