The Nho Que River is the emerald-green river that flows beneath Ma Pi Leng Pass in Ha Giang, through Tu San Canyon in the Dong Van Karst Plateau UNESCO Global Geopark. You can take a boat from near Ta Lang village through the canyon: the trip takes about 30–40 minutes and costs around 100,000–150,000 VND (about US $4–6) per person. Go in the morning or late afternoon for the best light.
Nho Que River boat trip at a glance
What is the Nho Que River?
The Nho Que is a striking emerald-coloured river that flows through the Dong Van Karst Plateau, a UNESCO Global Geopark. It cuts a deep gorge between the mountains of Ha Giang and is best known for Tu San Canyon, often called the deepest canyon in Southeast Asia. From above, it winds below the famous Ma Pi Leng Pass.
Why take a boat on the Nho Que River
- Unreal scenery: float between towering cliffs on clear water
- Peace and quiet: a calm contrast to the mountain roads
- Great photos: the canyon from below looks completely different
- A break on the loop: a relaxing stop after hours of riding
How to do the Nho Que River boat trip
Get to the pier
- WhereNear Ta Lang village, close to Ma Pi Leng Pass
- HowRide to the viewpoint, then hike down or take a local shuttle
- NoteThe walk down is steep and rocky
Take the boat
- BoatMotorboat or rowing boat
- DurationAbout 30–40 minutes through Tu San Canyon
- PriceAround 100,000–150,000 VND (about US $4–6) per person
Tips
Bring
- Sunscreen, a hat and water, it gets hot on the boat
- Good shoes for the steep path
Timing
- Morning or late afternoon for soft light
- Fewer people early in the day
Slow down
Take time to sit by the river and enjoy the quiet before heading back up.
Frequently asked questions
How much is the Nho Que River boat trip?
Around 100,000–150,000 VND (about US $4–6) per person.
How long is the boat trip?
About 30–40 minutes through Tu San Canyon.
Where do the boats leave from?
From a pier near Ta Lang village, close to Ma Pi Leng Pass. You need to walk or take a local shuttle down from the road.
What is the best time to go?
Morning or late afternoon, for the best light and fewer people.
Is the Nho Que River on the Ha Giang Loop?
Yes. It is right below Ma Pi Leng Pass, between Dong Van and Meo Vac.
Explore Ha Giang with Zgo Travel
- Most popular · from $116Ha Giang Loop 3-Day small group
- More time · from $139Ha Giang Loop 4-Day small group
- Short on time · from $109Ha Giang Loop 2-Day small group
Add the Nho Que River to your Ha Giang Loop
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