This Global Geopark Wonder is the perfect place to relax in the lap of nature and take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. Moreover, various festivals are also held wherein you can explore the beauty and also interact with the local communities.
You can experience the wonders of Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark through exciting and budget-friendly Vietnam tour packages.
Location
The Karst landscape of Dong Von is located in Northern Vietnam, sharing borders with China in the North. It spreads and covers four major districts of Vietnam including Dong Van, Meo Vac, Yenh Minh, and Quan Ba.
How to Reach Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark?
By Road
From Hanoi, you can take a train to Ha Giang taking 5 hours. On arriving at the Ha Giang station, you can book a private car or bus to visit the Plateau Geopark.
By Rail
Lao Cai is the nearest train station to Ha Giang. You can board a train from Hanoi. Frequent trains are available from Hanoi to Lao Cai. On arrival at Lao Cai, you can go for a road trip.
By Air
There are no airports in Ha Giang, so if you prefer a flight you will have to take a flight to Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi. From the airport, you can take a bus or private car which is an 8-hour ride.
Read More: 25 Best Things To Do In Vietnam: Explore Now
Best Time to Visit Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark
During October and November, you can enjoy the beauty of the blossoming buckwheat flower. Between January and February, the scene is brightened with the blooming peach and plum.
Things To Do in Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark
- Photography: Enjoy the natural beauty by trekking the Ma Pi Leng Pass. Capture some beautiful shots of the limestone mountains and the Nho Que River.
- Take a walk: Take a relaxing stroll through the streets of Dong Van Old Town and explore the old houses depicting traditional Vietnamese and Chinese styles.
- Explore the markets: Explore the culture of Vietnam at the local markets where local ethnic groups gather weekly. You will get to taste traditional foods and buy beautiful souvenirs.
- Hike at Geopark: Get adventurous and hike through the unique trails of the Karst formations. Explore the unique limestone formations and admire their beauty.
Where To Eat Near Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark?
- Quang Dung Restaurant: The restaurant located 15.9 km away serves local cuisine and traditional dishes and gives a flavourful experience with every bite.
Location: 19 Dong Van Old Quarter, Ha Giang
- Green Karst: The restaurant will make you relish the deliciousness of Asian and European cuisines. It’s just a 15.6 km drive away from the Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark.
Location: 7 Tran Phu Street, Dong Van, Ha Giang
- Phien – Coffee, Beer & Wine: Great music and delicious cocktails at the cafe will make the journey even more exciting. You just need to set on a half-an-hour ride to cover the 15.9 km journey.
Location: 11 Old Quarter, Dong Van, Ha Giang
Where To Stay Near Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark?
- Binh Minh Hostel: For travelers with a tight budget, the hostel provides clean and comfortable rooms. It is located 15.7 km away from Vietnam Geoparks.
- Dong Van Cliffside House: Along with spacious and well-equipped rooms, the hotel provides a stunning view of the surrounding mountains. The hotel is located at a distance of 16.2 km from the Vietnam Geopark.
- Hoang Van Hotel: Just 15.6 km away from the Dong Van Geopark is the very beautiful Hoang Van Hotel. Although it has access to the basic amenities, these are perfect for a comfortable stay at affordable rates.
- Cnd Homestay: The hotel is closest to the Geopark at a distance of only 14.6 km. It provides an authentic and unique traveling experience with the rooms in Hmong and Tay houses.
Read More: Best Time To Visit Vietnam: Month Wise Guide
Places To Visit Near Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark
1. Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark
- Entry Fee: Free
- Location: QL4C, Quản Bạ, Hà Giang, Vietnam
- Recommended Time: March to May and September to November
- Distance from Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark: 0 km
2. Lung Cu Flag Tower
Do not miss exploring the local culture by visiting the traditional villages. The tower is one of the main heritage sites so whenever you’re making a trip here you must visit this exclusive place.
- Entry Fee: INR 134.19 with free entry for children less than 1.3 meters tall.
- Location: Lung Cu Commune, Dong Van District, Ha Giang Province, Vietnam
- Recommended Time: October to December.
- Distance from Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark: 28.6 km
3. Vuong Palace (Hmong King’s Palace)
- Entry Fee: INR 67.09
- Location: Xà Phìn, Đồng Văn District, Hà Giang 310000, Vietnam
- Recommended Time: March to May and September to November
- Distance from Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark: 2.9 km
4. Meo Vac
Explore the Sunday Market when in Meo Vac. Here you can buy some traditional clothes and enjoy the local cuisine.
- Entry Fee: Free
- Location: Mèo Vạc District, Hà Giang, Vietnam
- Recommended Time: October to April
- Distance from Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark: 39.3 km
Quick Tips for Travelers!
- The terrain at the Geopark is uneven, so make sure that you carry comfortable shoes.
- Keep yourself hydrated all the time.
- Ask for permission before clicking the pictures of ethnic clothes.
- Go with a local tour guide to explore everything in detail.
- Dispose of trash properly and do not throw it here and there.
- Weather can be cold due to high altitude, so carry winter clothes.
- You should withdraw and carry some cash.
Conclusion
Visit during the dry season to explore the beauty of buckwheat flowers blooming and rest in the lap of nature. Amidst all this, make sure to be respectful towards the ethnic communities and culture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the closest railway station to the Geopark?
Lao Cai is the nearest railway station to Geopark.
Are there ATMs near the Van Karst Vietnam Geopark?
You must carry cash when visiting the Vietnam Geology Park.
How many days are sufficient to explore the Geopark?
One to two days would be sufficient to have a feel of what the Dong Van Karst Geopark offers. You can look for a homestay nearby and explore the geopark.
How do I witness the local charm of this area?
You can witness the local charm of this Geopark by visiting the nearby districts.
When do buckwheat flowers bloom at the Geopark?
You can witness the buckwheat flowers blooming at the Geopark during the dry season which is winter.