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For photography enthusiasts and explorers like Quang Anh, spring in Ha Giang is not just a trip, but an emotional journey, where each frame captures a unique story.
Precious moments on the Northwest road.
Quang Anh, a young man passionate about photography and travel, shares that spring in Ha Giang is a constantly changing natural landscape. He says, "The most impressive feeling is each time we cross winding roads clinging to the cliffs and then unexpectedly encounter a new valley, where peach and plum blossoms burst forth amidst ancient traditional houses." This space is beautiful not only because of the colorful flowers but also because of the peaceful, pristine atmosphere, where humans and nature are in harmony.
The winding road through the valley is filled with plum and peach blossoms – a characteristic beauty of the rocky plateau when spring arrives.
When mentioning memorable stops, Quang Anh suggests small villages nestled deep in the mountains such as Pho Cao, Sung La, Lao Xa, and Lo Lo Chai (Lung Cu). If you want to avoid crowded places, you can spend time exploring more remote villages – where the rustic beauty is still preserved, with fewer traces of human activity.
What to eat and where to stay on the rocky plateau?
For those who aren't too picky about food, meals at homestays in the highlands are enough to warm the heart. "I'm not a connoisseur, but just enjoying free-range chicken, wild vegetables, and smoked pork prepared in the local style is enough to feel the difference compared to dishes in the lowlands," Quang Anh said.
In addition, visitors to Ha Giang this season can also try sour pho – a signature dish with a refreshing flavor, soft rice noodles combined with roasted pork, roasted peanuts, and a sweet and sour dipping sauce. Another option is banh cuon chan (steamed rice rolls with broth), but instead of dipping in fish sauce like in the lowlands, Ha Giang banh cuon is eaten with a rich, sweet broth simmered from bones, with a little fried onion and Vietnamese sausage. In Ha Giang, cuisine is not about extravagance, but about simplicity and familiarity, yet leaving an unforgettable taste.
A corner of a village in Ha Giang in spring...
...where pristine beauty blends with the simple lifestyle of the local people.
The Hmong New Year - a unique experience.
Spring in Ha Giang is not only the season of flowers, but also the season of festivals and unique customs. The Hmong people here celebrate Tet (Lunar New Year) until the 15th day of the first lunar month. "If you go at this time, you will have the opportunity to see groups of adults and children playing folk games together right in the middle of the village, creating a lively and joyful atmosphere," Quang Anh recounted.
From pao throwing and spinning top games to the resounding Hmong flute melodies echoing through the valleys, everything creates a very different, vibrant Ha Giang amidst the colors of spring.
Joining in the springtime atmosphere with the children of the highlands.
Tips for a perfect spring trip
For those who want to fully experience the beauty of Ha Giang in spring, Quang Anh emphasizes two important factors: timing and weather. "Peach and plum blossoms will be at their most beautiful from the 15th day of the first lunar month to the beginning of the second lunar month, but if the cold weather persists, the flowers may bloom later. This year, the flowers are expected to be at their most vibrant from the end of February to mid-March," he noted. Visiting during this time, tourists can capture the most spectacular scenery of the mountains and forests in full bloom.
In addition, it's important to be aware of the unpredictable weather conditions in the highlands. "If it's sunny, you can just point your camera and get a beautiful photo. But if there's thick fog and the roads are slippery, you have to be careful when traveling, especially when riding a motorbike," he added.
Spring arrives in the traditional houses.
To have a fulfilling trip, visitors should prepare thoroughly. Brightly colored clothing will help you stand out against the natural scenery, but don't forget to bring warm clothes as it gets quite cold in Ha Giang early in the morning and at night. Roads have improved, but there are still challenging mountain passes like Bac Sum Pass, Ma Pi Leng Pass, or the road down to Tu San Gorge, requiring skilled drivers. ATMs are rare in the villages, so carrying cash is essential. And most importantly, please preserve the landscape; do not break branches, pick flowers, or litter indiscriminately, so that Ha Giang can retain its pristine beauty.
Plum and peach blossoms burst into bloom across the sky of Ha Giang.
Spring in Ha Giang is not only the season of blooming flowers, but also the season of festivals and stories amidst the mountains and forests.
If you're looking for a unique destination on your spring trip to Ha Giang, Quang Anh suggests Sao Ha village – a place featured in the film "Tet in the Village of Hell" and recently gaining popularity. "This small village still retains its pristine charm, with traditional houses, ancient stone fences, and especially the vibrant peach blossoms in spring. The road is difficult to navigate, only accessible by motorbike, but it's definitely a worthwhile experience," he says.
Travelers' footsteps on spring roads, where every bend reveals a breathtakingly beautiful landscape.
There are places that, once visited, will be unforgettable for a lifetime. Ha Giang in spring is one such place. It's not just a destination, but also a realm of memories, where every road, every house, every flower holds a story. As Quang Anh shared: "That beauty will forever remain in the film reels I've taken, so that whenever someone mentions it, my heart overflows with a lingering nostalgia…"
