Nestled in the northeastern highlands of Lào Cai Province, Bắc Hà is a land of misty hills, rich cultural heritage, and unforgettable flavors. Known as the “White Plateau” for its frequent cloud cover and romantic scenery, this region offers visitors a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
If you only have one day to explore Bắc Hà, don’t worry - with a smart plan, you can still experience its most iconic sights and flavors.
“White Plateau” Bac Ha unveils its stuninning beauty with the arrival of spring. Photo: Tuan Anh
Morning: Step into history at the Hoang A Tuong Palace
Start your journey at the heart of town with a visit to the Hoang A Tuong Palace, one of the most fascinating historical sites in the northern mountains. Built between 1914 and 1921, this grand mansion blends French colonial design with traditional Chinese architecture - a physical symbol of the power once held by Hoàng A Tưởng and his father, who ruled the area under the old feudal system.
Hoang A Tuong Palace is ready to welcome tourists. Photo: Tuan Anh
Wandering through the moss-covered courtyards, arched verandas, and grand facades, visitors can almost hear the echoes of the past. The structure, shaped like the Chinese character for “mouth”, is a rare example of early 20th century architecture in the highlands and serves as a reminder of the region’s complex history.
The Hoang A Tương Palace dons a new coat of charm. Photo: Tuan Anh
Sunday morning: Dive into the vibrant Bắc Hà Market
If you’re lucky enough to be in town on a Sunday morning, make sure to visit the famous Bắc Hà Market - one of the largest and most colorful hill tribe markets in northern Vietnam. But timing is key: the market takes place only on Sunday mornings, and by early afternoon, many stalls will have closed and the bustling atmosphere will have faded. So, set your alarm early and get there before 9 a.m. to experience it at its peak.
At the market, ethnic minorities like the Hmong, Dao, Tày, and Nùng gather to trade everything from handmade textiles and herbs to livestock, handicrafts, and traditional foods. Women in vibrant embroidered dresses, men leading buffalo or ponies, and stalls filled with colorful produce - it’s a photographer’s dream and a cultural deep dive all at once.
Don’t miss the food section, where you can sample local dishes like thắng cố (a traditional horse meat stew) or sticky rice in five colors. The aromas, sounds, and energy of Bắc Hà Market offer a truly immersive glimpse into mountain life.
Midday: Savor the Flavors of the Highlands
After a busy morning of sightseeing and shopping, it’s time to enjoy a hearty lunch with local specialties that reflect the diversity and richness of the region. Must-try dishes include:
Bắc Hà sour noodle soup (phở chua): A refreshing dish made with soft rice noodles, pork slices, herbs, peanuts, and a tangy sauce that sets it apart from its Lạng Sơn cousin.
“Thắng cố”: A bold, acquired-taste dish traditionally made with horse meat and organs, simmered with more than 10 mountain herbs. It’s often served with local corn wine.
Five - color sticky rice (xôi ngũ sắc): Each color symbolizes one of the five elements - earth, water, fire, metal, and wood and is dyed naturally with local leaves and flowers.
Bắc Hà corn wine: Strong, fragrant, and smooth - a must-try, especially in the cool highland air.
Afternoon: Stroll through blooming orchards or witness a traditional horse race Springtime:
White plum blossoms in full bloom From late January to March, Bắc Hà transforms into a poetic landscape of white plum blossoms. The hills and valleys around villages like Na Hối, Lầu Thí Ngài, and Tả Van Chư are blanketed in soft, delicate white - a dreamy setting perfect for photos and peaceful walks. Spring here is crisp and fragrant, ideal for light hiking and village exploration.
Autumn: Traditional horse racing brings the mountains to life
Come September, Bắc Hà buzzes with excitement for its traditional horse racing festival - a unique local tradition that has been preserved for generations. Unlike professional races, these contests feature bareback horses and amateur riders, often farmers from nearby villages, who race with breathtaking speed and precision. Held in the town’s central stadium, the event draws crowds of locals and tourists alike. It’s a thrilling display of strength, skill, and cultural pride, set against the backdrop of golden hills and clear skies.
The Traditional Horse Racing Festival of Bac Ha District will take place in June 2025. This annual event aims to help preserve the national intangible cultural heritage while enriching the local tourism offerings and attracting more visitors to Bac Ha. Photo: Tuan Anh
What to bring home: Local gifts and specialties:
Before you leave, consider picking up a few memorable souvenirs:
- Bắc Hà plums (in summer): Crunchy, juicy, and among the best in Vietnam.
- Handwoven textiles: Bags, scarves, and garments created by Hmong and other ethnic artisans.
- Corn wine and forest honey: Perfect for gifting or enjoying back home.
- Hmong-style rice cakes (bánh dày): Soft, chewy, and easy to pack.
Practical tips for your Bắc Hà adventure:
- Start early: Whether you’re coming from Lào Cai city or Sa Pa, leave by 6 a.m. to make the most of your day (the drive takes around 2 - 2.5 hours).
- Dress in layers: Mornings and evenings can be chilly, even in summer.
- Wear comfortable shoes: Especially important if you plan to explore villages or markets.
- Bring cash: Many small shops and stalls don’t accept cards.
- Charge your camera/phone: Every corner of Bắc Hà is picture-perfect.
Though one day may not be enough to explore all that Bắc Hà has to offer, it’s more than enough to fall in love with this hidden gem of northern Vietnam. From majestic palaces to bustling markets, misty mountains to flavorful meals - a day in Bắc Hà is a day you won’t soon forget./.
Text: Q.Lien, Photo: Tuan Anh
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