Nho Que River: majestic and proud

The Nho Que River is a famous scenic spot in the northernmost region of Ha Giang . This river originates in Yunnan Province, China, and flows into Vietnam, forming a border section. In Vietnam, the river's starting point is in Lung Cu commune, passing through Dong Van and Meo Vac districts of Ha Giang province , before emptying into the Gam River in Bao Lam district, Cao Bang province.

Nestled at the foot of the towering and rugged mountains of Ha Giang, the Nho Que River flows peacefully year-round, winding its way through the rocky cliffs. The Nho Que River boasts emerald green water, meandering through the rugged landscape of Ha Giang. This distinctive green hue is created by the thriving green algae ecosystem in the riverbed, harmonizing with the vast expanse of greenery on both banks, reflected on the water's surface. The river, with its perpetually clear, tranquil waters flowing through the majestic mountain gorges, transforms the landscape into a true stairway to heaven. Nho Que possesses a breathtaking beauty, like a magnificent landscape painting bestowed by nature.

With a total length of 192km, the Nho Que River lies within the Ha Giang region of Vietnam for 46km. (Image: Internet)

In 2009, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism classified this area as a Vietnamese Scenic Landscape Monument. The Nho Que River is honored as one of Vietnam's unique tectonic valleys. In Lung Cu and Ma Le communes, Dong Van district, the river also serves as a border demarcation point between Vietnam and China in the northernmost part of the country.

The section of the Nho Que River flowing through the Tu San Gorge, located in Meo Vac commune; the section passing through the Ma Pi Leng Pass beside the Tu San Gorge is where the Nho Que River appears most beautiful, majestic, with the clearest blue water, yet the gentlest flow. In contrast to the majestic beauty of the surrounding rocky mountains, the Nho Que River in the Tu San Gorge flows peacefully and gently, winding around the rocky mountains and shaping the country's stunning landscape.

One of the most unique geological formations in this area is perhaps the Tu San Gorge on the Nho Que River, with its sheer cliffs reaching heights of up to 800m and nearly 1000m, stretching over 1.7km along the river. The gorge is considered one of the most rugged and beautiful landscapes in Southeast Asia. The further upstream along the Nho Que River you travel, the more overwhelmed you will be by the majestic and breathtaking beauty of this natural gorge.

November is the ideal time to visit the Nho Que River. Photo: Internet

Embark on a boat trip upstream and observe the river, noticing a section where the water is divided into two colors, turquoise and blue, depending on the light and weather. Even more fascinating is the sight of simple villages nestled among blooming peach and plum trees, perched precariously on the rocky mountain slopes.

To admire the breathtaking panoramic view of the Nho Que River, perhaps the best choice is from the summit of Ma Pi Leng Pass – one of the Four Great Mountain Passes of Northwest Vietnam. Along the winding, treacherous road, visitors can take in the entire scene from above, the river resembling a soft, green silk ribbon flowing between the rugged cliffs. From Ma Pi Leng Pass, the Nho Que River offers a stunning panorama of clear blue water, lush green forests, reddish-brown and gray mountains, all blending with the azure sky and a few white clouds – creating a majestic yet incredibly poetic Ha Giang.

From above, the Nho Que River resembles a lush green silk fabric, winding and sometimes hidden amidst the vast forests of northeastern Vietnam. (Photo: Internet)

Kayaking on the river is a fascinating experience for those who love physical activity. Leisurely paddling in a kayak, looking up from the middle of the gorge at the two towering cliffs covered in countless flowers and plants, with the vast blue sky stretching far above, the majestic scenery makes visitors feel incredibly small.

While kayaking or boating, you can stop and immerse yourself in the cool, refreshing water of the river. It's also a unique experience to swim in a crystal-clear pool, flanked by sheer cliffs, with the azure sky narrowing through the canyon. With its clear water, you can see all the way to the bottom, and many adventurous tourists even go scuba diving.

At different times of the year, the scenery along the river has its own unique charm. Along the river in March, the kapok flowers bloom in vibrant red, standing out against the green of the forest and the emerald-colored river water. The Nho Que River is at its most beautiful from September to November. During this time, Ha Giang begins its autumn and winter seasons, with a cool, slightly chilly atmosphere, and the river is sometimes shrouded in a mystical mist. This is also the time when buckwheat flowers bloom, creating an incredibly romantic scene.

With its majestic, wild yet gentle and poetic scenery, the Nho Que River is one of the tourist destinations in Ha Giang that you should experience at least once in your lifetime.

Diem Giang