Discover 9 Must-Visit Local Ethnic Villages on the Ha Giang Loop (Plus 1 Secret Village with Bong Hostel)
- Faye Hilling
- Apr 14
- 12 min read
Ever feel like life's too short for ordinary road trips? Welcome to the Ha Giang Loop—a rollicking, no-holds-barred exploration of vibrant ethnic groups and local villages.
Here, every winding road and terraced field unfolds a new chapter of history, where the Hmong dazzle from the mountaintops, the Dao weave spiritual narratives through their rituals, and the Tay celebrate life amid the valleys.
Join us as we pinpoint the best local ethnic villages on the Ha Giang Loop, provide tips on how to visit them respectfully, and introduce a secret local village that you can only visit with Bong Hostel!
How Many Ethnic Groups Call Ha Giang Home?
Ha Giang is a veritable melting pot, hosting an impressive 19 ethnic groups where nearly 90% of the locals are ethnic minorities.
This region’s cultural diversity is a testament to centuries of history, migration, and the enduring spirit of communities that call these highlands home.
Here’s a quick snapshot of the key players:
Hmong – 32.9%
Tay – 23.2%
Dao – 14.9%
Kinh (Vietnamese) – 12.8%
Nung – 9.7%
Others – Including the Pa Then, Giay, Lo Lo, La Chi, Pu Peo, and more
Each group brings its own language, customs, festivals, and even unique architectural styles—think stilt houses, clay dwellings, and intricately carved wooden homes.
It’s like stepping into a living museum, where every local village has its own story, making it different from the rest.
Meet the Ethnic Groups That Define Ha Giang
Before we set off to the local villages, let’s get acquainted with the major ethnic communities that live across the mighty Ha Giang Loop landscapes.
The Hmong People: Guardians of the Highlands
The Hmong people are the rock stars of Ha Giang’s mountains. Known for their dazzling, hand-embroidered attire and epic terraced rice fields, the Hmong have a way of turning even the steepest slopes into vibrant canvases of culture.
Their musical instruments—like the enchanting khèn flute—are not just for show; they’re the heartbeat of communal celebrations, love stories, and centuries-old rituals.
The Tay People: Valley Virtuosos
In the green, rolling valleys, the Tay people reign supreme. Their stilt houses, crafted from bamboo and wood, aren’t just practical structures designed to beat the elements—they’re expressions of art and community.
The Tay celebrate life with traditional songs (Then singing) and festivals like the Long Tong Festival, where every dance step is a nod to the harvest and the joy of togetherness.
The Dao People: Spiritual Storytellers
With their striking red headscarves and ornate silver jewelry, the Dao people are the spiritual keepers of Ha Giang.
They blend ancient Taoist rituals with local animist traditions, creating ceremonies that are as mesmerizing as they are meaningful.
From herbal baths that work wonders for both body and soul to cap sac rituals that mark the journey from youth to adulthood, the Dao’s practices are a vibrant tapestry of heritage and healing.
The Lo Lo People: Echoes of the Ancients
Small in number but colossal in culture, the Lo Lo people offer a rare glimpse into a time when bronze drums ruled the rhythms of daily life.
Their festivals—filled with vibrant dances, polyphonic singing, and rituals of ancestor worship—are a resounding reminder that even the quietest voices can echo across the valley.
The Nung People: Stewards of the Soil
The Nung people, with their knack for rice farming and exquisite weaving, bring a different flavor to Ha Giang’s cultural mosaic.
Their houses, often built of clay and brick, stand as a testament to sustainable living and a deep-rooted connection to the land.
Their craftsmanship in pottery and embroidery is not just practical—it’s a celebration of life’s finer details.
Related article: Understanding the Different Ethnic Groups on the Ha Giang Loop.
Best Ethnic Villages to Visit on the Ha Giang Loop
Now that we’ve met the cultural rock stars, it’s time to hit the road and check out the best local villages on the Ha Giang Loop.
Each village offers a unique glimpse into the region's local life, complete with authentic homestays, local cuisine, and enough picturesque backdrops to make any Instagram feed jealous.
Let’s take a tour of these hidden treasures!
1. Nam Dam Village (Dao Ethnic Group)
Tucked away near the iconic Quan Ba Heaven Gate Pass and the majestic Twin Mountains, Nam Dam Village is inhabited by the Dao people. As one of the top ethnic villages on the Ha Giang Loop, it’s a must visit.
Wander through the village, chat with locals, and maybe even catch a traditional performance or a local market day where handmade crafts and herbal remedies take center stage.
Highlights in Nam Dam
Herbal Baths
One of Nam Dam’s must-try experiences is its signature herbal bath. Imagine soaking in warm water infused with a mix of local medicinal plants and herbs—talk about a natural spa day!
Natural Wonders
And for those who love a little adventure, a nearby waterfall offers the perfect escape. Whether you’re in the mood for a refreshing dip or a scenic photo op, the cascading water against the backdrop of rugged mountains makes for an unforgettable experience.
Did you know that if you join Bong Hostel’s Secret Ha Giang Loop and Beyond Group Trip we may take you to this waterfall? But obviously it's a secret so ssh!!
2. Lung Tam Village (Hmong Ethnic Group)
Lung Tam Village is a true snapshot of Hmong culture, where traditional hemp fabric weaving isn’t just a craft—it’s a way of life.
Hmong women here devote endless hours to creating intricate textiles that tell stories with every thread.
Highlights in Lung Tam
Local Craftsmanship
Step into a local workshop and watch as skilled artisans transform raw hemp into beautifully patterned fabrics. It’s a process that’s both mesmerizing and a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship of the Hmong people.
Pssst! During a Bong Hostel Ha Giang Loop Group Tour you will have the opportunity to buy some of these beautiful items at the Lung Tam Village!
Food
The culinary scene in Lung Tam is as rich as its textiles. Local dishes are prepared using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, capturing the essence of Hmong agriculture.
Don’t miss the chance to try the legendary Thang Co—a savory horse meat stew steeped in history and flavor.
And if you’re a fan of sticky rice, (or just don’t want to eat horse) prepare for a treat that celebrates family and community in every bite.
Related article: Food on the Ha Giang Loop: A Vegan & Allergy-Friendly Guide.
Festivals
Lung Tam is also famous for its festivals. The Hmong Pao Festival, celebrated during the Lunar New Year, bursts with color, music, and traditional games.
Then there’s the quirky Khau Vai Love Market Festival—a heartwarming (and sometimes humorous) event where young locals mix, mingle, and hopefully fall in love.
3. Pho Bang Village (Hmong Ethnic Group)
Pho Bang Village is like walking through a portal into a world where time has stood still. Predominantly a Hmong settlement, this village is famed for its historical architecture and winding alleys lined with ancient houses.
Highlights in Pho Bang
Architecture
As you stroll through the narrow laneways of Pho Bang, you will notice that each residence has intricate wooden carvings and traditional design elements that whisper tales of yesteryears.
Markets
At the heart of the village lies its marketplace, where locals sell everything from fresh produce and spices to handmade crafts.
Chat with friendly vendors, sample local delicacies, and soak in the lively atmosphere that defines the spirit of Pho Bang.
4. Lo Lo Ethnic Village & Lo Lo Chai Village
The Lo Lo people, though a smaller community, are big on tradition. Their cultural practices, from lively New Year festivals to intimate celebrations of love, are as rich as the embroidered jackets they wear and the ancient bronze drums they honor.
Highlights in the Lo Lo Ethnic Villages
Festivals
In Lo Lo Ethnic Village, festivals are a must-see. During their New Year celebrations, traditional dances and colorful handwoven costumes light up the village.
And if you ever find yourself at their Festival of Love, be prepared for an enchanting display of youthful romance and age-old rituals.
Architecture
Just a kilometer from the famed Lung Cu Flagpole near the China border, Lo Lo Chai Village is a visual delight.
Picture ancient clay houses, rugged stone fences, mouth-watering local dishes, and landscapes bursting with seasonal blooms.
Food
Lo Lo cuisine is as rustic as it is delicious. Try the Au Tau Porridge, made from mountain-grown tubers. And don’t forget the buckwheat creations, from soups to pancakes.
5. Yen Minh Village
If your Instagram feed craves dramatic landscapes, Yen Minh Village is your next stop.
Hugged by mountains and terraced rice fields, this village offers endless opportunities for breathtaking photography. (It’s also the first stop on the Bong Hostel Group Tour!)
Early mornings and late afternoons here are pure magic, as the light dances over golden fields and verdant hills.
Highlights in Yen Minh
Nature
Yen Minh is a gateway to several natural wonders. From the legendary Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark—with its surreal limestone formations and deep canyons—to the nearby Quan Ba
Heaven Gate that has panoramic views of the twin “Fairy Bosom” mountains—enjoy hearing your Bong Hostel tour leader try to pronounce that one!
Markets
The village market is a kaleidoscope of colors and cultures. Wander among stalls brimming with traditional clothing, fresh produce, and local crafts.
It’s a sensory overload in the best possible way and a perfect place to pick up a unique souvenir, or an extra pair of gloves for those colder loop days!
Food
Foodies, rejoice! Yen Minh serves up a delightful array of regional specialties. Sample Men Men, a corn-based staple beloved by the locals.
And don’t miss the Yen Minh Rice Rolls, a delicious twist on a Vietnamese classic. And yes, Thang Co makes another cameo, reaffirming its status as a regional fav.
6. Du Gia Village (Tay)
Du Gia Village—the last stop on the Bong Hostel Group Tour—though technically a collection of small hamlets, is a gem on the Ha Giang Loop.
Primarily a Tay settlement, Du Gia is celebrated for its lush valleys dotted with terraced rice fields and traditional stilt houses that seem to float above the landscape.
Highlights in Du Gia
Bong Hostel Homestays and Parties
Gone are the days when Du Gia had only one homestay! Now, several options have sprung up. However, without sounding biased (I’m totally biased) the homestays with Bong Hostel are the best in the area!
The Tay (and hints of Nung influences) in Du Gia know how to throw a party. Traditional music, played on instruments like the bamboo Dan Tinh and the wind-kissed Khen Nung, fills the air during festivals and communal gatherings.
Nature Trails and Waterfalls
For those who fancy a stroll, the village is surrounded by nature trails that meander through verdant hills and along the serene Nho Que River. There’s also the Du Gia waterfall, which Bong Hostel guests will get to visit on day 4 of the Ha Giang Loop Tour.
A Few More Must-Visit Spots: Hidden Corners of Ha Giang
7. Lao Xa Village (Hmong)
Tucked away amid gentle hills, Lao Xa Village is home exclusively to the Hmong. Here, everyday life unfolds at a leisurely pace as locals engage in age-old traditions like agriculture and the delicate art of silver casting.
Wander its narrow lanes, and you’ll see barefoot children playing and artisans meticulously crafting silver jewelry.
8. Dong Van Old Quarter
While not a village in the strict sense, Dong Van’s Old Quarter is a must-see for anyone cruising the Ha Giang Loop.
With roots dating back to the French colonial era, this vibrant district transforms at night into a bustling hub of restaurants, guesthouses, and quirky souvenir shops.
The weekly Sunday market is a riot of color and activity, where ethnic minority clothing, local produce, and even livestock trading come together in an energetic celebration of heritage and commerce.
9. Ma Le Village (Giay)
Situated along the road between Dong Van and the Lung Cu border, Ma Le Village offers a glimpse into the traditional life of the Giay ethnic group.
With over 50 households living in charming yellow clay houses—some of which have stood for more than a century—Ma Le is a living testament to time-honored customs.
10. Bong Hostel’s Secret Village (Tay)
And finally may we introduce our very own secret village, home to the Tay community, traditional stilt houses, chickens, puppies, and the odd squirrel (yes, squirrels!).
We’re keeping it a secret because it's the home of several of our favorite Bong Hostel tour leaders and easy riders and we can’t have just anyone wandering into it!
However, if you join one of our upcoming (highly exclusive) Ha Giang Loop Secret Tours we will happily show you around its charming hidden corners and explain about its people and heritage in detail.
To join our Ha Giang Loop Secret Tour, or for some more information, please Whatsapp message us directly here: +84 85 561 8585.
Highlights of Visiting Local Ethnic Villages in Ha Giang
So, why should you take a detour from the main road to explore these local ethnic villages? Here are a few highlights that make the extra mile absolutely worth it:
Authentic Encounters: Meet locals whose lives have remained largely untouched by the rapid pace of modernity.
The Landscapes: Ha Giang’s villages are nestled in some of the most stunning settings imaginable.
The Food: Local dishes are more than just food—they’re a celebration of heritage.
Festivals and Folklore: Festivals in these villages aren’t merely events; they’re immersive cultural performances.
Artisanal Craftsmanship: From the hemp weaving in Lung Tam to the silver casting in Lao Xa, these villages are treasure troves of traditional crafts.
Warm Hospitality: Perhaps the most memorable aspect of your journey will be the genuine warmth and hospitality of the locals.
Tips for Being Respectful in the Local Ethnic Villages
When visiting Ha Giang’s local ethnic villages, a little respect goes a long way!
Mind Your Manners: Remember, you’re a guest in someone’s home. Take your shoes off at the door and greet every member of the household. These small courtesies can open doors to deeper conversations and richer experiences.
Dress Appropriately: Opt for modest attire to blend in and show respect for local customs.
Tread Gently: Be mindful when exploring—those rice fields are the community’s lifeline, so admire them without trampling over them.
Asking Permission: No one minds you taking a picture but checking if it's okay first is a great way to show respect for these local communities. After all, they’re real people, not tourist attractions.
Don’t Litter: It might seem counterintuitive when the locals around you are the ultimate litter bugs but it's their home, not yours. Take your trash with you and leave the locals and the landscapes with only good impressions of us tourists.
Support Local Economies: Buy handmade crafts or local produce when possible. It’s a great way to support families directly and shows appreciation for the skills and hard work of the community.
Keep Noise Down: Avoid playing loud music or speaking too loudly, especially in quiet rural areas. Peace and tranquility are part of daily life here and preserving that vibe shows cultural sensitivity.
Learn a Few Words: Even just saying “hello” or “thank you” in the local dialect or Vietnamese goes a long way—it shows you’re making an effort and earns lots of smiles.
Be Curious, Not Critical: You might see things that feel unfamiliar or different but approach them with an open mind. Ask questions respectfully rather than making judgments or comparisons.
Respect Sacred Spaces: If you see altars, spiritual objects, or hear that a place is sacred, treat it with reverence. Don’t touch anything without asking, and follow any customs locals observe.
Stay on Designated Paths: Sometimes it’s tempting to wander off, but sticking to paths helps protect crops, livestock areas, and fragile ecosystems.
Avoid Giving Candy or Money to Kids: It may seem generous, but it can create dependency and disrupt community norms. Instead, donate to reputable local initiatives if you want to give back.
Related article: Cultural Etiquette in Vietnam: 20 Dos and Don'ts for Respectful Travel.
Our Thoughts on Visiting Local Ethnic Villages in Ha Giang
As the dust settles on your Ha Giang adventure, you’ll find that this isn’t your typical travel postcard—it's a spirited journey through local villages where every smile adds to the narrative.
Whether you’re toasting with new friends at a secret village gathering or accidentally mastering a few Vietnamese phrases (Mot, Hai Ba, Zo…), one thing’s for sure: Ha Giang has a cheeky way of turning any wanderlust into a full-blown cultural party.
So pack up your curiosity, book your adventure with the best company in town, let your hair down (so you can put your helmet on of course!), and get ready for an unforgettable loop with Bong Hostel!
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