Hoa Binh

Ethnics Natural Heritages Cruises Trekking

Located just two hours from Hanoi, Hoa Binh is a mountainous province with several coexisting ethnic groups: Muong, Thai, Tay, Dzao, Hmong. These ethnicities still preserve their ancestral traditions.

It serves as the gateway to the mountainous provinces of Northwest Vietnam. The Black River runs through Hoa Binh province, and the massive Hoa Binh Dam was constructed between 1979 and 1994 to harness significant hydroelectric power. This construction has created a large reservoir with beautiful landscapes.

Whether you're an adventurer seeking vast spaces or a contemplative wanderer in search of tranquil escapades near Hanoi, a journey to Hoa Binh ensures a change of scenery, taking you off the beaten tourist paths.

Things to see and do

Hiking at all levels through terraced rice valleys, jungle, waterfalls, and ethnic villages in the region
Biking excursion
Immersing in the culture of the Thai, Dzao, Hmong ethnic groups
Exploring the traditional weaving village
Traditional dance and folk song performance
Visit to the Pa Co ethnic market
Discovery of traditional crafts: Batik art and Indigo dyeing, embroidery by Hmong and Dzao people, handmade paper

Muong Cultural Space

A small private museum, inaugurated at the end of 2007, dedicated to Muong culture. A complex of stilt houses allows understanding social hierarchies within the village. The Muong people are considered proto-Vietnamese. You can combine the visit to this site with the visit to the Muong village of Giang Mo, located 2 km from the museum (Binh Thanh commune, Cao Phong district) or with a cruise to the Hoa Binh reservoir at the Thung Nai port.

Hoa Binh Hydroelectric Reservoir

With a capacity of nearly 9.5 billion cubic meters, it is the largest reservoir lake in the country. Stretching over 17 communes in the districts of Cao Phong, Da Bac, Mai Chau, Tan Lac, and the city of Hoa Binh, it covers about a hundred kilometers. Hidden mountains in the clouds, house roofs emerging in the morning mist, the lake reflecting the vast blue sky... Picturesque landscapes that create a romantic atmosphere.

The lake has 47 islands, large and small, earning it the nickname "Inland Ha Long Bay." At dawn, you have the opportunity to watch the sun piercing through the treetops while breathing the pure mountain air. In addition to exploring nature, you will be warmly welcomed by the local Dao Tien and Muong ethnic groups living on the reservoir banks. Don't miss the canoe ride on the lake or a bike ride along its shores, a must-do activity during your stay!

Some 4-5-star resorts and guesthouses are built along the reservoir to accommodate tourists who come to discover the serenity and local life of this place.

Kim Boi Hot Springs

Located 30 km from Hoa Binh city and 70 km from Hanoi, the charming rural district of Kim Boi is home to the Kim Boi mineral hot spring, one of the largest thermal springs in Vietnam, and a gift from Mother Nature. You can enjoy water at a constant temperature of 34-36°C throughout the year. Its drinkable water is effective in treating rheumatism, stomach or intestinal pain, and high blood pressure, thanks to its high mineral content (calcium, lithium, and radium). This water is also bottled and competes with major mineral water brands.

Residents of Hanoi come here to relax in the thermal waters and enjoy the karst landscapes emerging from the jade-colored rice fields in peace. In the shade of the forests, the Boi River meanders lazily, welcoming on its banks some resorts: Kim Boi Serena Resort, V Resort.

Da Bac District

Da Bac is a mountainous district inhabited by various ethnic minorities such as Dao, Muong, Tay, or Thai. All of them maintain their traditions.

In addition to various activities like hiking, kayaking, and cycling, tourists can engage in a cultural experience: the art of Batik workshop, etc.

Nam Son Cave & Lung Van Valley

Nam Son Cave is located in the Lung Van valley, the land of the Muong people. It is a beautiful aquatic cave offering incredible geological formations, stalagmites, and stalactites.

Mai Hich & Mai Chau Valleys

These are the two major rice valleys in Hoa Binh. Mai Chau is closer to Hanoi and a tourist destination. The Mai Hich valley is farther than Mai Chau and quieter. You can take easy walks and bike rides here.

Both of these valleys are occupied by hamlets of the Thai ethnic group. In the evening, you can participate in a folklore show with songs and dances by the graceful women of the Thai ethnic group.

Pa Co Ethnic Market and Hang Kia Region

In this region, you can encounter the Black Hmong and the Red Hmong.

This region, dominated by imposing limestone mountains, is surrounded by fields of corn, tea, and orchards of fruit trees such as plum, apricot, passion fruit, etc. Hiking allows you to explore this enchanted valley dotted with Hmong hamlets.

You can visit the weekly Pa Co market, which takes place every Sunday morning.

Good to Know

When to visit?

From October to December: The beginning of winter is cool, but it's the time of plum blossom with its immaculate white flowers.

From March to April, traditional festivals of the Thai ethnic group are in full swing.

Access

By tourist bus, Dcar Limousine shuttle: Departure from Hanoi at 7:30 am to Hoa Binh, Mai Chau.

By private vehicle.

Where to eat and taste

In Hoa Binh, Vietnam, you can find a variety of dining options that showcase the flavors of the region's cuisine. While Hoa Binh may not be as well-known for its culinary scene as larger cities, there are still several places where you can eat and taste local dishes. Here are some options:

Local Markets and Street Food Stalls: Explore the local markets in Hoa Binh, such as Hoa Binh Market or Luong Son Market, where you can find a variety of street food stalls and vendors selling traditional Vietnamese dishes. Sample local specialties like pho (Vietnamese noodle soup), bun cha (grilled pork with noodles), and banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich).
Local Restaurants and Eateries: Look for small local restaurants and eateries in Hoa Binh town and surrounding areas that serve authentic Vietnamese cuisine. These establishments often offer a variety of dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Don't be afraid to try dishes that are popular among locals but may not be as well-known to tourists.
Homestay Meals: If you're staying in a homestay or guesthouse in a rural area of Hoa Binh, you'll likely have the opportunity to enjoy home-cooked meals prepared by your hosts. Homestay meals often feature dishes made with ingredients grown or produced on the property, giving you a taste of authentic Vietnamese home cooking.
Local Specialties: Seek out local specialties and regional dishes that are unique to Hoa Binh and its surrounding areas. These may include dishes made with ingredients like bamboo shoots, mountainous vegetables, or freshwater fish from the nearby rivers and lakes.
Cultural Shows and Events: Keep an eye out for cultural shows, festivals, and events in Hoa Binh that feature traditional Vietnamese food and culinary demonstrations. These events provide a great opportunity to experience local cuisine in a festive and celebratory atmosphere.

Travel Ideas

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