Call at Highland in Lung Cu Commune in Ha Giang Province

Ha Giang’s reputation is well deserved because it is truly peaceful and pristine. If Dalat City is nicknamed a la-la land, then Ha Giang Province will be a never-never land. In reality, the life here seems to be “never-ending” that anyone can profoundly feel through high mountains, verdant hills, and even weeds. Only when you set foot in Lung Cu Commune, do you fully understand and appreciate how fabulous and fascinating this land is.

I. Why Is Lung Cu Commune Special?

Situated on the Dong Van Karst Plateau, Lung Cu sits at an altitude of 1,600–1,800 meters above sea level, about 200 km from Ha Giang City. It is home to several ethnic groups, especially the H’mong and Lo Lo, who have preserved their customs for generations.

What you’ll find in Lung Cu is a harmony between nature and culture:

• Towering mountains, green valleys, and winding passes
• Ancient stone houses and traditional brocade weaving
• Friendly locals living simply and joyfully
• A calm, slow rhythm of life far removed from urban noise

II. Best Time to Visit Lung Cu Commune

Lung Cu has something beautiful to offer in every season. Here’s when to go:

• After the Tet holiday: The peach and damson flower are in full blossom.
• Between June and August: The temperature is really nice and mild to take a view of the Karst Plateau.
• In September: Harvest time when ripe rice paddies are full of yellow.
• Between October and November: “The months of buckwheat flowers”

III. What to See and Do in Lung Cu Commune?

1. The Sung La Valley

Just 20 km from Dong Van Town, Sung La is one of the most picturesque valleys in Ha Giang, often called the “muse of the karst plateau.” Nestled at the foot of towering rock mountains, the valley is dotted with traditional earthen-walled houses, flower gardens, and peaceful ethnic villages.

• Take photos in vast fields of peach blossoms (spring) or buckwheat flowers (autumn) — the valley transforms with every season into a colorful dreamscape.
• Visit the traditional H’mong house featured in the award-winning film The Story of Pao. Its rustic charm and authentic architecture make it a cultural treasure.
• Wander through the vibrant local market, where ethnic women in colorful clothes sell handmade crafts, herbs, vegetables, and brocade textiles. It’s more than shopping — it’s a glimpse into daily highland life.
• Soak in the peaceful atmosphere — where birds sing, smoke rises from clay stoves, and time seems to slow down.

2. The King Meo Mansion

A historical gem of the North, the H’mong King’s Palace is a 100-year-old architectural marvel built by the Vuong family, once the most influential clan in the region.

• Located on a turtle-shaped hill in Sa Phin Valley, the mansion combines H’mong, French, and Chinese architectural styles, with intricate carvings and courtyards.
• Learn how King Vuong Chinh Duc rose to power and negotiated with both colonial powers and local tribes.
• Admire the use of precious wood and green stone, reflecting both elegance and strength.
• Explore the inner chambers and gardens, and imagine the life of a highland aristocrat in the early 20th century.

3. The Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark

Recognized by UNESCO, this Global Geopark covers over 2,300 km² of dramatic limestone formations, deep canyons, and ancient fossils dating back over 500 million years.

• Hike among limestone peaks and jagged cliffs, where every rock tells a story of Earth’s ancient past.
• Visit authentic ethnic villages nestled between the stones, where people still wear traditional dress and live in harmony with nature.
• Marvel at cornfields and sweet potato crops clinging to rocky slopes — a testament to local resilience and ingenuity.
• On clear days, enjoy sweeping views of cloud-covered valleys, stone plateaus, and meandering rivers from various viewpoints along the loop.

4. The Lung Cu Flag Tower

Standing tall at 1,470 meters, the Lung Cu Flag Tower is a powerful symbol of national pride and a must-visit spiritual landmark.

• Climb 389 stone steps to reach the tower, where a 54m² flag flutters — representing Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups.
• From the summit, take in a 360° panorama of borderland hills, green valleys, and tribal villages below.
• Peer across the horizon into China’s Yunnan Province, and feel the profound geographical and emotional significance of this site.
• Many visitors describe a deep emotional connection upon reaching the top — a moment of reflection and pride.

IV. What to Eat in Lung Cu Commune?

The cuisine of Lung Cu in particular and Ha Giang Province in general is extremely diverse and yummy. Those weird flavors will leave an indelible impression on many visitors. Besides some savory dishes made from pig, chicken, buffalo, tourists will have an opportunity to try out special ones such as colorful sticky rice, baked rice, and many more. All of them permeate scents of mountains and nature that you can’t miss anywhere else.

V. How to Get to Lung Cu Commune?

• From Hanoi, take a night sleeper bus or limousine van to Ha Giang City (6–7 hours).
• In Ha Giang, rent a manual motorbike or join a guided motorbike/jeep tour on the Ha Giang Loop.
• Lung Cu is about 200 km from Ha Giang City and is often visited on Day 2 or 3 of the loop.

Pro tip: Avoid scooters — the mountain passes require strong engines and skilled driving.

Lung Cu is more than just a travel destination — it’s a spiritual stop, a natural wonder, and a cultural gem. Whether you come for the flowers, the flag, or the feeling of touching the edge of Vietnam, you’ll leave with unforgettable memories.