The region of Ha Giang is renowned for its rugged beauty and unique landscapes that captivate the hearts of photography enthusiasts. Each visit to this northernmost part of Vietnam fills me with a sense of renewed wonder and excitement, as if experiencing it for the very first time.
Ha Giang, with its harsh summer heat and chilly winters occasionally blanketed in snow, offers a pristine environment and a landscape that is unforgettable. This land is aptly named the “land of blooming rocks,” showcasing raw and untouched beauty that leaves a lasting impression. Nature has gifted this region with vibrant seasons of blossoming flowers amidst rocky plateaus.
Furthermore, Ha Giang is home to the simple and traditional life of ethnic minority communities nestled in cozy villages. During my recent visit at the beginning of the New Year, I had the pleasure of witnessing the spring beauty of Sùng Là valley, Dong Van rocky plateau, Ma Pi Leng pass, and Nho Que River.
Departing from Hanoi at 5 AM and traveling over 400 kilometers for more than 10 hours, I arrived in Pho Cao, a district in Dong Van, Ha Giang, in the late misty evening. The tranquil villages nestled under the hills exuded a serene ambiance as local women returned home carrying bundles of firewood after a day’s work.
Exploring Ha Giang further, I ventured to Sùng Là valley the next morning, situated 20 kilometers from Dong Van district along Highway 4C. Strolling through the winding dirt paths of Lao Xa village, I captured the essence of Mong ethnic architecture with their dark brown, yin and yang tiled-roofed homes set against the backdrop of ancient peach blossoms, cherry trees, and plum blossoms heralding the arrival of spring.
In the afternoon, I wandered through the Sùng Là valley, where the playful rays of the setting sun danced upon the rocky mountains, intermingling with blossoming cherry, plum, pear, and mustard flowers, revitalizing the entire valley.
The young H’Mong children in Sủng Là, Hà Giang Province.
The beauty of peach blossoms in Ha Giang blooms abundantly during the traditional Lunar New Year period, along with the golden hues of late-season mustard flowers, and the pure white elegance of early-season plum and pear blossoms. Children play joyfully under ancient peach trees, amidst rocky outcrops, and carry vibrant yellow mustard flowers under the spring sun.
Dong Van’s UNESCO-recognized global geopark, known as the “heaven’s gate” of the rocky plateau, bewitches photography enthusiasts like myself with its towering rocky peaks such as Sa Phin. Located 15 kilometers from Dong Van towards Yen Minh, I was fortunate to witness a breathtaking sunrise at Sa Phin, allowing my soul to soar amidst the craggy peaks harmonizing with drifting clouds in the early morning highlands.
Leaving Sa Phin, I embarked on the legendary journey to conquer the mythical Ma Pi Leng Pass. Spanning about 20 kilometers, it is renowned as one of the four great mountain passes in northern Vietnam, alongside Khau Pha, O Quy Ho, and Pha Din Pass. The towering cliffs and deep chasms make for a challenging yet rewarding drive through this mountainous region.
“I fell in love with the meandering roads, rugged hills, and tranquil rivers of this enchanting land!” Atop the pass, overlooking the Nho Que River snaking beneath the treacherous rocky peaks like a mesmerizing emerald ribbon, I couldn’t help but admire the alluring and serene beauty of this region.
The winding roads, steep mountains, and dreamy rivers of Ha Giang left an indelible mark on my heart, making it a destination I will forever cherish.
I regularly organize photography excursions to explore Ha Giang in the spring, from February 15th to 21st every year.
International photography enthusiasts who are interested in joining are welcome to contact me via WhatsApp at(+84) 0389 278 131 or through my Facebook profile, Vương Văn Ngọc.
