Dong Van Ancient Town is a 100-year-old town in Ha Giang, Vietnam’s northernmost province, set over 1,000 m above sea level inside the Dong Van Karst Plateau UNESCO Global Geopark. It has more than 40 well-preserved old houses with clay walls and yin-yang tiled roofs, and a lively market every Sunday morning. It is about 150 km from Ha Giang City and a classic overnight stop on the Ha Giang Loop.
Dong Van Ancient Town at a glance
History of Dong Van Ancient Town
The town dates back to the early 20th century, during the French colonial period. It was first home to Chinese merchants and gradually welcomed ethnic communities such as the Hmong, Tay and Nung.
Its architecture blends Chinese styles with local ethnic design. Most houses have clay walls, wooden beams, stone foundations and yin-yang tiled roofs, and many have kept their original charm for over a century.
How to get to Dong Van
Hanoi to Ha Giang City
- TransportSleeper bus from My Dinh, Giap Bat or Gia Lam bus station
- TimeAbout 6–8 hours
Ha Giang City to Dong Van
- DistanceAbout 150 km on the “Happiness Road” (QL4C)
- TransportMotorbike, easy rider or car
- On the wayTham Ma Pass and other viewpoints
Best time to visit Dong Van
March–April
Peach and plum blossoms on the mountain slopes.
September–November
Buckwheat flower season turns the hills pink.
December–February
Cold but atmospheric, with morning fog and fewer visitors.
Plan to be in Dong Van on a Sunday morning to see the market.
Things to do in Dong Van Ancient Town
Have coffee in a century-old house
Several cafés are set in traditional houses over 100 years old. Sit with a coffee and watch the quiet town wake up.
Visit the Dong Van Sunday Market
Every Sunday morning, ethnic minority people from the surrounding villages come to trade food, livestock, textiles and handmade crafts, many in traditional dress.
Take photos
Yellow clay walls, wooden doors and lantern-lit streets make Dong Van a favourite with photographers. Morning mist and sunset over the rooftops are the best moments.
Try local food
Try thang co (horse meat stew), men men (steamed corn flour), buckwheat cake, au tau porridge and corn wine.
Experience ethnic culture
With luck you may see a traditional festival, such as Gau Tao, a Hmong spring festival with music and rituals.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Dong Van Ancient Town?
In Dong Van District, Ha Giang Province, in the far north of Vietnam, inside the Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark.
How far is Dong Van from Ha Giang City?
About 150 km along the “Happiness Road” (QL4C).
When is the Dong Van market?
Every Sunday morning.
What is the best time to visit Dong Van?
March–April for blossoms, September–November for buckwheat flowers, December–February for fog and fewer visitors.
Is Dong Van on the Ha Giang Loop?
Yes. It is a classic overnight stop, usually before riding Ma Pi Leng Pass to 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
Visit Dong Van on the Ha Giang Loop
Our tours stop in Dong Van on the way to Ma Pi Leng Pass. Send us your travel date and we arrange everything from Hanoi.
