During your journey in Ha Giang, a stop at Dong Van Old Town is an experience not to be missed. This ancient quarter preserves a timeless charm where history blends with the vibrant life of the highlands. In this article, Ha Giang City Hostel will guide you to explore the cultural and historical values of the old town and suggest tours that pass through this remarkable destination.
History of Dong Van Ancient Town
Located at an altitude of 1,000 to 1,600 meters on the Dong Van Karst Plateau in Ha Giang Province, Dong Van Old Town is considered a historic and architectural complex of significant value. The town was formed in the early twentieth century and became closely associated with trade, migration and cultural exchange among various ethnic groups in the northern highlands.
In the beginning, the old town was inhabited by only a few Mong, Tay, and Hoa families. Later, with the growth of commerce and migration, groups of Kinh, Dao and Nung also settled here, creating a diverse community. This ethnic diversity transformed Dong Van into an important cultural and economic center of the karst plateau.
Today, the old quarter still preserves about forty ancient houses, each more than a century old. In addition to these historic houses, Dong Van Old Town is also known for the Dong Van stone market, built in the 1920s with a U-shaped structure of three rows of houses. The market once served as a vital hub for trading agricultural products and regional goods across the border.
Despite historical upheavals, wars, and modernization, the old town retains its original values. The stone-paved streets, moss-covered tiled roofs and the cultural atmosphere of the weekend market make Dong Van Old Town a living witness to the social and historical development of the Dong Van Karst Plateau.
The Timeless Beauty of Dong Van Ancient Town
What makes Dong Van Old Town fascinating is its ability to preserve almost intact the form and spirit of a settlement established more than a century ago. Situated in the harsh environment of the karst plateau, the old town stands as evidence of the resilience of local communities.
Its architecture reflects a beauty that transcends time. The houses were built with rammed earth walls and yin-yang tiled roofs, enduring decades of weather yet remaining solid. Each weathered roof and carved wooden door conveys traditional craftsmanship and creates an atmosphere that is ancient yet distinctive compared with modern cities.
The charm of Dong Van Old Town is also revealed through daily life. In the morning, the sunlight brightens the valley and highlights the tiled roofs. In the afternoon, the golden light brings a sense of serenity. At night, red lanterns illuminate the streets, creating a romantic and nostalgic picture.
The weekend market is another highlight. It functions not only as a place of trade but also as a cultural event where ethnic groups gather. People in colorful traditional costumes bring goods, food and crafts, turning the old town into a lively cultural stage. The combination of traditional architecture, natural scenery and community life gives Dong Van Old Town its timeless charm.
How to get to Dong Van Ancient Town
The journey to Dong Van Old Town usually begins in Hanoi and is divided into two stages: from Hanoi to Ha Giang City and from Ha Giang to Dong Van. Travelers can choose among several means of transportation:
By bus from Hanoi to Ha Giang
Buses depart daily from My Dinh, Giap Bat or Gia Lam stations. The trip takes six to seven hours to reach Ha Giang City. The advantage is that you can rest during the journey and save energy for sightseeing. High-quality services such as sleeper buses and limousines are available with ticket prices from 250,000 to 500,000 VND.
By private or rental car
For families or groups, a private or rental car offers safety and flexibility. The distance from Hanoi to Dong Van Old Town is about 350 kilometers, taking seven to nine hours. The main benefit is the ability to stop at scenic spots, though the winding mountain roads require experienced drivers.
By motorbike
For adventurers, motorbikes provide the most immersive experience. The route from Ha Giang City to Dong Van is about 150 kilometers and passes through famous places such as Quan Ba, Yen Minh, and Ma Pi Leng Pass. Riding allows you to stop freely for photos, but it also involves risks because the roads are steep and winding, especially during rainy weather.
When is the Best Time to Visit Dong Van?
Below are the ideal times for planning your trip:
Buckwheat flower season September to November
This is the most beautiful time of the year in Dong Van when mountains and valleys are covered with the pink and purple of buckwheat flowers. The buckwheat flower festival is also held at this time and attracts many visitors. Visiting Dong Van Old Town in autumn you can admire romantic landscapes while immersing yourself in a lively festive atmosphere enjoying local food and exploring highland culture.
Spring with peach and plum blossoms January to March
In spring Dong Van is bright with the pink of peach blossoms and the pure white of plum flowers. This is also when many traditional festivals of ethnic groups take place creating a unique cultural space. When visiting Dong Van Old Town in this season you will feel the warmth and liveliness in every corner especially during the early year weekend markets.
Cool summer May to August
Unlike the hot lowlands, Dong Van in summer has a mild climate with an average temperature of 20 to 25°C. This is the ideal time for those who love trekking, exploring caves or simply finding a peaceful place to rest. Although there are fewer blooming flowers than in spring or autumn Dong Van Old Town still preserves its ancient and tranquil beauty making it suitable for relaxation.
Winter mustard flowers November to December
In winter Dong Van is often covered in mist creating a mystical and quiet landscape. This is also the season when yellow mustard flowers bloom across villages bringing a bright beauty to the cold mountains. When visiting Dong Van Old Town in this period you can experience a unique atmosphere that is both cold and silent yet warm with the ancient houses and the fireside of local families.
Experience a tour to Dong Van
Here are some suggestions from Ha Giang City Hostel:
Ha Giang – Dong Van 2 days 1 night
This is the most popular choice for travelers with limited time. The tour usually starts from Ha Giang City, passes through Quan Ba Yen Minh and Ma Pi Leng Pass and stops at Dong Van Old Town. Visitors can explore the old quarter at night, join the weekend market, taste local cuisine and stay in a homestay or hotel in Dong Van. The itinerary is short but still covers the highlights of the karst plateau.
Ha Giang – Dong Van – Meo Vac 3 days 2 nights
For those who want a longer experience the 3 day 2 night tour is a suitable choice. In addition to the same stops as the 2 day tour the itinerary extends to Meo Vac where you can admire the full beauty of Ma Pi Leng Pass and the Nho Que River. This tour also gives visitors more time to enjoy Dong Van Old Town from walking through the old streets to drinking coffee in the ancient quarter at night.
Motorbike adventure tour
If you love freedom, a motorbike tour with a guide is an unforgettable experience. The journey takes you across majestic mountain passes and popular check in points before arriving at Dong Van Old Town. Traveling by motorbike with professional guides ensures safety while allowing you to fully enjoy the adventure and the sense of exploration.
Why choose the tour from Ha Giang City Hostel?
Ha Giang City Hostel is a reliable partner for travelers on their journey to Dong Van Old Town. The tours are designed with clear and well structured itineraries that pass through the most remarkable sites of the karst plateau with the old town as a central highlight. Experienced local guides provide valuable insights into the culture and history of the region. Services are offered as all inclusive packages from transportation and accommodation to meals and cultural experiences ensuring convenience and safety. With transparent and reasonable prices travelers can enjoy a memorable trip that combines exploration with authentic cultural immersion.
Exploring Dong Van Old Town is an essential part of any visit to Ha Giang. With Ha Giang City Hostel as your companion you will have a safe and fulfilling journey full of emotions from admiring the ancient beauty of the old town to immersing yourself in the vibrant life of the highlands. Book your tour today and begin your adventure across the stunning Dong Van Karst Plateau.
